Audified has launched the ToneKnob Saturator, a free, single-knob plugin available for macOS and Windows. This 64-bit plugin supports VST3, AAX, and AU formats.
Audified describes the plugin as “simple on the outside, sophisticated on the inside.”
The ToneKnob Saturator is the first in a series of one-knob plugins from Audified, with more planned under the ToneKnob brand.
For this saturator, Audified blends elements from its previous 1A Equalizer and U73B Compressor into a streamlined design.
If you’re curious about how it performs, Audified has put together an eight-minute YouTube demo to showcase the plugin’s sonic capabilities.
According to Audified, this tool can deliver anything from subtle warmth to full-on distortion, plus some creative effects along the way.
The goal of the ToneKnob Saturator is to encourage users to trust their ears, avoiding the need to get caught up in overcomplicated parameter adjustments.
With only one knob, you’re free from the burden of endless tweaking and can focus purely on sound.
To make things even easier, Audified provides a handy guide to help you get the most out of the plugin.
They suggest trying it on vocals, guitars, bass guitars, and drums. Although electronic music isn’t specifically highlighted, there’s still plenty of potential for experimentation.
For vocals, Audified recommends placing the saturator after EQ and dynamics processing but before reverb or modulation, resulting in punchy, vibrant sound.
On guitars, they suggest turning the knob between 25% and 50% for a rich, character-filled tone.
When it comes to bass guitars, even though saturation might not be your go-to effect, Audified encourages using it more often. It helps the bass cut through, adds definition, and ties in nicely with the kick.
Lastly, for drums, the plugin shines when applied to the entire drum bus, adding space, clarity, and punch. Push it harder for experimental effects.
If this sounds like your kind of tool, you can download the plugin via the ‘Get for free’ link on the product page.
When you click the link, you’ll be directed to a checkout page styled like a shipping form, which you’ll need to fill out to grab your free copy.
Download: ToneKnob Saturator (FREE)
