The audio world has just received a fantastic gift from the analog past. The Level-Or plugin, born from a collaboration between Safari Pedals and Standard Audio, brings a piece of 1960s audio history into today's digital workflow. Let's dive deep into this unique compressor/limiter, exploring its historical roots and practical applications.
Contents
The Historical Origins of Level-Or
The Level-Or story begins with the 'Level-Loc,' a PA limiter developed by Shure in the late 1950s. Originally designed to limit audio levels in public address systems, this device evolved far beyond its intended purpose. Its distinctively "trashy" and intense compression character gradually earned it a reputation as a secret weapon among audio engineers.
The JFET limiting circuit of the Level-Loc created a unique character that particularly shined when used for parallel compression on drums, winning the hearts of countless recording engineers. Building on this legacy, Standard Audio released the 'Level-Or' 500 series hardware in the early 2010s, inspired by the core circuit of the Level-Loc.
Standard Audio's Level-Or Mk2 preserved the soul of the original Level-Loc while adding improved features to meet modern demands. With a lower noise floor, various operating modes, and adjustable release times, it evolved to fit perfectly into the modern studio environment.
Original Hardware vs. Plugin
The Level-Or plugin, co-developed by Safari Pedals and Standard Audio, successfully transfers the core characteristics of the hardware into the digital realm. At $129 (currently on sale for $49), it offers a far more accessible price point than the $599 hardware, giving many producers the opportunity to experience this legendary sound.
Hardware Level-Or Mk2 Features:
- 500 series format compressor/distortion processor
- Three operating modes: LEVEL, BYPASS, CRUNCH
- SPEED switch offering different functions depending on the mode
- Transformer-balanced input and electronically balanced output
- Distinctive analog warmth and character inherent to hardware
Additional Plugin Features:
- Both Mk1 and Mk2 model characteristics
- Pre/Post tone shaper for additional tonal control
- Blend and oversampling features for modern workflows
- VU metering for visual feedback
- More flexible interface and usability compared to hardware
The Level-Or plugin goes beyond simply cloning the hardware, offering even more possibilities in the digital environment. Safari Pedals' beautiful interface design and added modern features maintain the soul of the original while seamlessly integrating into contemporary music production environments.
Key Features of the Level-Or Plugin
Unlike conventional compressors or limiters, the Level-Or plugin is a product that imparts a distinctive character to your sound. It excels at intentionally adding strong character and color rather than functioning as a transparent dynamic processing tool.
One of the Level-Or plugin's most significant features is its two modes. The Mk1 mode delivers a rough, crunchy sound with vintage flavor, while the Mk2 mode offers an extended range, improved sound quality, and more precise control.
Safari Pedals has equipped this plugin with unique additional features. The Pre/Post tone shaper allows for fine-tuned control of transients or body shaping, sculpting the sound with precision. The Input and Output controls provide flexibility to drive the sound hard or adjust it gently as needed. Users can select from various dynamic processing styles through the Crunch, Slow, and Fast modes, while VU metering provides intuitive visual feedback on sound changes. The blend and oversampling features support modern hybrid workflows and adapt to various working environments.
The most appealing aspect of the Level-Or is its unpredictable character. This plugin stays true to its role as a creative tool that adds musical interest and character rather than providing perfectly controlled compression. Users can achieve unique and distinctive sound character rather than precise and transparent dynamic processing.
Practical Applications in Music Production
While the Level-Or can be applied to various sources, it truly excels in specific areas.
Drum Processing
The most famous application of the Level-Or is undoubtedly drum processing. As mentioned in Sound On Sound magazine's review, applying it directly to a drum loop might sound "horrible," but when blended with the dry signal through parallel processing, the results can be magical.
The effect is particularly pronounced when applied to snare drums. Boosted transients, compressed sustain, and unique harmonic distortion breathe life into snares. The Level-Or can become an essential tool in genres requiring raw energy, such as rock, blues, and indie.
Vocal Processing
Applying the Level-Or to overly clean or lifeless vocal tracks can create remarkable transformations. Using the MK1 mode with appropriate blend settings can add vintage warmth and character even within modern productions.
Bus Processing
Subtle application to a drum bus or even the master bus can add cohesion and energy to the entire mix. Careful adjustment of oversampling and the blend knob allows you to add the energy needed for modern music while maintaining clarity.
Comparison with Competing Products
The Level-Or plugin competes with several similar products in the market.
Korneff Audio Level-Loc
Korneff Audio's recently released Level-Loc plugin is also inspired by the original Shure Level-Loc. The Korneff version focuses more directly on emulating vintage hardware. While Level-Or emphasizes modern features and additional controls, Korneff's Level-Loc stays true to the vintage experience.
SoundToys Devil-Loc
SoundToys' Devil-Loc plugin, mentioned in the Sound On Sound review, draws inspiration from the same Shure Level-Loc. Devil-Loc offers more extreme settings and is particularly popular in sound design applications. While Level-Or focuses more on musical applications, Devil-Loc explores more experimental territory.
UAD Fairchild
The UAD Fairchild has a different concept than the Level-Or, but it can be used for similar purposes due to its strong character. However, the Fairchild remains closer to a traditional compressor, while the Level-Or is a more creative tool.
Value Analysis
Suitable for These Users:
- Producers who frequently work with drums
- Those seeking vintage, distinctive compression sounds
- People working in genres requiring distortion (rock, blues, indie, etc.)
- Those looking for hardware sound but with budget constraints
Considerations:
- Level-Or is not an "all-purpose" compressor
- It may have limitations when processing low frequencies in electronic music
- If you want transparent compression, consider other options
Conclusion
Safari Pedals and Standard Audio's Level-Or plugin is an outstanding creative tool. It successfully brings the legacy that began with the 1960s Level-Loc into modern digital workflows while adding new features to meet the demands of contemporary producers.
If you're looking for transparent, clean compression, the Level-Or might not be your best choice. However, if you're seeking a tool for character, personality, and vibrant sound, the Level-Or will certainly be a valuable addition to your plugin collection.
