A.O.M. Nu Compressor: 52 compressors in one $300 plug-in

22 Sep 2020 by Lasse Eilers |

4,7 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes

A.O.M. Nu Compressor · Source: A.O.M.

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The A.O.M. Nu Compressor packs 52 different compressor programs in one impressive-looking plug-in. With programs for a wide range of instruments and compression applications, Nu Compressor looks like a very versatile dynamics processor. But is it worth its rather hefty price?

A.O.M. Nu Compressor

A.O.M. calls Nu Compressor a “multi-purpose track compressor plug-in”. It offers 52 different characteristics, represented by the programs on the right. These include programs for specific instruments like bass drum, snare drum, bass and vocals. There’s also a couple of classic compressor types like FET and ‘Optical LA’. And you get programs for things like ‘Transient Crush’, ‘High-Mid Screamer’, ‘Warm Air’ and many more.

According to the developer, the programs are sets of more than 90 hidden parameters. These affect things like the envelope generation algorithm, knee shape, attack and release time ranges, and more. You cannot adjust these parameters yourself like you can on some other highly tweakable compressors like Unisum. But with 52 programs to choose from, there’s a lot to explore.

The adjustable parameters on the left present a fairly straightforward set of compressor controls. Input level, threshold, ratio, attack, release – nothing too far out of the ordinary here. There’s also a dry/wet mix knob for parallel compression and a variable link control. For the side chain signal, which can be internal or external, Nu Compressor offers high pass and low pass filters. It also has a side chain monitor button and level meter.

So is Nu Compressor the only compressor you’ll ever need? With 52 different characteristics, it surely looks like a versatile beast. On the other hand, saying that it’s like 52 different compressors in one plug-in is probably a bit of a stretch. After all, the underlying architecture remains the same.

Then, there’s the price. 300 bucks for a compressor plug-in is definitely on the pricey side. Sure, one could argue that Nu Compressor can probably replace a handful of other plug-ins if you really get to know it well. But I’m still doubtful that many would be willing to spend this kind of money on a single compressor plug-in, especially with so many excellent and much more affordable alternatives available. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!