What is the Devil-Loc Deluxe?
The Devil-Loc Deluxe is a plug-in that can create extreme compression and distortion effects, as well as subtle saturation and warmth. It is based on the Level-Loc, a device that was originally designed to keep a presenter's voice at a consistent level in public address systems. However, some creative engineers discovered that by pushing the Level-Loc beyond its intended use, they could achieve some amazing and unpredictable results on drums and other sources. The Level-Loc had a very simple interface, with only a switch for three distance settings and an input level knob. The Devil-Loc Deluxe expands on this idea by adding a Darkness control for tone shaping, a switch for fast or slow release times, and a mix knob for blending the dry and wet signals.
How does it work?
The Devil-Loc Deluxe works by applying a combination of compression and distortion to the input signal. The compression is very aggressive and nonlinear, meaning that it reacts differently depending on the input level. The distortion is also very dynamic and adds harmonics and grit to the sound. The result is a very punchy, crunchy, and sometimes chaotic effect that can make drums sound huge and nasty, loops sound lo-fi and dirty, vocals sound edgy and distorted, and so on.
The main controls of the Devil-Loc Deluxe are:
Crush: This controls the amount of compression applied to the signal. Higher values result in more compression and distortion.
Crunch: This controls the amount of distortion added to the signal. Higher values result in more harmonics and fuzz.
Darkness: This controls the tone of the effect. It acts as a low-pass filter that rolls off the high frequencies. Higher values result in a darker and warmer sound.
Release: This controls the release time of the compression. It has two options: fast or slow. The fast release creates more pumping and breathing effects, while the slow release creates more smooth and natural effects.
Mix: This controls the balance between the dry and wet signals. Higher values result in more effect, while lower values result in more dry signal.
What can you do with it?
The Devil-Loc Deluxe is a very versatile plug-in that can be used for various purposes. Here are some examples of what you can do with it:
Create huge drum sounds: By applying high amounts of Crush and Crunch to your drum tracks or busses, you can create massive drum sounds that cut through any mix. You can also use the Darkness control to shape the tone of your drums, from bright and snappy to dark and thumpy. The Release switch can also affect the groove and feel of your drums, from tight and punchy to loose and swinging.
Add character and warmth to loops: By applying moderate amounts of Crush and Crunch to your loops, you can add some saturation and distortion that will make them sound more interesting and organic. You can also use the Darkness control to roll off some of the harshness and brightness of digital loops, making them sound more analog and vintage. The Mix knob can also help you blend in some of the original loop for more clarity and definition.
Enhance vocals with edge and attitude: By applying low amounts of Crush and Crunch to your vocals, you can add some subtle compression and distortion that will make them sound more present and exciting. You can also use the Darkness control to adjust the brightness of your vocals, from airy and clear to warm and smooth. The Mix knob can also help you dial in just the right amount of effect for your vocals, from subtle enhancement to extreme distortion.
Spice up your mix bus with some color and glue: By applying very low amounts of Crush and Crunch to your mix bus, you can add some gentle compression and distortion that will make your mix sound more cohesive and lively. You can also use the Darkness control to fine-tune the overall tone of your mix, from bright and open to dark and dense. The Mix knob can also help you balance the effect with the original mix, from transparent glue to noticeable color.
Where can you get it?
The Devil-Loc Deluxe is available from the SoundToys website for $99. It is also included in the SoundToys 5 Bundle, which contains 21 creative effects plug-ins for $499. The Devil-Loc Deluxe is compatible with most major DAWs and plug-in formats, such as AAX Native, AAX AudioSuite, VST 2, VST 3, and Audio Units (AU). It supports sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz, and requires an internet connection for activation.
If you want to try it out before buying it, you can download a free 30-day trial from the SoundToys website. You can also get the Devil-Loc for free with any qualifying individual plug-in or Effect Rack purchase until January 5, 2024. The Devil-Loc is a simpler version of the Devil-Loc Deluxe, with only two knobs: Crush and Crunch. It is not sold individually, but it is also included in the SoundToys 5 Bundle.
Conclusion
The Devil-Loc Deluxe is a plug-in that can create a wide range of compression and distortion effects, from subtle saturation and warmth to extreme crushing and clipping. It is inspired by the vintage Shure Level-Loc compressor, but adds more features and flexibility to the original concept. It is a very versatile plug-in that can be used on drums, loops, vocals, or even your mix bus, depending on how much effect you want to apply. It is a great tool for adding some character and excitement to your tracks, as well as for experimenting with some creative and unpredictable results.
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