Analog Obsession LAEA v1.2 VST3 AU AAX WiN MAC

LAEA is a free emulation of the classic solid-state optical compressor from the late 1960s, modeled after the UREI LA-3A. This plugin delivers the smooth, program-dependent compression that made the original a staple in studios for decades. It offers simple, effective controls: a Reduction knob sets the amount of gain reduction, while the Gain knob provides clean output makeup. The LIM switch toggles between compressor and limiter modes, and you can engage the side-chain high-pass filter to prevent low frequencies from triggering the compressor. An external side-chain option lets you route another track to control the compression, useful for ducking or creative pumping effects. An I/O button bypasses the plugin for quick A/B comparisons. LAEA is lightweight and includes anti-aliasing to keep artifacts low, though it does not oversample. It’s perfect for hobby producers using FL Studio, Ableton, or Logic who want authentic vintage compression on vocals, drums, bass, or mix bus without spending a cent. Available as VST3, AU, and AAX for Windows and Mac.