November 25th 2011
The RC is an emulation of a 1950s tube RCA recording desk. Slate Digital has recreated this unit with a two-step approach. Each track in your DAW is assigned a channel version of the plugin and the master output into a summing virtual console plugin. Apparently, there's no crosstalk being emulated between tracks, only in the master summing stage.
For my classical piano record Three Piano Pieces, at first I used a complex chain of effects including various compressors and equalizers. Ultimately, these would be replaced by a single EQ effect and the "RC Virtual Console".
RC? I like the sound of that
Like advertised, the RC sound is very tube-like and musical. It worked a treat for my grand piano. Having a smooth, tube-y top, the RC is perfect for jazz and small size ensembles. The saturation, when it occurs in more pronounced "input" and "drive" settings, conjures plenty of old studio charm. Think Roy Orbison. In its own way, the RC creates even a tactful sense of ambience!
While not one to squirt 300Hz all over the place, the RC might sound a tad too dark for some applications. Also, don't part from your precious collection of EQ plugins just yet. Slate's Virtual consoles are like the secret ingredient in a mix first prepared through other means.
Bottom line: The RC Virtual Console is great value at under $50. An elegant plugin which will transform most good mixes into great ones. While beginners might fail to see "the big deal", this product is a must have for more experienced mixers.
robertciesla.com rating 8/10
Robert Ciesla
System used: Mac Mini i5 (2011) with 8 GB of RAM and Lexicon Omega i/o running Logic Pro