Auburn Sounds Couture

Best for ultra-precise, level-independent attack/sustain sculpting. Couture takes a slightly different approach to transient processing. It’s a level-dependent processor, which means it reacts more aggressively or subtly according to the volume of the input signal. Although the Freemium version has the saturation section deactivated, it’s still a competent processor. Furthermore, Couture has three different input detection modes.

While “Flat” treats all signals equally, “Human” is a detection algorithm based on the Fletcher-Munson equal loudness contours. “Sybil” can zero in on resonances for tasks like de-essing. I love that it’s volume-independent; I can boost or cut attack/sustain without riding input gain, and the level-dependent behavior reacts naturally as I hit it harder. With each setting, adjusting the Bass Amt knob will change the way the detector reacts to low frequencies.

In the Transient section, the Sharpen knob emphasizes different parts of the waveform to varying degrees.