Sometimes it’s smaller software companies that produce the real gems — and this is one of them. For a bit over $100, the GCO-1 (“Golden Compressor”) VST plug-in for Windows 2K/XP gives you more than just a kickin’ compressor/expander. It’s almost a “compressor construction kit” where you can pick the best vintage (or modern) compressor characteristics you like, and create a preset incorporating that particular sound.

For example, there are five envelope types, which emulate the different gain control elements used in various compressors. Each has its use; you even emulate the two-stage release of some opto-based compressors, or make the sound “pump” like compressors did during the psychedelic 60s. Technically, it hits the target too: 64-bit floating point processing, sample rate support up to 192kHz, and a CPU-friendly level of efficiency.

With extra goodies like a subsonic input filter, the ability to adjust curve linearity, variable knee, and 3-band EQ in the detector section for frequency-dependent compression (along with a variable filter to remove ultra-low frequencies), you have a tweaker’s dream. In fact, the only possible drawback is that unless you know what you’re doing, you’ll have a hard time getting the most out of the various options. Fortunately there’s good documentation, and the controls are laid out in a hierarchy — the top ones are the essentials, while the lower controls provide the detailed editing — so neophytes can grow into the feature set over time.

Sound interesting? Don’t take my word for it. Go to the web site and download the 14-day demo, but don’t do it unless you’re prepared to spring for the unlimited registration. The more you use the GCO-1, the more you’ll realize just how versatile it really is.