Comprendre, a plugin by Skynext, is probably the most advanced compressor plug-in I’ve ever seen. With an incredible 365 (!) adjustable parameters, it allows you to dynamically add character and warmth to your audio and instrument tracks. And the possibilities are endless. With this tool, you can truly immerse yourself in the world of audio dynamics in all its facets. And with everything you would expect from a sophisticated compressor. With the unique ENV and attack/release parameters, you can shape the behaviour of your sound to such an extreme that every transient and every sustained note is modelled perfectly. And all of that for only 19 Euros?
Comprendre: Precision and creativity in one comprehensive plug-in
According to developer Skynext, Comprendre’s ENV and attack/release capabilities, which are particularly important for a compressor, are intended to ‘revolutionise’ sound design. Of course, this is also due to the extensive control over dynamics, with an incredible 365 adjustable parameters. Normally a compressor only has Threshold, Ratio and Gain controls – at best Attack, Release and Dry/Wet (for NY-style parallel compression) are added. But this tool actually beats everything else on the market. What’s more, this inexpensive compressor is said to sound very transparent and professional. It doesn’t sound wrong.
With Comprendre, users can bring the classic, legendary sound of legendary hardware compressors into their own DAWs, without sacrificing the modern benefits of today’s technologies. This plug-in lets you tweak the emulations (and much more) to perfection, controlling the warmth and charm of classic analogue gear via the Bias and Opto parameters. These tools add a nostalgic touch to your mixes while retaining the direct punch of modern technology.
Comprendre: Unmatched precision for your sound design and every sound
An enhanced lookahead function also allows for more professional use of the compressor. This delays the compression and preserves the integrity of the release phase, while a separate envelope window gives you even more control over the attack and release of the compressor. The result is dynamic, clear mixes – transients are perfectly captured by Comprendre.
Graphically, Comprendre cannot (yet) keep up with the leading competitors. But in terms of price, adjustability and range of parameters, the plug-in definitely scores. It even includes a random generator for all the features. But do you really need so many options/parameters in a compressor plug-in, or does such a variety overwhelm the user in the creative phase? Sound designers and mastering engineers will certainly be happy with all the features. What do you think of this tool?
Specifications and pricing for Skynext Comprendre
Skynext Comprendre is now available from the manufacturer’s website for € 19.00. The plug-in runs on macOS 10.15 or higher, Linux and Windows as VST3. Detailed installation instructions and several tutorial videos are also available on the website. Presets are included.
More information on Skynext and Comprendre
