FabFilter Saturn 2 | Multiband Distortion Plug-In

FabFilter Saturn 2 is a powerful multiband distortion and saturation plug-in that has been completely overhauled in its second version. The flexible sound architecture is based on up to six individually controllable frequency bands, each with its own Drive, Mix, Feedback, Dynamics, Tone and Level sections. A total of 28 distortion types are available – from subtle tape or tube saturation to classic British and American amp emulations and experimental sound distortions such as foldback or breakdown. New additions include three transformer models and softer variants of existing saturation styles for mastering use.

The user interface has been completely modernized and now offers four scalable sizes and a full screen mode. All modulations are visually comprehensible, both at source and destination. Colored animations and the source flow overview allow quick orientation within complex modulation routings. The modulation matrix allows the unrestricted use of XLFOs, envelope followers, envelope generators, XY controllers, sliders and MIDI sources – with free naming and comprehensive destination assignment.

Special functions such as transient detection in the envelope follower or modulated frequency offset parameters in the XLFO considerably expand the creative sound design. Saturn 2 is also at the highest technical level: the Superb High Quality Mode with 32-fold oversampling almost completely eliminates aliasing, while the Linear Phase Option ensures phase coherence when used in mixing and mastering contexts. The crossover sections offer adjustable transition slopes from 6 to 48 dB/octave for maximum control.

The curated preset library offers practical setups for amp modeling, lo-fi, creative distortion or subtle sound coloration and complements Saturn 2’s wide range of applications in music production, sound design and post-production.

Technical properties

Plug-in formats: VST 2/3, Audio Units, AAX, AudioSuite
System requirements Windows: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP (32/64-bit), compatible VST host or Pro Tools
System requirements macOS: macOS 10.8 or higher (64-bit), Intel, compatible AU/VST host or Pro Tools
Distortion types: 28 types incl. tape, tube, saturation, transformers, amp emulations, FX styles
Bands: Up to 6 with individually configurable crossover slopes (6, 12, 24, 36, 48 dB/octave)
Band control: Drive, Mix, Feedback, Dynamics, Tone, Level per band
Processing: Stereo and Mid/Side
Modulation:
– Unlimited number of modulation sources (XLFOs, envelopes, followers, XY, sliders, MIDI)
– Transient detection in the envelope follower
– Frequency offset and balance targets in the XLFO
– Modulation visualization at sources and targets
– Source flow overview
– Naming of modulation sources
Quality modes: High Quality (8x), Superb Mode (32x oversampling)
Further functions:
– Linear phase processing
– Interactive multiband display
– Four interface sizes, full screen mode
– Smart parameter interpolation, MIDI learn, undo/redo, A/B comparison
– Sample-accurate automation, SSE optimization
– Comprehensive preset library