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An introduction to FLUX:: Pure Compressor, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Pure transparent and discrete compression with the option to produce classic fat compression making it perfect for both creative mixing and production as well as for discrete mastering and post-production.
— FLUX:: official site
What is Pure Compressor?
Pure Compressor is the compressor in FLUX::'s Pure series. The official text describes a range from transparent, discreet compression to classic fat compression, suited to creative mixing and production as well as mastering and post-production.
Alongside the usual ratio, attack and release, it lets you control the essential dynamics profile used. Release has Manual, Auto and Advanced modes, with adjustable minimum and maximum values in Advanced.
Two distinctive parameters are Dynamics Ratio, which sets how much the ratio is automatically adapted to the signal's dynamics, and Level Independent Detection (L.I.D), which sets the threshold by dynamic range rather than plain level. The idea is that settings carry over between sources of different loudness.
A built-in M/S encoder/decoder allows stereo width control. An external side-chain is available in AU, VST3 and AAX, and input/output supports up to 16 channels.
Dynamics Ratio and L.I.D
Dynamics Ratio adapts the ratio in real time to the signal's dynamic range, which the maker says opens the sound and keeps some crest. L.I.D detects by dynamic range instead of level.
Three release modes
Choose Manual, Auto or Advanced; Advanced exposes minimum and maximum release values.
Eight detection modes
Detection modes interact with time, envelope and RMS integration, and include Feed Backward modes inspired by vintage hardware.
Auto Delay (zero attack)
A delay matching the attack time is inserted so the compressor can act with zero attack.
M/S Width and link
Stereo width can be changed by -6 to +6 dB via M/S; the maker notes +6 dB can produce phase issues. It works only with exactly two channels.
Parallel processing and discrete limiter
Dry/Wet gives true parallel compression and can blend in some original peaks; a peak limiter sits at the end of the chain.
External side-chain and multichannel
External side-chain works in AU, VST3 and AAX, and up to 16 channels can be individually left unprocessed.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Compressor |
| Channels | Up to 16 in/out |
| Input/output gain | +/-48 dB |
| M/S Width | -6 to +6 dB (two channels only) |
| Side-chain | External (AU, VST3, AAX) |
| Detection modes | 8 |
| Formats | VST, AU, AAX Native, AAX DSP (per the official compatibility icons) |
| System | Windows 10/11 (64-bit); macOS 10.14.6 Mojave or later, Apple Silicon (M1-M3) supported. An iLok.com account is required (the iLok USB key is not required) |
What is included and system requirements
- Pure Compressor
- M/S encoder/decoder
- Discrete peak limiter
- Phase invert and Dry/Wet controls
- System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit); macOS 10.14.6 Mojave or later, Apple Silicon (M1-M3) supported. An iLok.com account is required (the iLok USB key is not required)
- Two preset/parameter slots (A and B) plus a morphing slider between them, available to host automation
- Open Sound Control (OSC) support
- The FLUX:: shop advertises a free 30-day trial
How to use it
- Insert Pure Compressor on a track or bus.
- Set Threshold, Ratio, Attack and Release to suit the source.
- Try Auto release, then refine minimum and maximum in Advanced if needed.
- Move Dynamics Ratio and L.I.D gradually and watch the effect.
- Use Dry/Wet to blend the original for parallel compression.
- Adjust stereo width with M/S Width (two channels).
- For an external side-chain, route the key signal in a supported format (AU, VST3, AAX).
- Compare settings with A/B.
Single vocals and instruments
From transparent to firmly working compression might be explored in one unit.
Mix bus
It could be used together with the stereo width control.
Mastering
Gentle compression could be dialled in carefully.
Post-production
It may be considered for levelling dialogue and voice-over.
Who it may suit
- People who want transparent and classic compression in one tool
- Those who want settings to hold across sources of different level
- Users who need an external side-chain
- Anyone seeking a compressor usable in mastering and post
Good to know before you buy
- An iLok.com user account is required (the iLok USB key is not required).
- Windows is 64-bit only and needs a graphics card with OpenGL 2.0 support; USB displays are listed as unsupported in the official specifications.
- The standard FLUX:: license does not include VS3 (for Pyramix / Ovation); it is sold separately by Merging Technologies.
- External side-chain is available in AU, VST3 and AAX.
- Also included in the All Plugins Pack and Complete Pack subscriptions.
How it differs from similar products
We do not pick a winner; the official figures are placed side by side.
FLUX:: Pure Limiter
Pure Compressor adds an external side-chain and M/S Width for $79. Pure Limiter is a limiter with 0/20 ms lookahead, also $79. Both support up to 16 channels.
Price
$79 (FLUX:: official site, checked 2026-10-27). Prices can vary by region and promotion, so check the official page before buying.
See Pure Compressor on the product page
Sources: flux.audio shop.flux.audio (checked 2026-10-27)
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