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An introduction to FLUX:: Solera, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Solera is a comprehensive full band dynamics processor combining the power of a compressor, expander, de-compressor and de-expander, all four processing in parallel.
— FLUX:: official site
What is Solera?
Solera is a full-band dynamics processor that runs a compressor, expander, de-compressor and de-expander in parallel. The official text says it is designed for demanding situations, preserving or recovering the natural quality of the material without adding artifacts.
All four processing sections are available directly in the interface. The de-compressor and de-expander move dynamics in the opposite direction to a conventional compressor/expander, which might help when you want to bring back movement in squashed material.
The side-chain section includes a three-band equalizer so processing can respond to particular frequency regions. Each band offers five filter types: 12 dB/oct high-pass, low shelf, parametric, high shelf and 12 dB/oct low-pass.
It supports up to 8 input/output channels, so it can be used beyond stereo. The detection ideas shared with the Pure series, Dynamics Ratio and Level Independent Detection, are provided on each section.
Four processors in parallel
Compressor, expander, de-compressor and de-expander run in parallel and are set directly in the interface, which could suit combining several dynamics treatments in one plug-in.
Three-band EQ in the side-chain
Each band has Gain, Frequency and Q with five filter types, which could help if processing reacts too much to low frequencies.
External side-chain
In AU and AAX (Native and DSP), a mono or stereo external side-chain is supported.
Envelope and detection
Attack, Hold and Release use Manual, Auto or Advanced release modes, and eight detection modes (including Feed Backward) are selectable.
Dynamics Ratio and L.I.D
Each section has parameters that adapt ratio and threshold to the signal's dynamics, so settings can carry across material of different level.
MS mode and width
M/S encode/decode at input and output allows stereo width changes of -6 to +6 dB; the maker notes +6 dB can produce phase issues.
Parallel, +/-48 dB gain, 8 channels
Dry/Wet gives true parallel processing, gain spans +/-48 dB, and up to 8 channels are supported, with a peak limiter at the end.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Full-band dynamics |
| Processors | Compressor / expander / de-compressor / de-expander (parallel) |
| Channels | Up to 8 in/out |
| Input/output gain | +/-48 dB |
| Side-chain EQ | 3 bands (12 dB/oct HP, low shelf, parametric, high shelf, 12 dB/oct LP) |
| External side-chain | AU, AAX (Native/DSP) |
| 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
- Solera (full-band dynamics)
- Three-band side-chain EQ
- M/S encoder/decoder
- Discrete peak limiter
- 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 Solera on a track or bus.
- Begin with only the compressor section to learn the basic behaviour.
- Add expander or de-compressor sections as needed.
- Use the side-chain EQ to choose which bands to react to or avoid.
- Adjust Attack, Hold, Release and the detection mode.
- Set the blend with the dry signal using Dry/Wet.
- If using M/S mode, check Width (-6 to +6 dB).
- Compare settings with A/B and tidy the output gain.
Reviving squashed material
The de-compressor and de-expander might be tried to bring back movement.
Mix bus
Four parallel processors could shape how the bus moves.
Mastering
As a full-band tool it may be used together with M/S.
Post-production
It may be considered for balancing dialogue or music dynamics.
Who it may suit
- People interested in opposite-direction processing such as de-compression
- Those who want to choose the reacting bands with a side-chain EQ
- Users who prefer full-band over multiband
- Anyone seeking dynamics for up to 8 channels
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 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:: Alchemist
Solera is full-band with four parallel processors, up to 8 channels, at $149. Alchemist is a multiband processor with up to five bands and 16 channels at $199.
Price
$149 (FLUX:: official site, checked 2026-10-27). Prices can vary by region and promotion, so check the official page before buying.
See Solera on the product page
Sources: flux.audio shop.flux.audio (checked 2026-10-27)
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