Mic Room is the modelling plugin module for T-RackS. Other more accessible systems take the signal from your existing mic and apply corrective responses to provide an approximation of the target mic. The best-known systems take an end-to-end approach and include a specially engineered mic as well as a companion app or plugin for control. Modelled mic systems let the engineer record with a single mic, and apply the response and characteristics of a whole roll call of desirable models both past and present thanks to clever DSP.

Of those that recreate classic designs evoking familiar analogue charm, IK Multimedia’s T-RackS Collection offers three things that could set it apart. On the understanding that 99% of the result comes from what we dial in, it’s also a good idea to see what sets bundles or collections apart, if anything. The big three deciders of sound, features, and price will get us most of the way there. If bundles or collections make things simpler, the only decision remaining is which one to go for. Mixers spend less time deciding what not to use and can save money, while in the case of subscription-based products, developers are afforded the resources to develop new products and support existing ones.

It could be said that these solutions allow everyone to win. Hoping that we will buy into their own particular ‘universe’, companies often give us the option of cost-reduced bundles, or simplified collections of their products. With most of the major developers offering dozens or even hundreds of similar products, the potential for choice paralysis can hit as soon as we open our DAW. T-RackS is IK Multimedia’s modular plugin ecosystem featuring some unashamedly classic flavoured offerings with unique elements. We’re not short on choice when it comes to selecting high quality plugins for our productions, with several developers chasing our hard-earned cash.

T racks mastering suite