The latest version of FabFilter’s long-reigning compressor, Pro-C 3, adds new types and character saturation, and overhauls its side chain section, resulting in an incredibly vital and extremely fun dynamics processor.
Way back in 2015, we declared the original Pro-C from FabFilter one of the 10 best compressor plugins, saying, “If you were forced to pick just one compressor to do everything, Pro-C would be a solid choice.” Eleven years on from that declaration (and 10 from the release of the sequel, Pro-C 2), FabFilter has finally graced us with a new version, and it’s just as vital as ever. Even more so, actually, given all of the new features the Dutch company has bestowed upon it. From new compressor types to saturation, and a seriously incredible side chain section, Pro-C 3 is everything you might need in a modern compressor - plus some things you may not have even considered before.
Type Cast
Let’s start with those new compressor types, as the list of included circuits has really grown since the original three, Clean, Classic and Opto. Making their debut in Pro-C 3 are Versatile, Smooth, Vari-Mu, Op-El, Upward and TTM, the latter being FabFilter’s take on the legendary OTT.
Including an OTT emulation, which combines both downward and upward compression into a single algorithm, shows how the company’s thinking about its workhorse compressor has changed. The way many producers use software compressors has evolved over the last decade, with many employing them more like effects than just to smooth out wayward transients. Pro-C was tops if you needed a transparent and - dare we say it - sober compressor. With the TTM mode plus upward compression joining the other types (bringing the total to 14), you can now do pretty much any kind of compression all in one place.
So Much Character
Even more surprising than the new compressor types is the inclusion of saturation circuits in Pro-C 3, or what FabFilter is calling character, which sets the type and amount of analog-style saturation, color and drift.
In terms of type, you get three modes: Tube, Diode, and Bright, with a Drive slider for controlling amount, plus a routing switch to choose between Pre and Post compression circuit saturation.
Of course, FabFilter knows a thing or two about saturation. Its Saturn 2 is one of the best multiband saturators on the market, so it’s great to see this making its way into Pro-C 3, especially considering how popular distortion is in music right now. It all sounds wonderful, with the harmonic boosting interacting with the compression in beautiful and musical ways.
Between this and all of the compressor types now available, there’s really nothing you can’t do with Pro-C 3, from vintage-style opto and tube compression to transparent mastering.
Your Duckings In A Row
Pro-C 2 saw FabFilter introduce a Pumping compressor for ducking effects, but as usage of this type of compression has evolved, so too has the need for something a little more involved than just barebones sucking. Thankfully, Pro-C 3’s Side Chain section has gotten a real overhaul, with both internal and