Kazrog releases KClip Zero, a freeware clipper effect in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats for Windows and macOS.
Shane and the good folks at Kazrog have turned out solid and affordable plugins for several years now.
Their product lineup consisted of commercial plugins, but that has changed with the introduction of KClip Zero, a freebie that serves as a teaser for the popular KClip 3.
KClip Zero First Impressions
KClip Zero is simple to control, with a linked input/output and a soften knob.
The input knob will clip any signal it hits, with the output compensating for the increase in gain. This is quick and effective and is an absolute breeze to dial in.
The Soften knob switches the clipper from hard clipping to soft clipping. At a value of 0%, it serves as a surgically precise hard clipper, great for shaving off peaks and spikier material. At a full 100%, it serves as a soft clipper, introducing a clean and subtle set of harmonics while also increasing the perceived volume of the material.
KClip Zero is a rock-solid clipper and arguably one of the best free ones on the market despite being introduced today. Internal oversampling is also present, which is quite handy for reducing aliasing.
What is missing from the full KClip is additional clipping algorithms and the multiband functionality. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
Multiband functionality is always welcome but isn’t a sticking point for a processor like a clipper. KClip Zero trims out the fat and presents an immediately usable clipper intended for regular use in mixing and mastering capacities.
Users being able to choose their preferred oversampling would be great, as well as a little more control over the harmonics imparted by the soft clipping. For the low cost of nothing, these are just minor quibbles against an otherwise stellar plugin.
KClip Zero Specs And Download
KClip Zero is free forever and is compatible with Windows and Mac computers. Supported plugin formats are VST, AAX, and AU. There are Apple Silicon native binaries in addition to Intel-compatible installers.
Download: KClip Zero
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