CamelCrusher – Free Download for Windows and macOS

CamelCrusher is a discontinued freeware plugin by Camel Audio. Thankfully, this legendary distortion VST plugin can still be downloaded for free.

The last time I wrote about an older plugin, it was TDR Nova, one of the best free EQ plugins. Nova was released in 2015, a significant year in the Camel Audio story, but for a different reason.

The developer Camel Audio discontinued all of its software, including CamelCrusher, in 2015.

However, CamelCrusher remains one of the most popular distortion plugins, and you can download it for free from this page.

CamelCrusher Overview

Camel Crusher is a multi-effect for macOS and Windows. The plugin has four modules:

• Distortion;
• Filter;
• Compressor;
• Master.

You can turn each module on/off individually, and each has simple, easy-to-use controls.

I don’t need to comment much more on the interface, but it’s always worth highlighting when a plugin isn’t convoluted. It doesn’t matter how experienced you are; if you have to mess around with menus and buried features, it’s time wasted.

Legendary distortion

CamelCrusher has two distortion algorithms that you can blend to create whatever tone and texture you need.

The distortion module has two controls: Tube and Mech. On the one hand, you have a smoother, analog-like texture; on the other hand, you’ve got a much grittier, dirtier character.

The tones and textures delivered by this one module are a massive part of why CamelCruncher was so popular.

One of the best things about this particular module is that combining both algorithms makes it easy to find the perfect distortion with the right amount of aggression for any use. It works well whether you are trying to go all out or just give some keys a little extra crunch.

Analog-style filter

Another very cool feature of CamelCrusher is the analog-style low-pass filter. The silky-smooth filter provides Cutoff and Resonance controls.

It is a feature that we don’t often find in distortion effects. However, using the filter to remove some grittiness is very helpful.

Compression

CamelCrusher features a one-knob (Amount) Compressor module with Phat Mode. Phat Mode boosts the compression, giving a fatter sound overall, and the impact or level of Phat Mode increases as you raise the compression amount.

How do you like them Apples?

Besides needlessly quoting Good Will Hunting, by saying them apples, I’m referring back to 2015 and the purchase of Camel Audio by none other than Apple Inc. (everyone’s favorite multinational).

Apple quickly integrated the technology behind Camel Audio plugins into Logic Pro. These days, CamelCrusher and its bigger brother CamelPhat are wrapped up in Logic’s Phat FX.

Other plugins have undergone similar transitions; Camel Audio Alchemy is now Logic Pro Alchemy, etc.

Free Plugin Nostalgia

When we posted the TDR Nova look back, I was pleased to see the positive comments towards the developer and plugin.

So, I just want to briefly mention and thank you to you guys and girls for showing such constant appreciation and support for the freebies that make our lives easier.

CamelCrusher Download

CamelCrusher is available for free download (click the Direct Download button to download your copy), but it’s discontinued and won’t receive future updates. It is compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit VST, AU, and AAX plugin hosts on Windows and macOS.

If you want something similar with additional distortion modes, check out our free BPB Dirty Filter plugin.

Download: CamelCrusher (click Direct Download)

More:

• TDR Nova Equalizer Review
• Regency Is A FREE Phase-Distortion Synthesizer By Nakst

Last Updated on August 30, 2024 by Tomislav Zlatic.