Blue Cat calls the Dynamics processor a "complete dynamics effect processor," and indeed it is. Dynamics can be used as a compressor, expander, gate, limiter and distortion unit. Blue Cat's Dynamics uses native DSP code, and it has a two-threshold system. It includes an input filter and a side chain filter that allows you to control frequencies affected by the compression. Continuous VCA/Opto and Peak/RMS features allow precise control.

Blue Cat's press release on the Dynamics processor says, "The real time display of the detected envelope under the compression curve let you know what's exactly going on in the dynamics processor. You can also visualize what's been applied to your audio signal with the real time in/out envelopes display."

Blue Cat says a brick wall limiter/clipper has been added to the output, "for a complete control of the dynamics response." Blue Cat intended this software to act as a real-time side chain compressor, and you can also trigger external hardware devices.

Blue Cat Dynamics offers support for DirectX and VST plug-in formats, has full automation support, and real-time MIDI control, plus MIDI learn.

All the BC Dynamcics features are controlled from the interface or from your hardware/software MIDI controller. The software comes in both a mono and a stereo version, and supports Microsoft Windows 2000, XP or Vista. DirectX 8.0 at least is required for those who prefer to work in DirectX. A demo is available with the following limitations:

• A single instance of the plug-in is allowed per session.
• The effect is bypassed for 4 seconds every 45 seconds.

There are some rave reviews on this software, and some satisfied Blue Cat customers go so far as to call Dynamics "A tweaker's dream" and "a masterpiece". Decide for yourself by downloading a demo from Blue Cat Audio. Seperate demos are available for DirectX and VST users. Mac lovers, sorry, but you're screwed.