Announced today, Focusrite Scarlett (Mac / Win; $99 MAP) is a professional software suite featuring a comprehensive set of compression, gating, EQ, and reverb plugins for tracking and mixing. With a vintage, lipstick red, anodized aluminum-like, adjective-laden user interface and realistic-looking VU meters, Scarlett is like the other Scarlett: a glamorous, red-carpet addition for DAWs. Each plugin is replete with fast, simple presets, adjustable parameters, and much more.

Said to be the faithful re-creations of classic compressors and gates, Scarlett plugins were modeled on original ear-tuned hardware optical compressors exclusive to Focusrite, for a 1960s Opto sound.

The Gate can operate in stereo mode and, in different dual mono configurations, one signal can be used to trigger the gate of another. According to Focusrite, this use of the Gate would be ideal for tightening up a bass line. Regarding EQ curves and controls, Scarlett's filters, parametric mids, and shelving take the same six-band EQ approach as the Focusrite's Red 2 and ISA EQs. Likewise, the Reverb was based on classic algorithmic studio reverb designs and offers precise control.

Scarlett works with VST, AU, and RTAS (Pro Tools) hosts. The plugin suite is available from select U.S. Focusrite dealers. For more details, head to the company's Web site.