Gyraf Gyratec IX
by Antelope Audio · Saturation · Tube mic preamp emulation
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Gyraf Gyratec IX models Gyraf Audio's dual-channel all-tube mic preamp, with a variable-gain input tube and an SRPP output stage.
It adds tube color during tracking or mixing and has input and output switches, a high-pass filter and phase invert, for $99.
Best for: Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Drums, Acoustic Instruments. Genres: all genres.
Keywords: tube, mixing, utility, electric guitar, tracking, vocals, warm, bass, drums, hardware emulation, clean, enhancement, single-band, subscription.
What it does
Gyratec IX is Antelope Audio's model of the Gyraf Audio Gyratec IX, a dual all-tube mic preamp. Antelope offers it to add "flawless analog amplification" to any source, while tracking or mixing, with a short set of controls.
- Tube gain stage: a variable-gain input tube feeding an SRPP output stage; low gain stays clean and higher settings add tube colour.
- Input and output switches: level switches to balance how hard the tube is driven against the output level.
- Output trim: reduce the output after driving the gain, so you can push colour without clipping the next plugin.
- High-pass filter: clears rumble and excess low end before or while adding warmth.
- Phase invert: flips polarity, useful on multi-mic sources such as drums or a miked guitar cab.
Version 1.0.1 needs no Antelope hardware. It is also part of the Antelope Cosmos subscription (75+ plugins), which has a free trial.
Source: Antelope Audio product page
When to use it
Gyratec IX is a single tube preamp stage for gentle tube warmth and level, not a multi-mode saturator. Compared with Decapitator it has one character and no distortion styles, so it is less of a sound-design tool but harder to overdo. It is more involved than the one-knob Saturation Knob, adding a high-pass filter and polarity switch that make it useful while tracking. Unlike True Iron, which focuses on transformer colour, it gives tube preamp gain, and Gyraf preamp models are rare as plugins.
- Best for: tube warmth on vocals, acoustic instruments, bass and guitars, and as a first stage on dry DI or line sources.
- Genres: any, especially acoustic, singer-songwriter, rock and soul.
- Look elsewhere if: you want heavier drive or several saturation types (Decapitator), tape colour (Ampex ATR-102), or lo-fi texture (RC-20 Retro Color).
Where to buy
- KVR Marketplace: $99
- Antelope Audio: see store
Tutorials and reviews
- Antelope: Test des PRÉAMPLIS et AFX RD47 et GYRAF GYRATEC IX (Mheyos Darnan)
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