Relab Color Drive
The Drive That Feels Alive
Real analog behavior, solved in real time. Color Drive is the Relab 176’s variable-gain tube circuit, with transformers and all.
This is true hardware saturation in software form.
Craig Bauer, Mixer/Engineer
(30+ Grammy winning and nominated records)
The typical words used to describe a drive plugin just don’t begin to cut it with the lorem ipsum some text here.
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Hear It For Yourself
Relab Color Drive Preset Demos
Saturation Built From a Real-Time Circuit
Color Drive doesn’t stack algorithms or approximate “warmth.” It solves the Relab 176 tube stage, with the input transformer, 6BC8 variable-gain tube, calibration bias, and output transformer, as a single, living circuit.
That’s why it behaves like hardware: every move changes the way the whole system responds.
It’s hardware logic, in software form.
Harmonics that feel alive, not static
Because the full circuit is solved in real time, density, tone, and transient shape interact exactly like they do in hardware.Subtle or bold – always musical
From barely-there warmth to real tube crunch, it can tuck transients, add harmonic weight, and give instruments presence without pushing them forward in level.
If you’ve been waiting for a saturator that responds like real hardware, this is the one that finally does it.
Controls That Shape Harmonics With Precision
Drive - The Heart of the Tube Stage
When you increase the Drive you’re not just adding “more effect”- you’re pushing an accurate 6BC8 tube (and switchable output transformer) model inside a complete analog circuit.
Harmonics build naturally, transients round in a controlled way, and the signal picks up that understated weight and glow you normally only get from real hardware.
Switch in the Transformer, Change the Harmonics
Switching to transformer coupling inserts the Relab 176’s output transformer back into the signal path, completing the full analog chain.
With Calibration centered, the stage produces mostly odd-order harmonics, adding focus, punch, and that familiar hardware solidity to a mix.
Bias the Tube & Tune the Harmonics
Calibration adjusts the tube’s bias point, letting you introduce just the right amount of even-order harmonics when you need warmth or contour.
Especially when paired with the output transformer, it becomes a precise way to shape the harmonic mix. You can create subtle, musical shifts that give you real control over how the color sits in a track.
Modern Controls Shape What the Circuit Hears
These controls let you decide how the signal enters the tube stage, not just how much.
The low-end crossover can route the deep bass around the drive circuit so you keep all the weight without muddying the harmonics.
And the pre/post tilt or high-shelf emphasis filters let you steer exactly which frequencies push the tube harder.
Together they give you precise, musical control over the harmonic profile before any Drive is added.
A Workspace Built for a Growing Harmonic Platform
Color Drive launches with the Relab 176 tube stage, but the architecture is ready for additional circuits as we release new hardware models.
Future “color pack” upgrades will be downloadable right into this system, giving you an expanding library of real circuits and tones, all inside one unified workflow.
Craig Bauer, Mixer/Engineer
(30+ Grammy winning and nominated records)
The typical words used to describe a compressor plugin just don’t begin to cut it with the 176. The range of tones, in addition to the dynamic control, is simply mind boggling.
If I had only ONE compressor to use ever again, this is it. The range of sounds is extraordinary. Subsequently, there is nothing it didn’t sound great with…from drums, to bass, to vocals.
Koen Heldens- Mixer/Engineer
80 million sold & over 26 billion streams (Kanye West, Lil Wayne, XXXTENTACION)
I’ve used the hardware. The Relab 176 nails it. This is the first time I’ve heard software compression actually move like the real thing
One More Thing…..You’re Not Just Getting Your New Favorite Plug-in…
When you invest in the Relab Color Drive, you’re stepping into a whole new world of value. Here are all the bonuses that are waiting for you:
Hand-Crafted Factory Presets
Revitalize your mixing process with presets that have been meticulously crafted by sound experts. These aren't just generic settings; they're starting points designed to inspire and guide you to your best-sounding mixes ever.
Exclusive Community Access
Join a community of like-minded professionals and enthusiasts. Share your mixes, get feedback, and learn from the best in the industry. More than just a group; it's a family of sound aficionados.
Tips and Tutorials
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our library of tutorials will assist you in getting the most out your 176. From basic setups to advanced techniques, we've got you covered.
Industry-Leading Customer Support
Ever felt lost or confused with a product? Well, we’ve got your back. Our dedicated support team is always on standby, ready to assist you. Whether it's a technical glitch or a simple query, we're here for you.
30-Day No-Questions-Asked Money Back Guarantee!
Our Promise to You: You don’t need to make a final decision right now. All we ask is that you give it a try. Fully explore the Relab Color Drive plug-in for a full 30 days, starting from the day you purchase. If you find that the plug-in doesn’t capture the essence of the original hardware, or doesn’t elevate your mixes with the same unparalleled depth and clarity, or even if it doesn’t resonate with your unique creative spirit, then we believe it’s only fair that you shouldn’t have to pay for it. And if that’s the case, simply reach out, and our customer support team will process a swift, hassle-free refund. No strings attached!
Hardware Requirements
Mac requirements (64-bit only):
- OS: macOS 12 Monterey or higher
- CPU: Apple Silicon M1 or newer
- RAM: 8 GB minimum, 16 GB+ recommended
- Formats: AU, VST3, AAX (64-bit)
- Auth: iLok account (dongle optional)
Compatible host application (Apple Silicon–native versions):
– Pro Tools: 2020.11 and up (AAX 64-bit)
– Cubase: 9.5 and up (VST3 64-bit)
– Nuendo: 8 and up (VST3 64-bit)
– Ableton Live: 10 and up (64-bit)
– Reaper: 7 and up (64-bit)
Win requirements (64bit only):
- OS: Windows 10 and up (64-bit)
- CPU: Intel Core i7 (8th-gen+) or AMD Ryzen 5 (3000-series+) with AVX2 support
- RAM: 8 GB minimum, 16 GB+ recommended
- Formats: VST3, AAX (64-bit)
- Auth: iLok account (dongle optional)
Compatible host application:
– Pro Tools: 2020.11 and up (AAX 64-bit)
– Cubase: 9.5 and up (VST3 64-bit)
– Nuendo: 8 and up (VST3 64-bit)
– Ableton Live: 10 and up (64-bit)
– Reaper: 7 and up (64-bit)
If your system is slightly older than what is listed, it may still run – but please ensure you test the plugin using the free trial. Thanks!
No hardware dongle is required to authorize this product.
You can choose between local computer authorization OR the ilok USB key (V2 or above). However, a free PACE iLok account, internet connection and the latest PACE drivers are required at the time of product activation. A PACE Ilok account and drivers are available here.