Acustica Audio has introduced a new audio plugin which aims to reimagine what tape sampling can be in the digital domain. Powered by HTET™ (Hyper Tape Emulation Technology), Taupe Studio delivers everything from subtle glue to saturated vintage grit.
Inspired by the original Acqua plugin Taupe, this next-generation tool takes everything that made Taupe special and elevates it to new heights. We’ve re-engineered the core technology, refined the sonic behavior, and added new features to deliver what we believe is a true milestone in analog emulation.
It goes far beyond EQ curves or distortion profiles—real tape responds dynamically to input level, frequency content, machine settings, and the very nature of the magnetic medium itself. And while many plugins claim to emulate tape, most fall short under real-world conditions. Taupe Studio is our answer to that challenge. After an exhaustive evaluation of the competition and hundred of hours of development, we believe we’ve delivered a truly next-level solution.
Taupe Studio features
- 8 Distinct Tape Profiles: Sampled from 5 iconic machines, each profile offers unique tone, saturation, and dynamic response at various tape speeds (IPS).
- Multi-Speed Tape Operation: Adjust tape speed to shape headroom, frequency response, and saturation behavior with precision.
- Wow & Flutter Control: Add subtle or noticeable pitch variation to recreate the natural movement and charm of vintage tape playback.
- Advanced Panning & Stereo Width: Flexible stereo shaping with multiple panning modes and natural, phase-safe widening via the Amount control.
- HTET™ Engine: Hyper Tape Emulation Technology captures real tape dynamics, saturation, and modulation with unmatched realism and musicality.
- Real-Time EQ, Filters & Tape Display: Visualize analog-style EQ, HP/LP filters, and the static tape response curves for each model—clean and saturated.
- Resizable UI: Fully scalable interface to fit any screen and workflow setup.
- Oversampling & Listening Modes: Optimize performance for tracking, mixing, or mastering with selectable oversampling and listening modes.
- Hysteresis: Adjust tape behavior from tight and modern to loose and vintage—shifting the saturation sweet spot and dynamic character.
- Factory Presets: Professionally designed presets provide fast starting points and creative ideas for any production style.
Taupe Studio for Windows and Mac (VST3, AU and AAX) is on sale for the intro price of €89 EUR until June 26th, 2025 (regular €189 EUR). Owners of Taupe can get an additional discount as part of Acustica’s Loyal Customer Program.
More information: Acustica Audio
