ARTAPE

ARTAPE models a complete tape machine signal path rather than applying a simple tape-style saturation curve. Audio passes through record pre-emphasis, tape saturation, gap loss, playback de-emphasis, head bump, wow and flutter, and noise in the same order as a real machine. Choose between 7.5, 15, and 30 IPS tape speeds to change the character of the machine. Slower speeds create a stronger low-frequency head bump and earlier high-frequency roll-off, while 30 IPS provides a cleaner, more extended response. A live response curve shows how each setting shapes the signal. NAB and CCIR emphasis standards change how frequencies are driven into the tape model, while 456, 900, and GP9 tape stocks provide different amounts of headroom and saturation character. RECORD LEVEL drives the tape itself, bringing compression, harmonics, and high-frequency softening together as the level increases. WOW AND FLUTTER adds adjustable pitch instability, while NOISE introduces tape hiss when wanted. Both start at zero. MIX uses a delay-matched dry path for phase-correct parallel processing, and the plugin includes 15 presets covering clean mastering, drums, vocals, worn tape effects, and more.