FabFilter Saturn 2 is a high-quality distortion plug-in that offers a wide range of distortion models. Whether you need something subtle like tube saturation or want intense effects from vintage amp modelling, this app has you covered. Saturn 2 also features real-time playback, making it great for live sessions.

To use Saturn 2 as a plug-in, you'll need an AUv3-compatible host app. This could be Auria, AUM, or Cubasis. Once you set it up, Saturn 2 will appear in the list of Audio Unit extensions, so you can easily access it for your effects.

With 28 different distortion styles available, you can explore everything from light touches to heavy guitar amps and even bit crushing distortion. Saturn 2 supports multiband processing, allowing you to break your audio into up to six frequency bands. For those who need precision, there’s optional linear phase processing, and you can adjust the slope crossover with options of 6, 12, 24, and 48 dB/oct.

The app also offers HQ modes for enhanced sound quality, with processing options that include 8x oversampling and even 32x oversampling for the best results. You can control individual bands separately with per-band drive control, mix control options, feedback, dynamics, tone, and overall level controls.

One of the standout features of Saturn 2 is its customizable user interface, which has been fully redesigned for simplicity. The interactive multiband display makes it easy to see what you're doing. It also comes with endless modulation options. You have access to 16-step XLFOs, XY controllers, envelope generators, and envelope followers. Plus, the integration of MIDI sources adds another layer of control.

The app includes a 50-slot modulation matrix that allows you to easily drag and drop modulations. This matrix provides live modulation visualization for targets and sources, which helps you see changes as you make them. You’ll also find curve control in envelope generators to adjust dynamics and transient detection to ensure you catch every detail.

Saturn 2 offers mid/side processing and allows for external side-chain triggering. If you like using MIDI, you can take advantage of its MIDI triggering functionality. There’s an undo/redo comparison feature, along with A/B comparison functionality, making it easy to experiment and find the best settings.

Users appreciate the carefully designed presets that the app provides, but you can also save your own custom settings. Many musicians have noted that there’s not one single type of instrument that doesn’t benefit from incorporating some Saturn into their sound. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle push in the mix or diving into audio destruction effects, Saturn 2 proves to be an invaluable tool.

Reviews highlight the quality of the algorithms. Users feel that the amps, tubes, and tape types sound genuine while remaining sonically interesting. The dynamic movement and character that Saturn 2 can add to audio are often described as dazzling. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly design, FabFilter Saturn 2 is a powerful addition to any music production setup.