The revolutionary NOVA preamp stage
NOVA (Neural Optimized Volterra Audio) is Acustica Audio’s hybrid architecture and the core of YELLOW’s preamp stage. By combining Acustica’s proprietary Vectorial Volterra Kernels-based technology with advanced neural audio modeling, NOVA captures both the structural behavior and the complex nonlinear response of real tube hardware. This adaptive interaction allows the processor to react naturally to incoming signal levels, delivering richer harmonics, smoother saturation, and a more convincing analog response.
How the Two Models Work Together
NOVA does not switch between two different models depending on signal level. Instead, it combines them so that both operate simultaneously.
At lower signal levels, the Volterra component preserves the precise frequency and phase response of the original hardware, ensuring tonal accuracy and stability. As the signal is driven harder, the neural model progressively contributes to the behavior of the circuit, reproducing the richer saturation and complex nonlinearities that emerge in real analog gear.
The result is a system where structural accuracy and expressive saturation coexist - delivering deep harmonic character while maintaining the spectral balance of the original hardware.
Key Features
Hybrid approach capturing the nonlinear behavior of real tube circuits.
Three tube processors inspired by different generations of analog design.
Musical compression and harmonic saturation for depth and cohesion.
Designed for mix bus and mastering applications.
Delta, Mid and Side listening modes for detailed signal evaluation.
Signal level dynamically drives saturation and compression behavior.
Three Analog Tube Models
YELLOW includes three distinct tube processor models inspired by different generations of analog hardware. Each unit combines tube preamplification and compression, offering a unique balance of harmonic coloration, dynamic response, and tonal character - from early vintage warmth to smoother modern control.
Inspired by early broadcast tube compressors from the 1950s, Vintage delivers soft and progressive compression with pronounced harmonic coloration and a dense tube character.
Best for: vocals, bass, drum buses.
Based on a 1960s broadcast compressor design, Classic offers balanced dynamics and warm harmonic texture, making it ideal for general mixing tasks.
Best for: vocals, acoustic instruments, mix elements.
Inspired by contemporary boutique tube processors, Modern provides smoother compression, refined saturation, and increased headroom for more transparent processing.
Best for: mix bus and mastering.
Technical Informations
- Supported formats: VST3, AAX, and AU.
- Compatible with Windows 10 and 11.
- Compatible with macOS 10.15 (Catalina) to macOS Sonoma (version 14.x).
- Native Apple Silicon support (Rosetta not supported).