AWS - Input Transformer

Input Transformer is a Max for Live audio effect that puts a proper “analog input” in front of every Ableton track, instead of just hitting plugins straight from the DAW. Drop it at the very top of the chain, pick a mode, turn up the input, and you’ve basically decided whether that channel is living on a vintage front-end or a cleaner, modern one.

Tube mode is the “old Neve” side of things: thicker, warmer, rounder. It gently beefs up the body of the sound and smooths the top, so you can drive it for color without the harsh, fizzy edge. Great for drums, bass, vocals, guitars – anything you want to feel bigger and more musical instead of brittle.

Tape mode is the “modern console” side: tighter low end, more bite and focus. It cleans up the subs, adds a bit of edge and presence, and keeps the overall level under control so you can actually A/B it without being fooled by loudness. Perfect for punchy drums, synths, and mix buses where you want energy and clarity.

Under the hood it’s tuned to behave like a real input stage being pushed, not just another random “warmth” knob. In practice, you just treat it like a console input in Live: put it first, push into it until it feels good, and let it set the tone for the rest of the chain.

Watch the demo: https://youtu.be/tzHmPdbKikg