Heritage Audio has announced the availability of SUCCESSOR, a new plugin version of their popular SUCCESSOR outboard stereo bus compressor. Here are the key details about this new release:
SUCCESSOR Plugin Overview
Heritage Audio has successfully recreated their acclaimed SUCCESSOR hardware stereo bus compressor as a DAW-friendly plugin. The SUCCESSOR plugin aims to bring the same colorful, fat, and warm compression that made the hardware unit popular among engineers and producers.
Key Features
- Faithfully recreates all features of the original SUCCESSOR hardware
- New “NukE” function adds 20dB to the front end for more aggressive compression
- Additional OUTPUT TRIM control offers up to +20dB of gain makeup
- Available in 64-bit AAX, AU, and VST3 formats for Mac and Windows
Sound Characteristics
The SUCCESSOR plugin is designed to impart the same energy, mojo, and vitality as its hardware counterpart. It uses diode-bridge compression to add color and warmth, in contrast to more transparent VCA-based compressors.
Availability and Pricing
- Available now directly from Heritage Audio
- Priced at €99 / $99
- Free for owners of the SUCCESSOR hardware and i73 PRO audio interfaces
- 14-day fully functional trial available
- Requires iLok account for activation
Heritage Audio’s Approach
By developing SUCCESSOR in-house, Heritage Audio continues its approach of carefully translating their analog expertise into the digital realm. This release expands their software offerings, which already include plugins like BRITSTRIP, demonstrating their commitment to providing both hardware and software solutions for modern producers and engineers.
The SUCCESSOR plugin represents another step in Heritage Audio’s evolution, as they continue to blend their vintage-inspired analog designs (see their HA-609 compressor) with contemporary digital workflows. This approach allows them to reach a wider audience while maintaining the sonic character that has made their hardware units so sought after in professional audio circles.
Here at ANR we haven’t had a chance to spend some quality time with Heritage Audio’s plugins yet, but that’s going to change soon so stay tuned!






