Harrison Audio Unveils Tape Saturator Plug-In for Classic Recording Sound

New plug-in emulates the sought-after tone of vintage 2-track reel-to-reel tape machines.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Harrison Audio, the legendary studio equipment manufacturer, has announced the release of its latest product - the Harrison Tape Saturator plug-in. Designed to emulate the sound of classic 2-track analog reel-to-reel tape machines from the golden era of recording in the 1970s and 1980s, the plug-in aims to bring the unmistakable character of analog tape to modern digital productions.

Why it matters

The Harrison Tape Saturator plug-in taps into the enduring appeal of analog tape sound, which is highly sought after by music producers and engineers looking to add warmth, cohesion, and character to their digital recordings. By faithfully modeling the behavior of vintage tape machines, the plug-in allows users to easily incorporate that classic, revered analog tone into their in-the-box workflows.

The details

The Harrison Tape Saturator features a range of controls that allow users to dial in the precise tape saturation and character they desire, including input/output gain, tape speed, flutter, dropouts, and hiss. It also includes a 'Fidelity Selector' that lets users choose between five different tape grades, from the highest-quality 'Best' setting to more lo-fi, characterful options. Presets are also provided to help users quickly achieve classic tape-like tones.

  • The Harrison Tape Saturator plug-in was announced on February 17, 2026.

The players

Harrison Audio

A legendary audio equipment manufacturer that has been designing and producing mixing consoles and other studio tools in Nashville, Tennessee since 1975.

Joe Carrel

A Grammy-nominated recording engineer, producer, and mixer who will co-host a live stream event about the golden era of recording and the impact of Harrison's designs.

Jacob Lyons

A Harrison Audio Specialist and recording engineer who will co-host the live stream event with Joe Carrel.

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What’s next

Harrison Audio will host a live stream event on Mid-day (12:00 PM) in Nashville, Tennessee (Central Time) / 6:00 PM GMT/the UK., where Joe Carrel and Jacob Lyons will explore the impact of the golden era of recording and how Harrison's classic designs continue to influence modern production.

The takeaway

The Harrison Tape Saturator plug-in provides music producers and engineers with a powerful tool to easily incorporate the warm, cohesive, and characterful sound of vintage analog tape into their digital recordings, tapping into the enduring appeal of that classic recording aesthetic.