Soundtoys
Decapitator
Analog saturation modeler delivering subtle to extreme hardware-modeled distortion.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
Checked September 2026
Decapitator vs Saturation Knob (2026)
Decapitator is best for analog-style saturation and drive on drums, bass, and mix bus; Saturation Knob is best for quick analog-style saturation on bass, vocals, and mix bus. Decapitator starts at $199 one-time and Saturation Knob at Free.
$199once
Free modeled analog output distortion plugin for adding grit and warmth.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
| Decapitator | Saturation Knob | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | analog-style saturation and drive on drums, bass, and mix bus | quick analog-style saturation on bass, vocals, and mix bus |
| Starting price | $199 one-time | Free |
| Free version | No | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX | VST3, AU, AAX |
| OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS |
| Key features | Five analog saturation models based on vintage studio hardware, Punish button for extreme distortion, Analog-modeled tone control, Mix knob for parallel processing, Sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz | Three distortion modes: Keep High, Neutral, Keep Low, Single-knob analog saturation modeling, Available as native, Modular (Eurorack), and Amp Room versions, Extended Features panel option |
| Developer | Soundtoys | Softube |
Questions people ask
Decapitator starts at $199 one-time; Saturation Knob starts at Free.
Five analog saturation models based on vintage studio hardware, Punish button for extreme distortion, Analog-modeled tone control, Mix knob for parallel processing, Sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz.
Three distortion modes: Keep High, Neutral, Keep Low, Single-knob analog saturation modeling, Available as native, Modular (Eurorack), and Amp Room versions, Extended Features panel option.