NastyDLA mkIII
Key Features
- Classic chorus and echo effects with authentic analog signal path coloration and tape-delay style feedback saturation
- Two independent delay lines with up to 3 seconds of delay time, host tempo sync, and feedback up to self-oscillation
- Refined input stage with audio transformer circuit for harmonically rich, detailed sound character
- State-of-the-art oversampling with ADAA and Zero Delay Filtering (ZDF) for pristine audio quality
- Comprehensive tape dynamics simulation derived from the award-winning FerricTDS, with switchable ducking mode
- Built-in chorus/flanger with automatic rate adaptation, frequency balancing filter, and two feedback color modes
- Sophisticated tape hiss noise simulation and custom low-pass filtering for authentic vintage character
Description
NastyDLA mkIII by Variety of Sound is a classic chorus echo device with tape-delay simulation, inspired by the analog echo hardware of the 1970s. It goes far beyond a standard delay, combining saturator, analog-style chorus, filtering, multi-mode delay, and noise generation into a single, versatile effect.
The mkIII version adds oversampling with ADAA and Zero Delay Filtering (ZDF) for pristine audio quality. Its signal processing has been upgraded with improved compression, gain staging, and cross-feedback delay modes.
Version 3.5 introduces a refined input stage with an audio transformer circuit that delivers harmonically rich, detailed sound. The interplay of compression and tape saturation has been further balanced for improved dynamics with reduced distortion.
The delay section features two independent delay lines with up to three seconds of delay time and host tempo sync. Feedback can be pushed all the way to self-oscillation for creative sound design.
Despite its depth, the interface remains well-organized and functional, packing chorus/flanger controls, frequency balancing filters, tape dynamics simulation, and ducking into a sensible layout. Users consistently praise it as one of the most musical-sounding delay plugins available, paid or otherwise.
NastyDLA mkIII is available in VST and VST3 formats for Windows (32-bit and 64-bit).
Video Preview
Tips
- Experiment with the feedback and saturation settings to add warmth and character to your tracks.
- Use the cross-feedback delay modes to create complex and evolving delay patterns.
- Apply gentle modulation to add movement and depth to static sounds.
- Utilize the oversampling feature to achieve higher audio fidelity, especially in high-frequency content.
- Combine the chorus and echo effects to enhance the stereo width and richness of your mix.
- Adjust the gain staging modes to maintain optimal signal levels and avoid distortion.
- Explore the tape-delay simulation to achieve vintage analog delay sounds.
- Take advantage of the user-friendly interface to quickly dial in desired settings and effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NastyDLA mkIII available for macOS?
No, NastyDLA mkIII is Windows-only, available in VST and VST3 formats. The developer has not announced plans for a macOS version, which is a commonly mentioned wish from users.
Can NastyDLA mkIII be used as a saturator or chorus without the delay?
Yes. By setting the delay time to minimum and using the input stage coloration, chorus controls, and saturation independently, you can use NastyDLA mkIII as an insert effect for pure coloration and widening without audible echo repeats.
What changed in the version 3.5 update?
Version 3.5 added a refined input stage with an audio transformer circuit, improved the balance between compression and tape saturation for smoother dynamics, fine-tuned stereo imaging in the delay section, and introduced oversampling with ADAA plus Zero Delay Filtering under the hood.
Does NastyDLA mkIII support tempo sync?
Yes. Both independent delay lines can sync to your DAW's host tempo. You can also set delay times manually in milliseconds for up to 3 seconds of delay per line.
