Phoenix LT
Key Features
- Real-time circuit simulation models an all-tube preamp built around two 12AU7 triodes for analog-style warmth and drive.
- Three-band Baxandall-style EQ can be placed before the preamp, after the preamp, or removed from the signal path.
- Auto Gain helps keep level changes manageable while dialing in stronger saturation or subtler tonal thickening.
- Automatic 4x oversampling supports cleaner high-frequency behavior when the tube stage is driven harder.
- Parallel processing lets you blend the preamp character with the dry signal for controlled color on inserts and buses.
- Desktop installers cover Windows and macOS, with an iOS/AUv3 version available through the App Store.
Description
Phoenix LT is an all-tube preamp and saturation plugin from Shattered Glass Audio, built as a compact version of Phoenix 2. It models two 12AU7 triodes in the voltage amplification stages and uses real-time circuit simulation to bring analog preamp warmth, drive, and dynamic thickening into a DAW.
The signal path pairs the preamp with a three-band Baxandall-style EQ that can run before the tube stage, after it, or be removed from the chain. Auto Gain, automatic 4x oversampling, and parallel processing make it easier to add color without constantly level-matching or creating a separate wet/dry bus.
Use it gently for broad tone shaping on vocals, synths, bass, and mix buses, or push it harder when a clean digital track needs audible tube dirt. Compared with the full Phoenix 2, LT is deliberately focused: fewer saturation flavors and EQ choices, but a faster route to one warm tube-preamp character.
The official product data checked on April 29, 2026 lists Phoenix LT as free, with Windows and Mac installers plus an iOS/AUv3 version. Desktop support covers VST3, AUv2, and AAX on macOS, and VST3/AAX on Windows, with version 1.3.1 as the current download.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Phoenix LT different from Phoenix 2?
Phoenix LT is the compact version of Phoenix 2, focused on one all-tube preamp character with a simpler control set. Shattered Glass Audio positions Phoenix 2 as the upgrade for users who want more saturation flavors and additional EQ options.
Can the EQ run before or after the tube stage?
Yes. The official product data says the three-band Baxandall-style EQ can be placed before the preamp, placed after the preamp, or taken out of the signal chain entirely.
What kind of tube circuit does Phoenix LT model?
Shattered Glass Audio says the preamp character comes from two 12AU7 triodes used in the voltage amplification stages. The circuit is simulated in real time using the developer's circuit simulation approach.
Is there an iOS version of Phoenix LT?
Yes. The official page links to an App Store version, and the Rekkerd lead article notes iOS/AUv3 availability alongside the Windows and Mac desktop installers.
