As a music producer always on the hunt for tools that add character to my tracks, I was excited to dive into the Klevgrand Degrader plugin. This gem is available for free, but only for a limited time if you’re a registered Focusrite hardware user. The offer runs until October 10, 2025, so if you own any Focusrite gear, log into your account now to grab it before it’s gone.
Degrader is a versatile combined resampler and bitcrusher plugin designed to simulate the gritty, nostalgic sound of vintage digital gear. Whether you’re aiming for subtle lo-fi effects or full-on distortion, this plugin delivers. I love how it can transform clean drum loops, bass lines, and instruments into something raw and textured, making it a must-have for genres like hip-hop, electronic, and experimental music.
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Klevgrand Degrader Quick Look
In my recent video demo, I put Degrader through its paces on various sounds. Starting with a simple drum loop, I cranked up the bit depth reduction and sample rate crushing to create that classic crushed effect. Adding saturation brought warmth and grit, while the pre and post filters helped tame any harshness. The jitter control added a touch of randomness, though it was more subtle on some sources – perfect for unpredictable variations in sound design.
One standout feature is the ability to lock parameters together. For instance, syncing the bit rate and sample rate lets them work in parallel: as one intensifies, the other adjusts accordingly, allowing for quick extreme manipulations without overcomplicating the process. There’s also a handy mix knob to blend the processed signal with the dry one, ensuring you don’t lose the original vibe entirely. While I wished for an auto-gain function, the master input/output controls make level matching straightforward.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key features that make Degrader shine:
- Bitcrusher and Resampler Integration: Easily reduce bit depth and sample rates for authentic lo-fi distortion and vintage simulations.
- Saturation Controls: Add warmth and overdrive to your audio, enhancing the overall grit without needing extra plugins.
- Pre and Post Filters: Shape your sound before and after processing to cut unwanted frequencies and refine the output.
- Jitter Effect: Introduces subtle timing variations for creative, organic feel in your tracks.
- Parameter Locking: Link bit rate, sample rate, and saturation for synchronized adjustments and efficient workflow.
- Preset Library: Dozens of ready-to-use presets to jumpstart your ideas, plus a mix knob for seamless blending.
- Simple Interface: Intuitive layout with power button and essential controls, ideal for both beginners and seasoned producers.
If you’re into free audio plugins, bitcrushing techniques, or enhancing your Focusrite setup, Degrader is a no-brainer addition to your DAW. I tested it on drums and bass, and the results were instantly inspiring – from mild degradation to chaotic extremes.
Check out my full video demo below to hear Degrader in action and see how I dialed in those sounds:
Have you tried Degrader yet? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below. If you’re new here, explore my back catalog of hundreds of videos on music production tools, free VST plugins, and distortion effects. Stay tuned for more reviews, and remember to log into your Focusrite account to claim this freebie while it lasts!
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