FAQ

What formats and systems does Airchain support?

VST3, AU (Audio Unit) and a standalone app for macOS — a Universal binary that runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel. It passes Apple's auval validation. A Windows build is not available at launch.

What does the SQUASH knob actually do?

It drives the whole four-band section at once: thresholds sweep down from −20 dB to −45 dB, makeup gain rises to +6 dB, and releases speed up at the top of the range for that pumping CHR density. One knob, the entire loudness war.

Does it add latency?

Six samples, from the oversampled soft clipper — correctly reported to your DAW so plugin delay compensation keeps everything aligned. At 44.1 kHz that is about 0.14 ms.

Do the presets change loudness when I switch?

No. Every one of the 14 presets is loudness-matched, so flipping between a 1970s gold chain and a full-tilt 1990s CHR chain compares character, not volume.

Do I need to know broadcast engineering to use it?

No. Press ? and help mode spotlights any control under your cursor and explains it in plain English, with the actual numbers underneath. When in doubt, turn the big knob.

What is the difference between EU and US emphasis?

They are the two real FM pre-emphasis curves: 50 µs in Europe, 75 µs in the US. Pick the one matching the radio sound you are after, or switch it off.

How do I buy it, and are updates free?

Through Gumroad as a one-time €19 purchase — no subscription, no dongle. You get instant access to the installers, and future updates are free for licence holders.

Do I need to activate anything on my Squaresmile account?

No. Airchain lives off-platform; the dashboard tile simply opens the Gumroad listing.