Controls the amount of signal feeding the optical compression stage. As Drive is increased, the compressor is driven harder while also introducing additional harmonic saturation and character. Lower settings provide gentle dynamic control, while higher settings deliver thicker, more colorful compression.

Determines how quickly the compressor responds to incoming transients. Faster settings provide tighter control, while slower settings allow more of the initial attack to pass through, preserving punch and articulation.

Sets how quickly the compressor recovers after gain reduction. Faster settings return to unity gain more quickly for a more energetic response, while slower settings create smoother, more sustained compression.

Selects one of five compression characteristics, combining ratio and knee into a single intuitive control. Lower settings provide gentler compression with a softer knee, while higher settings progressively increase compression intensity and tighten the knee for more assertive dynamic control.

Adjusts the overall amount of gain reduction applied by the optical compression circuit. Use this control to dial in anything from subtle leveling to aggressive dynamic shaping.

Blends the processed and unprocessed signals for instant parallel compression. Lower settings retain more of the original performance, while higher settings increase the influence of the compressed signal.

Controls the final output level after all processing, allowing you to compensate for gain reduction or drive the next stage in your signal chain.

Enables high-quality internal oversampling to reduce aliasing artifacts during harmonic generation and heavy processing. This can produce a cleaner, more accurate sound when driving the compressor while requiring additional CPU resources.

Selects the VU meter display between Output Level and Gain Reduction (GR), allowing you to monitor either the plugin's output level or the amount of compression being applied.

Engages an alternate optical voicing that combines a gentle high-frequency roll-off with an extended, program-dependent release characteristic. The result is a smoother, thicker compression response with a warmer top end and more natural sustain. The Release control remains fully active, while Shadow adds an additional layer of release behavior that enhances the optical character without replacing your chosen release setting.

Selects between two distinct optical cell voicings, each inspired by a different style of photo-optical response. Rather than changing the amount of compression, Cell Tune changes the character of the compression itself, giving The Josie two unique sonic personalities. Each setting responds differently to program material, offering its own feel, harmonic balance, and dynamic behavior. Think of it less as a technical adjustment and more as choosing the flavor that best complements the performance.