Softube Tape

[TrackerLe]

I like Softube Tape, but the one from Hornet is great too...
At last sometimes i use Avids ReelTape Suite... They are still great today...

[simon.a.billington]

Often I will just use a soft clip style of compression, to get the characteristics of tape on transients, but in a more cleaner, controlled way.

You need a compressor capable of fast attack rates and and ratios of 1.5:1 or lower to achieve this. A soft knee characteristic helps too. Then you can sprinkle in some saturation to your own liking too.

This approach gives you way more control and more potential for diversity in tone. You can even vary the attack times to help place a sound more forward or back in a mix. Even so, tape can be easier just to throw on.