Best EQ Plugin Reviews

Music creation is a complex process, and in the past, you had to use many hardware instruments, music mastering tools, units, etc. But now, thanks to computers and modern technologies, all these tools are available on almost any device. Such software, as equalizers, is important for making your music more lively, juicier, and deeper; that’s why you need the best EQ plugins. At first, they were developed after an analog EQ plugin by completely copying its functionality, and in time more and more features and possibilities were added. Now, the EQ VST can contain so many features that even after using it for a year you wouldn’t know about all of them. Next, we will review EQ plugins in more detail.

EQ plugin types: digital and analog

Equalizers can be divided into 2 groups, digital and analog. Digital EQ plugins are the most common nowadays because they are much more comfortable and efficient for us. In these equalizers, you can find a frequency spectrum, change a frequency, and start carving away. With user-friendly interfaces, pleasant graphics, and accuracy of a computer, they are a must-have for high-quality music mastering. The only disadvantage here is that they don’t have that analog sound vibe.

On the other hand, analog equalizers are predecessors of digital ones. Therefore, they are used only by old-school music producers. They are not as accurate and flexible as digital plugins, but they have that warmth, character, and musicality. So, thanks to technological progress, you can utilize these old analog equalizers by using plugins that emulate analog equalizers.

Best EQ plugins review

FabFilter Pro-Q 3 – best overall

This is a detailed FabFilter Pro-Q 3 review. Here you will find out its advantages and disadvantages if there are such, and how it will help in creating magnificent music. This 24-band dynamic equalizer can make snare drums crack, add drive to vocals, and coordinate the EQ curve of one track to another.

Main features

This plugin has a comprehensive collection of features that make it popular among music producers. For instance, it has a Brickwall LP/HP filter that will take care of unnecessary frequencies. On top of that, it has some other filter types, like High/Low Shelf, Bell, Band Pass, Flat Tilt, etc. These filters have a maximum slope limit of 96dB per octave. The Dolby Atmos support it presents comes with an intelligent per-band speaker choice.

Pro-Q FabFilter plugin EQ Match feature will match a post spectrum of different instances within your session. You will also find here two modes, Mid-Side and Left-Right, to make even more accurate adjustments. With frequency collision indication, you can easily carve out sonic space. Thanks to the Auto Gain function, channel weighting, and an estimated dynamic gain correction are possible.

You can locate critical peaks by using a Spectrum Grab feature. This plugin can be used for live recording or tracking thanks to the Zero Latency mode. In addition, it has two other modes, Linear Phase for transparent operation and Natural Phase if you want to get analog sound. In addition, you can use the Piano Roll view function to choose frequencies based on musical note values.

How does It sound?

With its vast features, I was overwhelmed when I used it the first time. And once I figured everything out, I saw how much easier it can be to process the sound. This equalizer is of great help to me, and the feature I like the most now is the dynamic option. After I process the sound with Pro-Q 3, my music is almost perfect, with no digital harshness, no artifacts; everything is just how it is supposed to be. It is a pleasure to work with such professional software, though the sheer number of features is frightening at the start.

Summary

We can say that this is an incredibly flexible plugin with 24 customizable brands. Sidechaining, frequency spectrum, low latency, and other features were specifically designed to be a versatile tool for creating incredible music. The only significant disadvantage is that it might be hard for inexperienced users to figure out since there are no comprehensive instructions.

Tech specifications

iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced – also a great choice

In this iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced review, we embark on a journey through the dynamic realm of audio mastering and mixing. Renowned for its versatility and ability to achieve professional-grade results, iZotope Ozone has emerged as a powerful tool in the industry.

As an avid mixing enthusiast, I have thoroughly explored this powerful suite and now eagerly share my findings. Join me as we delve into the features, capabilities, and performance of iZotope, unlocking the secrets to professional-grade audio mastery.

Key features

iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced offers a range of powerful features that enhance the audio mastering process. From its comprehensive equalizer to its versatile applications, this software provides a robust toolkit for achieving top results. Let me tell you more about them.

Equalizer

The equalizer in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced is a standout feature with precise control over frequency bands and shaping capabilities. With a wide range of adjustable parameters, users can fine-tune the audio's tonal balance, correct resonances, and eliminate unwanted frequencies. Whether you want to enhance individual tracks or master an entire mix, the equalizer in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced provides the flexibility and control necessary for achieving desired sonic results.

Dynamic EQ

The dynamic EQ feature in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced combines precision equalization with flexible compression. It selectively applies EQ adjustments based on the audio's dynamic content, allowing you to control tonal imbalances and address resonances. This powerful tool is ideal for shaping the tonal balance and adding warmth to different elements in your audio.

Dynamics

The suit offers a dynamics module that provides precise control over audio volume and impact. With compressors, limiters, and transient shapers, you can shape the dynamics of individual tracks or the overall mix. This module helps you achieve balance, control peaks, and transients, and enhance the punch and clarity of your audio.

Exciter

The exciter module in iZotope Ozone adds harmonics and character to your audio. It offers various distortion modes, allowing you to create unique tonal flavors and colorations. By selectively applying harmonic content to specific frequency ranges, the exciter brings out details and depth in your sound, whether you want to add warmth to vocals or give instruments an edge.

Spectral shaper

The spectral shaper module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced provides precise control over the spectral content of your audio. By adjusting frequency ranges, you can shape the tonal balance and dynamics of your tracks. With settings for gain, attack, release, and threshold, you can target specific frequencies and make fine adjustments. The "Listen mode" feature enables real-time monitoring of the applied changes.

Vintage modules in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced

Ozone features vintage modules that faithfully recreate the sonic characteristics of classic analog hardware. These modules offer unique ways to enhance your mixes with a vintage touch.

Vintage tape

The Vintage Tape module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced adds warmth, subtle distortion, and saturation reminiscent of analog tape machines. As an author, I find that using the Vintage Tape module adds a pleasant vintage flavor to my mixes, making them sound more organic and inviting.

To use the Vintage Tape module effectively, you can adjust the input and output levels to match the desired loudness. By tweaking the Bias control, you can shape the amount of harmonic distortion and saturation. Increasing the Bias imparts more warmth and saturation while decreasing it results in a cleaner sound. Additionally, the Speed control allows you to emulate different tape speeds, influencing the frequency response and transient handling.

Examples of how to apply the Vintage Tape module include using it on drum tracks to add warmth and subtle compression, applying it to vocals to give them a vintage character, or using it on a full mix to add a cohesive analog feel.

Vintage limiter

The Vintage Limiter module in Ozone 10 Advanced plugin replicates the behavior of classic hardware limiters, providing transparent peak limiting with a touch of vintage character. I appreciate the Vintage Limiter for its ability to control the dynamic range of my mix while adding a subtle analog flavor.

Functionally, the Vintage Limiter offers controls for adjusting input and output levels, as well as the release time. By setting the input level, you can determine the amount of limiting applied. The output level control allows you to match the loudness of the limited signal with the rest of your mix. The release time control influences how quickly the limiter recovers after reducing peaks.

Apply Vintage Limiter to the master bus to ensure controlled peaks and add a touch of vintage color to the overall mix.

Vintage EQ

The Vintage EQ module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced accurately emulates the sound of classic analog equalizers. It offers various vintage EQ curves and tonal shaping options to enhance your mix's overall balance and color. Personally, I find that the Vintage EQ adds warmth and character to my masterpieces.

When using the Vintage EQ, gentle boosts or cuts can be applied to shape the frequency response. Experimenting with different vintage EQ models, such as Pultec-style or Neve-style EQs, allows you to achieve different tonal characteristics. For instance, you can use a Pultec-style EQ to add weight to the low end and smooth out the high frequencies or employ a Neve-style EQ for precise and focused tonal shaping.

Vintage compressor

The Vintage Compressor module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced emulates the behavior of classic analog compressors. Using the Vintage Compressor, I've found it effective in smoothing out peaks, adding sustain, and providing cohesiveness to individual elements of my mix.

The Vintage Compressor offers features such as threshold, ratio, attack, and release controls. Adjusting the threshold sets the level at which compression is applied, while the ratio determines the amount of gain reduction. By manipulating the attack and release settings, you can shape the compression envelope to suit your desired sound.

How does It sound?

iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced provides a diverse range of modules that greatly enhance the sound production process. Let's delve deeper into some of these modules:

Stabilizer module

The Stabilizer module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced is a versatile tool that helps refine and stabilize the sound production process. It effectively smooths out audio inconsistencies, resulting in a more cohesive and balanced mix.

I find the Stabilizer module invaluable in achieving a refined and professional sound. Its dynamic adjustments create a controlled and even mix, elevating the overall quality of the audio production.

Impact module

The Impact module is a powerful tool for shaping the impact and energy of your audio. Its ability to control the attack and sustain of individual elements allows for precise manipulation and emphasis, effectively bringing certain elements forward or pushing them back in the mix. It adds depth, presence, and captivating quality to the mix, making the audio truly stand out.

Magnify soft clip in Maximizer module

The Maximizer module in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced VST incorporates the Magnify Soft Clip feature, which plays an essential role in maintaining high fidelity while increasing loudness. This feature applies subtle saturation, allowing for increased levels without introducing harsh clipping artifacts. This preserves the dynamic range and overall clarity of the mix, resulting in a transparent and professional sound. With the Magnify Soft Clip feature, I can confidently push the boundaries of loudness without compromising the integrity of the audio.

Recover sides in Imager module

The Imager module includes the highly useful Recover Sides feature, enabling width reduction without sacrificing stereo information. This feature provides the flexibility to adjust the stereo width while retaining the original spatial characteristics of the mix. It allows for precise control over the width of the audio, resulting in a well-defined and captivating soundstage.

Master rebalance

The Master rebalance feature in iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced offers real-time functionality for adjusting the levels of individual elements within a mix. This tool allows me to fine-tune the balance between vocals, instruments, and other elements without the need for separate stems. By utilizing DAW automation with the Master Rebalance feature, I can dynamically control the levels of different elements throughout the song. It helps achieve a meticulously balanced mix with seamless transitions and professional sound.

Low-End focus

The Low-End focus feature offers the ability to shape the clarity, punch, and definition of the bass and sub-bass frequencies. I've used this feature to fine-tune the low end, ensuring a tight, impactful bass that doesn't overpower the mix. With its advanced controls, one can achieve a well-balanced mix where the low frequencies are controlled and blend harmoniously with the rest of the audio spectrum.

Summary

By harnessing the capabilities of these modules within iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced, music producers and sound engineers can elevate their sound productions to new heights.

In this review, I have endeavored to thoroughly examine the comprehensive capabilities of iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced, a powerful tool for mastering and mixing audio. With its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, iZotope Ozone provides precise control over your audio production. Notable additions such as the Stabilizer and Impact modules further expand its capabilities. All in all, iZotope Ozone 10 Advanced proves to be an effective tool for achieving exceptional audio results.

Tech specifications

TDR VOS SlickEQ GE – budget solution

This is our TDR VOS SlickEQ GE review, where you will find out more about this audio plugin. We will explore its various processing options, output stages, filters, models, and many other features that you may find useful for processing your audio tracks. With this software at your disposal, you can get your music to the studio level.

Main features

This software is built on a 64bit “delta” multi-rate structure, which ensures the fast and efficient work of this plugin. At the TDR VOS SlickEQ GE plugin, you get a display that helps to monitor frequency magnitude response in real-time. Loudness compensated auto gain control feature ensures high-quality sound at any volume. Also, here you will find various smart functions, like Match Pink, De-resonate Auto HP/LP, Match reference, and many others. On top of that, you will get access to several processing options, like stereo/mono, left/right, and sum/difference. Randomized tolerances can be imposed if you use the one-of-a-kind Dual Mono mode.

The library of EQ models in this software consists of 5 distinctive variations: American, Soviet, Japanese, German, and British. Aside from that, it has 8 different output stages for you to choose from Silky, Mellow, Excited, Deep, Linear, Seven, Funky, and Toasted. Also, a great collection of filters is available for you here, starting with the High Pass filter, which has an additional Bump mode, and the Low Pass filter, which has 2 different slopes, namely 6dB/Oct and 12dB/Oct. The next filter is Parametric Tilt one, with a unique V mode as its addition. Besides that, you will get 3 semi-parametric filter bands, where each of them has 2 shape options.

How does It sound?

It is a great old-school knob-workflow-oriented plugin. With the help of its distinctive models and modes, my music got more depth and individuality. A comprehensive collection of options allows me to get my audio track sound just like I want it. Thanks to the low band that grants access to an optional phase lag, I could delay low frequencies relative to higher frequencies and got amazing results. It was a real pleasure to work with the sound in the TDR VOS SlickEQ GE plugin.

Summary

If you like those vintage equalizers with knobs, this plugin took all the best from them and incorporated them into modern technologies. Vast options selection, various modes, and models will make your tracks better, deeper, and your sound processing activity more interesting.

Tech specifications

Sonnox Oxford R3 EQ

In this paper, we prepared a Sonnox Oxford R3 EQ review for you. This parametric EQ plugin possesses a comprehensive set of tools and settings that allow users to achieve a high standard of professional music creation. Next, we will review some of its main features that you may find the most useful.

Main features

This particular Sonnox Oxford R3 EQ plugin has 4 changeable types of EQ that will determine the main vector of your sound style. LF and HF sections have customizable shelf settings, and they provide a slope of up to 36dB/Oct. Developers added unique 6 plugins in Oxford R3 EQ VST to ensure the most efficient DSP usage. On top of that, this plugin was created with a well-known 5-band parametric structure that is also responsible for a smooth workflow. It has a very simplistic design that is perfect when you need low system requirements and CPU load.

This equalizer's software is capable of complete automation, with the ability to separate different setting profiles. To deliver the best experiences to its users, the HF response was entirely de-cramped here. All filters and EQ in this plugin have mono and stereo versions that add to the variety of options and settings. The maximum limit for sample rates supported by Oxford R3 EQ is 96kHz. This plugin is supported by a wide range of devices, starting with Mac or PC and following AAX Native, VST, RTAS, etc.

How does It sound?

Oxford R3 EQ plugin is incredibly versatile while being straightforward to use. It is an extremely rare combination of qualities for an equalizer. Honestly, it sounds amazing and crystal clear since the source signal doesn't undergo any changes except the EQ curve, which is great. For example, type 1 is just a basic working model, but type 3 is famous for mastering and broad tonal contours. This software is a necessity if you are working with vocals. At this point, it can be called a classic equalizer plugin but with some modern additions.

Tech specifications

Softube Tube-Tech Equalizer Collection

From this Softube Tube-Tech Equalizer Collection review, you will discover a retro-styled plugin that looks stylish and adds more depth and drive to your sounds. It was designed after 2 classic hardware units PE 1C and ME 1B, which resulted in this vintage-looking equalizer. In this paper, all the crucial features of this software and my experience of using it are laid out.

Main features

Even though it is designed after vintage equalizers, the Softube Tube-Tech Equalizer Collection plugin has all the benefits of its predecessors and modern technologies. For instance, by using Softube's innovative signal processing technology, the final sound will be of high quality. When combined with famous Softube audio processors, your music will sound much better than ever before. That feeling of vintage hardware is achieved thanks to high-resolution graphics. Because it is a very simple and utilitarian design, it doesn't load CPU or GPU too much. PE 1C and ME 1B were combined into one plugin to deliver the most efficient sound equalizing process.

It is both a low and high-end equalizer that is made in Pultec style. Also, in this collection, you will find all legacy plugins that will extend your opportunity range. The sample rate range supported by Tube-Tech Equalizer Collection is as follows: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz. Of course, it supports mono and stereo modes. In the end, it is a modest mid-range equalizer designed after tube equalizers of the age far past. However, if you like classic instruments and hardware units, you will surely like this one.

How does It sound?

This is a good example of a high-quality vintage equalizer that does its job and even more. It is extremely versatile with all its knobs and controls. For example, because the low-frequency boost and attenuate functions filters are slightly offset in frequency, it’s possible to create captivating and well-focused bumps or cuts in the low end by boosting and attenuating at the same time. It is even though it is being controlled by the same frequency knob. That is just one bit of what this plugin is capable of, the only disadvantage here is limitations for versatility since it is a vintage-based equalizer.

Tech specifications

Best free EQ plugins review

Kiive Audio Warmy EP1A Tube EQ

In this Kiive Audio Warmy EP1A Tube EQ review, we will talk about an equalizer plugin based on vintage hardware predecessors. Here you will find all its features, advantages, and some inconveniences that you might face.

Main features

The first feature of the Warmy EP1A Tube EQ plugin is that you can change the size of its interface, which can be done not in every plugin. As to its more functional features, here you can use oversampling, and several presets. Also, in this software 2 high-frequency selectors are available to broaden your field of work. Tube emulation mix is another interesting feature available via a good old knob. On top of that, in this plugin, you will find knobs for Low Cut, High Cut, and Boost for both.

How does it sound?

A great equalizer that does the job right and even more. High sound quality and the very useful oversampling feature will surely impress you. The only disadvantage is that because it is designed after very old equalizers, there are not many more modern features that would be great here.

Tech specifications

Ignite Amps PTEq-X

If you are in search of a good-quality sound equalizer, this Ignite Amps PTEq-X review is right what you need. This software was created after famous vintage hardware equalizers, but with some significant improvements to make it more versatile and add some functions.

Main features

This software combines retro style and modernity and has 3 equalization modules for you to choose from. PTEq-X plugin also has 3rd generation triode stage analog processing, which you can utilize in 4 unique tube types. All that customization results in lower CPU load. Among its other features, you will find input and output controls, support for processing mono and stereo, and changeable linear-phase oversampling if you want to reduce aliasing.

How does it sound?

An amazing plugin for a mastering chain. After the sound is processed by PTEq-X, it gains that sparkle and drive that high-quality music should have. A really handy tool to create quality music and provide an original sound.

Tech specifications