Mastering Chain Plugins: Best Mastering Plugins to build the perfect Mastering Chain

Surgical Mastering Equalizers, also known as EQs, are an irreplaceable tool for any music producer during the mastering process. Surgical mastering EQs provide precision and control, essential to achieving a high-quality mix.

One of the main benefits of using surgical mastering EQs is their ability to fix problematic resonance frequencies. These frequencies can cause a mix to sound muddy, boomy, thin, or toppy. Using surgical mastering EQs, you can remove rumble from low frequencies and tighten the bass, positively affecting the mix. You can create defined bass sounds and punchy kick drums crucial to a great mix.

Another critical feature of surgical mastering EQs is their ability to improve the width and add rich, airy highs. This is achieved using M/S technology, which allows you to work separately on the mid and side channels. This will enable you to improve the stereo image and bring out details in the mix.

Linear phase EQs are a type of surgical mastering EQ that offers high transparency and is ideal for fixing problematic resonance frequencies. They allow you to make precise and accurate frequency adjustments without introducing unwanted artefacts.

Surgical Mastering EQs are essential for any music producer during the mastering process. 

Some of my favourite surgical Mastering Equalizers are:

Some of my favorite surgical Mastering Equalizers are:

• DMG Audio EQuilibrium

• Three Body Technology - Kichhoff EQ

• Sonnox Oxford EQ

• Maat TheEQBlue

• Fabfilter Pro-Q

• Softube Weiss EQ1

• Brainworx BX_Digital

• Balance Analog Magpha EQ

• Eiosis Air EQ

• Tokio Dawn Labs - Slick EQ M Mastering Edition

• Newfangled Audio Equivocate

• Crave DSP - Crave EQ

• Soundtheory Gullfoss

• ToneBooster EQ 4

• Sonnox Claro

• Massenburg MDWEQ

• PSP MasterQ2

• SSL X-EQ 2

• SPL PQ

• Maat TheEQOrange

How to Master a Song with a  Compressor? Use High-end Mastering compressors plugins that sweeten the sound and glue your mix together.

Mastering a song with a compressor is crucial in achieving a polished, professional-sounding recording. When mastering music, starting with the best mix is essential. This will ensure that the compressor works from a solid foundation rather than trying to fix problems that should have been addressed during the mixing process.

To tame problematic parts and smooth out peaks of your song. You can set the compressor to a moderate ratio and low threshold, aiming for a gain reduction of -2db to -5db.

Also, try parallel compression to add depth and character to your mix. This technique involves running a copy of the mix through the compressor. This compressed copy is mixed with the original mix to add thickness and glue to the overall sound.

Another technique to try is M/S compression. This involves compressing the mid and side channels separately, allowing you to expand the stereo image and bring out details in the mix.

You can use high-end mastering compressor plug-ins explicitly designed for mastering, such as those in the list below. These plug-ins will have a more transparent sound and will be able to sweeten the mix without introducing unwanted artefacts.

Here are some of the best Mastering Compressor plugins on the market:

• Weiss Compressor

• Softube - Drawmer S73

• SPL Iron

• SSL Native Bus Compressor 2

• Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor

• Cytomic The Glue

• Tokyo Dawn Labs TDR Kotelnikow GE

• Pulsar Audio Mu

• Vertigo Sound VSC-3

• Sonoris Mastering Compressor 

• Softube Chandler Limited- Germanium Compressor 

• Tone Projects Unisum Mastering Compressor

• DDMF Magic Death Eye

• DMG Audio TrackComp

• Acustiqa Audio Aquamarine

• Acustica Audio Magenta

• Acustica Audio Ivory

• Acustica Audio Tiger

• SKNote SDC Stereo Double Compressor

Mastering engineers can significantly benefit from using analogue-emulated equalizer plug-ins, which produce warm high-quality sound. These plug-ins are specifically designed to replicate the unique characteristics of classic analogue equalizers commonly used to shape the sound of recordings.

One of the main benefits of using analogue emulation colouring mastering equalizers is that they can add warmth and character to a mix. These plug-ins can create a smooth and natural sound by boosting the high frequencies and providing a more defined bass. They can also give your songs a punchier and more dynamic sound by boosting or cutting specific frequencies.

Another benefit of colouring mastering equalizers is that they can create a subtle analogue vibe. Many of these plug-ins are emulations of classic equalizers, such as the Pultec or Neve, commonly used to shape the sound of famous recordings. Using these plug-ins, you can create a vintage sound that adds a unique character to your songs.

When using colouring equalizers, it's essential to use them sparingly, as they can easily overpower a mix. When using these EQs, focusing on the overall tonal balance is essential.

Try these character EQs to create a subtle analogue vibe and add punch to your songs.

Some of the best mastering EQs for colouring your mixes are:

•  Chandler Limited Curve Bender

• Waves PuigTec EQP-1A

• Softube Tube-Tech

• Sonimus Burnley 73

• Acustica Audio Purple

• Maat TheEQOrange

• Kush Audio - Electra DSP

• Kush Audio - Clariphonic

• Maag Audio EQ

• Manley Massive Passive

• Native Instruments Passive EQ

• Elysia Musseq

• SPL PassEQ

• Acustica Audio Azure

• Nebula Bronze 

• Acustica Audio Ruby

• Pulsar Massive

• PSP Audioware PSP E27

Mastering de-esser plug-ins work by identifying and reducing excessive sibilance, or "S" sounds, in vocals and other high-frequency instruments. Excessive sibilance can cause harshness or distortion in the final mix, making it unpleasant to listen to.

Noise reduction plug-ins use a combination of dynamic processing and frequency filtering to identify and reduce the presence of sibilance. They typically have a frequency control that allows the user to specify the frequency range to focus on and a threshold control that determines the level at which the de-essing effect is applied. 

One of the critical benefits of mastering de-esser plug-ins is that they allow the user to selectively reduce sibilance without affecting the overall tonal balance of the mix. This is especially important in the mastering process, where preserving the overall balance of the mix is critical.

In addition to taming harshness in vocals and other high-frequency instruments, de-esser plug-ins can also reduce resonance in other sounds, such as hi-hats and synth sounds. This can help create an overall smoother and more pleasant sound.

Here are some of the best de-esser plugins:

•  Airwindows DeBess

• Fabfilter Pro-DS

• Waves Sibilance / Renaissannce DeEsser

• Oeksound Soothe

• Oxford SuperEsser

• DMG Audio Essence

• Hofa IQ DeEsser

• Hornet Sybilla

• Eiosis E²Deesser

• WEISS DS-1

• Massey De:Esser

Fine-tuning the frequency spectrum and adding punch and clarity to a master can be achieved using essential tools like dynamic EQs and multiband compressors.

Dynamic EQs, also known as "intelligent EQs," are equalizers that automatically adjust the EQ based on the audio signal level. This allows more precise adjustments to specific frequency ranges without affecting the rest of the mix. For example, a dynamic EQ can be used to reduce the low frequencies in the mix if the bass is too boomy or to increase the high frequencies if the mix is too dull.

Multiband compressors work similarly but allow you to apply compression to specific frequency bands. This can be useful for controlling the balance between different instruments in a mix or adding punch and definition to a particular frequency range.

Dynamic EQs and multiband compressors can help reduce unwanted frequencies and add definition and clarity to a mix when used in mastering. 

Keep in mind that perfecting your audio doesn't always necessitate the use of dynamic EQ or multiband compressors. However, there are situations where it can be beneficial to have dynamic access to specific frequency bands. For instance, if you need to manage the high frequencies in certain parts of the song, or adjust the dynamics or volume of particular bass notes or synth sounds, the following plug-ins can come in handy.

Dynamic Equalizer

• Tokyo Dawn TDR Nova GE

• Oxford Dynamic EQ

• Fabfilter Pro-Q 3

• Izotope Ozone

Multiband Compressors

• Melda MDynamicsMB

• Fabfilter Pro-MB

• Leapwing Audio Dynone 

• Waves C6

• Izotope Ozone

• Softube Drawmer 1973

• DMG Audio Multiplicity

• Vengeance Multiband Compressor

Analog magic in the digital age: saturation and sound coloration

The fascination of classic analog warmth remains undiminished in the digital world. The days of tape hiss and crackling tubes may be over, but the saturation and character they lent are still coveted. This is where saturation and tone coloration plug-ins come into play - digital tools that recreate the sonic magic of analog devices.

Saturation, the heart of this process, pushes a signal beyond its linear range, resulting in pleasing distortion and overtones. This "thickens" the sound, giving it weight and depth that is often missing from pristine digital recordings. Saturation plug-ins for tape and tubes emulate the specific non-linearities of these media and bring in their warmth and subtle artifacts. Transformers, another key component in vintage gear, add their own character by subtly altering the signal's frequency response.

The result? A sonic transformation. Hard digital edges soften, sterile recordings come to life, and instruments sound more natural and "analog." For mastering engineers and producers, these plug-ins are invaluable tools for adding warmth and character to modern digital productions.

Some of the best mastering software plugins for adding saturation, harmonics, or tube colouration are:

• Softube Harmonics

• Brainworx Black Box

• SSL Fusion Transformer

• SSL Native X-Saturator

• Acustica Audio Crimson

• Tone Projects Kelvin Tone Shaper

• Fabfilter Saturn

• Vertigo Sound VSM-3

• Wavesfactory Spectre

• Shatteres Glas Audio SGA1566

• Kazrog True Iron

• SSL Fusion Vintage Drive

• Kush Audio Omega

• Pulsar Modular P42 Climax Mod

• Airwindows Purest Warm

• SKnote AnyTesla

• Klanghelm SDRR

• SPL Twin Tube

Best tape Machine Plugins

• Softube Tape

• IK Multimedia T-Racks Tape Machine

• Slate Digital Virtual Tape Machines

• London Acoustics - Taipei

• Acustica Audio - Taupe

• U-He satin

• SKnote Roundtone

• Universal Audio Fatso

• UAD Oxide Tape Recorder

• Universal Audio Studer A800 / Ampex ATR 102

• Airwindows To Tape

• Waves Audio Kramer Master Tape

Unveil the dimension: Stereo Imaging Plug-ins for Mastering

Among their Mastering chain tools are stereo imaging plug-ins, the secret weapon for expanding and deepening a stereo mix.

Imagine a flat image coming alive in 3D. Stereo imaging plug-ins accomplish this sonic feat by manipulating the stereo field. They can add width, creating a spacious soundscape where instruments seem to breathe. Conversely, they can add depth by pushing elements forward or backward in the mix.

Stereo imaging plug-ins play a crucial role in ensuring that a mix is seamlessly converted to mono. Mono compatibility is essential because many playback systems, from smartphones to streaming services, are mono by default. By identifying and correcting phase issues, stereo imaging plug-ins prevent unwanted cancellation in mono, preserving the integrity of your mix.

• Leapwing StageOne

• Leapwing CenterOne

• Brainworx bx_stereomaker

• Mathew Lane DrMS

• Side Minder ME

• DJ Swivel Spread

• Izotope Ozone Imager

• Goodhertz Midside

• Waves S1 / Center

• Flux Stereo Tool

• Nugen Audio Stereoizer

• Tokyo Dawn Labs Proximity

• Tone Projects Basslane Pro 2

Mastering clipper plug-ins can be essential in the mastering chain to achieve high volumes. They are usually used at the very beginning or end of the mastering chain.

Unlike limiters, which prevent clipping, clippers add a touch of harmonic distortion, shaping the sound and increasing the perceived volume. This is very useful for a more aggressive or vintage sound.

Clipper plugins offer controls that allow you to adjust the clipping behavior. From subtle 'soft' clipping to pronounced 'hard' clipping, you can shape transients and add a slight harmonic saturation. This can improve the overall fullness and presence of your master.

But be careful! Too much clipping will only result in unpleasant harshness and distortion. The proper selection and adjustment is crucial for a good result.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a Clipper plugin:

• Too much clipping will only lead to unpleasant harshness and distortion.

• Careful adjustment with a maximum of 1-3 dB gain reduction is the key to success.

• Oversampling: Reduces aliasing artifacts, especially if you turn up the clipper for more volume.

• Filtering: This allows you to focus the clipping on specific frequency ranges.

By experimenting with clipping plug-ins and mastering techniques, you can add a new level of control and character to your final mixes. Remember that mastering is about balance - use typical clipping sound to emphasize the identity of your music, not to dominate it.

• Kazrog KClip

• Airwindows AD Clip

• Acustica Audio - Fire The Clip

• BSA Clipper

• Sir Audio Tools Standard Clip

• DMG Audio Limitless

• Venn Audio V-Clip

• Newfangled Audio Saturate

• IK Multimedia Classic Clipper

• Boz Digtal Labs Big Clipper

Want to put the finishing touches on your audio recordings? The Mastering Limiter or True Peak Limiter are your last step in the mastering chain! These special dynamic processing plug-ins meticulously take care of volume peaks and make your tracks louder overall, ideally without affecting sound quality.

These transparent little helpers work their magic by preserving dynamics—the lifeblood of music—preferably without harsh highs, flattened transients, or distorted lows.

Limiter & True Peak Limiter makes your tracks sound fuller and more balanced without leaving behind annoying artifacts. In most cases, the limiter only works with -1db of gain reduction; when extreme volume is required, the maximum gain reduction is -3db.

If you have trouble getting the volume you need and your limiter has to intervene too much, something went wrong during mixing.

Some of the best Mastering Limiter plugins for your master buss are:

• DMG Audio Limitless

• A.O.M. Invisible Limiter

• Izotope Ozone Maximizer

• TDR Limiter 6 GE

• Eventide Elevate

• IK Multimedia Stealth Limiter

• Fabfilter Pro-L

• Sonnox Oxford Limiter

• Voxengo Elephant

• Sonible - Smart:Limit

• Chandler Limited - Zener Limiter

Mastering loudness: The best LUFS metering plugins

Consistent audio levels are paramount in the age of streaming and online distribution. This is where LUFS meters are important tools for mastering engineers.

These plugins analyze the loudness of a song and ensure that the platform-specific LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale) specifications are adhered to.

Gone are the days of fighting for sonic supremacy with maximum volume in the mastering chain - LUFS meters ensure a level playing field and a consistent listening experience across all genres.

Popular metering plugins, such as Youlean Loudness Meter, provide a clear visual representation of Integrated (I) and Short-Term (S) LUFS, Program Loudness Range (PLR), and True Peak Level (TruePeak).

With this comprehensive data, sound engineers can make informed decisions. By comparing to reference tracks and adhering to the recommended LUFS targets, a consistent sound can be achieved.

But how loud should you master? The target levels can vary greatly depending on the genre. I use the Short-Term LUFS value (important: LUFS-S). Very loud tracks would be -6 LUFS-S, and more dynamic electronic music would be around -9LUFS-S.

• Voxengo Span

• Maat 2BC MultiCORR

• Youlean Loudness Meter (Free Lufs Meter)

• Melda Production MLoudnessAnalyzer

• Nugen Audio VisLM

• Nugen Audio Mastercheck 

• Izotope Insights

• Meter Plugs Loudness Penalty

• Sonnox Frauenhofer Pro Codec

• Maat DR Meter MKII

• Orban Loudness Meter

Utilizing top reference plugins is essential for achieving exceptional tonal balance in the frequency spectrum in your tracks. These plugins enable you to quickly identify any issues in your mix and ensure that your music sounds excellent on all playback systems.

If you want to elevate your music production or sound engineering abilities, dedicating time to reference plugins is unquestionably a wise investment. With these valuable tools, you can create music that consistently delivers a remarkable listening experience no matter where it's played.

• Izotope Ozone Tonal Balance Control

• Sonible True Balance

• Sonnox Listen Hub

• Mastering The Mix Reference

• Mastering The Mix Expose

• Letimix Gainmatch

• Sample Magic Magic AB

• ADPTR Audio MetricAB

Taming the room: Optimizing Audio with EQ Software

Producers and sound designers must achieve clear and accurate sound. Great Studio monitors are important, but room acoustics often color the sound.

Enter room EQ software. This software flattens the frequency response by analyzing the room's response and applying corrective filters, resulting in a more neutral listening environment. This translates into better mixing decisions - what you hear in the studio accurately reflects how the mix will sound on other speakers.

Headphone Correction software offers a similar benefit for those working late at night or in less-than-ideal spaces. By analyzing the response of a specific headphone model, these programs create a profile that compensates for its inherent coloration. This allows consistent mixing across environments, ensuring your mixes translate well to different listening experiences.

While room treatment remains the gold standard for studio acoustics, room EQ software offers a powerful and affordable alternative. Similarly, headphone correction software is valuable for producers on the go or with limited space. Both technologies empower creatives to make informed mixing decisions that produce professional-sounding results.

• Sonarworks Reference Headphone

• Sonarworks Reference Speaker

• Embody Immerse Virtual Studio

• IK Multimedia Arc

• Dsoniq Realphones

• Tonebooster Morphit

• Room EQ Wizard

• 112 DB Redline Monitor

• Slate VSX Headphone

• Goodhertz CanOpener

• Waves Audio NX

• Audified Mixchecker