FabFilter Pro-L 2 limiter plugin interface

FabFilter Pro-L 2: True Peak Limiter Plugin for Mastering Free Download

Rated 4.9/5 on Plugin Boutique (363 ratings)

FabFilter Pro-L 2 is a limiter plugin from FabFilter for mixing and mastering. It offers true peak limiting, eight limiting algorithms, and extensive loudness metering on Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
Free trial available from the developer
01Overview

FabFilter Pro-L 2 is built around the limiter stage that closes most mixes and masters. It combines transparent gain reduction with loudness metering, with support for the EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4 and ATSC A/85 standards. The developer describes its sound as transparent even at high loudness levels. Eight selectable algorithms let you match the limiter's character to the material, whether you are working on a full mix, a stem or a surround project.

Best for

  • Mastering full mixes
  • Stem mastering
  • Loudness-compliant delivery
  • Dolby Atmos mastering
  • Mix bus limiting
Developer
FabFilter
Category
Limiters
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Eight limiting algorithms, each with its own character
  • True peak limiting with up to 32x linear-phase oversampling
  • Loudness metering for EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4 and ATSC A/85
  • Dolby Atmos 7.0.2 and 7.1.2 surround support
  • External side chain triggering for stem mastering
  • Advanced dithering with three noise shaping algorithms
  • Adjustable meter scale with K-System support
  • MIDI Learn, A/B comparison and undo/redo
03In depth

Limiting Algorithms, Metering and Oversampling

Pro-L 2 provides eight different limiting algorithms, each with its own character and purpose, so you can choose the behavior that suits a track rather than relying on a single response. True peak limiting is included, and oversampling goes up to 32x linear-phase to help keep intersample peaks under control.

The real-time level display shows peak gain reduction labels and uses newer display modes. Output and gain reduction metering, including true peak metering, is highly accurate according to the developer. An adjustable meter scale with K-System support lets you work to the reference you prefer.

Surround, Stem Mastering and Workflow Options

For surround work, Pro-L 2 supports Dolby Atmos 7.0.2 and 7.1.2 formats with flexible surround channel linking. It adapts to stereo, mono and surround audio formats. External side chain triggering is available for stem mastering, and separate channel linking can be set for the transient and release stages.

Day-to-day controls include adjustable look-ahead, attack and release settings, an Unity Gain option for comparing the effect of limiting at unity gain, and an Audition Limiting option that lets you hear the difference between input and output. Undo/redo, A/B comparison, MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation and double-click text entry for parameter values are also included. An optional Compact interface layout is available, along with support for common Pro Tools hardware control surfaces.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

DeveloperFabFilter
TypePlugin
CategoryLimiter
FormatsVST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
Free trialYes
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does FabFilter Pro-L 2 come in?

Pro-L 2 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. The developer notes that FabFilter plug-ins are available in VST, VST3, Audio Units, AAX Native and AudioSuite formats.

Which operating systems does FabFilter Pro-L 2 support?

It runs on Windows and macOS. On macOS the listed requirement is macOS 10.12 or higher on Intel or M1 Apple Silicon, 64-bit only. On Windows, Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 or Vista in 32 or 64-bit is listed, with VST2, VST3 and AAX Native support.

What do I need to use FabFilter Pro-L 2?

Pro-L 2 is a plugin, so it needs a compatible host application that supports one of its listed formats, such as VST3, VST2, AU or AAX. A free trial is available.

Does Pro-L 2 support surround mixes?

Yes. It supports Dolby Atmos 7.0.2 and 7.1.2 formats with flexible surround channel linking, and it adapts to stereo, mono and surround audio formats.

07Developer

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