Maselec MLA-4 triband compressor expander plugin interface by Relab Development

Maselec MLA-4: Triband Compressor/Expander Plugin by Relab Development Free Download

Maselec MLA-4 is a triband compressor/expander plugin by Relab Development, a software recreation of the Maselec MLA-4 hardware unit developed with Leif Mases. It is built for mixing, mastering and stem processing.

VST3AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
Free trial available from the developer
01Overview

The Maselec MLA-4 is a multiband dynamics processor that works as both a compressor and an expander. Relab Development describes it as the first software version of the original hardware unit made in collaboration with Leif Mases. It is aimed at mix bus work, mastering and processing stems, where dynamic shaping needs to stay musical. The plugin adds a set of workflow tools that the hardware could not offer, including per-band monitoring and per-band harmonic coloration.

Best for

  • Mix bus compression
  • Mastering dynamics
  • Stem processing
  • Restoring crushed stems
  • Multiband dynamic shaping
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Triband compressor and expander design
  • Auto Spectral Balance manages dynamics without tonal shifts
  • Per-Band THD Control for selective harmonic coloration
  • Per-band solo and left/right cut monitoring
  • Independent channel monitoring options
  • Developed in collaboration with Leif Mases
  • Available in VST3, AU and AAX formats
  • 64-bit support on Windows and macOS
03In depth

Dynamic Control Across Three Bands

The MLA-4 splits the signal into three bands, so you can shape the dynamics of low, mid and high content separately. Relab Development says the Auto Spectral Balance feature manages dynamics while keeping the tonal balance of the mix intact, which helps when you want level control without changing the character of the material.

Per-Band THD Control lets you add harmonic coloration to individual bands rather than the whole signal. This is useful when you want warmth in one part of the spectrum and not another.

Monitoring Tools for Precise Adjustments

Advanced monitoring options include per-band solo, left and right cuts, and independent channel monitoring. These make it easier to hear exactly what each band is doing before you commit to a setting, which matters most on mix buses and masters where small changes are easy to misjudge.

The plugin is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats for 64-bit hosts on Windows and macOS, and a trial is offered.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

DeveloperRelab Development
TypePlugin
CategoryDynamics Processor
FormatsVST3, AU, AAX
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
Free trialYes
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is the Maselec MLA-4?

It is a triband compressor and expander plugin by Relab Development. Relab says it is a software recreation of the Maselec MLA-4 hardware unit, developed with Leif Mases.

Which formats and operating systems does the MLA-4 support?

The MLA-4 is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats in 64-bit. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What do I need to authorize the MLA-4?

You need a free PACE iLok account, an internet connection and the latest PACE drivers at activation. You can authorize to your local computer or use an iLok USB key (V2 or above). No hardware dongle is required.

Is there a trial version?

Yes, a trial is available.

07Developer

More from Relab Development

All Relab Development products →