MP-EQ passive EQ plugin interface by Pulsar Audio

MP-EQ: Passive Parallel EQ Plugin by Pulsar Audio Free Download

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (193 ratings)

MP-EQ is a passive EQ plugin from Pulsar Audio, modeled on a classic analog equalizer used in mastering studios. It adds a parallel band topology, drive control and an optional linear phase mode.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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Free trial available from the developer

01Overview

MP-EQ is an emulation of a passive analog EQ that Pulsar Audio built to reproduce the sound and behavior of a well-known hardware unit. The developer describes its parallel architecture as the reason band gains combine more naturally than in most digital EQs. The plugin adds an on-screen curve editor and spectrum analyzer, along with drive control, auto-gain and mid-side processing for working on a mix, a bus or a master.

Best for

Mastering EQ
Mix bus coloration
Vocal presence and warmth
Electric guitar tone shaping
Drum bus polish
Synth pad and bass sculpting

Developer: Pulsar Audio
Category: EQ
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Passive EQ circuit modeled on a classic analog unit
Fully parallel band topology with interacting bands
Drive control for analog harmonic saturation
Optional linear phase correction after the EQ stage
Mid-Side processing for stereo control
Auto-gain to compensate for level changes
Metering and spectrum analyzer
Built-in transformer and oversampling options

03In depth

Passive EQ Sound and Harmonic Character

Pulsar says the circuit models custom inductors, tubes and transformers, which it credits with a creamy top end, balanced mids and warmth from magnetic saturation. The Drive control sets how far the plugin is pushed into its analog-style behavior, and the developer notes that the transformer, tube and inductor models generate harmonics and program-dependent low-end compression.

The low-shelf filters are described as Pultec-like, aimed at a full low end even at large boost settings. The high shelves are intended to add top-end air without harshness.

Linear Phase Mode and Mid-Side Workflow

Standard analog-style EQ shifts phase differently at each frequency. MP-EQ includes an optional linear phase mode that realigns frequencies after the EQ stage. Pulsar says this preserves transient accuracy and reduces the muddiness that can come from fundamentals and harmonics drifting out of sync.

Mid-Side processing is included, and the developer says it avoids the asymmetrical artifacts that can appear around a band's center frequency when the mid and side channels are recombined.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Pulsar Audio
Type	Plugin
Category	EQ
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit
Free trial	Yes

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does MP-EQ support?

MP-EQ is listed in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS and is a 64-bit plugin.

What are the system requirements for MP-EQ?

On Windows, it requires Windows 7 SP1 64-bit, Windows 8.1 64-bit or Windows 10 64-bit. On macOS, it requires macOS 10.9 or later and supports Apple Silicon (M1). Both platforms need an OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU and at least 4 GB of RAM.

Does MP-EQ have a trial version?

Yes, a trial is available for MP-EQ.

What is linear phase mode in MP-EQ?

It is an optional process that realigns all frequencies after the EQ stage, turning the analog-style EQ into a linear-phase EQ. Pulsar says this helps transient accuracy and low-end clarity.