thEQblue12: Twelve-Architecture Parametric EQ by MAAT

thEQblue12 is an EQ plugin from MAAT that bundles twelve parametric equalizer architectures, modeled on classic hardware EQs as idealized digital versions. It is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats for Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

thEQblue12 is the full version of MAAT's thEQblue collection, with twelve equalizer architectures in one plugin. The developer says they were derived from reverse engineering well-regarded hardware EQs and rebuilt as digital versions without the noise or distortion of analog hardware. Series and parallel designs are both included, along with the ability to assign sections to stereo or sum/difference channels and to group sections for global gain changes.

Best for

Stereo mixing
Mastering EQ
Vocal EQ
Mid/side correction
Surgical EQ cuts

Developer: MAAT
Category: EQ
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Twelve parametric EQ architectures in a single plugin
Series and parallel EQ designs included
Sections assignable to left/right or L+R/L-R channels
Section grouping for global gain changes
Architecture 11 parallel feed-forward/feedback design for mastering
Optional FiDef psychoacoustic processing
Available as VST3, VST2, AU and AAX

03In depth

Twelve Equalizer Architectures for Mixing and Mastering

The plugin's twelve architectures cover a range of EQ behavior. Several are symmetrical or asymmetrical bell designs, including a classic symmetrical bell suited to surgical corrections. Others use proportional or constant-Q curves, where bandwidth changes with gain or stays fixed. Architecture 03 is described as more musical than constant-Q, with wider bells below 6 dB and narrower bells above it.

The set also includes parallel designs. Architecture 11, a parallel feed-forward/feedback design, is described as offering complementary boost and cut characteristics and is recommended for mastering. Architecture 12 is a parallel passive design.

Workflow Features and FiDef Option

Each section can be assigned freely to stereo (left/right) or sum/difference (L+R/L-R) channels at the same time. Sections can also be grouped so that a global gain change keeps the relationship between individual sections intact.

FiDef, a psychoacoustic stimulus from FideliQuest, is included as a feature. The developer describes it as a very low amplitude signal intended to make listening more engaging. Results vary by listener, so it is worth comparing with FiDef switched on and off.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	MAAT
Type	Plugin
Category	EQ
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats is thEQblue12 available in?

thEQblue12 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What are the system requirements for thEQblue12?

AAX Native requires Pro Tools 10.3.10 or newer. AU and VST2 are supported on macOS 10.9 and newer, and VST3 is listed for macOS 10.9 and newer. The plugin is 64-bit only on Windows 7 and newer, and requires OpenGL 3.2 or newer.