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Bugfix release update for the analog equalizer
We are excited to announce the release of the SW34EQ MK2, the smooth analog equalizer that brings a touch of vintage analog warmth to your mixes. The latest version of this plugin delivers the timeless sound of the 80s and recreates the characteristic analog EQ tone found in some of the best American consoles of that era. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or an up-and-coming engineer, the SW34EQ MK2 is designed to provide you with the flexibility and warmth you need for your audio productions.
The HoRNet SW34EQ MK2 digitally recreates the EQ section of an iconic American mixing console, offering the unique sound of analog hardware in a convenient software format. The plugin models a specific channel strip from the main room of Virus Studio in Siena, Italy, which has been used by top professionals in the music industry. The EQ section is famed for its smooth and gentle curves, making it perfect for general tone shaping across a wide range of applications. Whether you are working on a track that requires subtle enhancements or need to shape the sound of your mix with precision, this plugin delivers the ideal tools.
The EQ section of the SW34EQ MK2 includes bell and shelf filters, which are excellent for adding richness to the midrange or taming harsh highs. Each band of the equalizer can be adjusted with precision, providing flexibility in shaping the tone of your tracks without introducing any harsh or unwanted artifacts. This is one of the reasons why this plugin has become so popular among audio professionals – it offers the perfect balance of musicality and precision.
One of the standout features of the SW34EQ MK2 is the ability to activate the 18dB/octave high-pass filter independently, even when the rest of the EQ is switched off. This allows you to clean up the low end of your mixes with ease, removing unwanted sub-bass frequencies without affecting the rest of the frequency spectrum. The high-pass filter is particularly useful for tightening up low-end elements such as bass guitars, kick drums, and other instruments that occupy the lower frequencies.
In addition to the high-pass filter, the SW34EQ MK2 also gives you the ability to fine-tune the frequency of the filter. This means that you can dial in exactly the right amount of filtering to suit the needs of your mix. Whether you’re working on a full mix or just adjusting individual tracks, this high-pass filter will give you a level of control that is perfect for maintaining a clean and defined low end.
Not only does the SW34EQ MK2 model the EQ curves of the original hardware, but it also captures the saturation characteristics that give the console its signature sound. Since the console from which this plugin is modeled was produced in the 80s, it uses op-amps throughout the signal path. This design results in even harmonics when the gain is applied, which contributes to the warm and musical sound that analog equipment is known for.
However, as you increase the gain further, the behavior of the saturation changes, and odd harmonics begin to emerge. This results in a richer, more complex distortion that can add a pleasing warmth or edge to your tracks, depending on how far you push the input. For those who enjoy adding a little extra flavor to their audio, this plugin offers a remarkable way to recreate the classic analog saturation effects that are so sought after in today’s music production.
We’ve also gone the extra mile to model the hiss that is often associated with analog equipment, allowing you to get even closer to the original sound of the console. However, if you prefer a cleaner sound without the analog noise, you have the option to deactivate the entire emulation of saturation and hiss, giving you a more transparent and pristine signal path when needed.
The SW34EQ MK2 features a sleek and user-friendly interface that has been designed for ease of use and visual clarity. Each knob is accompanied by a readout, making it easy to adjust the frequency and gain of each band with precision. Whether you are adjusting the high, mid, or low frequencies, the interface makes it simple to dial in your desired settings without any guesswork. This clear and intuitive design allows you to stay focused on your creativity and get the most out of the plugin’s capabilities.
In addition to the high-pass filter and saturation features, we’ve introduced a 12dB/octave low-pass filter in the SW34EQ MK2, which wasn’t available on the original hardware. The low-pass filter provides even more tonal flexibility, allowing you to roll off high frequencies with a gentler slope, which is ideal for taming excessive brightness or smoothing out harsh highs in your mixes. This filter provides additional options for engineers who want complete control over the frequency spectrum.
For those who particularly enjoy the saturation effects of analog gear, we’ve added a convenient link button in the SW34EQ MK2. This feature automatically compensates for the output level as you increase the input, making it easier to manage the overall gain structure and avoid distortion that may arise from boosting the input signal too much. If you’re a fan of heavy saturation and want to really push the limits, the plugin allows you to push the level up to four times for even more intense results.
The 2.2.1 update brings several important bug fixes and performance improvements to the SW34EQ MK2. The update resolves a VST3 issue, where the plugin was only working in mono in DAWs that do not have mono channels, ensuring compatibility with more DAWs and workflows. Additionally, we’ve fixed an issue where VST settings were not loading properly in Studio One for older projects. These fixes enhance the overall stability and functionality of the plugin, making it even more reliable for everyday use in the studio.
The 2.2.1 update is available free of charge to all current owners of the SW34EQ MK2 plugin. To download the latest version, simply log into your user area on the HoRNet website, where you can access and download the update. Alternatively, the plugin can also be updated through HoRNet DoIn, our convenient downloader/installer, which simplifies the update process.
The SW34EQ MK2 offers a remarkable blend of classic analog warmth and modern flexibility, making it an essential tool for any producer or engineer. Whether you’re shaping the tone of individual tracks or polishing a full mix, this plugin delivers a sound that is both musical and precise. With its intuitive interface, high-quality analog emulation, and powerful features like the high-pass filter and saturation control, the SW34EQ MK2 provides everything you need to elevate your mixes to the next level.
