whiteLABEL has released TENQ, a freeware 10-band parametric equalizer effect in VST plugin format for Windows-based digital audio workstations and plugin hosts (32-bit only).
I recall desperately searching for a freeware equalizer with a built-in spectrum equalizer for days back in 2009 or 2010. I checked all the audio-related websites and asked around on various forums, but there were simply no such plugins available in the freeware world back then.
Not a single plugin! We have several alternatives available today, though (MEqualizer by MeldaProduction being one of the better offerings), and TENQ is yet another addition to the list.
See also: Free EQ VST Plugins
Apart from the built-in spectrum analyzer, TENQ features ten parametric EQ bands with eleven different node types (high pass, low pass, high shelf, low shelf, etc.), a choice between stereo and M/S modes, packed inside an innovative hardware accelerated and zoomable user interface.
The hardware acceleration of the user interface results in a significant performance boost and this is (as far as I know) the first ever SynthEdit plugin to use such a feature.
Although I won’t be switching my equalizers of choice soon (most of them are listed in the freeware EQ round-up linked above), I could easily recommend TENQ as a capable solution to anyone searching for a versatile free equalizer designed for mixing purposes.
The only significant drawback when it comes to TENQ is the fact that the plugin will work on 32-bit Windows exclusively because it was made with SynthEdit.
Originally planned for release as a commercial product (the developer was planning to price it at £30), TENQ is actually being released as a freebie because of the new EU VAT laws.
Although the plugin can’t be bought, you can still support the developer by making a donation on the product page linked below. whiteLABEL has several other freebies listed on their site (most of their commercial plugins come with an alternative free version), so check those out too while you’re visiting their website.
Video Demo
Check out the TENQ demo video:
Download
TENQ is available for free download via whiteLABEL (2.9 MB download size, ZIP archive, 32-bit VST plugin format for Windows, made with SynthEdit).
UPDATE: WhitelLABEL plugins have been discontinued and are no longer available for download.
