Analog Obsession has released MPReq, a free analog-style equalizer effect in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats for compatible digital audio workstations on PC and Mac.
MPReq is inspired by vintage microphone preamp and EQ models from the 1950s. The features seem to be loosely based on the Pultec EQP-1A hardware equalizer, although Analog Obsession’s freeware plugin features two fixed frequency bands (set to 100 Hz and 12 kHz) and lacks the bandwidth adjustment parameter from the original. The saturation and non-linear behavior of old hardware amplifiers are carefully emulated, though, making MPReq a viable tool for adding warmth and applying a vintage vibe to processed audio.
See also: Download FREE Temper Phase Distortion VST/AU Plugin ($10 Value)Overall, MPReq sounds very good. The tube amp output can be bypassed completely if you only want the clean EQ sound, although I much prefer using the plugin with the tube stage turned on. The applied saturation is very pleasant sounding. One major drawback of this plugin, though, is the low-end frequency roll-off which can’t be bypassed. The developer explains that this is quite simply the nature of old school amplifiers and there are no plans to add a bypass switch for the high-pass filter in the future. With that in mind, MPReq is most certainly not suitable for processing bass-heavy material like bass guitars, synth basslines, etc. It could still work well on electric guitars, female vocals, and other types of audio material that aren’t bass-intensive.
All in all, Analog Obsession has created a great little freeware vintage EQ which, unfortunately, isn’t very versatile. My recommendation is to download it and test it on a couple of finished projects to see if the low-end filtering is a dealbreaker for you. If not, this little gem is a keeper. The effect is compatible with all VST, AU, and AAX plugin hosts on PC and Mac.
MPReq is available for free download via Analog Obsession (10.3 MB download size, ZIP archive, 32-bit & 64-bit VST/AU/AAX plugin formats for Windows & macOS).
