Waves Audio and ProducerGrind offer the MetaFilter ($149 list price, $29 sale price) plugin as a FREE download for a limited time.
MetaFilter is a multi-mode resonant filter plugin with a built-in step sequencer, envelope follower, and an LFO. It also features a delay module, distortion, and a stereo widener.
The step sequencer is a straightforward 16-step design with an adjustable rate, swing, and host tempo sync. Despite its simplicity, the sequencer is handy for adding movement to the filter.
Things get more interesting if you use the sequencer to modulate multiple targets. You can connect it to the Cutoff, Resonance, and Delay Time, parameters, allowing for some interesting sound design escapades.
The other two modulation sources are equally simplistic. The envelope follower is useful for processing percussive instruments, while the LFO offers another way to animate the filter and add movement to static sounds.
All this modulation talk made me forget to mention the filter itself. MetaFilter offers five filter modes, including low-pass, high-pass, notch, band, and comb filters.
The sixth mode is called the Amp mode. It turns the Cutoff knob into a volume control and lets you use MetaFilters modulation sources to automate the volume. So, the plugin can also work as a tremolo, a faux sidechain compressor, and more.
The effects section expands MetaFilter’s sound design capabilities even further. The delay module is my favorite MetaFilter feature, as it works like a charm for filtered slapback delays.
The distortion is equally useful, especially if you’re looking to add some fatness and grit to bass sounds. It’s a shame that the included modulation sources can’t modulate other FX parameters apart from Delay Time.
To summarize, Waves MetaFilter is a simple but versatile multi-mode filter. It features an intuitive control layout that works great for beginners.
Seasoned sound designers would probably prefer more modulation options and an advanced modulation matrix. Still, I don’t mind having a versatile multi-mode filter that’s quick to program and easy to use.
MetaFilter typically costs $29, but you can get it for free for a limited time. This promotion is courtesy of Waves Audio and ProducerGrind.
To get your free copy of the filter, visit the ProducerGrind profile on Instagram and follow the instructions, or visit the link below. Please note that you’ll need to log in to your Waves Audio account to see the link.
MetaFilter is available in 64-bit VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats for Windows and macOS.
If you like MetaFilter, check out our free BPB Dirty Filter Plus plugin, too.
UPDATE: Unfortunately, the offer has ended. Apologies to BPB readers who missed the deal. I wrote the article as fast as I could and shared the newsletter as quickly as possible, but then the deal expired an hour after I posted it.
Download: Waves MetaFilter
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