HoRNet Plugins released TreBande, a freeware three-band equalizer plugin for Windows and macOS.
HoRNet TreBande is a free three-band semi-parametric equalizer VST plugin. It was designed to replicate the sonic characteristics of a traditional mixing console equalizer.
The underlying DSP code was originally part of the Cassette644 plugin. According to the developer HoRNet Plugins, TreBande replicates the precise equalization reminiscent of standard mixer EQs.
While I prefer using fully featured parametric equalizers like TDR Nova, a simple three-band EQ like TreBande is a better option for quickly adjusting the tone while preparing a rough mix.
It’s also worth noting that, unlike highly precise digital EQs like TDR Nova, analog console EQs offer gentle saturation and unique EQ curves that tend to sound more musical. This is precisely what you get with TreeBrand, a faithful reproduction of a mixing console’s nuances and tonal subtleties in a digital format.
The plugin applies a touch of warmth and subtle saturation to the audio, emulating the analog warmth of vintage mixer equalizers. It’s a subtle effect but gets more noticeable if applied to multiple channels in a mix.
The user interface, on the other hand, is as streamlined as it gets. TreBande provides control over brilliance, midrange presence, and bass frequencies through its High Shelf, Mid Band, and Low Shelf controls.
The filters have a ±15 dB range, while the Mid Band also lets you select the target frequency in the 250Hz-5kHz range.
The built-in preset manager lets you save and load your favorite settings. The plugin also features oversampling and an analog hiss emulation, which can be turned off if you prefer a noise-free sound.
Another feature worth mentioning is the resizable GUI that also lets you choose between dark and light mode settings for comfortable viewing in different lighting scenarios. I tend to set all my devices to dark mode by default, so this is a welcome setting.
The release of TreBande is a welcome change from HoRNet’s usual 24-hour-only blink-and-you-missed-it freebies (HoRNet ThirtyOne MK2, HoRNet ElliptiQ, HoRNet TrackUtility MK2, etc.). Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love HorRNet Plugins and their freebies, but those 24-hour offers are super hard to share on time.
So, it was nice, for a change, to write a HoRNet freebie article while slowly sipping some tea and not racing against a deadline. :)
TreBande supports Apple Silicon and runs on macOS (10.13 and later) and Windows (Windows 10 and later). It is available in 64-bit AU, VST, VST3, and AAX formats.
Download: HoRNet TreBande
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Last Updated on December 22, 2023 by Tomislav Zlatic.
