Top 3 EQ Plugins of 2016 (Updated for 2018!)

We live in a time that there are so many plugins to choose from. It’s somewhat overwhelming. However, even with the huge list of plugins I have ( I can’t help myself from buying them) I usually come back to the same 2 or 3. Some I use for surgical purposes and others I use for color or broad strokes. So without further ado, here is a list of my top 3 EQ plugins.

1- Fab Filter Pro Q2 – Chances are this EQ makes everyone’s list of top plugins and for good reason. With up to 24 bands of EQ, a built-in spectrum analyzer, plenty of filter types, and filter slopes to choose from, this plug does it all. These is the first plugins I use on my vocal chain. I use the low cut to get out the low-end rumble, and a tight bell filter to cut unwanted frequencies. Another great feature is the M/S mode. I will filter out the low end up to around 200Hz on a synth bass to mono out the bass frequency and keep them sounding tight. There is so much you can do with this plugin and that’s why it’s on the top of my list.

2. Sly-fi Axis – This is a recreation of the classic API Eq. UBK models both the A and B models. He takes them a bit further. First of all you get the standard fixed EQ like the original but you can also switch it to sweepable EQ. He also adds an extra band which is super useful. Last but not least he added the saturation knob, which produces a great tone. This plugin is my go-to for drums. It gives great punch to percussive instruments. The saturation button helps give you that extra girth to make your drums stand out!

3. UAD Neve 1073 – This is a recreation of the classic Neve 1073 module. You have heard this eq on countless hits, and it’s an amazing eq for drums, vocals, bass, and everything in-between. UAD did a fabulous job at recreating this plugin. I think most people would be hard-pressed to hear the difference between the plugin and the hardware. I use this a ton on drums and vocals. What’s great about it is they modeled the pre-section as well, so you can drive your drums with a bit of distortion along with the super warm sounding neve eq.

So there you have it my top 3 list. Make sure to let me know your top 3 in the comments below, and check out the blog and youtube videos to see some of these in action!

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