Moogerfooger MF-101S Lowpass Filter plugin is a digital recreation of Moog’s iconic analog hardware pedal, bringing the classic Moog ladder filter sound to the digital realm. This plugin faithfully emulates the warm, rich tones and organic parameter interactions of the original MF-101 pedal, while adding modern features tailored for in-the-box production. The MF-101S offers the characteristic 24dB/octave lowpass filter with resonance control, an envelope follower for dynamic filtering effects, and a drive section for adding subtle to aggressive distortion. The plugin’s interface closely mimics the original hardware, featuring large knobs for easy tweaking and a vintage-inspired aesthetic. With its ability to shape and transform sounds from subtle to extreme, the MF-101S is a versatile tool for producers, sound designers, and musicians looking to add analog-style warmth and character to their digital productions.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of the classic Moog ladder filter sound
• Intuitive, vintage-inspired interface with easy-to-use controls
• Expanded feature set including stereo processing and CV modulation options
Cons:
• Some users may find the low-end response slightly less robust compared to the hardware version
MF-101S Lowpass Filter plugin offers a comprehensive set of features that combine the best of analog emulation with digital convenience. At its heart is the legendary Moog ladder filter, known for its smooth, musical response and ability to produce everything from subtle tonal shaping to aggressive, squelchy resonance effects. The filter cutoff and resonance controls allow for precise sculpting of the frequency spectrum, while the envelope follower adds dynamic movement to the sound based on the input signal’s amplitude.
Drive section is a key component in achieving the characteristic Moog warmth and saturation. Users can push the input gain to add subtle harmonic richness or drive it hard for more aggressive distortion effects. The mix control allows for parallel processing, blending the dry and processed signals for more subtle applications.
The plugin features CV (Control Voltage) inputs for various parameters, including filter cutoff, resonance, envelope amount, and mix. This allows for complex, evolving sounds when used in conjunction with modulation sources or automation within a DAW.
The MF-101S also introduces stereo functionality, a significant upgrade from the mono hardware unit. Users can choose between mono and stereo envelope following, offering new creative possibilities for stereo sound design. The stereo response control further shapes how the envelope follower reacts to the dynamics of stereo input signals.
The plugin’s interface closely mimics the original hardware, with large, easy-to-grab knobs and switches that invite experimentation. The vintage-inspired design not only looks authentic but also contributes to an intuitive workflow that feels familiar to users of the original pedal. Additionally, the plugin includes a comprehensive preset library, allowing users to quickly access a wide range of sounds or save their own creations.
Advanced features include a choice between 2-pole and 4-pole filter modes, offering different slope characteristics and tonal options. The envelope follower section provides controls for attack and release times, allowing users to fine-tune how the filter responds to input dynamics. A dedicated LFO with multiple waveforms and sync options adds another layer of modulation possibilities.
When compared to similar plugins, the MF-101S stands out for its authentic Moog sound and character. While there are many lowpass filter plugins on the market, few capture the specific nuances and organic behavior of the Moog ladder filter as accurately. Plugins like Soundtoys FilterFreak or FabFilter Volcano offer powerful filtering capabilities and extensive modulation options, but they lack the specific Moog flavor that the MF-101S delivers. UAD Moog Multimode Filter Collection is perhaps the closest competitor, offering emulations of various Moog filters. However, the MF-101S focuses specifically on recreating the MF-101 pedal experience, including its unique envelope follower and drive characteristics. This focused approach may appeal to users looking for that exact sound and workflow. Arturia’s Mini-Filter, part of their FX Collection, also aims to capture the Moog filter sound. While it offers a great emulation and some expanded features, it doesn’t recreate the specific MF-101 pedal interface and workflow that the Moogerfooger plugin provides.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers seeking authentic Moog filter tones in a digital format
• Sound designers looking for a versatile and characterful lowpass filter
• Electronic musicians wanting to add analog-style warmth and movement to digital tracks
• Mixing engineers needing a high-quality filter for tone shaping and special effects
Moogerfooger MF-101S Lowpass Filter plugin successfully translates the beloved sound and functionality of the original hardware into the digital domain. It captures the essence of the Moog ladder filter, delivering the warm, musical tones that have made it a staple in electronic music production. The plugin’s expanded feature set, including stereo processing and extensive modulation options, enhances its versatility without compromising the intuitive, hands-on feel of the original pedal. While purists might notice subtle differences in the low-end response compared to the hardware, the overall sound quality and character are remarkably close to the original. The MF-101S stands as a powerful tool for shaping tone, adding movement, and imparting analog-style warmth to digital productions. Its combination of authentic sound, user-friendly interface, and modern features makes it a valuable addition to any producer’s plugin collection, especially those seeking the classic Moog sound in a convenient, recallable format.