Tokyo Dawn Labs TDR SlickEQ M is a sophisticated stereophonic equalizer designed specifically for mastering applications. This plugin extends the proven concept of the original SlickEQ into a fully-fledged mastering tool, offering exceptional musical flexibility without compromising audio quality. The user interface is clean and intuitive, hiding a vast array of powerful features behind its sleek design. At its core, SlickEQ M provides six parametric filter bands, high-pass and low-pass filters, and a unique meta-filter for global tonal adjustments. The plugin employs a parallel EQ configuration for most of its filters, ensuring minimal phase distortion. SlickEQ M also incorporates advanced stereo processing capabilities, allowing for precise control over the stereo image at different frequency ranges. The plugin’s multirate processing scheme and elaborate signal processing techniques maintain high signal integrity throughout the entire processing chain.
Pros:
• Exceptional sound quality with minimal artifacts, even at extreme settings
• Intuitive user interface that hides complex functionality
• Powerful stereo processing capabilities for precise stereo image control
• Unique meta-filter for global tonal adjustments
• Intelligent auto-gain feature to maintain perceived loudness while EQing
• Smart Operations for spectral matching and resonance removal
Cons:
• Higher CPU usage compared to simpler EQ plugins
• Lack of dynamic EQ functionality
SlickEQ M Plugin boasts an impressive array of features tailored for mastering applications. The plugin offers six fully parametric EQ bands, each with its own stereo processing controls. Users can adjust the stereo width and balance for each band independently, allowing for precise stereo image manipulation across the frequency spectrum. The high-pass and low-pass filters come with multiple slope options (6, 12, 18, and 24 dB/octave) for flexible control over the signal bandwidth.
Meta-Filter control allows users to adjust the overall brightness or hardness of the processed sound, or apply an adjustable equal loudness curve to compensate for the Fletcher-Munson effect. This provides a quick and intuitive way to shape the overall tonal character of a mix. The plugin also incorporates low and high-frequency harmonic exciters, adding subtle saturation to enhance the warmth and presence of the signal. These exciters offer separate controls for harmonic level and frequency, allowing for precise tonal shaping.
SlickEQ M features an elliptical filter, also known as a “monoizer,” which can make frequencies below a specified point mono. This is particularly useful for controlling low-end stereo information and ensuring compatibility across different playback systems.
The Smart Operations feature is another powerful tool in SlickEQ M’s arsenal. It can analyze the input signal’s spectral properties and automatically suggest EQ settings. This feature can be used to match the spectrum of one track to another or to remove static resonances. The plugin’s auto-gain feature automatically compensates for changes in perceived loudness while making EQ adjustments, making it easier to make objective decisions during the mastering process. Additionally, SlickEQ M offers multiple processing quality modes, including an “Insane” mode that provides the highest possible audio fidelity at the cost of increased CPU usage.
When compared to other mastering-grade EQ plugins, SlickEQ M VST holds its own in terms of sound quality and functionality. Its closest competitors might include plugins like FabFilter Pro-Q 3, iZotope Ozone EQ, and DMG EQuilibrium. While these plugins may offer more extensive features in certain areas (such as dynamic EQ capabilities), SlickEQ M distinguishes itself with its intuitive interface, unique meta-filter, and powerful stereo processing capabilities. Compared to the Waves Linear Phase EQ or UAD Massive Passive, SlickEQ M offers a more modern approach to mastering EQ, with its parallel processing architecture and advanced stereo controls. While it may not have the analog modeling of plugins like the UAD Massive Passive, it excels in providing a clean, transparent sound with the ability to add subtle coloration when desired. In terms of price point, SlickEQ M often comes in lower than many of its high-end competitors, offering excellent value for its feature set and sound quality.
This plugin is best for:
• Mastering engineers seeking a high-quality, flexible EQ for final polishing of mixes
• Mix engineers looking for a sophisticated EQ for bus processing
• Producers who need precise control over stereo imaging in their mixes
• Audio professionals requiring a transparent EQ with the option for subtle analog-style coloration
SlickEQ M is a powerful and versatile mastering EQ that punches well above its weight class. Its combination of high-quality sound processing, intuitive interface, and advanced features make it a formidable tool for both seasoned mastering engineers and those just stepping into the world of mastering. The plugin’s parallel EQ architecture ensures minimal phase distortion, while its stereo processing capabilities offer unprecedented control over the stereo image. The unique meta-filter provides a quick and musical way to shape the overall tonal character of a mix, and the Smart Operations feature can be a real time-saver in matching spectral content or removing problematic resonances. While it may demand more CPU resources than simpler EQ plugins, the trade-off in sound quality and functionality is well worth it for those seeking a professional-grade mastering EQ. Despite lacking dynamic EQ capabilities, SlickEQ M’s feature set is comprehensive enough to handle a wide range of mastering scenarios. For audio professionals looking for a high-quality, versatile EQ that can deliver both surgical precision and musical results, Tokyo Dawn Labs’ TDR SlickEQ M is an excellent choice that deserves serious consideration.