Top 30 Best Mastering Audio Plugins In 2024

Audio mastering is a critical step in music production, ensuring that a track translates well across various playback systems. High-quality mastering plugins are indispensable for refining mixes, achieving commercial loudness, and adhering to industry standards.

My list includes over 30 of the best mastering plugins available and used by many audio engineers and producers, from compressors and limiters to equalizers and stereo imaging tools listed by categories, such as compressors, EQ, limiters, saturators, etc.

Let’s start with…

Best Mastering Compressors

1. FabFilter Pro-C 2

Known for its versatility and precision, FabFilter Pro-C 2 is a staple among mastering VST plugins. This compressor offers eight distinct compression styles, making it suitable for any mastering scenario. Its real-time level display and intuitive interface help engineers shape the dynamics of their tracks with ease.

Recommended Settings: For mastering, use the “Clean” or “Mastering” style with a gentle ratio (1.5:1 to 2:1), slow attack (30-50 ms), and medium release (100-200 ms). Adjust the threshold to apply 1-2 dB of gain reduction to obtain that mastering glue compression.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Fabfilter Pro-C2

2. Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor

Meticulously modeled by Brainworx after the legendary hardware original, the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor is renowned for its musicality and versatility. This plugin is a staple in the music industry, trusted on records by Radiohead, Foo Fighters, Beck, Green Day, and Coldplay. It excels at taming unruly transients with flawless control and exceptional tone, gluing the mix together.

Recommended Settings: For best results, use the optical section to achieve 1-2 dB of gain reduction with the threshold and compensate with the gain control. In the discrete section, set the ratio to 2:1 for gentle compression, the attack to a medium setting (around 10 ms) for a natural transient response, and the release to medium-fast (100-200 ms) for quick recovery without pumping.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor

3. UAD API 2500 Bus Compressor

The UAD API 2500 is mainly used by many producers and engineers for its punch and versatility, making it one of the best mastering compressor plugins. This compressor offers two types of compression: feed-forward and feedback, along with comprehensive controls for detailed tweaking.

Recommended Settings: Set the ratio to 1.5:1, attack between 10-30 ms, release around 200 ms, and aim for 1-2 dB of gain reduction. Use the thrust function in the ‘medium mode’ or ‘normal mode’ for balanced compression.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: API 2500 Bus Compressor

4. Universal Audio 1176LN

The UAD 1176 plugin is a faithful recreation of the classic 1176 hardware compressor. Known for its fast attack and release times, the 1176LN adds a distinct character and presence to the audio, ideal for both individual tracks and the mastering process.

Recommended Settings: Use a ratio of 4:1, fast attack and release (both around 3-5), and apply gentle compression with 1-2 dB of gain reduction.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: 1176 Classic Limiter

5. Softube Tube-Tech CL 1B

Emulating the legendary Tube-Tech CL 1B, this plugin offers warm, smooth compression. The CL 1B is known for its musicality and ability to amplify the warmth and body of a mix, making it a favorite for vocal and master bus compression.

Recommended Settings: Set the ratio to 2:1, attack at 10 ms, release at 200 ms, and adjust the threshold for 1-2 dB of gain reduction.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Softube Tube-Tech CL 1B

Best Mastering Multiband Compressors

1. iZotope Ozone 11 Advanced

iZotope Ozone is an all-in-one mastering suite that has set the industry standard, with the Ozone 11 Advanced being the latest iteration. The multiband compressor within Ozone 11 Advanced, available as a separate module under the name of “Ozone Dynamics” offers precise control over different frequency bands, allowing engineers to tailor the dynamics of specific parts of the spectrum.

Recommended Settings: Use default presets as a starting point. Set crossover frequencies to match the track’s key frequency ranges. Apply gentle compression (1.5:1 to 2:1 ratio) with 1-2 dB of gain reduction per band.

2. FabFilter Pro-MB

Another gem from FabFilter, Pro-MB is celebrated for its flexibility and sound quality. Pro-MB’s dynamic and linear phase processing modes provide transparent and musical multiband compression.

Recommended Settings: Use linear phase mode, and set crossovers around 100 Hz, 1 kHz, and 5 kHz. Apply light compression (1.5:1 ratio) with slow attack (20-40 ms) and medium release (100-200 ms).

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Fabfilter Pro-MB

3. Waves C6

The Waves C6 Multiband Compressor is a powerful and flexible tool for dynamic control. The C6 features six bands of compression, each with its own set of controls, making it extremely versatile for mastering.

Recommended Settings: Use the default 6-band setting, set attack and release to medium, and apply 1-2 dB of gain reduction where needed. Adjust crossover points based on the track’s specific needs.

4. MeldaProduction MDynamicEQ

MeldaProduction MDynamicEQ combines dynamic EQ and multiband compression. This plugin offers precise dynamic equalization across multiple bands, providing detailed control over the frequency spectrum.

Recommended Settings: Set bands to target problem frequencies, use dynamic mode with a 2:1 ratio, medium attack (20-40 ms), and release (100-200 ms).

Buy at Plugin Boutique: MDynamicEq

5. Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor

Known for its transparency, the Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor excels in mastering. This multi-band compressor plugin uses linear phase technology to avoid phase issues, ensuring clean and accurate multiband compression.

Recommended Settings: Set crossovers to divide the spectrum evenly, use gentle ratios (1.5:1 to 2:1), slow attack (30 ms), and medium release (150 ms). Aim for 1-2 dB of gain reduction per band.

Also, don’t miss out my list of Best Compressor Plugins

Best Mastering Limiters

1. FabFilter Pro-L 2

FabFilter Pro-L 2 is renowned for its transparent and precise limiting capabilities. With eight advanced limiting algorithms, true peak limiting, and extensive metering, Pro-L 2 ensures your tracks achieve commercial loudness without distortion.

Recommended Settings: Use the “Transparent” or “Modern” style, set the attack to 0.1 ms, release to 150 ms, and increase the gain aiming for no more than 1-2 dB of gain reduction. Enable true peak limiting to avoid inter-sample peaks.

Also mentioned in the 5 Best Limiter VST Plugins for Mixing and Mastering

2. Waves L2 Ultramaximizer

A classic in the industry, the Waves L2 Ultramaximizer is trusted for its reliable performance. Known for its clean and effective limiting, the L2 offers simple controls and powerful results.

Recommended Settings: Set the threshold to achieve the desired loudness, use ARC (Auto Release Control) for optimal results, and aim for minimal gain reduction (1-2 dB) to avoid distortion.

3. iZotope Ozone Maximizer

Part of the iZotope Ozone suite, the Ozone Maximizer is a powerful tool for achieving loudness. Featuring intelligent release control and various modes, the Ozone Maximizer ensures transparent and loud masters.

Recommended Settings: I have to admit that I have a weakness for this plugin, especially when it comes to loudness optimization. You simply set how many LUFS you want and press “Learn Input Gain”. Then adjust the other parameters until you get the desired result.

4. Sonnox Oxford Limiter

The Sonnox Oxford Limiter is known for its pristine sound quality and flexibility. This limiter provides precise control over the final output level, with features like enhance, true peak limiting, and detailed metering.

Recommended Settings: Set the ‘enhance’ control to add perceived loudness, use a medium attack (10-20 ms) and release (150-200 ms), and aim for 1-2 dB of gain reduction.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Sonnox Oxford Limiter

5. Slate Digital FG-X

Slate Digital FG-X is designed to achieve loudness without sacrificing dynamics. Featuring both a compressor and a limiter, FG-X uses advanced algorithms to maintain the punch and detail of the mix while achieving commercial loudness.

Recommended Settings: Use the “Dynamic Perception” to retain punch, set the threshold for 1-2 dB of gain reduction, and use a medium attack (20 ms) and release (200 ms).

Best Mastering Equalizers

1. FabFilter Pro-Q 3

FabFilter Pro-Q 3 is celebrated for its precision and versatility in EQing. Featuring up to 24 bands of dynamic EQ, Pro-Q 3 allows for precise adjustments across the frequency spectrum.

Recommended Settings: Use dynamic EQ mode for problematic frequencies, set narrow Q for surgical cuts, and wide Q for gentle boosts. Use zero latency mode for real-time adjustments.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Fabfilter Pro-Q3

2. Brainworx bx_digital V3

Brainworx bx_digital V3 is a powerful EQ designed specifically for mastering. With its mid/side processing, mono-maker, and comprehensive EQ controls, bx_digital V3 offers unparalleled flexibility and precision.

Recommended Settings: Use mid/side processing to adjust the width, set mono-maker for low frequencies, and apply gentle boosts or cuts with narrow Q settings.

3. Sonnox Oxford EQ

The Sonnox Oxford EQ is a versatile and precise equalizer plugin. Known for its clean and transparent sound, the Oxford EQ offers five different EQ types and comprehensive controls for shaping the frequency spectrum.

Recommended Settings: Use the “Type 3” or “Type 4” for mastering, set narrow Q for cuts and wide Q for boosts, and apply subtle adjustments to boost clarity and balance.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Sonnox Oxford EQ

4. UAD Manley Massive Passive EQ

The UAD Manley Massive Passive EQ emulates the legendary hardware equalizer. This plugin provides rich, musical EQ curves that are perfect for mastering.

Recommended Settings: Use broad Q settings for smooth boosts, set the high shelf for air and low shelf for warmth, and apply gentle boosts or cuts for musical shaping.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Manley Massive Passive EQ

5. WChandler Limited Curve Bender Mastering EQ

The Chandler Limited Curve Bender Mastering EQ by Universal Audio is a renowned tool inspired by the vintage EMI TG12345 console EQs used at Abbey Road Studios. This mastering EQ is celebrated for its musical and smooth tonal shaping, offering unparalleled warmth and character to any mix.

Recommended Settings: Set the Low Shelf around 60 Hz with a gentle boost (1-2 dB) to add warmth and fullness to the low end. Set the High Shelf around 12 kHz with a subtle boost (1-2 dB) to add air and openness to the high frequencies. Use the midrange bands to gently sculpt the mix around 1-3 kHz for presence and clarity, applying subtle cuts or boosts (0.5-1 dB) as needed. Engage the low pass filter at 18 kHz to control any excessive high-frequency content while maintaining a smooth top end.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: WChandler Limited Curve Bender

Best Mastering Saturators

1. Soundtoys Decapitator

Soundtoys Decapitator adds warmth and character to tracks with its versatile saturation capabilities. Offering five analog saturation models, the Decapitator plugin can add subtle warmth or aggressive distortion.

Recommended Settings: Use the “A” or “N” style for subtle saturation, set the drive to low-medium, and mix to taste. Or, start with the “MasterBusWarmBeef” presets and use the tone control to adjust brightness or warmth.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Decapitator

2. UAD Studer A800

Emulating the classic tape machine, the UAD Studer A800 brings analog warmth to digital tracks. Details: The Studer A800 plugin captures the rich, harmonic character of tape, adding warmth, depth, and cohesion to your master.

Recommended Settings: Set tape speed to 15 ‘IPS’ for a balanced sound, adjust the calibration to +3 or +6 for desired saturation, and use the noise control to add tape hiss.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Studer A800 Tape Recorder

3. Waves J37 Tape

The Waves J37 Tape emulates the classic Abbey Road tape machine. Known for its rich, warm sound, the J37 adds analog tape saturation and character to digital mixes.

Recommended Settings: Set tape speed to 7.5 or 15 ips, use the bias control to adjust the warmth, and set the wow and flutter for subtle modulation effects.

4. Softube Tape

Softube Tape is a versatile and easy-to-use tape saturation plugin. Offering three different tape machine models, Softube Tape adds warmth and cohesion to tracks.

Recommended Settings: Choose the “A” or “C” tape machine model, set the tape speed to 15 ips, and adjust the saturation control to taste.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Softube Tape

5. Waves Kramer Tape Plugin

The Waves Kramer Master Tape plugin emulates the vintage tape sound with precision. This plugin offers a variety of tape speeds, biases, and noise settings to replicate the warmth and character of analog tape.

Recommended Settings: Set tape speed to 15 ips (up left corner), use the bias control to adjust warmth, and mix the drive control to add desired saturation. I usually reduce the Noise effect to 0 if I don’t want the “tape hiss” noise.

Best Mastering Stereo Imaging Plugins

1. iZotope Ozone Imager

Also, part of the Ozone suite, the Ozone Imager is a powerful tool for stereo imaging. This stereo imaging plugin offers precise control over the stereo width and imaging of your tracks and is my go-to plugin any time when I need to enhance or control the stereo width of a master.

Recommended Settings: Use the width control to adjust the stereo spread, set the stereoize function for added depth, and monitor with the vectorscope to ensure a balanced stereo image without mono compatibility issues.

2. Brainworx bx_control V2

bx_control V2 is a versatile stereo control and monitoring tool. With features like mid/side processing, stereo width control, and mono-maker, bx_control V2 allows engineers to fine-tune the stereo image and ensure mono compatibility.

Recommended Settings: Use the width control to increase or reduce stereo width, set the mono-maker to mono low frequencies, and use mid/side processing for detailed adjustments.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: bx_control V2

3. Waves S1 Stereo Imager

The Waves S1 Stereo Imager is a classic tool for enhancing stereo width. Offering controls for width, rotation, and asymmetry, the S1 Stereo Imager helps engineers shape the stereo image of their mixes.

Recommended Settings: Set the width control to widen the mix, use the asymmetry control to balance left/right channels, and monitor with the vectorscope to maintain phase coherence.

4. Eventide Precision Time Align

Eventide Precision Time Align is designed for precise phase alignment. This plugin allows for sample-accurate alignment of multiple tracks, ensuring phase coherence and a solid stereo image.

Recommended Settings: Use the sample-accurate alignment to ensure phase coherence, adjust the delay control for precise timing, and monitor phase correlation to avoid issues.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: Precision Time Align

5. MeldaProduction MStereoProcessor

MStereoProcessor offers advanced stereo field manipulation. With mid/side processing, stereo width control, and various spatial enhancements, MStereoProcessor provides comprehensive tools for shaping the stereo image.

Recommended Settings: Use mid/side processing to adjust stereo width, set the stereo width control to raise the stereo image, and apply spatial enhancements to add depth and dimension.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: MStereoProcessor

Best Mastering Metering Plugins

1. iZotope Insight 2

iZotope Insight 2 is one of the most used and best metering plugins designed for professional mastering. Insight 2 provides detailed loudness, frequency, and stereo field analysis, ensuring your tracks meet industry standards.

Usage: Use the loudness meter to monitor integrated LUFS, set the spectrum analyzer to view frequency distribution, and use the vectorscope for monitoring the stereo imaging.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: iZotope Insight 2

2. Mastering The Mix LEVELS

LEVELS by Mastering The Mix offers an intuitive approach to metering. Designed to ensure your tracks sound great on all systems, LEVELS provides detailed feedback on peak levels, loudness, dynamic range, and stereo field.

Usage: Monitor peak levels, loudness, dynamic range, and stereo field, adjust settings to ensure compliance with industry standards, and use the bass space feature to manage low-end frequencies.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: LEVELS

3. NUGEN Audio VisLM

NUGEN Audio VisLM is a highly regarded loudness meter. This plugin provides accurate loudness measurements according to various industry standards (EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770, etc.).

Usage: Set the meter to EBU R128 or ITU-R BS.1770, monitor integrated LUFS for overall loudness, and use the true peak meter to avoid clipping.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: VisLM

4. Waves WLM Plus Loudness Meter

The Waves WLM Plus is a powerful tool for loudness monitoring. Offering comprehensive loudness measurement and control, WLM Plus helps engineers achieve the desired loudness levels while adhering to industry standards.

Usage: Set the meter to match broadcast standards, use short-term and long-term loudness readings to balance the mix, and enable true peak limiting for accurate peak management.

5. TDR Nova GE

TDR Nova GE is a dynamic equalizer with advanced metering capabilities. In addition to its dynamic EQ functions, Nova GE provides detailed metering for frequency, dynamics, and stereo field.

Usage: Use the dynamic EQ bands to address problem frequencies, monitor the spectrum analyzer for frequency balance, and apply dynamic adjustments for transparent control.

Buy at Plugin Boutique: TDR Nova GE

Conclusion

The world of audio mastering is filled with incredible tools that allow engineers to refine their tracks to perfection. From the precision of FabFilter’s Pro-Q 3 EQ to the warmth of UAD’s Studer A800 tape emulator, the plugins listed here represent the best mastering VST plugins you can get on the Internet (not free).

These audio mastering plugins not only emphasize the sonic quality of your music but also ensure it meets industry standards and translates well across all playback systems.

Investing in these top-tier plugins will undoubtedly elevate your mastering process, helping you achieve professional and polished results every time.