Lindell Audio EQ free download

You need a mastering EQ that can add weight and character, not just surgical cuts. The Lindell Audio EQ825 addresses this by modeling a rare tube EQ with transformer saturation and a unique low-end tool. It’s available as a free download for a range of DAWs.

Key Takeaway

This is a modeled version of a sought-after 2010s tube mastering EQ. You get five bands of parametric control with transformer-balanced tube circuitry, plus specialized features like an Octave Filler for low-end extension. It’s built for final touches on mixes, buses, and individual tracks.

Core Technology: Modeling a Rare Tube EQ

The plugin is a software model of an ultra-rare 2010s tube EQ. The original hardware was built by cherry-picking the best analog components from multiple manufacturers. This digital version aims for a lower noise floor and greater clarity than classic designs, combining those classic topologies with modern engineering. The continuous gain controls are modeled from the earliest hardware units.

Feature Breakdown

Five-Band Stereo Parametric EQ

You have five bands of parametric EQ for stereo signals. It uses a proportional-Q design, where the bandwidth of each band changes with the amount of gain or cut you apply.

Transformer & Tube Circuitry

The core sound comes from emulated transformer-balanced Class-A tube circuitry and custom high-headroom transformers. This provides the foundational color and response of the hardware.

Variable THD

A control for variable Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) lets you add controlled saturation and harmonic content to your signal.

Octave Filler

The Octave Filler is a feature designed to create rich low-end extension. It’s noted for use on kicks, 808s, toms, and bass.

Mono Maker

The Mono Maker function forces frequencies below 200 Hz to mono, helping to manage stereo width and low-end phase issues in your mix.

Mid/Side Processing

You can apply the EQ processing independently to the mid and side channels of a stereo signal.

Filters & Analysis

Variable high-pass and low-pass filters are included. An integrated FFT spectrum analyzer is built into the interface for visual feedback.

Workflow Utilities

A quick AB comparison mode lets you toggle between two settings. The user interface is scalable to fit different screen resolutions. The plugin offers up to 16x oversampling for higher audio quality during processing.

Technical Specifications

The plugin comes in AAX AudioSuite, AAX Native, AU, VST2, and VST3 formats. It runs on macOS 13 and up (including Apple Silicon) and Windows 10/11 (x64 CPU). Minimum display resolution is 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px, and it requires 2 GB of RAM.

Who Is This For

This fits mastering engineers looking for a characterful, five-band parametric EQ with tube saturation for final mixes. It’s also useful for mix engineers working on the mix bus, drums, or vocals who want EQ with built-in harmonic thickening. The Octave Filler makes it a solid choice for producers needing to extend the low end on sources like kicks and 808s, or for those working with orchestral arrangements that need low-frequency weight and control.

Limitations

The provided facts do not list any specific limitations. As a modeled plugin, it will inherently be an interpretation of the original hardware. You’ll need a compatible DAW and a system meeting the specified OS and display requirements.

Final Verdict

If you’re after a specific type of colored, transformer-driven EQ sound for mastering or bus processing, this model of a rare unit is worth grabbing. The Octave Filler and Mono Maker are practical tools for modern production. Since it’s a Lindell Audio free download, you can test if its particular tube character and low-end enhancement work in your mastering or mixing chain without investment. Just ensure your system and DAW format are supported.