For some things, software is unbeatable, and there are some things I prefer to do with my analog hardware. You asked in particular about mastering software though. The majority of business I do in my studio is mastering, and Wavelab is at the center of it all. I use it on every project I do.
After spending more than a year creating the section, I’ve decided to create a specialized list of my favorite free mastering software tools in VST/AU plugin format for Windows and Mac. I’ve listed all of the plugins which I use frequently while mastering tracks for the label and sorted them by type for easy reference. There may be some better commercial plugins out there, but the freeware plugin scene is so strong nowadays that you can do a great mastering job without spending a dime. Of course, you will need a properly treated room, as well as proper monitoring gear.
And of top of that you will need lots of knowledge and experience in order to truly grasp the process of audio mastering. I can’t really help you with those! But when it comes to free mastering software, this article will be a great starting point. Whether you’re an experienced mastering engineer or a beginner, you can use this list as an easy reference for refining your mastering chain.
Free Mastering Software List This is a list of the best freeware effects and tools suitable for use in audio mastering. Use the links to visit the homepage of each product or scroll down to read reviews of my favorite free mastering software. Equalizer (M/S). by Variety Of Sound (Windows). by J1000 (Windows). by matt42 (Windows) Equalizer (Linear-Phase).
by Voxengo (Mac, Windows). by Cockos (Linux, Windows). by Photosounder (Windows) Equalizer (Dynamic). SPAN by Voxengo.
SPAN is the legendary freeware spectrum analyzer released by Voxengo. No matter how confident you are when it comes to your ears, it’s never a bad idea to visually compare your work to another mastered track. The plugin comes with two factory presets, one of which is labeled Stereo Mastering and it’s the one you’ll need for this task.
To round things up, here’s a nice video introduction to Limiter №6, created by Vladislav Goncharov (the developer) himself. It shows the basic methods of using this fantastic limiter to get the best results.