MOTU MasterWorks Collection

The bundle includes three audio processors. Originally developed for Digital Performer, MOTU says that the MasterWorks series features 32– and 64-bit internal floating point processing. All three plug-ins support mono, stereo and surround channel configurations (with supporting host software), and users can share MasterWorks plug-in presets among different hosts.

MasterWorks EQ: Modeled British Analog EQ
Inspired by British console EQs, the MasterWorks EQ is designed to deliver the look, feel and sound of the most sought-after classic analog equalizers.

Users can apply up to five bands of EQ filtering, each with four EQ types that provide modern EQ styles and vintage analog EQ styles alike. Each filter type handles the dynamic interaction between Gain and Q. This relationship has been modeled to emulate the smooth and musical character of classic analog EQ circuits, in which the gain/Q dependency was dictated by the actual circuit design and electrical components used.

Two mid bands include shelf filtering, and two outside bands provide variable slope low- and high-pass filtering. A full-width graphic display allows users to click directly on the filter control points for total control and visual feedback of the EQ curve being applied. Users can also view a real-time FFT display of the audio material being EQ’d to immediately see the effects of the filter on the frequency content of the audio.

MasterWorks Leveler: Vintage Automatic Gain Control
The MasterWorks Leveler is a model of the Teletronix LA-2A optical leveling amplifier, known for its Automatic Gain Control (AGC) characteristics. Conventional compression and limiting do not apply here: the heart of the LA-2A is the T4 opto-coupler, a photoelectric device with almost magical (signal dependent) self- adjusting behavior that has made the LA-2A the tool of choice for smoothing out just about any audio material, from vocals to bass guitar to full-program mixes, without destroying perceived dynamics, according to the company.

Users can freely apply the Leveler as needed to the elements of their mix.

To ensure the accuracy of the modeling, the Leveler’s software controls match the front panel of the original LA-2A hardware: Gain Reduction, Makeup Gain, and Response knobs, along with Limiter and Compressor buttons, plus a modeled VU meter that adheres to IEC standards. A menu option lets users save the “warm” state, without waiting.

The LA-2A hardware line evolved over the years, producing different characteristics in each generation, so the MasterWorks Leveler also provides four different LA-2A models: Slow Vintage, Fast Vintage, Slow Modern, and Fast Modern.

ProVerb: Realistic Acoustic Spaces
ProVerb is a CPU-efficient convolution reverb designed to deliver the sound of realistic acoustic spaces to any track or mix. Convolution is a process where the characteristics of a real acoustic space, such as a concert hall, sound stage or cathedral, are “sampled” (captured) and then reproduced, down to the last detail and nuance.

Digital Performer and AudioDesk users
Digital Performer 6 and 7 users already own the MasterWorks plug-ins, which are included with DP. However, they might choose to purchase the MasterWorks Collection so they can use the plug-ins when collaborating with colleagues using other hosts. AudioDesk users can either upgrade to Digital Performer or purchase the MasterWorks Collection to obtain the plug-ins.

Pricing & Availability

The MasterWorks Collection is now shipping for Mac OS X (version 10.5 or 10.6).

Price is $295.