Focusrite D2

This plugin is a pretty solid EQ. It comes as part of a Focusrite EQ/compression package. It was a breeze to install, I had absolutely no problems or snags while setting this up. The manual guided me through everything I needed to do, though it didn't really matter as it's the same as installing any app for the most part. The setup of this app is simple assuming that your DAW is in working order. The main functions of the app are simple EQing, which means that the controls are pretty simple for the average person.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

My software has never given me a problem. The only thing that happens is that my playback slows down if I open the plug-in while the recording is playing. I think that this has more to do with my computer and the ability of it to process all the information than the software itself. I've been using this software for a few months now, and I find it pretty solid for most of my projects.

OVERALL OPINION

This is (relatively) reasonably priced piece of software, which makes it valuable. There are some ridiculously overpriced plug-ins out there, and they aren't exactly much more functional than this. This tends to have enough flexibility for me. Granted, my projects tend to be on the smaller side, but that's the point; this is perfect for those who aren't exactly trying to break the bank but need a reliable EQ. I think the interface controls are unique, and that makes this an interesting EQ compared to the more standard plug-in EQs. I think that this is a good choice for people looking for something a little different but not too expensive. If you are a studio owner you should use something with more flexibility, which will probably be more expensive.

The Focusrite D2 was quick and as easy to install as any that I have installed in the past. I had no compatibility issues at all, and have really had no problems running this plug-in since it was installed. The interface of the Focusrite D2 is pretty easy to follow. It is a parametric EQ, and has six bands to control. The high and the low bands are low and high pass filters, with parameters to set the frequency. The middle two have parameters for frequency, Q, and gain, and the other two have parameters for frequency and gain. It then has knobs for setting the input and output levels. It also has a graph to show where you are cutting and boosting, and meters to show your overall output level. I don't have a manual for the Focusrite D2, so I don't know how helpful it is when trying to learning this plug-in.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

I am currently running the Focusrite D2 on a Mac Book Pro that has a 2.2 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processor and 4 GB of RAM. I am running the plug-in Pro Tools LE 7.4 that I run with a Digi 002R audio interface. With this configuration I've never had any issues running this plug-in. I have also used the Focusrite D2 on a Pro Tools HD system without any issues; it has always run smoothly and stably without any problems.

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using the Focusrite D2 EQ plug-in for about two years. It is easy to use and is quite effective for EQ use of all kind. The sound quality is crisp, and it always does its job effectively. The price is pretty reasonable as far as plug-ins go, and makes it suitable for both home and professional studios. Overall, I love having the Focusrite D2 in my arsenal and I use it all the type!