There’s also a really nice sounding width control that I like to use as a spreader. Stereo Tool allows you to flip the phase of individual channels. This is a visually pleasing vector scope that helps reveal the phase integrity of your mix. This is more akin to the type you are used to seeing in some of your favorite equalizer plugins. This is different than the previously mentioned AnSpec one-third analog octave style. This is another spectrum analyzer except this one uses a fast Fourier transform algorithm which means it samples a signal over a period of time and divides it into its frequency components. Voxengo has two free metering tools worth checking out.

Other plugins will restrict you from accessing the presets before upgrading. For instance, the gate only allows you to change the threshold, while the attack, release and hold parameters are fixed unless you purchase a license. The only catch is that some features that are not adjustable without a license. I love this thing, and have tried it on a few different sources including synths and vocals with extremely successful results. Then, there’s the “Comp Listen Mic” plugin which is a one-knob compressor designed to do the Phil Collins “room talkback mic” effect. T here’s also a really cool project timer included so that you can track exactly how long you’ve spent trying to get those drums “just right.” (It’s also very useful for when you need to bill a client.) The only problem is you’d have to remember to hit “pause” when you get up to do something else, leaving Pro Tools open. The Tilt EQ for one is something I did not previously have. Regardless of those freebie limitations, there are still a few really great plugins here, even without the upgrade. The Hofa 4U pack is one of those aforementioned bundles that do have some features disabled. (You can never have too many flangers, remember that kids.) It includes an EQ and a pretty decent frequency analyzer, but the modulation effects are the standouts in this pack, including a phaser, chorus and flanger. If you’re sick of the stock plugins and need some new flavors, this plugin pack will definitely help you get there.

Paintnet plugins packs list