AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, December 12, 2024—FabFilter has announced the launch of Pro-Q 4, the latest version of its industry-leading EQ plug-in. Known for its pristine sound quality and intuitive interface, Pro-Q has long been a staple in the toolkits of audio professionals worldwide. Pro-Q 4 raises the bar with innovative features like Spectral Dynamics, EQ Sketch, Character Modes, and a redesigned workflow streamlining audio production like never before.

Spectral Dynamics: Precision Redefined

Pro-Q 4’s new Spectral Dynamics feature adds an advanced layer to its dynamic EQ capabilities. Users can now apply expansion or compression exclusively to frequencies within a band that exceed a threshold. This targeted processing is ideal for taming harsh resonances or controlling problematic frequencies with pinpoint accuracy. Traditionally requiring a dedicated plug-in, this advanced functionality is now seamlessly integrated into Pro-Q 4, giving engineers unmatched flexibility and control.

EQ Sketch: Fast, Intuitive Curve Drawing

Pro-Q 4 introduces EQ Sketch, a game-changing addition to its workflow. Users can simply draw curves directly onto the display, with filters automatically created to match the shape. This feature is perfect for quickly establishing broad-stroke EQ shapes before diving into fine-tuning. Combined with the rest of Pro-Q 4’s intuitive controls, EQ Sketch accelerates workflows and opens up new creative possibilities.

For large projects with multiple EQ instances, the Instance List offers centralized control. Accessible via a button at the bottom of the interface, the Instance List provides an overview of all Pro-Q 4 instances in a session, complete with mini spectrum displays for quick navigation. Zoom in for full control, jump between instances, or filter by specific parameters—all from one interface. This feature is designed to save time and simplify complex mixing sessions.

Analog Warmth with Character Modes

Pro-Q 4 brings analog-style warmth to its arsenal with three new Character Modes:

  • Subtle: Gentle, frequency-dependent saturation with a transformer-like character.
  • Warm: A richer, tube-like saturation for tracks that need extra depth.
  • Clean: Maintains Pro-Q’s renowned transparent sound, perfect for mastering applications.

These modes allow users to add harmonic richness and color to their audio without compromising precision.

Expanded Feature Set

Pro-Q 4 includes numerous enhancements and additions to its already extensive feature set:

  • Dynamic EQ for Every Band: Now with enhanced attack and release controls.
  • Fractional Filter Slopes: Create slopes as fine-tuned as 3 dB/oct or 14.2 dB/oct.
  • New Filters: All Pass and Brickwall filters for advanced tonal shaping.
  • Improved Linear Phase Mode: Greater precision for mastering workflows.
  • Surround Support: Handle setups up to Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 with flexible linking.
  • EQ Match: Match the tonal characteristics of one signal to another.
  • Spectrum Grab: Adjust filters directly from the real-time spectrum analyzer.
  • GPU-Accelerated Interface: Resizable and optimized for high-DPI displays.

Every aspect of Pro-Q 4 has been refined for better usability, from context-sensitive curve creation previews to a fully-featured preset browser with search and tagging options.

Availability and Pricing

FabFilter Pro-Q 4 is available now for €169, $179, or £144. It supports macOS (10.13 or later, including Apple Silicon) and Windows (Vista and up) across major plug-in formats, including VST/VST3, Audio Units, AAX, AudioSuite, and CLAP.

Existing customers can log in to their FabFilter accounts to access upgrade discounts. A free 30-day trial is also available at fabfilter.com.

Pro-Q 4 marks another milestone in FabFilter’s mission to deliver innovative tools for audio professionals. With its expanded features and intuitive design, it’s set to remain an essential tool in studios worldwide.

About FabFilter
Founded in 2002 by Frederik Slijkerman and Floris Klinkert, FabFilter creates high-quality audio plug-ins for music production and sound design. Based in Amsterdam, the company is known for its combination of innovative technology and user-centric design.

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