EQOMP

Threshold-Curve Dynamic EQ with Clipper and Envelope Monitoring

A frequency-selective dynamics workflow with blended threshold curves, header clipper control, and real-time envelope monitoring.

Introduction

EQOMP (EQ + Compressor) is a professional dynamic equalizer that introduces a fundamentally new approach to frequency-selective dynamics processing. Unlike traditional multiband compressors or dynamic EQs, EQOMP uses the EQ's frequency response curve as the compression threshold itself.

The Core Innovation

In EQOMP, the threshold is not a horizontal line — it's a curve that follows the exact shape of your EQ band's frequency response. This creates musical, transparent dynamics processing that respects the natural harmonic structure of your audio.

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Precision Targeting

Apply dynamics processing with surgical precision using parametric EQ-style frequency selection.

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Continuous Response

No crossover artifacts or phase issues — the frequency response is completely continuous.

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Musical Results

Preserves harmonic relationships and natural tone while controlling dynamics.

Real-time Visual

See exactly what's happening with real-time gain reduction visualization per band.

Current Workflow Overview

Current Build Overview

EQOMP combines threshold-curve dynamics, header tools, envelope monitoring, and global Utility controls into one editing workflow. This section explains the current production build as a working system rather than a list of release changes.

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Dynamic Band Activation

Dynamic EQ can be enabled from the graph, footer, or popup controls, and all paths feed the same band model. The first band's compressor behavior follows the Utility 1ST.COMP setting, while threshold points share the same range and defaults across the editor.

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Header Control Strip

The main header gives direct access to BYPASS, SIDECHAIN, UTILITY, CLIPPER, and ENVELOPE so monitoring and utility functions remain available without leaving the central graph workflow.

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Envelope Monitoring

The envelope window shows live waveform, detector, threshold, and gain-reduction information. Wave Smooth changes how often the display refreshes, so you can trade faster feedback for a steadier visual readout.

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Utility Hub

Utility centralizes theme, hint display, language, 1ST.COMP behavior, oversampling, FFT buffer size, bypass mode, level display, Wave Smooth, and access to manual, forum, YouTube, license, and server status resources.

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Session Control Layer

Preset navigation, A/B comparison, compare, copy or paste, undo or redo, zoom, and reset are all part of the active session workflow. Reset rebuilds the editor state rather than only clearing visible values, so graph, band, and transient settings return to a defined baseline.

Core Concept

The Threshold Curve Paradigm

EQOMP does not place one flat compressor threshold across the whole spectrum. Each active dynamic band contributes its own threshold point, filter shape, and width, so the detector response is built from the same graph you are already editing for tone.

The result is a blended threshold curve. Bell bands create focused centers, shelves extend the boundary across one side, and multiple dynamic bands merge into one continuous curve instead of isolated detector zones. Tone and dynamics stay connected in one view.

Why This Matters

You are editing where compression reacts, how wide it reacts, and how several bands combine, all from the same graph-driven workflow:

No Crossover Artifacts

EQOMP does not need multiband crossover splits to define dynamic regions. The threshold curve is evaluated across the spectrum, so the audio path stays continuous and phase-coherent.

Harmonic Preservation

Because neighboring bands blend into one threshold field, transitions are smoother than hard per-band edges and feel more natural on broadband material, vocals, and buses.

Intuitive Control

Graph edits, popup edits, and footer controls all target the same band model, so activating compression from different UI paths still follows the same threshold and first-band rules.

What Makes EQOMP Different

Comparison with Traditional Tools

Feature Multiband Comp Dynamic EQ EQOMP
Frequency Selection Fixed crossovers Parametric bands Parametric bands
Threshold Shape Flat per band Flat per band Follows EQ curve
Phase Coherence Crossover issues Maintained Maintained
Harmonic Treatment Band-limited Partial Proportional
Processing Method Split → Process → Sum Gain modulation Curve-weighted reduction
Transparency Moderate High Very High
CPU Efficiency Good Good Excellent

In Short

You draw tone and dynamics on the same graph. Static EQ defines the shape, dynamic bands turn that shape into a live threshold curve, and Q or filter type defines how far the action spreads. The result can be surgical, broad, or smoothly blended across several bands.

UI Overview

Main Window Layout

Top Section

The header combines preset recall, undo and A/B comparison, and direct access to the plugin-wide buttons you need most while shaping the graph.

Preset & Reset Controls
  • Preset Menu — Shows the current preset and opens load, save, rename, delete, and refresh actions
  • Preset Arrows — Step through the available preset list one slot at a time
  • RESET Button — Clears all bands, returns I/O gain to default, resets transient history, and restores a neutral editing state
Undo & A/B Controls
  • A Button — Recalls or targets comparison slot A for instant before/after checking
  • Arrow Button (>) — Copies the active state across the A/B slots
  • B Button — Recalls or targets comparison slot B
  • UNDO Button — Restores the previous edit state after graph, popup, or preset actions
  • Undo History — Preset changes and graph edits feed the same history so comparisons stay fast
  • A/B State Scope — Each slot stores the full plugin state, not just the selected band
Header Control Buttons

Left header: BYPASS, UNDO, REDO, A/B compare (A, copy arrow, B), preset name, and preset navigation arrows.

Right header: RESET, CLIPPER, ENVELOPE, UTILITY, ZOOM, and SIDECHAIN. (FOCUS knob and BASIC button are reserved placeholders in the current build.)

  • BYPASS Button — Switches the main signal path between processed and bypass behavior
  • CLIPPER Button — Toggles the output clipper directly from the main header
  • ENVELOPE Button — Opens the envelope popup for detector, threshold, and reduction monitoring
  • UTILITY Button — Opens workflow-wide settings such as oversampling, BYPASS MODE, language, hints, and 1ST.COMP
  • SIDECHAIN Button — Opens the sidechain and monitoring panel
Reset & Session Notes

Session Reset: RESET is a working-state reset, not a cosmetic refresh. It restores the graph, dynamics, gain staging, and capture history to a neutral baseline.

  • RESET also restores: Input/output gain to 0 dB and Dynamic EQ off across all bands
  • RESET affects:
    • Band enable states, filter types, frequencies, and gains
    • Threshold, ratio, attack, release, and compressor bypass settings
    • Graph history, transient capture buffers, and waveform overlays
    • Selected-band focus so the editor returns to a clean starting point
  • Use Case: Use RESET when you want a clean graph quickly without closing the instance or reloading the plugin.
  • Workflow: Preset recall is for saved sounds; RESET is for returning the current session to an editable baseline.
Loudness & Status
  • Header Metering — Loudness and metering readouts stay available so you can judge IN/OUT gain, bypass differences, and overall level behavior while editing

Center Section — Waveform Display

  • Combined response graph — Shows static EQ, threshold curve, and reduction overlays in one editing view
  • EQ and threshold points — Drag the main points for tone, then the threshold points for dynamic sensitivity
  • Per-band reduction meters — Real-time traces show how much each active dynamic band is reducing
  • Analyzer and waveform views — Input/output display, level overlays, and envelope-linked visuals stay synchronized

Bottom Section — Parameter Controls

  • Band Buttons — Select and enable/disable bands (10 bands available)
  • Mode — Filter type (Parametric, Shelf, Filter)
  • Frequency — Center/corner frequency
  • Gain — Static EQ gain (±30 dB)
  • Q — Bandwidth/resonance
  • Threshold — Dynamics sensitivity (0 to -75 dBFS, default -35 dBFS for new dynamic bands)
  • Ratio — Gain reduction amount (1:1 to 20:1)
  • Attack — Response speed (0.1 to 1000 ms)
  • Release — Recovery speed (1 to 2000 ms)
  • Input/Output — Global gain controls

Utility Panel Access

Location: Open the UTILITY button in the header to access global workflow controls.

  • Utility Panel — Theme, BYPASS MODE, 1ST.COMP, oversampling, FFT buffer size, Wave Smooth, level display, language, hints, and support links
  • Hint Toggle — Enable or disable contextual tooltips from inside Utility
  • Language Selector — Choose EN, KR, JP, CN, ES, or FR from inside Utility

Note: BYPASS and UTILITY are in the header. Language and Hint controls live inside the Utility panel, not on a separate bottom bar.

Utility Window

Utility Panel

  • Oversampling (0x, 2x, 4x, 8x) and FFT Buffer selection
  • BYPASS MODE, LEVEL DISPLAY, and WAVE SMOOTH controls
  • UI Theme, Language, Hint, and 1ST.COMP settings
  • Manual, YouTube, Forum, license, and server/status information

Band Controls

Band Selection

EQOMP combines static EQ shaping, graph-driven threshold control, optional output clipping, and live envelope monitoring in one editor. Instead of separating tone decisions from compressor setup, it lets the same bands define both the spectral shape and the dynamic trigger behavior.

Band Point Interaction

Click Select band point and show control popup
Drag Move frequency & gain
Cmd + Left/Right Drag (Windows: Ctrl+Left/Right Drag) Adjust Q/Bandwidth
Option + Drag (empty area) (Windows: Alt+Drag) Draw EQ curve
Double-Click (EQ point) Toggle Dynamic EQ on/off
Double-Click (threshold point) Reset Ratio, Attack, and Release to defaults
Option + Click (Windows: Alt+Click) Toggle Solo
Option + Shift + Click (Windows: Alt+Shift+Click) Toggle Band Bypass
Cmd + Shift + Click (Windows: Ctrl+Shift+Click) Toggle Compressor Bypass
Cmd + Option + Click (Windows: Ctrl+Alt+Click) Toggle Band Enable/Disable
Cmd + Option + Shift + Click (Windows: Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Click) Delete band

Threshold Point Interaction

Click Select threshold point and show control popup
Drag Adjust threshold level
Cmd + Left/Right Drag (Windows: Ctrl+Left/Right Drag) Adjust Attack/Release time

Band Colors

Each band has a unique color for easy identification. The colors are consistent across:

Global Controls

Input/Output Gain

INPUT
-30 to +30 dB
Adjusts the level entering the processing chain. Use to drive into the threshold or reduce input level.
OUTPUT
-30 to +30 dB
Final output level adjustment. Use for gain staging and matching bypassed level.

Utility Window Controls

Concept: The Utility Window is the global control center for editor-wide behavior, monitoring preferences, and support access.

Global Utility Controls

Session-wide setup: Use Utility before detailed band editing to set how the editor, bypass path, first-band compressor behavior, and waveform displays should behave.

  • 1ST.COMP: Defines whether band 1 activates as Single Band (Q=0.001) or Q Value (Q=1.0)
  • BYPASS MODE: Chooses UNITY or GAIN behavior when the main bypass is engaged
  • LEVEL DISPLAY: Shows or hides the level overlay used in the main graph
  • WAVE SMOOTH: Adjusts waveform and envelope refresh smoothness
  • Support Access: Opens Manual, YouTube, Forum, and License management resources

Workflow: Set Utility preferences first, then move to per-band EQ and threshold work so every new band follows the intended global behavior.

Bypass

The global BYPASS button operates in the same way as normal mode, but audio passes through unchanged and "BYPASS" text appears in the waveform display. When bypassed:

License Note

Without a valid license, EQOMP operates in bypass mode. In this case, the BYPASS button is disabled to prevent accidental processing. Activate your license to unlock full functionality.

Bypass Mode (UNITY / GAIN)

Bypass affects only the signal path — whether the output is passed through (bypassed) or processed. It has no effect on GUI or DSP operation; meters and displays continue to work.

Select UNITY when you want to hear the dry signal; select GAIN when you want the full processed signal. The setting is available in the Utility panel (BYPASS MODE).

Oversampling

0x
Native
No oversampling. Lowest CPU usage. Suitable for most applications.
2x
2× sample rate
Moderate oversampling. Good balance of quality and CPU.
4x
4× sample rate
High quality. Recommended for final mixing.
8x
8× sample rate
Maximum quality. Use for mastering or critical applications.

Right Panel Slider

The right panel contains a vertical slider located to the left of the output meters. This slider provides powerful global control over EQ curves and threshold settings with four different modes.

Drag (No modifier)
EQ Level Mode
Adjusts the gain of all active bands by the same amount. Dragging up increases gain, dragging down decreases gain. This is useful for overall EQ curve level adjustments while maintaining the relative shape.
Option + Drag
EQ Tilt Mode
Applies a frequency-dependent tilt to all active bands, centered at 1 kHz. Dragging up (right) creates a counter-clockwise tilt (boosts low frequencies, cuts high frequencies). Dragging down (left) creates a clockwise tilt (cuts low frequencies, boosts high frequencies). The effect is proportional to the logarithmic distance from 1 kHz — bands closer to 1 kHz change less, while extreme frequencies (20 Hz, 20 kHz) change more. The existing EQ curve shape is preserved while the tilt is applied.
Command + Drag (Mac: Cmd, Windows: Ctrl)
Threshold Level Mode
Adjusts the threshold of all active, non-bypassed bands by the same amount. Dragging up increases threshold (less compression), dragging down decreases threshold (more compression). This is useful for overall threshold adjustments while maintaining relative threshold relationships.
Command + Shift + Drag (Mac: Cmd+Shift, Windows: Ctrl+Shift)
Threshold Tilt Mode
Applies a frequency-dependent tilt to all active, non-bypassed band thresholds, centered at 1 kHz. Dragging up (right) creates a counter-clockwise tilt (increases low-frequency thresholds, decreases high-frequency thresholds). Dragging down (left) creates a clockwise tilt (decreases low-frequency thresholds, increases high-frequency thresholds). The effect is proportional to the logarithmic distance from 1 kHz. This allows for frequency-selective compression sensitivity adjustments.

Visual Feedback

When dragging either slider, the current mode (LEVEL or TILT) is displayed next to the slider handle. The threshold slider shows both the control type (EQ or THRESHOLD) and the mode (LEVEL or TILT) in two lines. The slider handles return to the center position (0 dB) when released, but the parameter changes remain applied.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Note: On Mac, use Cmd (⌘) for Command key. On Windows, use Ctrl for Control key. Option (Mac) corresponds to Alt (Windows).

Band Selection

Click Click band point to select
D Toggle Dynamic EQ (selected band)
Ctrl + Shift + S (Mac: Cmd+Shift+S) Toggle Solo (selected band)
Ctrl + Shift + M (Mac: Cmd+Shift+M) Toggle Band Bypass (selected band)
Ctrl + Shift + B (Mac: Cmd+Shift+B) Toggle Band Enable/Disable (selected band)
Ctrl + Shift + C (Mac: Cmd+Shift+C) Toggle Compressor Bypass (selected band)
Delete / Backspace Delete selected band

Global

Cmd + Z (Windows: Ctrl+Z) Undo
REDO (header button) Redo last undone edit

Fine Adjustment (selected band)

Option + / (Windows: Alt+Arrow) ±5 dB on EQ gain or threshold (depending on selected point)
Option + Shift + / ±1 dB fine adjustment on EQ gain or threshold
Option + Cmd + Shift + Set threshold to 0 dBFS (threshold point selected)
Option + Cmd + Shift + / Invert EQ gain around 0 dB (EQ point selected)

Envelope Window

F Toggle waveform freeze in the envelope popup

EQ Parameters

MODE
5 types
Filter type selection:
  • Parametric — Bell/Peak filter with adjustable Q
  • Shelf-Hi — High shelf filter
  • Shelf-Lo — Low shelf filter
  • Filter-Hi — High-pass filter
  • Filter-Lo — Low-pass filter
FREQUENCY
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Center frequency (Parametric) or corner frequency (Shelf/Filter). Logarithmic scaling for musical control.
GAIN
-30 to +30 dB
Static EQ gain. This is the "resting" gain when no dynamics processing is occurring. Not available for Filter modes.
Q
0.001 to 30
Bandwidth:
  • Low Q (0.1-0.5) — Wide, gentle curves
  • Medium Q (0.5-2) — Musical, versatile
  • High Q (2-30) — Narrow, surgical
In Parametric mode, Q also defines the dynamics processing width.

Dynamic Parameters

THRESHOLD
0 to -75 dBFS
Sets the sensitivity of dynamics processing at the center frequency. Remember: this becomes a curve, not a line. At 0 dBFS, no processing occurs. Lower values = more sensitive.
RATIO
1:1 to 20:1
Controls the amount of gain reduction applied when signal exceeds threshold:
  • 1:1 — No reduction (dynamics off)
  • 2:1 to 4:1 — Gentle, transparent control
  • 4:1 to 8:1 — Moderate compression feel
  • 8:1+ — Strong limiting behavior
Note: This is reduction ratio, not compression ratio. There's no actual compression curve.
ATTACK
0.1 to 1000 ms
How quickly gain reduction responds to transients:
  • Fast (0.1-5 ms) — Catches transients, may reduce punch
  • Medium (5-20 ms) — Balanced, preserves some attack
  • Slow (20-1000 ms) — Lets transients through, smooth response
RELEASE
1 to 2000 ms
How quickly gain returns to normal after signal drops below threshold:
  • Fast (1-50 ms) — Quick recovery, may pump
  • Medium (50-200 ms) — Natural, musical
  • Slow (200-2000 ms) — Smooth, sustained reduction

Dynamics Enable

Each band's dynamics processing can be independently enabled/disabled. When disabled, the band functions as a static EQ only. Enable dynamics to activate the threshold-curve processing.

Filter Modes

Parametric (Bell/Peak)

The default and most versatile mode. Creates a bell-shaped curve centered at the frequency with width determined by Q.

  • Dynamics behavior: Gain reduction follows the Q curve exactly
  • Best for: Surgical frequency control, resonance taming, tone shaping

Shelf-Hi (High Shelf)

Boosts or cuts all frequencies above the corner frequency.

  • Dynamics behavior: Processing applies to all frequencies above the corner
  • Best for: Air/brightness control, high-frequency taming

Shelf-Lo (Low Shelf)

Boosts or cuts all frequencies below the corner frequency.

  • Dynamics behavior: Processing applies to all frequencies below the corner
  • Best for: Bass control, low-end management, warmth adjustment

Filter-Hi (High-Pass)

Removes frequencies below the cutoff. No gain parameter — only filtering.

  • Dynamics behavior: Dynamic high-pass filtering based on input level
  • Best for: Dynamic rumble removal, bass cleanup that responds to content

Filter-Lo (Low-Pass)

Removes frequencies above the cutoff. No gain parameter — only filtering.

  • Dynamics behavior: Dynamic low-pass filtering based on input level
  • Best for: Dynamic harshness control, adaptive brightness limiting

Compressor Control in Filter/Shelf Modes

Important: When a band is changed to Filter or Shelf mode, the compressor is controlled per band, not per bandwidth. Unlike Parametric mode where compression follows the Q curve (bandwidth), Filter and Shelf modes apply compression to the entire frequency range above or below the corner frequency, making the compressor operate on a band-by-band basis rather than following a bandwidth curve.

Use Cases

De-essing (Vocal Sibilance Control)

Setup

  • Mode: Parametric
  • Frequency: 5-8 kHz (find the sibilant frequency)
  • Q: 2-4 (narrow enough to target sibilance)
  • Gain: 0 dB (no static EQ)
  • Threshold: -20 to -30 dB
  • Ratio: 4:1 to 8:1
  • Attack: 0.5-2 ms (fast to catch sibilants)
  • Release: 50-100 ms

Why EQOMP excels: The threshold curve means only the sibilant frequencies trigger reduction, and the reduction is proportional to the frequency content — not a blanket cut.

Bass Resonance Taming

Setup

  • Mode: Parametric
  • Frequency: Find the resonant frequency (often 80-200 Hz)
  • Q: 4-8 (narrow to target the resonance)
  • Gain: 0 dB
  • Threshold: -15 to -25 dB
  • Ratio: 3:1 to 6:1
  • Attack: 10-30 ms
  • Release: 100-200 ms

Why EQOMP excels: Tames only the resonant frequency when it becomes excessive, leaving the rest of the bass intact.

Dynamic Air Enhancement

Setup

  • Mode: Shelf-Hi
  • Frequency: 8-12 kHz
  • Gain: +2 to +4 dB (static boost)
  • Threshold: -25 to -35 dB
  • Ratio: 2:1 to 3:1 (gentle)
  • Attack: 20-50 ms
  • Release: 200-400 ms

Result: High frequencies are boosted, but excessive brightness is automatically controlled. You get air without harshness.

Drum Transient Shaping

Setup

  • Mode: Parametric
  • Frequency: 2-5 kHz (attack frequencies)
  • Q: 1-2 (moderate width)
  • Gain: 0 dB
  • Threshold: -20 to -30 dB
  • Ratio: 2:1 to 4:1
  • Attack: 30-50 ms (let transients through)
  • Release: 50-100 ms

Result: The attack of drums punches through while the sustain/ring is controlled in the target frequency range.

Mastering — Gentle Frequency Balance

Setup

  • Multiple bands with very gentle settings
  • Q: 0.5-1 (wide, gentle curves)
  • Threshold: -30 to -40 dB
  • Ratio: 1.5:1 to 2:1 (very gentle)
  • Attack: 20-50 ms
  • Release: 200-500 ms

Result: Transparent frequency balance that responds to the music. Problem frequencies are gently controlled without obvious processing. For mastering applications, you can use the Single Band or Multiband presets for more effective frequency control. Tip: It's recommended to use single-band compressors that apply different gain reduction for different frequencies, rather than uniform gain reduction across all frequencies.

Frequency-Selective Reduction

Concept

With EQOMP, each band reacts only in its own frequency range. A loud snare won’t pull down the whole bass or piano — only the frequencies that overlap. So you can tame problem peaks without changing the rest of the mix.

Setup

  • Mode: Parametric or Multiband
  • Use multiple bands for different frequency ranges
  • Set thresholds per band independently
  • Ratio: 2:1-6:1
  • Attack/Release: Adjust per instrument characteristics

Result: Each band is independent. You control only the frequencies that need it; the rest stays natural.

Unwanted Resonance Reduction

Concept

You can reduce the level of unwanted resonances outside of the essential resonances of the audio source by adjusting the attack time. A huge advantage is that you can use a multiband compressor without worrying about phase.

Setup

  • Mode: Parametric
  • Frequency: Target the unwanted resonance
  • Q: 4-10 (precise targeting)
  • Threshold: -15 to -30 dB
  • Attack: 0.5-5 ms (fast reduction)
  • Ratio: 3:1-8:1

Result: Unwanted resonances are quickly reduced while preserving the essential character of the source. The phase-coherent processing ensures transparent results.

Bus Compressor / Master Bus / Glue Compressor Applications

Concept

Use several bands with wide Q and gentle ratios to add glue and cohesion. Each band reacts to its own range, so you can gently control the low end while keeping mids and highs punchy — or the opposite.

Setup

  • Start with Single Band or Multiband presets to configure your bands
  • Set up multiple bands across the frequency spectrum
  • Each band can control up to half the maximum buffer size in frequency range
  • Adjust thresholds, ratios, attack, and release per band independently
  • Use gentle ratios (1.5:1 to 3:1) for glue compression
  • Moderate attack (20-50 ms) and release (100-300 ms) for musical timing

Result: Cohesive bus or master compression with independent control per frequency range, so the mix gels without losing punch or clarity.

Pro Tips

1. Start with Dynamics Off

Set up your EQ curve first with dynamics disabled. Get the static tone right, then enable dynamics to control problem areas. This gives you a clear reference point.

2. Use the Gain Reduction Meters

Watch the vertical GR lines on each band. If you're seeing constant reduction, your threshold may be too low. Aim for reduction only on problem moments.

3. Q Affects Dynamics Width

Remember: in Parametric mode, Q doesn't just shape the EQ — it defines how wide the dynamics processing applies. A narrow Q means surgical dynamics; a wide Q means broader control.

4. Ratio is Reduction, Not Compression

EQOMP's ratio controls gain reduction, not compression ratio. There's no knee or compression curve. Think of it as "how much to turn down when triggered."

5. Use A/B Comparison

EQOMP's processing is designed to be transparent. Use A/B comparison frequently to ensure you're improving the sound, not just making it different.

6. Oversampling for Critical Work

For mastering or final mixes, enable 4x or 8x oversampling. The CPU hit is worth it for the cleanest possible processing.

7. Shelf/Filter Modes for Broadband Control

When you need to control entire frequency ranges (all highs, all lows), use Shelf or Filter modes. The dynamics will apply to the entire range, not just a bell-shaped area.

8. Avoiding Artifacts from Aggressive Settings

High ratio, low threshold, and very fast attack together can cause harshness or pumping. Ease off ratio, attack, or threshold until it sounds natural. The goal is processing that improves the sound without calling attention to itself.

9. Understanding Compressor Noise

Excessive compressor processing inevitably introduces noise. This occurs because gain reduction operates as a time-varying control signal that modulates the audio itself. This compressor is designed to minimize such modulation, preserving natural sound even under heavy reduction.

10. AM Noise Control: The Foundation of Professional Dynamic EQ

AM (Amplitude Modulation) noise occurs when the gain envelope changes faster than the audio waveform, causing phase distortion and harsh artifacts. EQOMP prevents this by keeping the gain envelope slow and smooth (sub-audio, below 10Hz), even with fast attack settings. Detection can be fast, but gain application must always be slow and musical.

In summary: EQOMP calculates dynamics based on frequency, but always applies gain as a smooth, time-domain envelope. This prevents AM noise from rapid gain reduction while maintaining natural phase and harmonic relationships.

11. Master Bus / Mastering Presets: Full-Range Control via Band 1

Compressor-Single Band, Compressor-4 Bands, and Compressor-5 Bands presets are bandwise compressors that control the full frequency range. After loading one of these presets, adjust the threshold of Band 1 (the lowest band) to control the entire frequency range with a single parameter — a quick way to set overall dynamics.

Global Settings

These settings apply globally across all plugin instances and are saved between sessions.

Analysis & Display

FFT Buffer (BUFFER): Choose 256, 512, 1024, 2048, or 4096 samples in Utility. Smaller buffers refresh faster; larger buffers improve low-frequency resolution.

Wave Smooth: Adjusts waveform and envelope redraw smoothness (0–100%). Lower values react faster; higher values feel steadier.

Level Display: Show or hide loudness and peak overlays in the main graph from Utility (LEVEL DISPLAY).

Precision View Control

View Scale: Level-meter zoom range is 6 dB – 120 dB (default 100 dB). The EQ curve itself uses a fixed 0 dBFS to -100 dBFS display.

Mouse Wheel Control

Command or Option + Mouse Wheel: Over the graph, scroll to adjust the level-meter/waveform Y-axis zoom in 5 dB steps (6–120 dB range).

  • Scroll Up: Increases the visible level range (broader view)
  • Scroll Down: Decreases the visible level range (more detail)
  • Visual Feedback: Current zoom value appears as an on-graph hint

Control + Mouse Wheel: Cycles the EQ gain display scale through 30 dB, 12 dB, 6 dB, and 3 dB for finer curve editing.

Mouse Wheel Parameter Control

Band Point + Mouse Wheel: When the pointer is over a band point, scrolling adjusts that band's Q value.

  • Scroll Up: Increases Q (narrower bandwidth)
  • Scroll Down: Decreases Q (wider bandwidth)
  • Range: 0.001 to 10.0

IN/OUT Meter + Mouse Wheel: Scroll over the input or output gain meter handle to adjust gain in 0.5 dB steps (hold Shift for 0.1 dB steps).

Left Scale Area + Mouse Wheel: Scroll over the left Y-axis label area to adjust the level-meter zoom in 2 dB steps (6–120 dB range).

Use smaller zoom values (6–30 dB) for detailed level work; use larger values (60–120 dB) for overview. EQ gain display zoom is independent and is controlled with Control + mouse wheel.

Graph Band Buttons

Concept: Interactive band buttons on the EQ graph provide direct access to individual band controls and visual feedback for your EQ curve adjustments.

Band Button Features

Visual Controls: Each EQ band has a corresponding button on the frequency response graph.

  • Click: Select and highlight the band for parameter adjustment
  • Drag: Directly manipulate frequency and gain by dragging the button
  • Color Coding: Different colors for different filter types (Peak, Shelf, Cut)
  • Active State: Visual indication when band is enabled and processing

Filter Type Indicators

Shape Recognition: Button appearance indicates the current filter type.

  • Peak Filter: Circular button for bell-shaped EQ curves
  • Shelf Filter: Square button for high/low shelf responses
  • Cut Filter: Triangular button for high-pass/low-pass filters

Workflow Integration

Efficient Control: Graph buttons enable fast, visual EQ adjustment workflows.

  • Quick Selection: Click any button to instantly access that band's controls
  • Visual Feedback: See the exact frequency and gain response in real-time
  • Precise Control: Drag buttons for immediate, accurate adjustments
  • Curve Overview: See all active bands and their interactions simultaneously

Professional Advantage: Graph band buttons combine the speed of visual control with the precision of numerical input, providing the most efficient EQ workflow available.

Header & Utility Controls

Concept: Session-wide controls are split between the header bar and the Utility panel.

Bypass Button

Function: Located in the left header. Toggles audio processing bypass while maintaining visual feedback.

  • Audio Output: When enabled, the original signal passes through without processing
  • Visual Elements: Waveform display, level meters, and controls remain active for A/B comparison
  • Use Case: Perfect for comparing processed vs. unprocessed audio while monitoring signal behavior

Utility Button

Function: Located in the right header. Opens the Utility panel for global editor settings, monitoring behavior, support links, and license access.

  • Oversampling: Adjust 0x, 2x, 4x, or 8x processing for quality vs. CPU tradeoff
  • FFT Buffer Size: Choose 256 to 4096 samples for analyzer detail and responsiveness
  • Global Options: Configure BYPASS MODE, 1ST.COMP, LEVEL DISPLAY, language, and hints
  • Manual & Support: Open the online manual, YouTube playlist, forum, and license tools

Hint Button

Function: Available inside Utility. Toggles the hint/tooltip system for contextual help.

  • Tooltip Display: Shows detailed information when hovering over controls
  • Contextual Help: Provides explanations for each parameter and control
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Displays available keyboard shortcuts for quick reference
  • Usage Tips: Offers creative usage examples and parameter relationships

Language Button

Function: Available inside Utility. Selects the interface language for international users.

  • Supported Languages: English (EN), Korean (KR), Japanese (JP), Chinese (CN), Spanish (ES), French (FR)
  • Instant Application: Interface updates immediately upon selection
  • Persistent Setting: Language choice is saved between sessions
  • Complete Localization: All text, tooltips, and documentation are translated

Workflow Integration: Use the header for BYPASS, UTILITY, and monitoring tools; use Utility for language, hints, theme, and analyzer preferences.

UI Theme

Concept: The visual theme controls the color scheme and appearance of the entire plugin interface, allowing you to customize the look to match your workflow preferences.

Options: 10 themes: OceanBlue, SunsetOrange, ForestGreen, DesertTeal, PastelMint, NeonPurple, WarmCoral, CoolSky, BlackAndWhite, MidnightGreen

Default: OceanBlue

Function: Each theme provides a unique color palette optimized for different lighting conditions and personal preferences. Themes affect all UI elements including spectrum analyzer, EQ curves, meters, and controls.

Usage: Choose themes based on your environment: lighter themes (PastelMint, CoolSky) for bright studios, darker themes (MidnightGreen, BlackAndWhite) for dim environments. OceanBlue and SunsetOrange provide balanced visibility in most conditions.

Utility Panel

Concept: The Utility Panel collects the global settings that affect every instance workflow: theme, language, bypass behavior, first-band compressor mode, analyzer detail, waveform smoothing, and support access.

Note: Language selection is available directly inside the Utility Panel, alongside the other global workflow controls.

Theme Selection

Visual Themes: Choose from 10 professionally designed themes optimized for different studio environments and personal preferences.

  • OceanBlue: Balanced blue theme for general use
  • SunsetOrange: Warm orange theme for creative sessions
  • ForestGreen: Cool green theme for long mixing sessions
  • DesertTeal: Teal theme for bright environments
  • PastelMint: Soft mint theme for detailed work
  • NeonPurple: Vibrant purple theme for electronic music
  • WarmCoral: Coral theme for acoustic recordings
  • CoolSky: Sky blue theme for mastering
  • BlackAndWhite: High contrast theme for accessibility
  • MidnightGreen: Dark green theme for low-light studios

Documentation & Support

Quick Access Buttons:

  • Manual: Opens integrated user manual
  • YouTube: Access video tutorials and walkthroughs
  • Forum: Join community discussions and get help
  • License: Manage license activation and support

System Settings

Buffer Size Controls: Choose the analyzer buffer manually. Smaller values refresh faster; larger values resolve frequency detail more clearly.

  • 256: Fastest analyzer refresh with the least frequency detail
  • 512-1024: Practical starting range for most editing and mixing work
  • 2048: Finer analyzer detail for corrective work and resonance checks
  • 4096: Highest analyzer resolution with the slowest visual refresh

Wave Smooth Control

Visual Smoothing: Controls waveform and envelope redraw speed. Higher settings feel steadier; lower settings react faster.

  • 0-20%: Real-time monitoring and fast response
  • 30-60%: General mixing work
  • 70-100%: Detailed signal analysis

License & System Information

Status Display: Shows current license status, hardware ID, trial countdown, and server connection status.

  • Activated: Full functionality available
  • Trial: Days remaining shown
  • Expired: Limited functionality
  • Server: Online/offline status

Language Selection

Concept: EQOMP provides six interface languages and matching manual text so the current workflow can be followed in the same layout.

Supported Languages

Coverage: Choose the language used for labels, hints, and manual sections.

  • English (EN): Default language, complete documentation
  • 한국어 (KR): Full Korean translation
  • 日本語 (JP): Complete Japanese localization
  • Español (ES): Spanish translation
  • Français (FR): French translation
  • 中文 (ZH): Chinese translation

Language Switcher

Easy Access: Available inside the Utility panel, so language can be changed without leaving the current session.

  • Dropdown Menu: Click to select preferred language
  • Instant Application: Interface updates immediately
  • Persistent Setting: Language choice saved between sessions
  • Complete Coverage: All text, tooltips, and documentation translated

Translation Quality

Terminology Consistency: Labels, hints, and manual sections are kept aligned so the same controls read consistently across supported languages.

  • Technical Accuracy: Audio terminology correctly translated
  • Cultural Adaptation: Idioms and expressions adapted for local markets
  • Terminology Consistency: Consistent use of technical terms within each language
  • Current Build Coverage: Workflow and control descriptions are aligned for the current release

Shared Workflow: Multi-language support keeps the same operating flow readable across teams, rooms, and client systems.

Oversampling

Options: 0x (default), 2x, 4x, 8x. Higher values reduce aliasing in clipping and heavy dynamics, but use more CPU.

When to use: 0x for tracking and minimum CPU load. 2x-4x for normal mixing. 8x for aggressive clipping, fast transient work, or final quality checks.

Presets

Factory Presets

EQOMP includes a collection of factory presets designed to demonstrate the plugin's capabilities and provide starting points for common tasks.

Vocal Presets

  • Desser
  • Vocal-Female
  • Vocal-Male

Drum Presets

  • HiHat
  • Kick-Deep
  • OverHeads
  • Snare-Ringing out
  • Tom-Floor
  • Tom-Hi/Mid

Piano Presets

  • Grand Piano 5ft
  • Concert Grand Piano

Compressor / Bus Presets

  • Compressor-Single Band
  • Compressor-4 Bands
  • Compressor-5 Bands

Saving User Presets

  1. Set up your desired settings
  2. Click the preset name in the top bar
  3. Select "Save Preset..."
  4. Enter a name and optional category
  5. Click Save

User presets are saved as .bls files in:
~/Documents/EQOMP/Presets/User/ (macOS)
%USERPROFILE%\Documents\EQOMP\Presets\User\ (Windows)

A/B Compare

Concept: The A/B Compare feature allows you to store and instantly switch between two different EQOMP settings for real-time comparison and fine-tuning.

A/B Buttons

Instant Switching: Two dedicated buttons (A and B) for storing and recalling different plugin states.

  • A Button: Store current settings as Preset A
  • B Button: Store current settings as Preset B
  • Copy Button (->): Copy settings from A to B or B to A
  • Undo Button: Revert to previous state

Workflow Applications

Professional Comparison: Essential for critical listening and decision making in mixing and mastering.

  • Mixing Decisions: Compare subtle vs. aggressive EQ settings
  • Mastering Choices: Evaluate different compression approaches
  • Before/After: Instant comparison of your processing
  • Fine Tuning: Make small adjustments while comparing results

Technical Implementation

Complete State Capture: A/B slots store the complete plugin state including all band parameters, global settings, and processing modes.

  • All Parameters: EQ bands, dynamics, global settings
  • Instant Switching: Zero-latency switching between A and B
  • Persistent Storage: Settings maintained across sessions
  • Independent Operation: Each plugin instance has its own A/B slots

Mixing Essential: A/B Compare is fundamental to professional audio production, enabling confident decision-making through direct, real-time comparison of different processing approaches.

Specifications

Plugin Formats VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone
Standalone Application Available with microphone access support for direct audio input processing
Supported Platforms macOS 10.13+, Windows 10+
Supported Architectures Intel (x64), Apple Silicon (ARM64) - M1, M2, M3, M4
Sample Rates 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz
Bit Depth 64-bit floating point internal processing
Latency Zero latency (IIR filters)
Number of Bands 10 fully independent bands
Filter Types Parametric, High Shelf, Low Shelf, High Pass, Low Pass
Oversampling 0x, 2x, 4x, 8x
Virtual Audio Driver (macOS) Modou Virtual Audio (2-channel HAL driver, included in the macOS installer)
Sidechain Internal sidechain only (no external input). The processed signal itself is used for detection.

System Requirements

Minimum

  • Intel Core i5 or Apple M1
  • 4 GB RAM
  • 100 MB disk space
  • 1280×720 display

Recommended

  • Intel Core i7 or Apple M1 Pro / M2 / M3 / M4
  • 8 GB RAM
  • SSD storage
  • 1920×1080 display

License & Support

License Activation

  1. Open EQOMP in your DAW
  2. Click the UTILITY button to open the utility panel
  3. Click LICENSE to open license management
  4. Enter your license key and email
  5. Click Activate
  6. For a trial key, open LICENSE and use VIP REQ. to request a trial license from the server

License Information

  • One license allows activation on up to 3 computers
  • Deactivate from one computer to activate on another
  • License is tied to your hardware ID (shown in utility panel)
  • Signed token licenses are stored locally under ~/Library/EQOMP and re-validated with the server daily

Trial Version

EQOMP offers a 7-day trial period. During the trial:

Support

Documentation

Full manual and tutorials at:

modoudsp.com/eqomp-manual

Technical Support

Email support:

support@modoudsp.com

Community

Join our forum:

modoudsp.com/forums/forum/visualgate

Video Tutorials

YouTube channel:

modoudsp.com

EQOMP v1.7.20

© 2026 Modou DSP. All rights reserved.

Intellectual Property Protection:

All algorithms, processing methods, and technologies implemented in EQOMP are protected by copyright law, trade secret protections, and intellectual property rights. The Spectral Analysis Engine™, Transient Guard Technology™, Visual Analysis Engine™, and Precision View Control™ are proprietary technologies of Modou DSP. Any unauthorized reverse engineering, reproduction, or implementation of these technologies is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.