The 10 Best Equalizer Plugins That Are Killing It in 2025

EQ plugins are all about shaping sound, enhancing clarity, and solving mix issues.

Whether you’re adding warmth, cutting harsh frequencies, or creating space for every track in a mix, the right EQ plugin is key for getting your sound on point. 

Plus, modern EQs give you advanced features to play around with like dynamic processing, precise frequency control, and even intelligent AI tools.

As producers, knowing the best equalizer plugins can completely transform your workflow and take your tracks to the next level.

That’s exactly why I’m breaking down the absolute best ones in the game 一 each and every one on my list includes unique features and functions, like:

• Dynamic EQ bands for responsive tone shaping ✓
• Real-time frequency spectrum analyzers ✓
• High-pass and low-pass filters for quick cleanup ✓
• Analog-modeled filter types for warmth & character ✓
• Inter-plugin communication for better workflow ✓
• Built-in saturation or drive controls for color ✓
• Mid-Side processing for stereo width and control ✓
• Equal loudness features to maintain volume balance ✓
• Musical frequency mapping for precision adjustments ✓
• Much more ✓

By knowing the absolute best equalizer plugins in the industry, you can easily clean up your mixes, boost clarity, and carve out space for every instrument perfectly.

Plus, make sure your EQ adjustments are on point and add actual value to your tracks. 

This way, your tracks will always sound polished, balanced, and straight up professional, so let’s dive right in.

The 10 Best Equalizer Plugins

Remember, the best equalizer plugins in the game will always give you unmatched control, improve your workflow, and elevate your mixes to a professional level. And yes, I’ve personally tested every single one on this list, and many of them are staples in my own sessions that I use on the daily.

#1. FabFilter Pro-Q 4

FabFilter Pro-Q 4 has earned its reputation as one of the best equalizer plugins for good reason… It’s an all-in-one solution for precision, creativity, and ease of use. 

Whether you’re tweaking subtle EQ adjustments during mixing or sculpting sounds with surgical accuracy for mastering, this parametric EQ plugin delivers unmatched results. 

Its new standout feature, Spectral Dynamics, lets you dynamically target specific frequency bands.

This one is perfect for controlling harsh high frequencies in vocals or taming unruly low frequencies in bass and I’m so happy they included it.

With up to 24 frequency bands and options like high-pass filters, low-pass filters, and bells, you can shape your mix to absolute perfection. 

The Linear Phase mode is another great one that ensures phase-coherent processing (which is a must when it comes to mastering).

And zero latency processing keeps everything smooth during real-time mixing. 

Its EQ Sketch mode is a game-changer because you can draw curves directly for quick adjustments, which is a massive time-saver when working with dense mixes.

I’ve found the Character modes to be incredibly helpful when I want to add subtle harmonic warmth to tracks 一 giving them a hint of that vintage sound. 

The spectrum analyzer is another favorite feature which offers a clear visual of your frequency spectrum which is invaluable.

And if you’re into stereo shaping like myself, the built-in mid-side processing makes it easy to widen the stereo image or isolate issues in your mix. 

Honestly, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the FabFilter Pro-Q 4’s intuitive interface makes it feel like second nature to use. 

While it doesn’t emulate classic hardware EQs, its pristine transparency and versatility is why it’s one of the best equalizer plugins for any mixing scenario.

And, if you’re similar with Fabfilter Pro-Q 3 and didn’t know version 4 was out, you’re welcome.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Spectral Dynamics for dynamic EQ control
• Up to 24 frequency bands
• Character modes for a great vintage sound edge
• High-pass and low-pass filters included
• Linear Phase mode for mastering EQ
• EQ Sketch mode for quick adjustments
• Built-in spectrum analyzer for visual precision
• Mid-side processing for stereo shaping
• Intuitive interface for easy navigation
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#2. TBT Kirchhoff EQ

The TBT Kirchhoff EQ is a cutting-edge parametric EQ plugin that offers an insane amount of flexibility and precision. 

It’s not just an EQ; it’s a complete sound-shaping tool designed for producers who need the best of the best, perfect for mixing, mastering, or designing sounds all day.

One of its standout features is the 32-band parametric EQ, which lets you get incredibly precise with your tonal adjustments. 

And yes, each band includes fully adjustable parameters, such as frequency, gain, and Q, so you can shape your tracks with pinpoint accuracy.

One of the things that really sets the Kirchhoff EQ apart from the other best equalizer plugins is its dynamic EQ processing with lookahead functionality. 

This lets the EQ respond to changes in the audio signal before they happen 一 making it perfect for taming harsh vocal peaks or controlling muddy low-end frequencies.

It also includes mid-side processing so you can adjust the middle and side channels of your mix independently. 

This is a game-changer for mastering, as you can tighten up the center of your mix while adding stereo width to the sides for a more open and professional sound.

Speaking of width, the stereo width controls allow you to precisely adjust the stereo image of your tracks. 

For example, you can widen the high frequencies of a synth while keeping the low end mono for a clean and focused mix.

The Spectrum Grab feature is one of my personal favorites though, hands down. 

It lets you visually identify and grab problem frequencies directly from the spectrum analyzer 一 making it incredibly easy to pinpoint and fix issues on the fly. 

Plus, with global EQ scaling, you can adjust the intensity of all EQ bands at once. 

This is perfect for quickly scaling back adjustments when you want a subtler effect or pushing them further when you need a more aggressive tone.

The Kirchhoff EQ also offers oversampling up to 4x for pristine audio quality even when making extreme adjustments (no digital artifacts here).

NOTE: Monitoring tools are built right in, with features like phase correlation meters and mid-side monitoring to help you analyze and refine your mix. Everything is visually intuitive, so you always know what’s happening in your session.

From controlling dynamics with pinpoint precision to enhancing the stereo image, the TBT Kirchhoff EQ is one of the most powerful and versatile EQ plugins on the market. 

It’s not just about making adjustments; it’s about shaping your sound exactly the way you envision it.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• 32-band parametric EQ with full control
• Dynamic EQ processing with lookahead functionality
• Mid-side processing and monitoring for stereo control
• Spectrum Grab for easy problem-solving
• Stereo width controls for spatial enhancements
• Global EQ scaling for quick adjustments
• Up to 4x oversampling for pristine sound quality
• Built-in phase and mid-side monitoring tools
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best EQ plugins

#3. Sonible Smart:EQ 4

Sonible Smart:EQ 4 is a dynamic EQ plugin that combines artificial intelligence with precision audio tools to make mixing easier and faster.

Smart:EQ 4 is all about analyzing your audio in real time, suggesting EQ adjustments tweaked to the unique tonal balance of each individual track. 

This feature is perfect when you’re working with vocals, drums, or dense mixes that need clarity without spending hours fine-tuning.

What makes this equalizer special is its AI-powered Smart Filter, so after analyzing the audio, it adjusts frequency bands dynamically to clean up any tonal imbalances. 

This not only saves time but also gives you a balanced starting point for your mix.

Smart:EQ 4 doesn’t stop there… It also features intelligent cross-channel processing, which helps resolve frequency masking between up to 10 tracks. 

This means that musical instruments or vocals won’t fight for space so your mix will sound more polished and professional.

The dynamic adaptation tool is another standout because you’re able to adjust EQ in response to changes in the audio.

This way, your mix will stay balanced even as different elements evolve, which is perfect for things like vocals where dynamics can shift around in a major way.

With up to 24 EQ bands, each with the option of minimum phase or linear phase mode, you have incredible flexibility in shaping your mix. 

So, whether you’re working on a live recording or mastering a polished track, it adapts to your needs, which is pretty cool actually.

And there’s no steep learning curve or anything because its intuitive interface makes Smart:EQ 4 accessible (even for noobs).

The frequency spectrum display and simple controls help you visualize and sculpt your sound without getting overwhelmed by technical jargon.

NOTE: While the AI suggestions are great, don’t rely on them entirely. Use your ears to make manual adjustments, especially when you want a specific tonal character.

Bottom line, Sonible Smart:EQ 4 is more than other basic EQs 一 it’s like having a second set of expert ears guiding your mix.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• AI-powered EQ adjustments
• Smart filter for tonal balance
• Intelligent cross-channel processing
• Dynamic adaptation to evolving audio
• 24 flexible EQ bands for your creative process
• Minimum and linear phase modes
• Intuitive interface for all skill levels
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#4. Eventide SplitEQ

The Eventide SplitEQ takes equalization to a whole new level by separating sound into its transient and tonal components. 

It’s one of the best equalizer plugins because it can solve complex mixing issues or add creativity to your sound design process and everything in between. 

What makes it really pop is the Structural Split tech, which lets you control the attack and body of a sound independently (it’s like having two EQs in one)

For example, you can enhance the snap of a snare drum while leaving the sustain untouched or smooth out sharp transients in vocals without ruining their tonal warmth.

SplitEQ has 8 fully adjustable bands, and each one allows you to choose whether you want to affect:

• Transients
• Tonal elements
• Both

The frequency bands also include all the essential filter types like low-pass, high-pass, and shelving filters 一 giving you complete flexibility to shape your sound.

The spectrum analyzer is awesome too because you can see (in real-time) the transient and tonal parts of your audio to pinpoint any problem areas.

The stereo width control is another winner because you can tweak the width of individual EQ bands. 

You can widen the high frequencies in a mix for added air or narrow the low-end frequencies to keep your bass centered and focused.

NOTE: It also comes packed with mid-side processing and it’s global EQ scaling lets you quickly scale the intensity of all your adjustments up or down. 

This is perfect for fine-tuning an EQ curve without reworking every band manually.

And yes, it supports oversampling as well for clean, artifact-free audio processing even during extreme EQ adjustments.

The only thing to keep in mind is that this EQ can demand more from your CPU than simpler plugins, so use it thoughtfully when working with larger sessions.

All-in-all, Eventide SplitEQ isn’t just one of the best equalizer plugins around, it’s a game-changer if you’re looking to rethink how you shape sound altogether.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Structural Split technology for transient and tonal control
• 8 parametric EQ bands with flexible filters and excellent control
• Real-time spectrum analyzer for visual feedback
• Intuitive interface for fast workflows
• Perfect for creative and corrective mixing
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#5. Slate Digital Infinity EQ 2

The Slate Digital Infinity EQ 2 is a parametric equalizer plugin that offers both dynamic and static EQ capabilities.

One of its standout features is the addition of dynamic filters. 

These allow the EQ to respond in real-time to the incoming signal so it’s much easier to manage transient-heavy material like drums or vocals. 

For instance, you can set a band to reduce harsh frequencies only when they exceed a certain threshold for a smoother, more controlled sound.

Infinity EQ 2 introduces three new filter types: 

• Notch 一 For surgically removing problematic frequencies without affecting the surrounding spectrum.
• Tilt 一 Allows for quick tonal adjustments, balancing the low and high frequencies with a single control.
• Bandpass 一 For isolating specific frequency ranges.

This can be super handy during sound design or when focusing on certain elements within a mix.

And just keep in mind that the graphical user interface (GUI) has received a significant update, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. 

One of its standout qualities is the perfect analog-matched filter shapes, which ensure that no distortion is introduced—even up to the Nyquist frequency. 

This makes Infinity EQ 2 one of the cleanest-sounding EQs you can use, and it’s perfect for both surgical cuts and creative boosts all day.

Also, it has two new timing modes, which are Tight (very reactive and great for tasks like de-essing) and Smooth (offers a slower release that lets more transients through.)

In terms of sound quality, it’s super natural and high-quality, so you don’t have to worry.

From a professional standpoint, Infinity EQ 2 is perfect for both corrective and creative EQ tasks. 

Its dynamic capabilities make it adept at handling complex audio material, while the new filter types expand its versatility. 

So, whether you’re looking to perform subtle tonal shaping or more aggressive frequency carving, it provides the necessary tools with precision and ease.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Dynamic filters for responsive EQ adjustments
• Three new filter types: notch, tilt, and bandpass
• Redesigned intuitive GUI for enhanced workflow
• Smooth and natural sound quality
• Versatile for both mixing and mastering EQ applications
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#6. Waves H-EQ Hybrid Equalizer

The Waves H-EQ Hybrid Equalizer is a powerful parametric EQ plugin that blends the warmth of vintage analog EQs with the flexibility and precision of modern digital tools.

You can choose from seven different filter types for each band. 

These filters are modeled after legendary British and American analog consoles, which lets you dial in a specific character or tone that fits your unique track. 

Whether you want smooth, vintage warmth or clean, modern precision, you can easily switch between these options to find the perfect fit (win-win).

It also includes five fully parametric EQ bands along with dedicated high-pass and low-pass filters. 

One of my favorite features is the integrated keyboard graphic, which maps the EQ bands directly to musical notes. 

This is incredibly helpful when you’re working with musical instruments like a piano or vocals, where you might want to enhance or tame specific notes. 

It makes EQ adjustments feel more intuitive and musical, which can really speed up your workflow and enhance your skills in the process, which is great.

The real-time spectrum analyzer is another tool I rely on and the mid-side processing takes things to the next level.

For example, you could boost the low end in the mid-channel for more punch while adding sparkle to the sides to open up the stereo image in the stereo field.

In my experience, the H-EQ works equally well on individual tracks and full mixes. 

The analog-modeled filter types add just the right amount of color when needed, while the digital precision keeps everything clean and professional.

NOTE: One unique feature of the H-EQ is its per-band mono/stereo options, which let you control whether each band affects the full stereo field or just one channel.

This is perfect for advanced stereo shaping tasks, such as isolating adjustments to the left or right channels.

If you’re looking for an EQ that combines tonal character with surgical control, the Waves H-EQ Hybrid Equalizer is certainly one of the best equalizer plugins around.

It’s versatile enough for both creative sound design and detailed corrective work.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Seven filter types (analog emulations)
• Five parametric EQ bands with high-pass and low-pass filters
• Integrated keyboard graphic EQs
• Real-time spectrum analyzer for precise control
• Much better than a standard EQ
• Mid-Side processing for stereo width adjustments
• Combines analog emulations with digital precision
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#7. Soundtoys Sie-Q

Soundtoys Sie-Q is a parametric EQ plugin modeled after the legendary Siemens W295b hardware EQ, known for its crazy smooth and musical sound. 

What sets this EQ apart is its ability to deliver warm, analog-style tone with a simplicity that makes it crazy easy to use in any music production setting.

This EQ features three main frequency bands, each with its own charm. 

The Low band is great for adding weight and depth to kicks or basses without introducing muddiness. 

The Mid band offers six selectable center frequencies between 700 Hz and 5 kHz, allowing you to create vocal clarity, soften harsh electric guitars, or bring out the body of an acoustic guitar. 

The High band, one of Sie-Q’s standout features, is excellent for adding airy sparkle to cymbals, vocals, and string instruments. 

It feels almost impossible to make this EQ sound harsh because it’s incredibly forgiving.

The Drive knob is where this plugin comes to life though 一 by dialing it up, you can introduce subtle harmonic distortion that emulates the original analog gear. 

This is great when working with sterile digital tracks, just saying.

I’ve used this feature to add richness to lifeless vocal recordings or to give drum overheads a smooth top-end sheen while retaining their dynamics.

Unlike more surgical EQs, Sie-Q has broad, musical curves that make it perfect for tonal shaping rather than frequency carving.

So, if you’re looking to clean up overly resonant frequencies, this might not be the right tool, but when you want to bring life, character, and warmth to your tracks, it’s epic. 

I often use it on a mix bus for subtle enhancements or on piano and acoustic instruments to add natural depth.

I really would describe it by saying Its simplicity is a strength. 

You won’t find spectrum analyzers or endless options here — just a clean, intuitive interface that encourages you to trust your ears. 

This is what makes it so special for any level producers looking to work quickly while achieving professional-sounding results.

The Soundtoys Sie-Q is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to add an analog vibe to digital mixes and that elusive ‘finished’ quality to your track.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Three-band parametric EQ with broad, musical EQ curve options
• Six selectable midrange frequencies for tonal sculpting
• Drive knob for authentic analog-style saturation
• Smooth, airy highs for natural sparkle
• Perfect for tonal shaping and adding warmth
• Intuitive interface perfect for audio production
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#8. iZotope Neutron 5 EQ

The iZotope Neutron 5 EQ stands out as a dynamic EQ plugin designed for MAX precision and efficiency in all modern mixing workflows. 

What makes it unique is its ability to analyze and adapt to the needs of your session 一 acting almost like a second set of expert ears.

The Unmask Module is a standout because it lets you fix any frequency masking between tracks in real time. 

For example, if your vocals are competing with your guitars, Neutron highlights the overlap and suggests specific frequency cuts or boosts to make everything sit perfectly.

Another impressive tool is the Masking Meter, which visually displays how frequencies from different tracks interact. 

When your kick and bass are fighting for space, the Masking Meter shows you exactly where the conflict is happening.

This way, you can make adjustments that bring clarity and punch to your low end.

With 12 dynamic bands, each capable of operating in dynamic or static modes, Neutron gives you unmatched control. 

I’ve used the dynamic functionality to tame harsh sibilance in vocals or to control boomy frequencies in basslines that only appear during certain notes. 

And of course the dynamic bands respond only when needed, leaving the rest of the performance untouched.

What I would say is a huge game-changer is its inter-plugin communication, especially for larger sessions.

Meaning, Neutron can talk to other iZotope plugins like Ozone or Nectar, letting you manage tonal relationships across your entire mix. 

For example, you can adjust your mix’s tonal balance while ensuring the master bus EQ stays in sync.

The real-time spectrum analyzer is incredibly detailed and shows you a precise breakdown of your frequency spectrum. 

Paired with the EQ Learn function, which identifies key problem areas automatically, it saves time and improves accuracy when sculpting your mix.

I reach for Neutron all day when working on dense, vocal-heavy tracks where clarity and separation are critical, and I suggest you definitely give it a go yourself.

It doesn’t just clean up your mix like some of the other best equalizer plugins — it gives you the tools to make your tracks sound polished and on point every single time.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Unmask Module for resolving frequency masking
• Masking Meter for visualizing frequency clashes
• Great for music production and mastering engineers
• 12 dynamic EQ bands for precision adjustments
• Inter-plugin communication for session-wide tonal balance
• Real-time spectrum analyzer with EQ Learn function
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#9. SSL Channel Strip 2

The SSL Channel Strip 2 brings the legendary tone of the SSL (Solid State Logic) 9000K console to your DAW, combining: 

• Powerful EQ
• Dynamics
• Filtering tools

A key feature is the ability to switch between E-Series and G-Series EQ modes, each offering distinct tonal curves. 

The E-Series delivers a tighter, more aggressive sound, while the G-Series provides broader, smoother boosts and cuts. 

I’ve found this great when switching between precise adjustments for vocals and broader tonal shaping for drums or synths.

The four-band parametric EQ includes two fully parametric mids, plus low and high bands that can toggle between bell and shelving modes. 

Each band has a range of ±20 dB, so there’s plenty of room to shape your sound. 

The high-pass and low-pass filters are adjustable from 16 Hz to 500 Hz and 3 kHz to 22 kHz, respectively.

Its dynamic mode is just as versatile, featuring a compressor/limiter with a fixed 4:1 ratio and an expander/gate with variable range controls. 

You can also sidechain the dynamics to other elements in your mix, which is great for creating space around vocals or drums.

NOTE: The Anti-Cramping technology ensures smooth and natural EQ curves, even at extreme EQ settings. This prevents the harshness that can sometimes happen with digital EQs, so it’s perfect for both subtle tonal shaping and aggressive corrections.

With its intuitive layout, the SSL Channel Strip 2 feels as tactile as the original console (trust me).

It’s also excellent for creating stereo width when used in mid-side mode.

Basically, this plugin isn’t just an EQ 一 it’s a full channel strip that captures the sound and feel of one of the most famous consoles in audio history, no joke.

It’s perfect for producers who want to bring a touch of analog character to their digital mixes.

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Switchable E-Series and G-Series EQ modes for tonal versatility
• Four-band parametric EQ with ±20 dB range per band
• Adjustable high-pass and low-pass filters for cleanup
• Dynamics section with compressor/limiter and expander/gate
• Anti-Cramping technology for smooth EQ curves
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

#10. TDR Nova

TDR Nova is a free EQ plugin packed with features that can actually rival premium ones, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for the best equalizer plugins with a zero pricetag.

It offers four dynamic EQ bands with adjustable attack, release, ratio, and threshold controls 一 letting you tame harsh vocals or tighten muddy bass with precision.

The high-pass and low-pass filters have slopes up to 72 dB/oct, so it’s easy to cut out rumble or hiss without overcomplicating things.

One of the most useful things it has is the real-time frequency analyzer, which shows you exactly where problem frequencies are hiding (so you’re not left guessing).

Nova’s ability to combine static EQ with dynamic equalizer means you can handle shifting frequencies in vocals or basslines without over-processing the track.

It’s actually quite impressive to be honest.

The equal loudness feature is a game-changer 一 helping you avoid boosting frequencies just because they sound louder.

Its drag-and-drop interface makes adjustments quick and intuitive, while still giving you precise controls when you need them.

I’ve used Nova for everything from cleaning up drum mixes to fine-tuning full tracks, and it always delivers a clean, natural sound.

For a free plugin, it’s hard to find anything that matches TDR Nova’s flexibility and professional results (just don’t forget to use a reference track!).

Standout Features of this EQ Plugin:

• Four dynamic EQ bands with full control
• High-pass and low-pass filters with steep slopes
• Real-time frequency response analyzer for fast problem solving
• Combines static and dynamic EQ in one tool
• One of the best equalizer plugins/best eq plugins

Final Thoughts

Remember, when it comes to these best equalizer plugins, each one is incredibly powerful, so just make sure to pick the one that fits your workflow and goals. 

It’s all about finding the right balance between creativity and precision. 

Just make sure to focus on learning how each EQ works, playing around with its features, and always trust your ears. 

This way, you can clean up your mixes, knock out supe unique tones, and make your tracks sound like a true professional.

And, as a special bonus, you’ve got to check out these legendary Free Project Files. 

They include 3 project files that walk you through creating a beat from start to finish, including different EQ techniques used by the pros. 

You’ll see everything from setting up your mix and carving out space to enhancing individual elements for a polished final product. 

It’s like having all the literal cheat codes to music production, so do NOT miss out.

Plus, they’re 100% royalty-free, so you can use them however you’d like in your own music.

Bottom line, when it comes to these legendary best equalizer plugins, just take the time to explore their unique features and find what works for your sound. 

And always make sure to experiment, push creative boundaries, and most importantly, stay true to yourself as a producer. 

With the best equalizer plugins and techniques, your mixes will always be on point.

Until next time…