Brainworx bx_cleansweep V2

bx_cleansweep V2 is a free filter plugin for mixing and mastering. It is available to all users who join Plugin Alliance with a free account. The plugin combines high-pass and low-pass filters designed to clean up unwanted frequencies in mixes. It is an ideal first-stage tool in the mixing process, and I often use it as the first insert across the mix. The developer took inspiration from filtering systems found in high-end analog consoles like SSLs and NEVEs to create a simple utility for removing low-end mud and high-end grit.

The plugin utilizes Brainworx’s Anti-Crush Technology, which employs analog-style filter curves to avoid harsh digital artifacts like aliasing and harshness, making it sound smooth and musical. With a 6 dB per octave filter slope, we get subtle, musical filtering rather than surgical precision. My only gripe is the joystick control which sounds great on paper, but I find it less intuitive than a pair of knobs to control the two filters.

Still, I love using bx_cleansweep for its transparent sound and simplicity. bx_cleansweep V2 is compatible with macOS and Windows systems in VST, AU, and AAX formats. The list above includes the best free filter plugins I tested and reviewed in my daily mixing and sound design work. If there’s another plugin you’d like to recommend, feel free to do so in the comments below. If you’re looking for more options, check out the free Growl Filter plugin by Zayne and the excellent Eugene Filter by NUSofting.

For more freeware plugins and instruments, return to our Free VST Plugins page. Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Tomislav Zlatic.