Lens Free

Lens Free is a free multiband compressor by Auburn Sounds. It’s based on the full version of the Lens compressor but lacks its expander section. Auburn’s freeware compressor includes up to 64 compression bands. It operates in the spectral domain without phase shifting and features two linear-phase EQs, one in the sidechain path and one on the output. The plugin also includes a Vintage section for adding saturation to the signal, controlled via the Even and Stage parameters.

Its unique spectral processing allows Lens Free to deliver subtle signal enhancement and more extreme compression options. I often use it to highlight the fine sonic details in my sound design work. However, it’s not a plugin I would recommend to beginners. The workflow takes some time getting used to, and reading the user manual is highly recommended to get the most out of Lens Free. The plugin is available in VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and LX2 formats and supports 32-bit and 64-bit systems on Windows, macOS, and Linux.