ZL Equalizer

ZL Equalizer is a free 16-band dynamic equalizer plugin for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It features 16 frequency bands, 8 filter types, 5 stereo modes, and 7 adjustable slopes, offering a comprehensive set of tools for dynamic EQ processing. The available dynamics controls include threshold, attack, release, and side-chain frequency adjustments. Like TDR Nova, ZL Equalizer is easy to figure out, even if you’re new to dynamic EQ.

It’s also worth noting that ZL Equalizer is still in development. ZL Audio is constantly expanding the plugin’s functionality. They recently added linear-phase processing to the feature set, earning ZL Equalizer a spot in our list of free linear-phase EQs. The plugin also features a real-time spectrum display, smart collision detection (for comparing the main and side-chain signals), smooth animations, and a dark mode I love using during late-night sound design sessions.

ZL Equalizer is available in AU and VST3 formats for Windows and macOS.