Heritage Audio Launches Symph EQ Plugin

Product Review: Heritage Audio Symph EQ Plug-In

Heritage Audio has long been synonymous with delivering high-quality audio equipment and studio gear. With the release of the Symph EQ plug-in, they offer an innovative take on the classic Baxandall equalization, extending their reach into the digital audio workstation (DAW) environment. This detailed review explores the key features, pros, cons, and customer feedback on the Symph EQ plug-in.

Key Features of the Symph EQ Plug-In:

• Dual Channel Control: Each channel of the plug-in is meticulously modeled after the hardware Symph EQ, featuring separate controls and being capable of operating in stereo or dual-mono modes.
• Flexible Band Choices: Offers low shelf settings at 20, 60, 110, 220, 360, or 470 Hz and a high band range of 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, or 24 kHz.
• Gain Adjustments: Each band can adjust ±10dB of gain, with fine control in 1dB increments, and additional features such as a Cut switch for up to -10dB reduction and a +0.5dB button for slight enhancements.
• Filter Options: Each channel is equipped with 12dB/octave high- and low-pass filters to fine-tune the audio output.
• Mid-Side Processing Capability: Includes a Mid-Side mode to manage both stereo imaging and mono compatibility.
• User Interface (UI): The graphical user interface (GUI) closely mimics the original hardware, promising an intuitive and familiar workflow for users of the physical unit.

Pros:

• Natural and Musical EQ Curves: True to Baxandall’s design, the equalizer provides smooth and musical adjustments without harshness, maintaining the natural timbre of the source material.
• Low Phase Deviation: Ensures minimal coloration and phase distortion, a crux for mastering and critical listening.
• Flexible and Powerful: The wide array of frequency choices and modulated gain functions makes it highly versatile.
• Ease of Use: The user-friendly interface replicates the physical unit, easing the learning curve for existing Heritage Audio users.

Cons:

• Price: While competitively priced at €99, budget-conscious home producers might find it slightly expensive.
• System Requirement: Requires relatively recent operating systems (Windows 10+ or macOS 10.15.7+), limiting accessibility for users with older systems.

Customer Feedback:

• Positive Reviews: Users praised its transparent sound and flexibility, especially appreciating its Mid-Side capabilities for mastering tasks. Long-time users of the hardware version found transitioning to the plugin seamless and efficient.
• Negative Points: Some users noted the lack of a demo or trial version to test compatibility and functionality in their specific setups.

The Heritage Audio Symph EQ plug-in stands out as a high-quality digital representation of a classic analog equalizer. It offers professional-grade features and unrivaled sound quality appropriate for detailed studio work, ideal for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Despite its somewhat steep price and the need for up-to-date operating systems, it remains a worthy addition to any audio production toolkit, especially with free availability to existing hardware owners or i73 PRO interface users.

For those interested in elevating their mixing and mastering sessions within their DAW of choice, the Symph EQ by Heritage Audio offers an enticing mix of classic EQ modeling and modern flexibility.

https://heritageaudio.com/