Rockheyday has released Balance 9, a high-precision 9-band parametric equalizer designed for surgical tonal balancing, critical listening, and real-time visual feedback.
Combining zero-latency processing with an intuitive node-based workflow and isolated solo auditioning, Balance 9 enables fast, precise frequency shaping with high-resolution spectrum analysis and dual-layer metering.
Key Features
- Engine: High-precision 9-band parametric equalizer.
- Interaction: Nine draggable EQ nodes with mouse-wheel Q control.
- Filter Modes: Low Cut, Low Shelf, Peak, High Shelf, and High Cut per band.
- Processing: Zero-latency, minimum-phase IIR architecture.
- Solo Audition: Dedicated Solo mode with isolated A/B comparison (active band processing vs. flat band-pass in complete isolation).
- L-Curve Contour: Stepped equal-loudness contour compensation—powered by a dedicated 3-filter network modelled on ISO 226 curves—to maintain natural tonal balance during low-volume monitor and headphone mixing.
- Global Scale Control: Adjusts overall EQ scaling from 0% to 200%.
- Output Gain: -12 to +12 dB.
- Polarity Invert: Inverts the phase of the output signal by 180 degrees.
- Spectrum Analyzer: Dual-Layer spectrum display with adaptive 4096 / 8192-Point FFT and a dedicated icon switch for instant on/off toggling.
- Spectral Calibration: 4.5 dB internal spectral tilt with 350 ms ballistic decay.
- Dual-Layer Metering: LR Peak meters (background = input, foreground = output).
- Preset Manager: Dropdown menu with Prev/Next navigation and XML save/load.
- Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz+ (automatically matches the host DAW sample rate).
The L-Curve
Inspired by ISO 226 equal-loudness research, the L-Curve provides stepped psychoacoustic contour compensation. When mixing or mastering at lower listening levels—especially during long headphone sessions or late-night monitor mixing—human ears naturally lose perception of bass and treble.
Pricing & Availability
Balance 9 is available for Windows and macOS in VST3 and AU plugin formats for $24.99 with an introductory launch 20% discount until October 6th with discount code LAUNCH20 at rockheyday.gumroad.com
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