Brainworx bx_masterdesk vs DSP-Quattro

Brainworx bx_masterdesk is a mastering plugin for musicians working on their own material. Its analog-style system organizes processing into Volume, Foundation, and Tone Stack controls, with a Dynamic Range VU meter for adjusting loudness while considering sound quality. Other controls include a mastering de-esser, compressor mix, stereo width, and Mid/Side enhancement. The product page also lists Brainworx Tolerance Modeling Technology and an extensive preset list. It supports AAX AudioSuite, AAX DSP, AAX Native, AU, VST2, and VST3 on macOS and Windows. Listed systems include macOS 13 through 26 and Windows 10 through 11, with Intel or Apple Silicon Macs and x64-compatible PCs. Minimum requirements include 2 GB RAM and a display resolution of 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px or higher. The plugin is paid from $14.99/mo and has a 14-day trial that begins at first launch in a DAW. Plugin Alliance also lists CORE at $14.99 per month and PRO at $29.99 per month.

DSP-Quattro is a macOS application for editing and mastering audio files, burning audio CD-ROMs, hosting plug-ins, and processing batches. Its editor supports multiple audio formats, waveform editing, sound enhancement, and real-time processing. It hosts 64-bit Audio Unit effects and instruments, but does not load VST plug-ins. Version 6 requires macOS 10.14 or newer and runs natively on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs. Listed delivery formats include AIFF, WAVE, MP3, M4A, CAF, FLAC, AAC, DDP, raw binary, and dual L/R mono. The demo has no time limit, but saving or exporting audio, exporting DDP, and burning audio CD-ROM are unavailable in it. The new license is listed at $99 a month; the $49 a month upgrade is for customers registered to a previous DSP-Quattro or DSP-AudioCDBuilder version. The license is for personal use and belongs to one owner. Email support is listed, and refunds may be requested within 14 days after purchase.