Brainworx bx_masterdesk vs Slate Digital FG-X 2
Brainworx bx_masterdesk
plugin-alliance.comSlate Digital FG-X 2
slatedigital.comSide by side
| Figure | Brainworx bx_masterdesk | Slate Digital FG-X 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $12.50/mo | $16.67/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 5 | 3 |
| Spec score · Audio Mastering Software | 8.1 (#7) | 7.8 (#15) |
| Intended users | The maker describes the plugin as usable by inexperienced musicians as well as musicians, engineers, producers, and mastering engineers. | Slate Digital describes FG-X 2 as suitable for beginners and seasoned studio veterans. |
| Metering | A Dynamic Range VU meter helps users adjust loudness while considering sound quality. | The metering section includes a Timegraph, Histogram, vertical meters, and target ranges for loudness parameters. |
| Operating systems | The product page lists macOS 13 through 26 and Windows 10 through 11, with Intel or Apple Silicon Macs and x64-compatible PCs. | Slate lists macOS Catalina 10.15 or later and Windows 10 or Windows 11, with 64-bit plugin hosts. |
| Plugin formats | Supported formats are AAX AudioSuite, AAX DSP, AAX Native, AU, VST2, and VST3. | FG-X 2 supports AU, VST2, VST3, and AAX formats with x64 and ARM universal binaries. |
| Purpose | bx_masterdesk provides an analog-style mastering system in one plugin, designed to help musicians master their own material. | FG-X 2 is a mastering plugin designed to provide limiting and level control. |
| Support | Plugin Alliance provides a support center with compatibility, downloads, manuals, account help, and a contact support option. | Slate Digital provides product documentation and a support request channel. |
| Trial | Plugin Alliance says an individual plugin trial lasts 14 days and begins when the plugin is first launched in a DAW. | Complete Access offers a 14-day free trial, with no charge if canceled before the trial ends. |
Plans
Brainworx bx_masterdesk
- CORE$14.99 a month
- PRO$29.99 a month
- CORE$149.99 a year
- PRO$299.99 a year
- bx_masterdeskPrice not published
Slate Digital FG-X 2
- Complete Access monthly$19.99 a month
- FG-X 2 perpetual license$149, paid once
- Complete Access annual$199.99 a year
In their own words
Brainworx bx_masterdesk
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.
Slate Digital FG-X 2
Slate Digital FG-X 2 has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.