Brainworx bx_masterdesk vs WaveLab

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.

WaveLab is an audio mastering and editing suite for Windows and macOS. Its tools cover audio editing, audio montage, batch processing, and spectral editing, with multitrack editing, noise reduction, and video synchronization also listed. It supports VST 3 plug-ins from other manufacturers. The edition comparison lists podcasting integrations with SoundCloud, Spreaker, Podbean, Buzzsprout, and Castos, and says Pro and Elements can replace audio in video.

WaveLab Pro 13 includes Dolby Atmos mastering tools for ADM file editing, loudness control, and album assembly. It supports sample rates up to 384 kHz and more than 1,000 audio tracks; Elements 13 supports up to 96 kHz and eight tracks. Downloads are listed for Windows 10 64-bit version 22H2 or newer, Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer, and macOS 14, 15, or 26. The pricing note is From $99.99 · 60-day trial. A free WaveLab LE copy is available with qualifying hardware and a Download Access Code. The Pro trial requires signing in or creating a Steinberg ID.