HoRNet MasterTool: a magic mastering formula for instant results?
HoRNet Plugins has released MasterTool, a new all-in-one mastering plug-in designed for quick results. Are MasterTool’s analysis and processing algorithms intelligent enough to make everything sound good, as the developer says?
HoRNet Plugins MasterTool
It’s no small claim that HoRNet Plugins is making here: MasterTool “makes your tracks sound good without effort”. Haven’t we all at some point wished for a plug-in with a button that magically turns any mediocre mix into a killer track? If HoRNet Plugins is to be believed, its new MasterTool plug-in possesses these supernatural powers.
So what is it? The developer describes MasterTool as a “mastering robot”. It’s an all-in-one EQ and dynamics processor that uses intelligent algorithms to analyze the signal and automatically apply the necessary processing. The signal reaches the EQ first, which ‘fixes’ the frequency spectrum using a frequency unmasking algorithm. Next is the dynamics stage, which consists of a clipper and two limiters, all automatic. According to HoRNet Plugins, the clipper and first limiter cut off the peaks and increase the loudness, while the second limiter helps to achieve the desired final level.
Controls are minimal. The only two dials let you set the EQ Amount and LUFS Target Level. There’s also a Learn button, of which I’m not 100% sure what it does, and a button that engages a special mode for voiceovers and podcasts. That’s it, everything else happens automatically.
It’s hard to imagine that an inexpensive plug-in with a handful of controls will be able to replace the knowledge and skills of an experienced mastering engineer. But at the plug-in’s low price, it could be worth giving it a shot – maybe HoRNet has discovered the magic formula after all!
Price and compatibility
HoRNet MasterTool is available from the developer’s website for EUR 22.99. You can also download a free demo.
The plug-in runs on macOS 10.11 or higher and Windows 7 or higher in VST, VST3, AU and AAX formats.
More information
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One response to “HoRNet MasterTool: a magic mastering formula for instant results?”
I am an experienced mastering technician who owns a mastering studio for over 25 years and have many albums behind me. The result obtained from the plug-in is a good result. It sounds perfectly fine, but does not compare to the analog mastering work of an experienced mastering technician on external analog equipment.