It must be said: there aren’t many free multiband compressors.
This list will therefore be substantially shorter than, for example, the one on classic compression plugins.
However, multiband compression can be useful in many cases, such as keeping certain resonances under control, reducing sibilance, or for mastering.
Here is a list of the best free multiband compression plugins — knowing that the first one is clearly the one you should prioritize testing given its quality.
👉 And don’t forget to check out my file on multiband compression to learn how to use them correctly 😉
1. TDR Nova
Developer: Tokyo Dawn Records
Format: VST, AU, AAX (32 & 64 bits)
TDR Nova is an effective multiband compressor with a very aesthetic and easy-to-use interface despite the relative complexity of the controls. Its 4 processing bands should allow you to do just about anything you want.
Moreover, this plugin has the advantage of covering a large number of other features, in addition to multiband compression itself. It is thus possible to perform:
- parametric equalization
- dynamics equalization
- wide band compression
- frequency selective compression
In the end, an excellent multiband compressor, a must-have in your collection — and if you’re looking for something even more powerful, you can of course turn to the advanced version of the plugin (the “Gentleman’s Edition”), which has two more bands and some additional controls.
► Click here to download TDR Nova
2. ReaXcomp
Developer: Cockos (the creators of DAW Reaper)
Format: VST (32 and 64 bits)
I must admit that I am always a bit annoyed to talk about Cockos’ Reaplugs plugins in my lists of free plugins, as their design is completely bland. If there is any design at all… 🙂
However, in terms of sound quality and processing power, they are really very good.
Typically, ReaXcomp is a compressor with unlimited bands. This means you can add as many bands as you want.
This is quite unique for this type of plugin.
Additionally, besides a dedicated level meter, each band has a large number of settings and features. You will find of course the usual compressor settings, but also feedback detection options and RMS window sizing.
All in all, this plugin is very serious!
► Click here to download ReaXcomp
3. OTT
Developer: Xfer Records
Format: VST, AU, AAX (32 and 64 bits)
OTT from the publisher Xfer Records is a slightly more original, slightly more atypical plugin than the others on this list.
It is indeed a recreation of a multiband compression preset from Ableton Live that is quite aggressive and commonly used by electronic/dubstep music producers.
The effect has three bands, which generally correspond to lows, mids, and highs.
Attack and release are controlled via a single “Time” knob, while two settings named “Upward” and “Downward” are present.
These make the plugin’s originality, as it is possible:
- to reduce the dynamic range of the signal from the top (attenuating the loudest sounds), which corresponds to classic compression or Downward compression;
- to reduce the dynamic range of the signal from the bottom (amplifying the quietest sounds), which effectively corresponds to a form of parallel compression. This is Upward Compression.
To be tested quickly, especially if you produce modern/electro/rap music.
4. GMulti
Developer: GVST
Format: VST (32 and 64 bits)
GMulti by GVST is a somewhat more classic multiband compressor with three adjustable bands thanks to the frequency controls located on the left side of the interface.
The plugin is a bit dated, but it remains very nice if you are looking for a relatively simple tool that focuses on ensuring signal compression without too many additional features.
In addition to attack, release, or ratio settings, there is still a “Width” parameter for each band, which simply allows you to adjust the stereo image. For example, on the lows, you might want to lower this setting a bit to center the lows in mono. Handy.
Finally, a “Mix” button will allow you to remix the signal in parallel before compression if needed.
In the end, a good tool to keep on hand as a backup.
► Click here to download GMulti
5. Cramit
Developer: Sixth Sample
Format: VST3, AU, AAX (64 bits only)
The last option on this list (believe it or not, there aren’t thousands of multiband compressors, let alone free ones…) is Cramit by Sixth Sample.
This plugin is a bit original: on one hand, it integrates 3-band compression & expansion features, but it also offers pre- and post-compression distortion, with 7 types of possible distortions.
Overall, I find it to be an alternative to the OTT plugin mentioned earlier, but with its own character. No doubt that creators of electronic/modern music will want to give it a try!
► Click here to download Cramit
For more free plugins…
On this page, I only talked about multiband compression plugins.
But there is also a whole series of other lists of free plugins that you will probably find interesting. 😉
And if compression is not something that seems very clear to you, feel free to take a look at my guide on compressor settings.