PSPaudioware has announced the release of PSP sQuad, a bundle of four new high-quality equalizer plug-ins: PSP ClassicQ, PSP ConsoleQ, PSP preQursor and PSP RetroQ.

PSP sQuad equalizers are inspired by the best features and characteristics of classic analog hardware-musicality and simplicity. Although these EQs are easy to use, PSP expanded their functionality by several features including variable high pass filters or switchable steepness for the shelving filters. These EQs are CPU efficient enough to be used at every stage of the creative process, from composition to tracking to final production/mixing/mastering.

The Processors in PSP sQuad have a number of features in common with each other, and with other PSP Audioware plug-ins:

• FAT double sampling. In the PSP sQuad bundle, unlike other PSP Audioware plug-ins, FAT is automatically switched on for low (below 50kHz) sample rates, and off for higher sample rates. This ensures the most accurate processing independent of the sample rate.
• 64-bit double precision floating point computations for ultra low accumulative errors in the filters.
• An optional second generation SAT(uration) option in the output of each plug-in. This both protects against digital clipping in software or hardware following the plug-in, and adds a smooth, overdriven sound to hard-driven signals. The SATuration algorithm is located after output level control in a plug-in's internal chain and its ceiling reference level is setup a fraction of dB below 0dBFS.
• All actual parameters like gain, frequency or Q may differ from displayed values which is a typical feature of analog equalizers.

PSP ClassicQ is inspired by various classic British-style equalizers. It captures the sound and flavor of famously musical high and low filters (such as those in early Neve EQs), melded to very precise mid-range filter. In addition, PSP ClassicQ offers a selectable simulation of class A circuitry and output transformer for a unique, vintage-style color. To its classic features PSP ClassicQ adds extremely useful features such as an adjustable high pass filter, switchable Q for low- and high-shelf filters, and a sweepable midrange bell-type filter. The design of PSP ClassicQ lends it especially well to fixing and shaping individual tracks.

PSP ConsoleQ captures the sound character and functionality of various classic British console equalizers including flexible AMEK eqs. Although it takes inspiration from these analog classics, PSP added several features such as an adjustable high pass filter, steepness (resonance) control for the shelving filters, and three nominal Q values for midrange filters. In addition to its other many musical features PSP designed PSP ConsoleQ's midrange bell type filters so that they have gain following Q factors. By this, PSP means that the Q factor of these filters gradually increases along with increases in boost or attenuation. The ConsoleQ is specially designed for deep track tweaking to get the desired sound for a track, or just to get great track separation in the mix.

PSP preQursor offers PSP's own uniquely designed filters with low resonance peaks for reduced ringing artifacts, great band separation, and narrow notching on negative gains. All four filters are bell-type filters with progressive Q factors. These characteristics mean that this processor sounds excellent on acoustic tracks, overall mixes, or any application in which maintaining the natural feel of the material is paramount.

PSP RetroQ offers PSP Audioware's unique take on a musical equalizer with unique sonic character and low phase distortion. This makes RetroQ sound smooth and musically natural. It's shelf filters are based on PSP VintageWarmer's filters, and PSP RetroQ's addition of a mid-range filter is designed using the same internal architecture. An adjustable high pass filter is added to make the plug-in a complete program equalizer. It was optimized for use on groups and mixes, but it is equally at home in any situation in which you desire some gentle sweetening in your overall processing chain.

Pricing & Availability

The PSP sQuad plug-in bundle is available for Windows and Mac OS X in VST, AU and RTAS formats. The bundle has an MSRP of $249 but is available for the introductory price of $199 until February 14th, 2009.

Fully-operational 14 day demo versions are available for download.

Updates Already
A version 1.1.1 update, fixing a number of issues, is already available for registered users.