Need simple 'Mastering' software for stereo tracks

[pugilistas]

I'm looking for a simple solution to basic mastering of some stereo tracks that got shot to me be an old friend. They vary from cassette recordings to field recordings to digital recordings (some from Cubase 1!), but all are stereo mixes, mostly wav. Working on W10 or W11 PC.

I want to get something reasonable and decent to run them through to get 'em sounding better for library and archiving. Not looking for high end solutions, there are too many recordings, and don't want to spend too much money on it. The quality of the recordings vary. The time is going to be enough of an investment.

Prefer standalone, though I have recently gotten Bitwig, and have Sound Forge as well. Could always try Reaper, but would prefer the thing be a fairly simple setup. Not that interested in online mastering, unless it's got some special magic dust.
I'm having trouble finding something like this that is specific to stereo tracks as opposed to mixdowns of separate tracks.

Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated.

[poonna]

This one is free. Not sure if it fits your needs.

https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/prod ... tudio.html

[cryophonik]

Prefer standalone, though I…have Sound Forge as well.

You already have an excellent app for mastering right there

[pugilistas]

This one is free. Not sure if it fits your needs.

https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/prod ... tudio.html

That might work. Will give it a whirl! Thanks.

[pugilistas]

Prefer standalone, though I…have Sound Forge as well.

You already have an excellent app for mastering right there

I started out on Sound Forge and Acid (1!), so there's that. Don't know how far back I am on versions though. Guess I should check and see if the newer versions add more mastering gizmos.

[RirtualViot2013]

If you need a mastering EQ (not a full suite, but usually part of a mastering chain) you could try the iZotope Ozone 11 EQ. It is a professional software parametric mastering EQ. Comes for free with Native Instruments Komplete Start and features full parametric equalization, presets, Bell, Shelf, Lowpass and Highpass filters, sounds super clean.

Of course Sound Forge would also be an alternative, although I cannot definitely recommend it since unlike with Ozone 11 EQ, I do not have any experience with Sound Forge.

LANDR Mastering would also be an option, but I dont have any experience with that one either.

[dawzone]

If you want an easy and free way to master stereo tracks, check out bx_mastering studio by Brainworx. It’s a standalone app based on their online mastering engine, but it has more control and no need to upload anything. It's super simple to use and great for improving everything. If you’re open to spending a bit, Master Plan is another excellent option. It has a clean interface, fast results, and is very beginner-friendly, and it works as a plugin inside your DAW. Also, check The God Particle mastering plugin designed by Cradle in collaboration with producer Jaycen Joshua. With minimal controls, it handles EQ, compression, and limiting behind the scenes.