FreeG

FreeG has been around for awhile now, and is still one of the very best freebies you can get (especially considering it's available in the largely freeware-challenged Mac format!) and is something I use every day in my mixes, including vocal riding!

I've always been a little reluctant to use fader automation on Cubase tracks because it can be such a pain to go back and re-edit, and sometimes you just want to be able to quickly lower the global track level, or completely bypass or delete your automation. Enter FreeG.

With FreeG I can do all the normal host fader/pan automation I want, and if I make a mistake, I can bypass or start over - or even insert another instance of FreeG - the possibilities are endless! FreeG offers a safe, new level of automation creativity that has really helped my mixes immeasurably.

FreeG also features detailed control over fader settings; chances are it's much smoother than your host's faders, with a real "studio" feel that can help you get your fades right.

Also you get a full RMS/Peak level meters. I don't use these features much as my host's are fine, but can be very useful for those who don't have them, or for a second opinion.

The GUI is detailed and fetching too, the graphics help lend "weight" to the controls, with no confusion over what's what. You can flip to the back for more control over ballistics too, for the tweakers.

I've never had a single problem with FreeG's automation. I'd be hard-pressed to find a more stable, CPU-light VST effect out there. You can literally have one on every track without worry, and automate the hell out of them. As for as FreeG + Cubase is concerned, it's a perfect match, and I urge all to check it out. It's a quality product at a bargain price (or lack of!).

This is a great plug. The only problem with it is the broken automation. As acknowledged by Sonalksis themselves:
"... the resolution of the FreeG's automation is not perfect. This is a side effect of the wrapping code we use to produce AU, VST and RTAS versions of the plugin from the same codebase. We've attempted to improve this, but it's not possible without breaking compatibility with old sessions that use the FreeG."
The volume slider, the incremental detail, the extra "gain" knob, the metering are all superb - with the exception that you can't use it to 'ride' volumes and record volume automation into your audio program.
That's the only thing making this great 'indispensible' freebie into a waste of time for anything but large volume drops/jumps and accurate metering - and at those two things it excels. Just don't try to use it like a vocal rider.