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RJ-EQ · Manual

RJ-EQ: Manual

Version 1.0Updated 2026-07-05

RJ-EQ is the EQ I always wanted. Every band isn't just a filter, it's a full processor. It filters, it reacts dynamically, and it saturates right where you need it, instead of stacking three plugins on top of each other. What you see on screen is exactly what happens to the sound.

Overview

RJ-EQ combines three tools in one. A clean parametric EQ with up to 12 bands. A per-band dynamics section that turns a bell or shelf into a dynamic EQ. And a localised saturation that only touches the region of that band. An output limiter catches peaks so you can work freely.

The Interface

At its heart is the response graph: a logarithmic frequency axis from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a dB axis of ±24 dB.

  • Each band is a numbered, draggable dot. Drag it for frequency (horizontal) and gain (vertical).
  • The dark summed curve rides on top and shows you the real, combined result of all bands.
  • Dynamic bands show a "ghost" region that breathes with the gain reduction. That's how you see how hard the band is actually working.
  • On the right sits a vertical stereo output meter.
  • A floating info-bar shows the values of the selected band.

Tip: right-click-hold on a spot in the graph to solo that frequency. That's how you find the offending resonance before you even touch a control.

Controls & Parameters

Per Band (EQ)

  • Type: Bell, Low Shelf, High Shelf, Low Cut, High Cut
  • Freq: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Gain: −18 … +18 dB
  • Q: 0.4 – 6.0
  • Slope (cuts only): 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 / 72 / 96 dB/oct
  • Channel/Routing: Stereo, Left, Right, Mid, Side

Per Band – Dynamics

Enable dynamics and a bell or shelf becomes a dynamic EQ. The gain then reacts to the signal instead of staying static.

  • Threshold: −60 … 0 dB
  • Range: −24 … +24 dB (positive = expanding, negative = compressing)
  • Attack: 0.05 – 250 ms
  • Release: 5 – 2500 ms
  • Smooth: 1 – 6 (smooths the control motion; higher = softer, less pumping)

Per Band – Saturation

Saturation acts locally, on the band's region only, not on the whole signal.

  • Character: Soft, Tube, Crisp, Round, Crunch, Air, Velvet, Punch
  • Drive: 0 – 24 dB
  • Bias: 0 – 100 % (shifts the operating point and brings even-order content into play)
  • Mix: 0 – 100 % (dial it in parallel)
  • De-Emphasis: EQ+Grit or Grit only – decides whether the EQ curve is saturated too, or only the distortion takes hold

Output Limiter

At the output sits a limiter, so the saturation and dynamic bands don't let peaks slip through.

  • Mode: Limiter, Soft Clip, Hard Clip
  • Ceiling: −24 … 0 dB
  • Release: 5 – 1000 ms
  • GR read-out: shows the current gain reduction in real time

Global

  • In/Out Gain: ±24 dB
  • Phase invert: flips phase at the output
  • Oversampling: Off / 2× / 4× (raise it with heavy saturation to avoid aliasing)
  • Analyzer: on/off
  • A/B compare: compare two states directly
  • Presets: save and load as .rjeq

Workflow

RJ-EQ is built for fast moves:

  1. Double-click in the graph to add a new band.
  2. Drag a dot to change frequency × gain at the same time.
  3. Mouse-wheel over a value to nudge it finely: Q, Freq, Gain, anywhere there's a number.
  4. Right-click-hold to solo a frequency while you search.

Practical Tips

  • Dynamics instead of a static cut: does a voice only get harsh in loud passages? A dynamic high-shelf with a negative Range and a fast Attack only pulls down when it gets to be too much. The rest stays bright.
  • Saturation as glue: a band around 2–4 kHz with Tube or Crisp and a low Mix adds presence without cranking the gain.
  • Targeted Mid/Side: keep the low end mono-solid with a Low Cut on Side. Then open the top with an Air shelf on Side. Width without mud.
  • Read the ghost region: if the breathing region is barely visible, the dynamics engage too rarely. Lower the Threshold. If it jitters nervously, raise Smooth.
  • With high Drive, set Oversampling to 2× or 4×.

Installation & Activation

RJ-EQ runs as VST3, AU and AAX on macOS and Windows.

  1. Download and run the installer, then reopen your DAW.
  2. On first launch you get the 30-day, fully functional trial, no limitations.
  3. After purchase, enter your license key in the plugin's info area. Done.

Questions about activation or workflow? Just write to me directly. I build these tools myself and I'm glad to help.