SMOOTH

SMOOTH addresses a persistent problem in modern production: the resonances that slip past conventional EQ. Rather than dividing the spectrum into arbitrary frequency chunks, this dynamic suppressor maps its 40 bands to ERB (equivalent rectangular bandwidth) scaling, which reflects how the human ear actually resolves pitch. The result is surgical suppression that feels transparent because it respects psychoacoustic principles.

The plugin's core appeal lies in its restraint. Unlike aggressive multiband compressors, SMOOTH only engages when resonances actually flare, using zero-delay feedback filters to catch harshness without obvious pumping artifacts. Two character modes address different problems: Resonance mode tames sustained harshness in vocals or synths, while Transient mode handles percussive spikes that traditional EQ struggles to control. Users can switch between modes or blend them in real-time.

The mid-side routing is genuinely useful, allowing precise control over center-panned elements without degrading the stereo image - particularly valuable when problematic resonances live in the vocal or kick without affecting your carefully constructed width.

SMOOTH's spectral display transforms guesswork into diagnosis. Watching the real-time visualization while adjusting the five controls confirms what's actually being reduced, bridging the gap between measurement and listening. At under 3% CPU with a 4096-point FFT, the plugin handles dense arrangements without penalty.

This is essential gear for mastering engineers, critical mix specialists, and anyone working with unruly source material. At $29, SMOOTH occupies a rare position: genuinely useful without pretension, effective without surgery. It belongs in every serious toolkit.