M Media Audio Launches Northstar Mastering Plugin

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M Media Audio has introduced Northstar, a comprehensive mastering console plugin. It brings tonal shaping, dynamics, color, stereo control, and final loudness into a single window. The plugin is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux as VST3, with AU support on macOS.

Signal Path and Processing

Northstar offers three EQ banks that shape the full stereo signal, the center, and the sides independently. Additionally, it includes FET, VCA, and Vari-Mu compressors with six possible processing orders. The plugin also features low and high translation sections that dynamically reduce bands that push too far forward. An HF limiter, three saturation characters, stereo controls, and a true-peak limiter complete the signal chain.

For visual feedback, the EQ display shows live PRE and POST spectra alongside the filter curve. An optional reference spectrum is also available. The built-in player allows users to hear a finished track at matched loudness. Moreover, level-matched bypass enables a fair comparison with the untouched mix. LUFS, true-peak, and LRA readouts show where the record is landing.

Workflow and Presets

Users can choose a loudness target and press Set Level. Northstar then adjusts gain using its measured output as the music plays. Every processing section has its own power switch, and the controls start neutral. This allows building a sound one move at a time. Alternatively, users can begin with one of 28 factory presets. A/B holds two complete control states for comparing directions.

Furthermore, the plugin supports online or offline activation. Licenses are perpetual and cover up to three machines. The free demo runs the full plugin with brief audio silences every 30 seconds.

Pricing and Availability

Northstar is priced at $59 through October 4, 2026. The regular price is $99. It is available as VST3 for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and as AU for macOS.

Features

  • Three EQ banks for full, center, and side processing
  • FET, VCA, and Vari-Mu compressors with six processing orders
  • Low and High Translation for dynamic band control
  • HF limiter, three saturation characters, and stereo controls
  • Level-matched bypass and built-in player
  • LUFS, true-peak, and LRA metering
  • 28 factory presets and A/B comparison
  • Perpetual license for up to three machines

Price
Intro: $59.00 (USD)
Regular: $99.00 (USD)

Pros

  • Three independent EQ banks for full, center, and side processing
  • Multiple compressor types with six processing orders
  • Level-matched bypass and built-in player for accurate A/B comparison

Cons

  • No AAX support
  • Demo version has audio silences every 30 seconds

More info: M Media Audio | Northstar