Rockheyday Balance 9: Zero-Latency Parametric EQ

Rockheyday has released Balance 9, a high-precision 9-band parametric equalizer designed for mastering and critical listening. The plugin combines zero-latency processing with an intuitive node-based workflow and real-time visual feedback. It is available for Windows and macOS in VST3 and AU formats.

Key Features of Balance 9

Balance 9 offers nine draggable EQ nodes with mouse-wheel Q control. Each band supports five filter modes: Low Cut, Low Shelf, Peak, High Shelf, and High Cut. The engine uses a zero-latency, minimum-phase IIR architecture, ensuring accurate phase response without delay. Moreover, a dedicated Solo mode allows isolated A/B comparison between the active band processing and a flat band-pass in complete isolation.

In addition, the plugin includes a Global Scale Control that adjusts overall EQ scaling from 0% to 200%. Output gain ranges from -12 to +12 dB, and a polarity invert switch flips the phase by 180 degrees. The spectrum analyzer features a dual-layer display with adaptive 4096/8192-point FFT and an instant on/off toggle. Spectral calibration uses a 4.5 dB internal tilt with 350 ms ballistic decay. Dual-layer metering shows input in the background and output in the foreground.

The L-Curve: Psychoacoustic Compensation

Inspired by ISO 226 equal-loudness research, the L-Curve provides stepped contour compensation. When mixing at lower listening levels, especially during headphone sessions, human ears lose perception of bass and treble. Therefore, the L-Curve uses a dedicated 3-filter network modeled on ISO 226 curves to maintain natural tonal balance. This feature is particularly useful for late-night monitor mixing or long headphone use.

Furthermore, the preset manager includes dropdown navigation and XML save/load. The plugin automatically matches the host DAW sample rate, supporting rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz and beyond.

Features

High-precision 9-band parametric EQ
Zero-latency minimum-phase IIR processing
Five filter modes per band
Dedicated Solo mode with isolated A/B comparison
L-Curve contour with ISO 226 modeling
Global Scale Control (0-200%)
Dual-layer spectrum analyzer with 4096/8192-point FFT
Dual-layer LR peak metering
Preset manager with XML save/load

Balance 9 is available for $24.99 with an introductory 20% discount until October 6th. Use the code LAUNCH20 at checkout on rockheyday.gumroad.com. The price is competitive for a mastering EQ with this feature set, making it a solid option for producers seeking precise tonal control.

Price
Intro: $19.99 (after 20% discount)
Regular: $24.99