Overview

The ultimate all-in-one mastering solution, with new features added by popular demand
You asked, we listened: The bx_masterdesk PRO expands on its predecessors by adding new functionality and greater control to this incredibly popular and easy-to-use mastering system.

More powerful dynamics control
In the PRO version, both the compressor and limiter are upgraded with variable release times and linking options. The limiter also gains a new modern/classic switch, while the compressor now features variable ratio control, a CLIPPER option, and new “GLUE” feature for analog-style compression that gels the mix together before it reaches the final mastering chain.

More tonal options
The simple tone stack of the original bx_masterdesk is now complemented by a fully featured 3-band parametric EQ in the PRO version. Also present are high pass, low pass and dual resonance filters, as well as an onboard De-Esser—all of which feature expanded frequency ranges. Want even more tonal control? Take advantage of the newly included XL section for additional saturation, harmonics and color.

An even more impressive stereo field
In addition to the Mono-Maker, which centers low-frequency content for focused and punchy bass, and the Stereo Width control, which can expand the stereo spread for a more immersive feel, the PRO version of Masterdesk adds new stereo enhancement modes not seen in prior plugins. The new M/S features include the Mid Signal Panorama option and the Stereo Enhance knob to provide even greater control over stereo imaging and balance.

The same high-end tone and minimal learning curve, with expanded controls that more sophisticated users will love
One thing hasn’t changed: The upgraded bx_masterdesk PRO is still so easy to learn that even inexperienced producers can quickly dial in great-sounding masters in under a minute. It’s still just a matter of toggling through the carefully crafted presets to get you into the right ballpark, and then sweetening things further with 3 key dials: “Volume”, “Foundation” and “Tone”. The only difference is that you can now refine these starting points even further with the option of greater control over your dynamics, EQ curve, saturation and stereo field when you want it. Try it for mastering, mix bus and even instrument subgroups.

Features

  • High end analog mastering chain in a single plugin
  • The same simple 3-step workflow as prior versions, with expanded controls for further refinement
  • Includes the limiter algorithm and meters from bx_limiter True Peak
  • Adjustable link settings and release times for compressor and limiter
  • Fully variable Compressor Mix control
  • Additional TMT compressor models
  • CLIPPER – shave off loud transients to get a much louder signal
  • GLUE – analog style compression to gel the mix together in punchy but elegant way
  • Extensive preset list for immediate results
  • Expanded parametric EQ
  • New stereo enhancement controls
  • XL knob for added harmonic saturation
  • Improved GUI for even easier control
  • Featuring Tolerance Modeling Technology (TMT) with Analog and Digital modes

Audio Examples

Industry Reviews

  • Morgan Page

    Morgan Page

    2-Time Grammy Nominated DJ and Music Producer

    Super intuitive interface that lets you dial in every component quickly to get a wide cohesive punchy master. I can see this being excellent for treating stems as well.

  • Fabian Mazur

    Fabian Mazur

    Music Producer, DJ

    I really enjoy this plugin. I’ve had several Brainworx plugins in my mastering chain for a while so having a plugin where I can have them all in one is super neat. Really digging the added glue… Read More

  • Alex Delicata

    Alex Delicata

    Grammy-nominated songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist (Beyoncé, Rihanna, Hunter Hayes)

    The new Brainworx Masterdesk Pro combines the ease of use of the original Masterdesk with the added complexity you need to really dial in a great sounding master. It borrows some of the best… Read More

  • David Forbes

    David Forbes

    Music Producer, DJ

    After a few clicks WOW, The Presets alone are perfect for any style of music, another staple piece of Plugin Alliance software added to the collection, Brainworx bx masterdesk PRO an absolute must… Read More

  • Lamont Sincere

    Lamont Sincere

    Mixing Engineer (Wiz Khalifa, Duke Deuce, Lil Yachty)

    Masterdesk Pro has everything you need like you’re carrying one book bag with all of your stuff in there on your mix buss. The clipper, tone, foundation knobs has some amazing warmth energy,… Read More

Customer Reviews

  • Instant Polish

    ★★★★★
    by Curtis Mayfield III
    Instant Polish is the best way to describe this plugin. Masterdesk Pro is intuitive and easy to dial in. You don't need to over tweek anything. Small moves in the right places from the Clipper,… Read More
  • bx_masterdesk PRO

    ★★★★★
    by laurent4114
    I had the previous version which I found very effective and easy to use for an amateur musician like me. So I hesitated to buy the pro version because I said to myself what more is it going to do?… Read More
  • one stop Mastering Shop

    ★★★★★
    by willcando
    I have tried many of the mastering tools that is avaiable out there, the bx masterdesk PRO is so easy to use and get the sound that your clients deserve.
  • ...better

    ★★★★★
    by Synthitize
    The previous version was already effective. With all the contributions added to this new opus, we arrive at a complete and very effective mastering plug-in to make a mix more professional and improve… Read More
  • Absolutely Amazing

    ★★★★★
    by Nik
    This plugin has allowed me to replace 3 plugins in my final processing chain. It really is a one-stop solution for finishing a song/beat. Even if my mix is too hot before I turn it on, the… Read More

Specifications

Supported Plugin Formats
AAX Native, AU, VST2, VST3

Supported Operating Systems
macOS 14 down to macOS 11
Windows 11 down to Windows 10

Mac
Intel, or Apple Silicon

PC
x64-compatible CPU

System Requirements
Display resolution: 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px or higher
Memory: 2 GB RAM

Downloads

With the Installation Manager you can select, download & install all the Plugin Alliance products. Select any and all formats you need for your system! Mac & PC.

ChangeLog

bx_masterdesk PRO

bx_masterdesk Pro - Changelog

Version 1.1.1 (Oct 9, 2023)
- General: fixed CPU spikes on Mac OS

Version 1.1.0 (Aug 15, 2023)
- General: added native Apple Silicon compatibility for AAX
- General: added macOS Ventura support
- General: improved plugin loading time in the DAW
- General: fixed issue causing Logic to crash when closing the plugin UI
- General: improved font drawing behavior

Version 1.0 (May 10, 2023)
- Initial Release

RC 1 (05.05.2023)
- Dynamic Range Meter fix
- Limiter Gain Reduction fix
- DeEsser Listen does not flash anymore