Filterbank is an analog-modeled filter plugin with dual filters, multi-stage distortion, and flexible modulation for adding movement, color, and character to any audio source.
Purpose and Design
Filterbank is designed for music producers, sound designers, and performers who want the tone and response of classic hardware filters in a digital environment. It models the behavior of analog circuits, capturing subtle non-linearities and interactions that give hardware its distinctive sound.
The plugin is built on research into real analog circuits, using a State Variable Filter architecture with non-linear feedback paths, capacitor simulation, and component interaction modeling. This approach aims to deliver authentic analog warmth and character, making it a versatile tool for adding motion, color, and edge to static or dynamic sources.
Key Capabilities
Filterbank includes two independent filters, each with lowpass, bandpass, and highpass modes, plus Moog-inspired resonance feedback. Filters can be arranged in parallel or serial configurations for maximum flexibility. The built-in multi-stage distortion adds analog warmth or aggressive harmonic enhancement using asymmetric processing, DC offset management, and dynamic saturation.
A modulation matrix integrates LFO, ADSR, and AR envelopes with multiple trigger sources such as audio, sidechain, and MIDI. This allows for evolving, dynamic control over filter parameters, including attack-release and ADSR patterns with analog-inspired timing. An envelope follower adds further modulation depth.
Workflow and Integration
The plugin offers features that streamline creative workflows. Thermal drift simulation recreates the ‘breathing’ quality of analog hardware by subtly modulating harmonic distortion over time, adding organic variation. Pitch tracking dynamically adjusts filter frequencies based on input pitch, creating musical filter responses that complement the source material.
High-quality signal processing uses 4x oversampling with anti-aliasing to ensure pristine audio quality, even with extreme settings. Full MIDI CC compatibility and a specialized note triggering system support live performance and sequenced modulation, making it suitable for on-stage use and complex automated setups.
Practical Applications
Filterbank can be used to add motion to static sounds, shape frequency content with precision, or push signals into distortion for added edge. For example, you could apply a slow LFO to the filter cutoff to create rhythmic movement in a pad, or use the envelope follower to make the filter respond to a drum beat’s dynamics.
The dual filters and routing options allow for complex sculpting, such as blending a clean bandpass with a distorted highpass for hybrid textures. The pitch tracking feature is useful for basslines or leads that need to follow the musical key automatically, while the thermal drift adds subtle life to sustained notes, making it a strong choice for sound design and performance.
Key features
- Dual filters with lowpass, bandpass, highpass modes and resonance feedback
- Parallel or serial filter routing
- Multi-stage distortion with asymmetric and saturation algorithms
- Modulation matrix with LFO, ADSR, AR envelopes and multiple triggers
- Thermal drift simulation for analog-like variation
- Pitch tracking for musical filter response
- 4x oversampling with anti-aliasing
Best for
Filterbank is best for producers and sound designers who need precise yet characterful filtering with deep modulation options. It excels at adding movement to static pads, shaping basslines with envelope-followed cutoff, and injecting analog-style grit into drums or leads. Its performance-friendly MIDI integration also suits live electronic acts.