Lens
by Auburn Sounds · Compressor · Spectral multiband compander
Not rated yet
Lens is a spectral dynamics processor from Auburn Sounds: a multiband compressor and upward compressor that runs up to 64 companders on a stereo signal.
It avoids the phase shifts of crossover-based multiband compressors, and one instance handles sidechain EQ, output EQ and removal of masked content. A free edition is available.
Best for: Mix Bus, Mastering, Bass, Drum Bus. Genres: all genres.
Keywords: multi-band, freemium, spectral, bus processing, upward compression, bass, mix bus, sidechain input, full mix, clean, drum bus, mastering, mixing.
What it does
Lens is Auburn Sounds' "crystal clear multiband compander," a spectral dynamics processor meant for control of whole mixes and difficult tracks.
- No crossover phase shift: multiband compression without the phase shifts of crossover filters, and EQ with constant phase and no ringing.
- Up to 64 companders: all working together on a stereo signal.
- Two EQs: control the sidechain EQ and the output EQ at the same time.
- Unmasking: removes information that is masked by nearby components.
- Over The Top: a clean multiband upward compression mode.
Version 1.4. A free edition is available; the Full edition is paid.
Source: Auburn Sounds product page
When to use it
Lens is an alternative to crossover-based multiband compressors like FabFilter Pro-MB, Waves C6 Multiband Compressor and Devious Machines Multiband X6. Pick it for a spectral approach with many bands, upward compression and no crossover phase shift, at a low price with a free edition. Pro-MB and C6 are easier to set up for a few targeted bands and give more familiar per-band controls.
- Best for: master and mix bus dynamics, controlling low end, and rescuing rough recordings such as rehearsal bass tracks.
- Genres: any style; the developer's examples include techno and rehearsal recordings.
- Look elsewhere if: you want a simple three- or four-band compressor with classic controls.
- Standout: up to 64 companders working together with no crossover phase shift.
What producers say
KVR users rate it highly, with thanks for the free version.
- KVR users gave it 5/5: one (2022) wrote "Beautiful idea and execution" and thanked the developer for the free version; another (2025) praised Auburn Sounds for "creating plugins that go BEYOND the norm."
- Note: the 2022 reviewer said it pays off most if you already understand multiband compression.
Where to buy
- Auburn Sounds: $49 (regular $65.34)
- Plugin Boutique: $49
Tutorials and reviews
- Introducing LENS (Auburn Sounds)
- Free Plugin! Auburn Sounds Lens (astroboy)
- Auburn Sounds Lens Compressor "FREE" (CROSSBEATS MUSIC PRODUCTION)
- Just tried Auburn Sounds New Plugin: Lens
- Auburn Sounds Lens - Da Fingaz Review
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