IQ-Series Reverb V2
by HOFA · Reverb · Convolution and algorithmic reverb
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IQ-Series Reverb V2 is HOFA's convolution and algorithmic reverb, running up to four impulse-response engines and two AlgoVerbs at once.
The base version includes 1,500 impulse responses (2,886 with all IR packs), plus built-in EQ, compressor, gate, modulation, saturation and a positioner, for €249.90 (about $284).
Best for: Vocals, Drums, Acoustic Instruments, Keys & Synths, Sound Design. Genres: all genres.
Keywords: algorithmic, impulse-response based, convolution, vocals, plate, room, spring, drums, ducking, hall, mixing, post-production, 80s, cathedral, chamber, ambience, auto-pan, bright, gated, reverse, sound design.
What it does
IQ-Series Reverb V2 is HOFA's hybrid reverb: it runs convolution and algorithmic engines side by side in one plugin, with a full processing chain on top. It is built for music mixing as well as post-production.
- Six engines: four IR engines and two AlgoVerbs can run at once, so you can layer up to six reverbs into one custom space.
- IR library: 1,500 impulse responses in the base version and about 2,886 with all eight IR packs, covering Room, Ambience, Chamber, Hall, Church, Plate, Space, Spring, FX, Reverse, Hybrid and Cabinet. You can load your own IRs too.
- AlgoVerb: each algorithmic engine offers ten algorithms such as Plate, Chamber, Cathedral, Deep and Huge, with pre-delay, diffusion, decay, modulation, filters, a three-band decay EQ and a Vintage '80s-style mode.
- IR envelope: shape each impulse response by its direct, early and tail parts, for trimmed, gated or combined IRs.
- Processing: a four-band parametric EQ, compressor, gate, modulation and saturation, plus a Ducker that pulls the reverb down while the source plays.
- Positioner: a 2D panner that places the source left/right and front/back inside the space.
- Browser and surround: a detachable IR browser that filters by brightness, RT60, length and use (drums, vocals, instruments, FX); mono, stereo and true-stereo IRs, with 5.1 surround support.
The base version is sold separately from the single IR packs and a bundle with all eight packs. A 14-day trial is available.
When to use it
IQ-Series Reverb V2 is the pick when you want sampled spaces and algorithmic reverb in one window, with EQ, dynamics and placement built in. Compared with Altiverb 8 it is cheaper and adds algorithmic engines, ducking and saturation. Against FabFilter Pro-R 2 it sounds more like real rooms and offers far more layering, while Pro-R 2 is quicker to set up. VintageVerb gets a characterful 80s-style reverb in seconds for a fraction of the price; IQ-Reverb asks for more time but lets you build and shape the space in detail.
- Best for: realistic rooms and halls, layered hybrid reverbs, spring and plate colours, and post-production work that needs placement in the space.
- Genres: any; especially cinematic, acoustic, orchestral and vocal-led music.
- Look elsewhere if: you want fast creative reverbs on a budget (Valhalla VintageVerb or Supermassive), or a light reverb for large sessions; reviewers found IQ-Reverb heavy on CPU.
- Tip: use it as an insert on a lead vocal or pad and automate the Positioner for subtle movement in the space.
What producers say
Reviewers see it as one of the most complete reverbs around, with CPU load and a busy first impression as the main downsides.
- Sound On Sound (Sam Inglis) said it "completely puts to bed any idea that convolution has to be sterile", praising the large library, the floating browser, the Ducker and the spring IRs; the only listed con was the lack of true surround IRs.
- Everything Recording gave it 4.5 out of 5, calling the interface "masterfully designed" and suggesting it could be the last reverb plugin you'll need.
- Criticisms: Everything Recording found it "CPU intensive" enough to freeze large mixes, and wished for curve editing in the IR envelope and tempo-synced pumping; SOS felt the GUI can seem intimidating at first.
Where to buy
- PluginFox: $244.90
- HOFA: $283.76 (Listed at €249.90; converted at €1 = $1.1355 (ECB rate, 29 Sep 2026))
Tutorials and reviews
- HOFA IQ-Series Reverb V2 Walkthrough
- Hands on HOFA IQ-Series Reverb V2
- This is ALMOST PERFECT! || Hofa - IQ-Reverb 2
- Review HOFA-Plugins - IQ Series Reverb V2: W-O-W 🤯
- Out Now: IQ-Series Reverb V2
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