MB Davids2Bus
by Metric Halo · Saturation · Analog 2-bus chain emulation
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MB Davids2Bus models engineer David Gnozzi's analog 2-bus chain, combining tape saturation, transformer enhancement and stereo processing.
It is part of the Make Believe line sold by Metric Halo, and sells for $99 (regular $179).
Best for: Mix Bus, Mastering, Drum Bus. Genres: all genres.
Keywords: bus processing, mix bus, enhancement, transformer, mixing, tape, full mix, wide, glue, hardware emulation, corrective, creative, drum bus, mastering, metering, single-band, spacious, utility.
What it does
MB Davids2Bus is a mix-bus processor built by Make Believe Studios and Metric Halo around mixing engineer David Gnozzi's analog 2-bus chain. It is designed as the "first instance on your mixbus," combining tape, transformers and stereo effects so a mix comes together faster.
- Tape stage: tape saturation with transient control, which also tames dynamics through saturation.
- Transformer stage: enhancement with a Texture knob in two flavours, A and B, to add weight and definition.
- Stereo stage: width control plus a "3D" spatial adjustment.
- Drive: adds character that the developer says never becomes overbearing.
- Input, Output and metering: input and output knobs set how hard the chain is pushed, and two green LEDs guide gain staging.
- Workflow: MH Preset Manager with cross-platform presets and an adjustable UI size.
A free, fully functional 30-day trial is available. KVR notes that it is also used creatively on single tracks and groups.
Source: Metric Halo product page
When to use it
Davids2Bus is the better pick when you want a fixed finishing chain on the mix bus with only a few decisions to make. Compared with Universal Audio's Ampex ATR-102, it gives less tape-machine detail but adds transformer and width stages in the same window. Unlike Black Box Analog Design HG-2, which centres on tube saturation, it is built around tape and transformer colour plus stereo enhancement. Next to Kazrog True Iron, it trades deep transformer options for an all-in-one chain, and its 30-day trial makes it easy to check on your own mixes.
- Best for: adding weight, cohesion and width across a full mix, early in the mix-bus chain.
- Genres: pop, rock, hip-hop, electronic and any genre that wants analog bus colour.
- Look elsewhere if: you want detailed control over a single stage; a dedicated tape plugin such as the Ampex ATR-102, or True Iron for transformers, goes further.
Where to buy
- Metric Halo: $99 (regular $179)
Tutorials and reviews
- Metric Halo and Make Believe Studios Launch MB David's 2Bus…
- Metric Halo Davids 2Bus-Review in English-
- David's Mixbus Plugin by Metric Halo with Teezio & Bainz! [Behind The Scenes]
- David's 2Bus in Collaboration with David Gnozzi + @mixbustv Sound Examples
- David's 2Bus PLUGIN IS OUT! By Metric Halo & Make Believe
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