View all EQ / Dynamic Processing Alternatives
Best Free Alternatives to FabFilter Pro-Q 4
Stop paying $199 / $149 (Upgrade). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: EQ / Dynamic ProcessingVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
ZL Equalizer 2
FREEThe Best Free 1:1 Rival
Why we like it
Released in late 2025; essentially a free 'clone' of the Pro-Q workflow; up to 24 bands; includes dynamic EQ, spectrum grab, and collision detection; native Linux/Mac/Win support; zero registration required.
Keep in mind
The UI animations, while smooth, lack the ultra-refined 'polish' of FabFilter's 20-year-old engine; smaller preset library.
TDR Nova
FREETop Professional Free Alternative
Why we like it
A 'parallel' dynamic equalizer; exceptional for taming harsh resonances; extremely transparent filters; the 'Gentleman's Edition' offers high-end features at a fraction of FabFilter's cost.
Keep in mind
The interface is more technical and less 'fluid' than Pro-Q 4; limited to 4 bands in the free version (plus high/low pass).
Kilohearts Essentials (3-Band EQ)
FREEBest Lightweight Utility
Why we like it
100% free; part of the massive Essentials bundle; extremely low CPU usage; perfect for simple tonal shaping where Pro-Q 4 would be overkill.
Keep in mind
Not a surgical EQ; lacks dynamic bands, spectrum analysis, and mid/side processing.
Analog Obsession SSQ / FRANK 2
FREEBest for Analog Character
Why we like it
100% free; modeled after the SSL 4000 series (SSQ) and Pultec/API hybrids (FRANK); adds musical harmonics and 'vibe' that Pro-Q's digital transparency lacks.
Keep in mind
No visual analyzer; strictly 'ears-only' workflow; lacks surgical precision and dynamic features.
Kirchhoff-EQ
The Power-User Rival
Why we like it
Considered by some to have superior filter 'decramping' and sound quality; includes 32 bands, 117-bit processing, and massive analog modeling options; excellent visual feedback.
Keep in mind
MSRP is higher than FabFilter; the interface is significantly more complex and has a steeper learning curve.
Need more options?
Explore our full directory of EQ / Dynamic Processing software alternatives.
Browse the EQ / Dynamic Processing Hub