Toontrack EZMix 2 Review

Last Updated on December 29, 2020 by IDS Team

Whatever are the genres that you’re working in, there should always be an array of different effects plugins involved in the process.

What’s more, things can sometimes get quite messy with a very complex virtual signal chain of different effects. Even to the point where you might even forget why you even added some of those plugins.

So in some cases, it’s usually a good idea to go with the multi-effects plugins. This way, you’ll save both your time and patience with a product where all the components are designed to work well with one another.

Knowing how useful these kinds of plugins can be to some, we decided to look into EZMix 2, made and developed by Toontrack.

It’s been a while since it was originally released, with the latest upgrade 2.1.5 being launched back in May of 2019.

Since it’s present on the plugin market and has already built its reputation, we’re certain that many have been satisfied with it. This is why we decided to take a closer look at it and give our take on EZMix 2 and all of its features.

Features

What are all the goodies that we get with such a diverse plugin? Well, before we get into it, we need to point out that this is a multi-purpose multi-effects and mixing product.

It’s intended for pretty much any type of physical or virtual instrument, as well as any type of vocals.

In its array of effects, all designed to work hand-in-hand together, we have specialized presets for different types of instruments and vocals.

For instance, if you’re recording an electric guitar, EZMix 2 will provide you not only with some amp simulations, but also whole presets with numerous effects all set for the final product.

But aside from the basses and guitars, we also can find presets for keyboards, drums, and vocals, as well as different mastering settings, all with additional effects.

From this feature, it’s pretty clear that the guys over at Toontrack wanted a multi-purpose full package for everything.

With all this said, there’s a wide variety of different effects included. Anything from basic EQs, over compressors, modulation effects, up to full-blown guitar amp simulation.

Using the plugin’s graphic interface, you’re able to create, or edit, different signal chains on your own. When you arrange the virtual rack effects or pedals or amps, you can select each one and tweak its parameters. It’s all pretty visual-based.

Performance

One of the first things that we could notice about it is that the search engine was way more practical than the one in the first edition of EZMix.

For instance, in the EZMix 2, the user is able to search using different criteria or different instruments and more easily find what’s suitable for their needs.

But, of course, such a feature is a must in this day and age, especially if we’re talking about a multi-purpose plugin with a wide array of implementation.

In fact, it seems that the search option is the very center of this plugin.

Knowing that Toontrack sells additional presets of countless signal chains, it’s intended to operate through already available presets, with just a little bit of your own tweaking.

This might not fit with the idea some users might have for a multi-purpose mixing, effects, and mastering plugin.

On the other hand, this particular approach with pre-made presets is exactly what some musicians or producers are looking for.

The same things could be said about the overall design and arrangement of all the effects on it.

The user interface with all the controls offers easy operation for any purpose or effects presets. It’s a plugin with a very simplified approach that’s designed for those who love working with premade presets.

Going over to effects, they offer some pretty realistic and useful representation of even some classic analog units.

If you’re familiar with how basic effects controls work and have some experience behind you, there won’t be any issues. And even if you’re a beginner, the clear and very precise design makes it easier for any level.

Aside from being the standard VST plugin, it also comes in AU and RTAS forms for different platforms, which is most certainly a good addition for a variety of users.

Conclusion

To put it simply, EZMix 2 justifies its very creative name – it does make it easier to mix everything yourself. Well, it’s more than just mixing as it offers different effects and mastering features.

However, you just need to bear in mind that this is a multi-purpose unit and should be regarded as one. This means that you cannot expect it to perform some specific tasks as well as some other plugins with a more narrow array of use.

We’d single out the guitar amp simulation. While there are some very specific guitar cabinet and amp models, even replicas of famous amps, EZMix 2 does not perform as well compared to specialized plugins.

We’re not saying that it’s bad, but if you’re recording guitar-centric music, you’d rather want to consider going with something else. If, on the other hand, the guitar is just a random backing instrument, then the plugin would do the trick well enough.

So the plugin definitely has its purpose and clearly justifies the price tag. It’s available with different packs, and the price may vary anywhere between 130 and 180 USD.

What’s more, different additional EZMix packs with elaborate pre-made signal chains are available for an additional price.

We are looking at a professional and very versatile plugin, but you’ll need to try it out first to see whether it suits your needs.

Like we said – general use is great, but if you need something very specific, it might be a huge letdown for some users. Thankfully, you can try it out before buying it.

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