bx_masterdesk
bx_masterdesk is an AAX mastering plugin developed by Brainworx (part of Plugin Alliance) that models a complete high-end analog mastering desk. It provides a streamlined 3-step workflow for mastering with pre-tuned processing chains including dynamics, tone shaping, mid/side enhancement, and stereo width controls, designed to deliver professional-quality masters quickly. The plugin is available in multiple formats (AAX Native, AudioSuite, AU, VST2, VST3) and is used by musicians, engineers and producers in Avid Pro Tools and other DAWs.
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1 suggestionbx_masterdesk added native Apple Silicon support in version 1.7.0 (August 2023), and the latest version (1.8.0, released February 2025) ships with full native compatibility. Since this is an AAX plugin for Pro Tools, you must ensure two things: first, that Pro Tools itself is running a native Apple Silicon build (version 2023.6 or newer), and second, that you update the bx_masterdesk plugin through Plugin Alliance's Installation Manager, not through Pro Tools or the App Store. Download and launch the Plugin Alliance Installation Manager from plugin-alliance.com, select bx_masterdesk from the available products, and install or update to the latest version — the manager will deliver the native AAX build automatically. If you are still running an older version of bx_masterdesk under Rosetta, upgrading to the current native build will deliver noticeably better performance and lower CPU usage in Pro Tools on M-series Macs.
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