Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Buchert Audio plugins, licensing, and audio concepts.

About our plugins

How does Tonality EQ differ from a standard parametric EQ?

Tonality EQ offers five distinct EQ modes (Surgical, Balance, Phase, Harmonic, Overtone) each with different phase and harmonic behavior. Every curve is perception-tuned rather than mathematically derived.

What is Mid/Side processing and when should I use it?

M/S splits audio into center (mid) and sides. Use it for widening stereo image, tightening bass in mono, or applying different EQ to center vs sides. Tonality EQ and Warmth Engine support M/S routing.

What is harmonic saturation?

Adding subtle harmonics (overtones) to audio, similar to how analog gear colors sound. Warmth Engine adds harmonic character that responds to the material you feed it.

What does "perception-based DSP" mean?

Our algorithms are tuned to match how humans perceive sound rather than purely mathematical curves. This means parameters feel more musical and intuitive.

Specs & compatibility

Do the plugins introduce latency?

It depends on the plugin. Most Buchert Audio plugins report no added latency to your DAW in their standard modes; Warmth Engine reports 3 ms, which the DAW compensates automatically. Each plugin's manual states its latency.

Can I use these plugins on Windows?

AU (Audio Unit), VST3 and AAX for macOS 11.0 and later. VST3 for Windows 10 and later. Field Engine is macOS only.

Buying & activating

How does copy protection work?

One-time online activation. Enter your license key, plugin verifies with our server and stores a signed license file locally. No internet needed after activation. Up to 3 machines. No iLok, no dongle.

Do you offer a student discount?

Yes. Currently enrolled students get 40% off. Send proof of enrollment to hello@buchertaudio.com and we'll set you up personally by email.

What is your refund policy?

All sales are final — we do not offer refunds. Free demos are available for every paid plugin so you can fully test before buying.

What happens if Buchert Audio shuts down?

We will release a universal license unlocker. Your plugins continue to work indefinitely. We believe you own what you paid for.

Understanding sound

What are Fletcher-Munson curves?

Equal-loudness contours showing how human hearing sensitivity varies with frequency and volume. At low volumes, we perceive less bass and treble. Understanding this helps make better mixing decisions.

What are critical bands in hearing?

Frequency ranges where the ear groups sounds together. Understanding critical bands helps avoid masking issues when mixing and is fundamental to how our plugins process audio.

Still have questions?

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