A Secret Weapon to Level Up Your Mixes (VST / AU Plugin Review)

Ever wish you had a cheat code for creating perfectly balanced mixes? Something that gives you clarity about what’s missing—or what you might have too much of—in your tracks? Today, I’m revealing one of my secret weapons that has been part of my workflow for years: iZotope Tonal Balance Control 2.

This plugin doesn’t replace your ears or your reference tracks, but it gives you invaluable insights that make judgment calls a breeze. Here’s why it’s so powerful and how you can use it to up your mixing game.

What Is Tonal Balance Control 2?

Think of this tool as a roadmap for your mix. It’s not a processing plugin; instead, it’s a metering plugin that shows you how your mix compares tonally to hundreds (even thousands) of professionally mixed tracks in your genre.

The interface divides the frequency spectrum into four bands:

• Lows
• Low-mids
• Upper-mids
• Highs

It also features a Crest meter for your low-mids, helping you spot issues with overly compressed or too-dynamic bass.

You can view the frequency bands in two modes:

1. Broad view for general tonal guidance.
2. Fine view for more detailed analysis.

Why Tonal Balance Control 2 Stands Out

This plugin comes with built-in genre presets—like hip-hop, EDM, rock, and orchestral—that represent the tonal balance of multiple tracks in those styles. For instance, modern hip-hop often has a distinct tonal curve, while orchestral music has pronounced low-mids and subs.

But here’s where it gets exciting: you can create custom presets based on your go-to reference tracks.

For example, I’ve created a preset based on 150 beats I’ve produced. This personalized curve helps me ensure my mixes align tonally with my own style. You can do the same with your favorite tracks—just upload them into the plugin, and you’re good to go.

How I Use Tonal Balance Control 2

Here’s how I incorporate this plugin into my workflow:

1. Start with the Basics
   First, I analyze the mix using the broad view to get a general sense of balance. Then, I switch to the fine view for more granular adjustments.

2. Solo the Bands
   Solo specific frequency bands to pinpoint problem areas. For instance, if the bass feels muddy, I’ll isolate the lows and tweak them accordingly.

3. Monitor with Presets
   I often use the hip-hop preset for modern mixes but customize it for my boombap/Golden Era-style tracks, which are typically darker.

4. Real-Time Adjustments
   The refresh button is a lifesaver. When I solo an instrument (like the vocals or bass), I hit refresh to clear the analysis and focus only on what’s playing.

Pro Tips

• Beatmakers: When mixing beats without vocals, allow the low end to be slightly heavier than the tonal curve suggests. Once vocals are added later, the balance should even out.

• Hack for Beat Mixing: Insert a random acapella over your beat while mixing. This gives you a sense of how vocals will interact with the instrumental. Just mute the acapella when exporting the beat.

Why It Feels Like Cheating (But Isn’t)

I’ll admit, sometimes using this plugin feels like taking a shortcut. But let me be clear: it’s not a replacement for your ears. Listening is still king.

That said, if Tonal Balance Control 2 highlights something wildly off—like overly hyped low-mids—you’ll know to dig deeper. It’s like having a second opinion that you can trust.

Get Started

This isn’t a sponsored post. I’m sharing this because it’s genuinely been a game-changer for me. If you haven’t tried iZotope Tonal Balance Control 2 yet, I highly recommend it.

And while you’re here, grab my free Logic Pro mixing templates. They’re designed to speed up your workflow with pre-routed tracks, buses, and even analog-style setups. Perfect for beginners and pros alike.

Download Free Mixing Templates

Final Thoughts

Tonal Balance Control 2 has been my secret weapon for years, helping me craft better mixes faster. If you’re serious about improving your sound, it’s worth exploring.

Let me know in the comments: Have you used this plugin before? What’s your favorite mixing tool?

And if you’re into plugins, check out this video where I break down another favorite.

Happy mixing!