Akira Filter
Key Features
- MS-20-inspired low-pass filter character for animated sweeps, resonant movement, and colored tone shaping.
- Four resonance modes: soft, sweep, lush, and gritty, each aimed at a different response and texture.
- Cutoff range runs from 300 Hz to 12 kHz for broad filtering moves on synths, basses, drums, and effects.
- Clean and dirty modes let the same filter move stay smooth or add more distorted analog-style edge.
- Input level, output level, and mix controls support gain staging, parallel processing, and wet/dry automation.
- Oversampling options X0, X2, and X4 are included in the no-cost edition.
- Official direct package includes macOS, Windows, and Linux builds with VST3, Audio Unit, LV2, and CLAP formats.
Description
Akira Filter is a low-pass filter plug-in from SMAO#LAB inspired by the resonant character of Korg's MS-20 filter. It gives producers a focused way to add animated sweeps, screaming resonance, and analog-style coloration without opening a full synth or multi-effect.
The core control set is intentionally direct: cutoff spans 300 Hz to 12 kHz, four resonance modes shift the response from soft to gritty, and clean or dirty modes decide how much edge the circuit adds. Input, output, mix, and oversampling controls make it useful for both obvious filter moves and parallel tone shaping.
The sound is best treated as a character filter rather than a neutral utility. Third-party launch coverage singled out the lush and gritty modes for synth basslines and cinematic effects, with the stronger resonance behavior being the main reason to try it.
SMAO#LAB keeps the no-cost edition separate from the paid Pro version, which adds selectable low-pass slopes and a drift function. The official page still lists Akira Filter under Free, shows a direct download button, and states that the plug-in has no copy protection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Akira Filter emulate?
SMAO#LAB describes Akira Filter as a low-pass filter inspired by the filter of a famous four-letter synth manufacturer, and launch coverage identifies that reference as Korg's MS-20. It is not a full MS-20 synth emulation; it is a focused filter effect for processing audio.
How is the no-cost edition different from Akira Filter Pro?
The official page lists the paid Pro version as adding four low-pass slope options: LP6, LP12, LP18, and LP24. It also adds a drift function for simulated circuit movement and stereo effects over time.
Does Akira Filter need copy protection or a license manager?
SMAO#LAB states that Akira Filter has no copy protection. The product page presents a direct download button, and BPB also notes that there is no copy-protection burden for the plug-in.
What kinds of sounds suit Akira Filter best?
It works best when the filter itself should be audible as a tone-shaping effect. BPB specifically highlighted synth basslines and cinematic SFX, especially when using the lush or gritty resonance modes.
