Smash Pro
Key Features
- Spectral signal decomposition with up to 40x internal oversampling for accurate non-linear processing and a distinct warm character
- Drawable frequency curves for independent control of compression, harmonic excitation, and equalization across the spectrum
- High-order complex-valued level detectors for precise multi-band compressor envelope estimation
- Built-in parallel (New York-style) compression via adjustable dry/wet ratio for punch without losing dynamics
- Versatile multi-purpose workflow covering dynamic EQ, de-essing, harmonic enrichment, and multiband distortion in one plugin
- Real-time level detection and adjustment visualization per frequency band with output VU meters and peak hold
- Hold Ctrl or Alt for fine mouse control when drawing frequency curves for surgical adjustments
Description
Smash Pro by Jeroen Breebaart is a spectral dynamics processor that combines multiband compression, harmonic excitation, and equalization into a single interface. Rather than using fixed crossover bands, it performs innovative signal decomposition across the entire frequency spectrum, letting you draw custom frequency curves to control each process independently.
The plugin oversamples input signals up to 40 times during processing, enabling detailed simulation of non-linear behavior. This heavy internal oversampling produces a distinct warmth and density that sets it apart from conventional multiband compressors.
Smash Pro covers an unusually wide range of processing tasks for a single plugin, handling dynamic equalization, de-essing, frequency-selective harmonic enrichment, multiband distortion, and New York-style parallel compression through its adjustable dry/wet ratio. The drawable frequency curves give you precise control over how compression and excitation respond at each frequency band.
Users consistently praise its ability to tame problematic recordings that resist conventional processing. One widely shared example involved rescuing a badly recorded vocal track marred by resonances, uneven levels, and sibilance, tasks that took half an hour of tweaking but delivered results that hours with other tools could not match.
Smash Pro was originally a commercial plugin priced at 10 euros before Jeroen Breebaart released his entire JB Plugin Bundle as freeware. It runs as a 32-bit VST plugin on Windows only, with a file size of approximately 0.3 MB.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smash Pro 64-bit compatible?
No. Smash Pro is a 32-bit VST plugin only. To use it in a 64-bit DAW, you will need a bridge application such as jBridge or 32Lives. Jeroen Breebaart's redesigned plugins with native 64-bit support are now available under the ToneBoosters brand.
Does Smash Pro use a lot of CPU?
Yes, Smash Pro can be CPU-intensive due to its up-to-40x internal oversampling for non-linear processing simulation. Some users report heavy CPU usage, though others find it manageable on modern systems. Freezing or bouncing tracks after processing can help manage the load.
What is the relationship between Jeroen Breebaart and ToneBoosters?
Jeroen Breebaart is the developer behind both the original JB Plugin Bundle (which includes Smash Pro) and ToneBoosters. The JB plugins were released as freeware, while ToneBoosters offers completely redesigned versions with 64-bit support, macOS compatibility, and modern plugin formats.
Can Smash Pro be used for mastering?
Yes. Its spectral compression and harmonic excitation capabilities make it well-suited for mastering tasks like spectrum balancing, loudness maximization, and adding controlled warmth. Users have found it particularly effective for remastering older recordings and taming difficult mixes.
