Waves Linear Phase EQ Review 2026: Transparent Mastering EQ Plugin

When it comes to mastering, transparency is everything. The Waves Linear Phase EQ is designed specifically for engineers who need precise tonal shaping without introducing unwanted phase shift. Even years after its release, it remains a trusted tool in professional studios worldwide.

In this review, we’ll break down its sound quality, features, strengths, limitations, and whether it’s still worth using in 2026.

What Is Waves Linear Phase EQ?

Waves Audio developed the Linear Phase EQ as a five-band equalizer built around linear-phase processing. Unlike traditional minimum-phase EQs, this plugin maintains the phase relationship of your audio signal while boosting or cutting frequencies.

That makes it especially useful for:

• Mastering engineers

• Stereo bus processing

• Surgical corrections

• Transparent tonal adjustments

Key Features

• 5 fully parametric bands

• Multiple filter types (bell, high-pass, low-pass, shelving, etc.)

• Linear phase algorithm

• High-resolution frequency control

• Stereo and mid/side processing options

• Double precision internal processing

This isn’t a flashy EQ — it’s built for precision.

Sound Quality

The biggest selling point of Waves Linear Phase EQ is clean and transparent sound.

When applying subtle cuts or boosts during mastering, the plugin preserves stereo imaging and avoids the smearing that can happen with minimum-phase EQs. This makes it excellent for:

• Tightening low-end without shifting phase

• Adding air without harshness

• Removing problematic frequencies cleanly

However, because it’s linear phase, it can introduce latency and pre-ringing, which means it’s not ideal for live tracking or real-time monitoring.

Workflow & Usability

The interface is simple and functional. It may look slightly dated compared to modern EQs, but it’s easy to navigate and efficient.

Unlike modern smart EQs with spectrum analyzers and dynamic bands, this plugin focuses purely on accurate equalization. That makes it reliable but not feature-heavy.

If you’re used to newer EQs with dynamic processing, automatic resonance detection, or advanced visual feedback, this one may feel minimal.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

• Extremely transparent sound

• Zero phase shift

• Great for mastering

• Often discounted at affordable pricing

❌ Cons

• High latency

• No dynamic EQ features

• Interface feels outdated

• Can cause pre-ringing on sharp boosts

Who Should Use It?

Waves Linear Phase EQ is ideal for:

• Mastering engineers

• Producers finishing final mixes

• Audio professionals who prioritize phase accuracy

• Studios needing a reliable linear-phase solution

If you mainly produce electronic music and need dynamic EQ or fast workflow tools, you may prefer newer alternatives. But for clean mastering adjustments, this plugin still performs reliably.

Final Verdict

Even in 2026, Waves Linear Phase EQ remains a solid mastering tool. It may not have the modern visuals or dynamic features of newer competitors, but its transparent sound and phase-accurate processing keep it relevant.