IK Multimedia T-RackS

IK Multimedia T-RackS is mixing and mastering software for home and project studios. IK released it in 1999 and bills it as the first analog-modeled desktop mastering suite. It is now in its sixth major version.

History

The first T-RackS was a standalone program for 16-bit audio files with four processors modeled on analog gear: an equalizer, a compressor, a multiband limiter and a clipper. Sound On Sound reviewed it in early 2000. Before tools like this, the final EQ, compression and limiting on a record usually meant paying a mastering house. T-RackS put that last step on the same computer the record was made on.

Today

T-RackS grew into a modular suite that runs as plug-ins inside a DAW (AAX, VST and AU) or inside its own Mastering Console. T-RackS 6 arrived in 2024, and its top Max edition includes around 60 processors: vintage EQ and compressor models, tape machine emulations, reverbs and an automatic mastering assistant.

On Breakbeat Archive

Frizzo bought T-RackS to finish his first album, Criminal Record (2004). He recorded, mixed and mastered it himself on a Digidesign Digi 002, then pressed 100 copies through Disc Makers and sold them by hand in Metro Detroit.

Buying it today

T-RackS is sold as a download from IK Multimedia and is often discounted. Older boxed versions and licenses turn up on eBay; before buying a used copy, make sure the seller can actually transfer the license to you.