The Trick
Key Features
- Circuit-style passive EQ topology uses a Wave Digital Filter tree instead of a static curve match
- Low-frequency boost and attenuation can be driven together at 20, 30, 60, or 100 Hz for the namesake peak-and-dip response
- Independent high-frequency boost and attenuation networks support air, presence, and soft top-end control without harsh shelving moves
- Tube makeup stage and transformer voicing remain in the signal path for subtle harmonic weight even when the EQ bands are flat
- Stereo and mid-side modes make the plugin useful on individual tracks, buses, and mastering-style chains
- Latency-compensated dry/wet Mix control supports parallel EQ coloration without phasey dry-path timing issues
- Offline-first licensing uses email activation with no iLok, no dongle, no telemetry, and no account dashboard dependency after activation
Description
The Trick is a passive program EQ plugin from MousePlugins built around the classic boost-and-cut low-frequency move associated with Pultec-style equalizers. Instead of copying a static target curve, it models a circuit-style passive network that produces broad tone shifts, low-end weight, and tube-and-transformer color.
The low-frequency section lets boost and attenuation share the same 20, 30, 60, or 100 Hz selector while driving separate LC networks. Push both controls together and the plugin creates the familiar resonant lift followed by a low-mid scoop, which can make kicks, bass, vocals, and full mixes feel bigger without simply adding mud.
The high section follows the same musical approach with a resonant boost band, a separate shelving attenuation network, and a bandwidth control for broad air or more focused presence. Even with the EQ controls idle, the signal still passes through the modeled tube makeup stage and transformer voicing, so The Trick behaves more like a character EQ than a transparent utility.
It is currently focused on Windows and Linux users, with VST3 and CLAP builds, email activation, no iLok, no dongle, no telemetry, and no phone-home behavior after activation. Use it when you want a simple analog-style tone shaper for buses, mastering chains, or individual sources rather than a surgical parametric EQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Trick meant for surgical EQ moves?
No. The Trick uses fixed frequency choices and broad passive-style curves, so it is designed for tone shaping rather than narrow resonance removal. Pair it with a parametric EQ when you need precise cuts.
What is the boost-and-cut trick doing?
The low boost and low attenuation controls share a frequency selector but feed separate LC networks. When both are raised together, the interaction creates a low-frequency lift with a dip above it instead of simply canceling out.
Does The Trick add color when the EQ controls are at zero?
Yes. MousePlugins says the tube makeup stage and transformer voicing stay in the signal path, so the plugin can still add subtle even-order harmonics and low-end weight with the EQ bands idle.
Does The Trick require iLok or constant internet access?
No. Activation is handled by email, and the official page says there is no iLok, no dongle, no telemetry, and no phone-home behavior after activation.
