Metric Halo x Make Believe Studios MBSI — Free Download

Purpose and Heritage

MBSI is a detailed software reproduction of the channel strip from the renowned Criteria Studio C Custom MCI console. It captures the mic/line preamp, dynamics, EQ, fader, and stereo bus output as a cohesive unit. The original console’s sound is defined by its simple, component-driven circuit design, especially in the EQ, where controls interact naturally.

In the digital model, this translates to filter shapes that respond to gain and frequency changes, preserving the console’s character. The dynamics section originally functioned as a tape suppressor, which is less useful today. The software adapts this by offering both a faithful classic mode and an enhanced modern mode for contemporary production.

EQ and Dynamics Interaction

The EQ module features a three-band layout with low and high bell-shelf filters, a sweepable mid bell, and low/high cut filters. All controls are highly interactive, meaning changes in frequency and gain alter the filter shape, mirroring the original hardware. The mid-band is boost-only and filters are single-cut in the classic stepped mode.

Modern mode expands functionality by allowing mid-band cuts and simultaneously enabling both low and high cut filters. It also introduces a new compressor module, inspired by classic units, offering simple controls and a dynamic response suited to modern mixing. Operational mods in this mode address the original console’s limitations.

Workflow and Modes

The plugin offers stepped controls that match the original console’s detented behavior in Classic mode, providing authentic settings. Modern mode uses continuous, interpolated controls with an option to snap back to classic stepped values, balancing precision and flexibility. User-selectable over-sampling and polarity inversion are available.

Box-tone control lets users adjust the coloration of each module, from clean line input to overdriven mic preamp. The interface size is adjustable, and the built-in preset manager ensures presets are shared across platforms. Many factory presets are included as starting points for various sources.

Practical Applications

MBSI is best applied to tracks where a warm, interactive EQ and the vibe of a legendary console are desired. The classic mode is ideal for vintage-style productions, while modern mode suits pop, rock, and electronic tracks needing smoother compression and EQ flexibility. The bus output model can help glue a mix.

Use the interactive EQ for musical tone shaping on vocals or guitars, and the modern compressor for drums or bass. The stepped controls are useful for recalling settings from a mix session. Over-sampling can be activated when working on high-frequency material to ensure clean processing.

Key features

• Faithful model of the Criteria Studio C Custom MCI channel strip
• Three-band EQ with interactive filters and stepped or continuous controls
• Modern mode with mid-band cuts, dual filters, and a new compressor module
• User-selectable over-sampling and polarity inversion
• Adjustable UI size and cross-platform preset manager
• Box-tone controls for line, mic, overdrive, dynamics, and EQ modules

Best for

MBSI is best for producers mixing vocals, guitars, drums, or full sessions who want the character of a vintage console with modern flexibility. It suits music needing interactive EQ and soft compression, from rock and pop to jazz. The modern compressor and filter options extend its usefulness to contemporary genres without losing authenticity.