JAX CHROMATIC vs Dub Filter
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
JAX CHROMATIC
This advanced audio processor splits sound into 32 frequency bands for real-time spectral dynamics modification. It enhances sound perception, removes muddiness, and offers a user-friendly interface for creative mixing and mastering.
- 32-band spectral processing
- Real-time compander per band
- Analog filter models
- Latency-free operation
- Mastering and mixing tool
- User-friendly interface
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This is an AudioUnit. AudioUnits (AUv3) require a supporting host application to perform. The main app distributes the embedded unit and allows for testing with random sound samples. The complete manual can be found at: https://midi.digitster.com/CHROMATIC/JAX%20CHROMATIC%20Compander.pdf There is also an introductory video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlEGn_npt4A The JAX Chromatic Compander is an advanced real-time spectral dynamics processor, which splits the audio stream internally into 32 separate, stereophonic, chromatically tuned frequency bands. The parallel bandpass filter bank consists of fast response analog fiter models, producing natural fading sound with no latency. Chromatic means, that each bandpass is adjusted to cover 4 halftones in a musical scale (analog a classic 3rd octave). In difference to a 'Bark' filter, the chromatic bandpass filters are mapped consequently to the musical scale thru the entire frequency range. A bi-directional stereophonic dynamics processor, based on the compander (a combination of an expander and a compressor), is attached to each of the 32 frequency bands and will perform spectral dynamics modification in time with specified attack and release values. The JAX Chromatic Compander can be seen as a unique spectral enhancer, that is able to drastically improve the perception and presence of sound, especially removing all mud. It is mainly recommended to be used as a mastering processor, psycho acoustic loudnes maximizer and creative mixing tool for any kind of wideband audio signals (i.e. complete mixes and all sonically rich audio materials). We use vector processing CPU registers on all supported platforms for keeping the performance as good as possible. There are in sum 64 filters, 64 companders and 64 input- and output mixers performing in parallel thousands of instructions for each single audio sample of the continuous input stream. Usage, on the other side is extremely simple. All parameters are adjusted with ease by just moving fingers over the touchsreen. There is one macro knob for adjusting the compression/expansion amount. We spared out all complicated editing with numerical input and such, making JAX Chromatic Compander a joy to use. Our latest builds are truly 'universal', meaning, the AudioUnit is available on: - MacOS (Catalyst Intel) - MacOS (Silicon M1/M2/M3...) - iOS (iPhone) - iPadOS (iPads) Please note, that the MacOS Catalyst versions may be distributed or sold separately, because the AppStore does not allow to bundle none-silicon apps for the Mac with the iOS apps. Our builds come with latest technology support for all Apple devices. We therefore always develop with currently actual frameworks and compilers.
Dub Filter
This audio plugin emulates a legendary vintage high-pass filter, offering eleven frequency steps and controls for resonance, magnetism, character, dynamics, and artifacts. It includes LFO and Envelope Follower modulation sources for creative sound design.
- Vintage high-pass filter emulation
- Eleven frequency steps
- Adjustable resonance
- Magnetism, Character, Dynamics, Artifacts controls
- LFO modulation
- Envelope Follower modulation
- Standalone and AUv3 formats
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Dub Filter is a filter plugin modeled after King Tubby’s iconic Big Knob, a passive high-pass filter with eleven frequency steps from 70Hz to 7.5KHz. This filter defined the sound of the entire "roots" era of Jamaican music. On top of the main stepped Frequency knob and the Impedance (resonance), the filter also offers control over its behavior including Magnetism, Character, Dynamics, and Artefacts controls. We have also included two modulation sources, LFO and Envelope Follower, to enhance the creative possibilities of the plugin, from rhythmic pulsations to organic filter movements. Available as Standalone and AUv3.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: JAX CHROMATIC at $12.99 against Dub Filter's $14.99. Dub Filter's advantage is iOS requirement (12.0 vs 14.0). On rating, review sentiment, ratings volume and update cadence there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
JAX CHROMATIC costs $12.99 and Dub Filter $14.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
On the App Store both sit at effectively the same score — 4.9 for JAX CHROMATIC against 5.0 for Dub Filter. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 7 and 6 respectively. Written reviews split almost evenly too, at 100% and 100% positive.
JAX CHROMATIC ships an update every 14 months, Dub Filter every 15 months. The most recent releases landed on September 23, 2026 and October 16, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | JAX CHROMATIC | Dub Filter |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.99 — better | $14.99 |
| Rating | 4.9 (7 ratings) | 5.0 (6 ratings) — better |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 7 — better | 6 |
| Update frequency | Every 14 months — better | Every 15 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Paid | Paid |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 14.0 | 12.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 23 MB | 21 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Jens Guell | AudioThing Ltd. |
Customer experience
JAX CHROMATIC
Dub Filter
In-app purchases
JAX CHROMATIC
No in-app purchases
Dub Filter
No in-app purchases
Questions
Is JAX CHROMATIC free?
Is Dub Filter free?
Which has better reviews, JAX CHROMATIC or Dub Filter?
Do JAX CHROMATIC or Dub Filter have ads?
Which is updated more often, JAX CHROMATIC or Dub Filter?
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