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Head-to-head · Audio Mastering Software

WaveLab vs FabFilter Pro-L 2

  • Updated Oct 2026
  • Both researched from official sources
  • 1 check side by side
Higher score WaveLab #2 in Audio Mastering Software 9.2/10 Paid ✓ 0 of 3 features Visit Steinberg
FabFilter Pro-L 2 #5 in Audio Mastering Software 8.7/10 30-day trial Free trial✓ 0 of 3 features Visit FabFilter

WaveLab leads on 0 checks, FabFilter Pro-L 2 on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.

Our verdict

  • Highest scoreWaveLab · 9.2/10
  • Free trialonly FabFilter Pro-L 2

WaveLab scores higher on our rubric for audio mastering software: 9.2 against 8.7 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #5.

WaveLab is the better fit for advanced mastering and audio production. FabFilter Pro-L 2 is the better fit for precise limiter and immersive mastering.

  • WaveLab fits best

    Advanced mastering and audio production

  • FabFilter Pro-L 2 fits best

    Precise limiter and immersive mastering

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Side by side

Feature WaveLab 9.2/10 Visit ↗ FabFilter Pro-L 2 8.7/10 Visit ↗
At a glance
Editor score 9.2 8.7
Ranking #2 in Audio Mastering Software #5 in Audio Mastering Software
Best for Advanced mastering and audio production Precise limiter and immersive mastering
Pricing model Paid Paid
Starting price — —
Free plan — —
Free trial — 30 days
Deployment Desktop Desktop, Mobile
Platforms Windows, macOS Windows, macOS, iOS
Built for Solo, Small business, Mid-market Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise
Features WaveLab 0/3 · FabFilter Pro-L 2 0/3
Stereo processing Not checked yet Not checked yet
Album sequencing Not checked yet Not checked yet
Batch processing Not checked yet Not checked yet
Specs
Workflow type Not checked yet Plugin
Loudness standards Not checked yet EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4, ATSC A/85, TR-B32
Supported plug-in formats Not checked yet VST, VST3, Audio Units, CLAP, AAX Native, AudioSuite
Delivery formats Not checked yet Not checked yet
Our review
Pros
  • Sample-level editing, montage work, metering and loudness control
  • Restoration, batch processing and automated workflows
  • Dolby Atmos mastering and VST 3 plug-in support in Pro
  • Eight limiting algorithms with true-peak and loudness metering
  • Up to 32x oversampling, dithering, and configurable loudness targets
  • Supports surround and Dolby Atmos processing up to 9.1.6
Cons
  • No free plan; the trial is limited to 60 days
  • WaveLab Pro 13 has a $499.99 one-time price
  • Several advanced capabilities are reserved for the Pro edition
  • No free plan is available
  • Desktop pricing may vary by currency or region
  • Plugin workflow requires a compatible host or AUv3 iPad setup
Our verdict

WaveLab is Steinberg’s audio editing, restoration, analysis, mastering and publishing software for mastering engineers, musicians, sound designers, podcasters and other audio professionals. It runs on Windows and macOS, with sample-level…

Read the review →

FabFilter Pro-L 2 is a professional true-peak limiter plug-in for mixing and mastering. It is aimed at mastering engineers, mixing engineers, music producers, and other audio professionals working with mono, stereo, surround, or immersive…

Read the review →
  1. WaveLabAudio Mastering Software 9.2Paid
  2. FabFilter Pro-L 2Audio Mastering Software 8.730-day trial

Strengths and trade-offs

  • WaveLab — where it wins

    • Sample-level editing, montage work, metering and loudness control
    • Restoration, batch processing and automated workflows
    • Dolby Atmos mastering and VST 3 plug-in support in Pro

    Where it doesn't

    • No free plan; the trial is limited to 60 days
    • WaveLab Pro 13 has a $499.99 one-time price
    • Several advanced capabilities are reserved for the Pro edition

  • FabFilter Pro-L 2 — where it wins

    • Eight limiting algorithms with true-peak and loudness metering
    • Up to 32x oversampling, dithering, and configurable loudness targets
    • Supports surround and Dolby Atmos processing up to 9.1.6

    Where it doesn't

    • No free plan is available
    • Desktop pricing may vary by currency or region
    • Plugin workflow requires a compatible host or AUv3 iPad setup

More comparisons

All audio mastering software comparisons → · Full ranking →

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Last updated · How we research and update