HoRNet ZeroBus review
A focused, low-cost plugin for automatic stereo bus EQ and compression.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
HoRNet ZeroBus is a desktop audio plugin for music producers and mixing engineers who want automatic processing on stereo mix buses, drum buses, and other stereo subgroups. It combines continuous 31-band automatic equalization with real-time spectral balancing, adaptive compression, and automatic makeup gain. The plugin runs on Windows and macOS and is distributed in VST3, AU, and AAX formats, making it suited to compatible digital audio workstation setups.
Pricing is straightforward: the HoRNet ZeroBus plan costs €24.99 as a one-time purchase. It includes the full feature set, including automatic EQ, adaptive compression, FAT parallel 1176-style compression, GLUE serial SSL-style compression, an EQ curve and gain-reduction meter, and automatic 2× oversampling below 88.2 kHz. The downloadable demo is time-unlimited but includes periodic audio interruptions, while the product page states a 15-day money-back guarantee. This structure fits producers who prefer a low upfront cost over a recurring subscription.
Its standout feature is the combination of continuous spectral analysis and learned bus compression in one focused plugin. The FAT mode applies parallel compression, while GLUE uses serial compression, giving users two distinct approaches to shaping stereo buses. Real-time metering helps show the EQ curve and gain reduction as processing changes. ZeroBus is narrower than a complete mixing environment: its focus is stereo bus processing, not spatial processing or a broad collection of mixing tools. Choose it when automatic bus EQ and compression are the priority; choose another option when you need a wider mixing suite or processing beyond stereo subgroups.
HoRNet ZeroBus pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Continuous 31-band automatic EQ with real-time spectral balancing
- Learns compressor thresholds and adapts makeup gain automatically
- FAT parallel and GLUE serial compression modes in VST3, AU, and AAX
- Where it doesn't
- Focused on stereo bus processing rather than complete mixing
- No free plan; the demo includes periodic audio interruptions
- Requires a compatible Windows or macOS host for plugin use
HoRNet ZeroBus fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update