Virtu review
A focused stereo mastering tool with reference matching and desktop preview.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Virtu is Slate Digital’s assisted mastering software for producers, artists, engineers, and home or professional studios working with finished stereo mixes. It analyzes stereo files and applies genre-based processing for EQ, compression, stereo width, and loudness. Users can select loudness targets, adjust processing controls, upload a WAV reference track for EQ and loudness matching, and export the result as WAV. Virtu supports WAV, AIF, and MP3 input formats, with browser-based and desktop workflows.
The pricing structure separates public web mastering from desktop access. The Public web mastering plan provides browser-based mastering and two free masters at signup, with additional masters charged individually. Complete Access monthly and Complete Access annual both include Virtu mastering, unlimited desktop masters while subscribed, and 150+ audio plugins. The Virtu Desktop perpetual license includes the desktop application, real-time preview, and unlimited local masters. This gives occasional users a credit-based web route, while regular desktop users can choose a subscription or perpetual license depending on their preferred access model.
Virtu’s standout capability is reference matching combined with direct control over loudness targets, EQ frequency balance, compression, and stereo width. The desktop application adds real-time preview and A/B comparison, which suits users who want to evaluate changes before exporting. Its focus is narrower than a broader production environment: the published workflow covers stereo-file mastering, not stem mastering. Choose Virtu if reference matching, genre profiles, WAV export, and desktop preview fit your mastering process. Consider another option if stem-based workflows are central to the project or if you want one unified workflow without separate web and desktop paths.
Virtu pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Reference-track EQ and loudness matching
- Desktop real-time preview with A/B comparison
- Unlimited local masters with the perpetual desktop license
- Where it doesn't
- Mastering is limited to finished stereo files
- Web mastering charges individually after two signup masters
- Platform workflows are split between browser and desktop
Virtu fact sheet, pricing and score →
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