8.5Great
Softube Console 1 Mk III is a hardware control surface system with matching console channel software for hands-on mixing.
Plugin comparison
Softube Console 1 Mk III vs FabFilter Pro-L 2
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which effect to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
9.2Essential
FabFilter Pro-L 2 is a true peak limiter plug-in with multiple limiting algorithms and extensive loudness metering.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, FabFilter Pro-L 2 comes out ahead (9.2). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Softube Console 1 Mk III | FabFilter Pro-L 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | From ~$899 (system) | $199.00 |
| Dubspot Score | 8.5 | 9.2 |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX, hardware | VST, VST3, Audio Units (AU), CLAP, AAX Native, AudioSuite |
| Type | Hardware controller + console channel software system | — |
| Developer | Softube | — |
| Typical system price | About $899+ depending on configuration | — |
| Software formats | VST3, AU, AAX (channel/console processors) | — |
| Primary job | Hands-on console-style mixing control | — |
| Catalog status | Current as of 2026 | — |
| Limiting algorithms | — | Eight different algorithms |
| Oversampling | — | Up to 32x linear-phase |
| Loudness metering standards | — | EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4, ATSC A/85 |
| True peak limiting | — | Yes |
| Surround support | — | Up to Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 |
| Dithering | — | Advanced, with three noise shaping algorithms |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.