Multi-FX & Channel Strip Plugins
Combined effects chains, channel strips with multiple processing stages. All-in-one solutions for complete signal processing.
Overview
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Control Count | 8-15 |
| Complexity | High |
| Visualizer | Multiple (Spectrum, Meter, Wave) |
| Layout | Clustered (sectioned) |
Typical Controls
Multiple sections, each with their own controls:
Input Section
| Control | Widget | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Input Gain | Knob | Level into chain |
| Input Meter | Visualizer | Monitor input |
Processing Sections
Each effect stage has:
- 2-4 controls for that effect
- Bypass toggle for that section
- Optional order/routing
Output Section
| Control | Widget | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Output Gain | Knob | Final level |
| Output Meter | Visualizer | Monitor output |
| Mix | Knob | Global wet/dry |
Recommended Visualizer
Multiple visualizers for different purposes:
- Spectrum Bars - For EQ section
- Meter Gradient - For input/output
- Wave Filled - For time effects
Layout Pattern
Recommended: Clustered with clear sections
Channel Strip Layout
┌─────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ CHANNEL STRIP │
│ │
│ INPUT │ EQ │ DYNAMICS │ OUTPUT│
│ [gain] │ [lo][hi] │ [comp] │ [out] │
│ [meter] │ [mid] │ [meter] │ [meter]│
│ │ │ │ │
│ [phase] │ [bypass] │ [bypass] │ [mix] │
└─────────────────────────────────────────┘
Vertical Multi-FX Layout
┌─────────────────────────────┐
│ EFFECTS CHAIN │
│ │
│ ═══════ FILTER ═══════ │
│ [freq] [res] [type] [on] │
│ │
│ ═══════ DRIVE ════════ │
│ [drive] [tone] [on] │
│ │
│ ═══════ DELAY ════════ │
│ [time] [feedback] [on] │
│ │
│ [INPUT] [OUTPUT] │
│ [meter] [meter] │
└─────────────────────────────┘
Example Plugins
- Channel Strip - EQ + Dynamics + Utility
- Vocal Chain - EQ + Comp + De-esser + Reverb
- Guitar Multi-FX - Multiple pedal effects
- Mastering Chain - EQ + Comp + Limiter + Stereo
- Creative Multi-FX - Modular effect chain
Design Tips
Clear Section Separation
- Use panels or sections to divide stages
- Each stage should be visually distinct
- Signal flow should be clear (L→R or T→B)
Per-Section Bypass
- Each section needs its own bypass
- Users want to A/B individual stages
- Make bypass state obvious
Consistent Controls
- Same knob style throughout
- Consistent spacing per section
- Related controls grouped
Don’t Overcrowd
- Even with many features, maintain breathing room
- Consider which controls are essential
- Hide advanced options if needed
Control Organization
By Signal Flow
INPUT → FILTER → DRIVE → MOD → DELAY → REVERB → OUTPUT
By Function
- Input/Output at edges
- Tone shaping in middle
- Time effects at end
- Modulation flexible
Color Suggestions
Professional Channel Strip
- Accent: Neutral blue/gray
- Sections: Subtle color coding
- Background: Dark gray
- Vibe: Pro audio, console-like
Creative Multi-FX
- Accent: Based on primary effect
- Sections: More distinct colors
- Background: Darker
- Vibe: Pedalboard, creative
Common Mistakes
❌ All controls same size (no hierarchy) ❌ No section separation (visual chaos) ❌ No per-section bypass ❌ Unclear signal flow
✅ Size variation for hierarchy ✅ Clear visual sections ✅ Bypass per stage ✅ Obvious signal path
Variations
Simple Channel Strip
Sections: EQ (3-band) + Compressor
Controls: 8-10 total
Visualizers: Input meter, output meter
Size: Medium (420×380)
Full Channel Strip
Sections: Input + EQ + Dynamics + Output
Controls: 12-15 total
Visualizers: Spectrum + GR meter + Output meter
Size: Large (520×420)
Vocal Chain
Sections: Gate + EQ + Comp + De-esser + Verb send
Controls: 12+ total
Visualizers: GR meter, output meter
Size: Large (480×440)
Guitar Multi-FX
Sections: Wah + Drive + Mod + Delay + Reverb
Controls: 15+ total
Layout: Pedalboard style
Size: Large (520×400)
Mastering Chain
Sections: EQ + Multiband + Limiter + Stereo + Meter
Controls: 15+ total
Visualizers: Spectrum + multiple meters
Size: Large (560×480)