Spectrum Bars

Classic frequency spectrum analyzer with rounded gradient bars and floating peak indicators. The industry-standard visualization for EQs, analyzers, and mastering tools.

Overview

Property	Value
ID	0
Category	Frequency Analysis
Best For	EQ, Analyzer, Mastering, Mixing, Multiband
Aspect Ratio	Wide (6×4 minimum)

What It Shows

Each bar represents a frequency band. Bar height shows the amplitude at that frequency. Peaks hold briefly before falling, making it easy to spot transients.

Best Plugin Types

✅ Recommended for:

• EQ & Filters - Shows frequency response changes
• Mastering - Monitor spectrum balance
• Mixing utilities - Check frequency content
• Multiband processors - Visualize band activity
• Analyzers - Primary display element

❌ Not recommended for:

• Amp Simulators - Too clinical for rock aesthetic
• Lo-Fi plugins - Too precise for vintage vibe
• Delay effects - Frequency display less useful than waveform

Color Mapping

Color Property	What It Controls
bodyColor	Background behind the bars
trackColor	Main bar color (gradient base)
activeColor	Bar highlight/peak color

Color Tips

• Use your plugin’s accent color for trackColor
• Make activeColor brighter than trackColor for visible peaks
• Dark bodyColor provides best contrast

Configuration Options

Bar Count

• Range: 8-64 bars
• Default: 24
• Tip: 24-32 bars works for most plugins. More bars = finer frequency resolution but busier appearance.

Bar Gap

• Range: 0-0.5 (ratio of bar width)
• Default: 0.25
• Tip: Wider gaps look more modern, tighter gaps look more technical.

Glow Intensity

• Range: 0-1
• Default: 0.4
• Tip: Lower for professional tools, higher for creative plugins.

Sizing

Size	Dimensions	Use Case
Minimum	6×4	Compact layouts
Standard	8×4	Most plugins
Large	10×5	Hero element

Always use wide aspect ratio - spectrum analyzers need horizontal space to display frequency range clearly.

Example Uses

• Parametric EQ - Show how EQ changes affect frequency response
• Mastering limiter - Monitor spectrum balance before/after
• Channel strip - Small analyzer in metering section
• Multiband compressor - Show activity in each band

Design Tips

1. Position matters - Usually works best at top or center of faceplate
2. Match bar color to accent - Creates visual cohesion
3. Don’t make it too small - Unreadable spectrum is worse than none
4. Consider peak hold - Helps users spot transients

Similar Visualizers

• Spectrum Mirror - More artistic, symmetrical version
• Radial Spectrum - Circular alternative for modern designs