HoRNet TrackUtility MK2: The All-in-One Audio Tool Gets Even Better When it comes to streamlining audio production workflows, flexibility and control are everything. With this in mind, HoRNet Plugins has launched an improved version of one of its most versatile and accessible tools: the TrackUtility MK2. Often dubbed the “Swiss army knife” of audio plugins, […]
HoRNet TrackUtility MK2: The All-in-One Audio Tool Gets Even Better
When it comes to streamlining audio production workflows, flexibility and control are everything. With this in mind, HoRNet Plugins has launched an improved version of one of its most versatile and accessible tools: the TrackUtility MK2. Often dubbed the “Swiss army knife” of audio plugins, this updated release takes everything that was great about the original and pushes it further—offering an array of new features, improved functionality, and enhanced workflow support.
The original TrackUtility was already a favorite among producers, engineers, and content creators for its compact design and wide range of essential tools. In a single plugin window, users could access gain staging, pan controls, stereo width, polarity inversion, mono conversion, phase alignment, and more. Now, the MK2 version keeps the core features intact while introducing new tools that make it even more useful in demanding production environments.
One of the standout additions in TrackUtility MK2 is the grouping function. This feature allows users to link multiple instances of the plugin across different tracks, enabling simultaneous control of shared parameters. For example, if you’re working on a session with multiple vocal layers or drum tracks, you can group all instances of TrackUtility MK2 and adjust their gain or pan collectively. This approach significantly improves mix consistency, speeds up workflow, and reduces the chances of manual error.
Grouping is especially powerful in large sessions where managing dozens of similar tracks can become time-consuming. Whether you’re making global adjustments during a rough mix or applying consistent tweaks across grouped elements, this feature is a major workflow upgrade.
Another noteworthy enhancement in the MK2 version is the revamped RMS meter. In the original version, the RMS meter provided basic loudness tracking, but the new release takes it further by allowing a freely adjustable RMS window. This level of customization gives users better control over loudness monitoring, helping to match target loudness levels more precisely, especially for broadcast standards or streaming platforms.
Being able to tailor the RMS window is particularly useful for those working on dynamic content, such as podcasts or live recordings, where volume levels can vary significantly. With this upgrade, users can now fine-tune loudness analysis to suit the exact needs of the project at hand.
Auto gain has long been a feature in HoRNet plugins, and the TrackUtility MK2 introduces the latest iteration of their intelligent auto gain algorithm. Designed to offer fast and transparent level matching, the new algorithm ensures that your signal is adjusted accurately without adding coloration or introducing artifacts.
This feature is invaluable for maintaining consistent levels when inserting TrackUtility MK2 into a signal chain. Whether you’re using the plugin for quick volume balancing or integrating it into a mastering session, the auto gain ensures clean and efficient results with minimal effort. It’s ideal for users who want to focus more on creative decisions and less on manual gain compensation.
The limiter included in the TrackUtility MK2 also gets a serious upgrade. Borrowing code directly from Magnus, a well-known limiter developer, HoRNet has built in a limiter with three selectable auto release times. This allows users to dial in the exact type of dynamic control they need, from transparent limiting to more assertive peak management.
The three auto release options give you flexibility when mastering or controlling peaks during tracking and mixing. Whether you need fast, medium, or slow release behavior, the limiter responds musically and reliably—preserving the natural dynamics of your audio while preventing clipping.
In keeping with HoRNet’s reputation for providing high-quality plugins at accessible prices, the TrackUtility MK2 is available for just €11.99. Even more impressive, existing users of the previous version can upgrade for only €1.49, making this a highly affordable investment for a major workflow enhancement.
The original TrackUtility will remain on sale and continue receiving bug fixes, so users who prefer to stick with the classic version can do so with confidence. However, for those seeking more power, flexibility, and control, the MK2 version clearly offers a better long-term solution.
With the TrackUtility MK2, HoRNet once again proves its ability to deliver compact, reliable, and intelligent tools that cater to real-world production needs. Whether you’re a home studio producer, a freelance engineer, or a post-production professional, this plugin provides essential features in a streamlined interface.
The addition of grouping, a flexible RMS meter, the latest auto gain technology, and an upgraded limiter makes the MK2 version a must-have utility plugin. At this price point, it’s hard to find another tool that offers this much functionality in such a compact form.
Try out the HoRNet TrackUtility MK2 and experience the next evolution of this indispensable mixing tool.
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