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Rust 2
RUST 2 is a next-generation passive equalizer that combines classic analog tone with dynamic harmonic control, powered by Acustica’s NOVA engine. Built on a rare 7-band EQ design from the 1960s, it goes beyond static equalization, introducing level-dependent saturation through a fully integrated preamp stage. Available in VST3, AAX, and AU formats for all major DAWs on macOS and Windows.
A Legendary Foundation

The original design behind RUST is often considered one of the “Holy Grails” of classic equalization. An ultra-rare, all-analog passive unit, used on countless iconic records, it helped define the sound of an entire musical era.


Developed in the 1960s by Motown engineers, this ultra-rare passive 7-band EQ helped shape the sound of artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and The Jackson 5, contributing to the birth of the timeless Soul and R&B sound.

With fixed frequency points at 50 Hz, 130 Hz, 320 Hz, 800 Hz, 2 kHz, 5 kHz, and 12.5 kHz, its design delivers a punchy, warm, and highly musical response that became a defining element of an entire musical era.


RUST 2 preserves that legacy while extending it through a new generation of dynamic processing and control.

Already own the original RUST or part of the NOVA family?

Visit this page to discover your custom upgrade path.

Key Features
Passive EQ

7-band fixed design with proportional Q and natural band interaction

Preamp Modes

Vintage for rich saturation, Modern for cleaner and controlled response

Input Driven

Saturation shaped by input level through the NOVA engine

Dual Workflow

Mono and Stereo plugins with full Mid/Side processing

Real-Time View

EQ curve display and input signal scope in Extended mode

Zero Latency

ZL version for real-time tracking and monitoring

A Complete Tone System

RUST 2 is available as two dedicated plugins, designed for different workflows while sharing the same sonic engine.

RUST 2 (Mono) offers detailed control over Left, Right, Mid, and Side components, along with an extended view featuring real-time EQ visualization and input signal scope.

RUST 2 (Stereo) provides independent control over Left/Right or Mid/Side channels, with flexible linking for faster operation.

Dual Preamp Behavior

At the core of the system is a dual preamp stage, allowing you to choose between two distinct tonal behaviors.


  • Vintage mode delivers richer harmonic coloration and a more pronounced, old-school saturation.
  • Modern mode provides a cleaner and more controlled response, ideal for precise tonal shaping.

The preamp is powered by NOVA and directly driven by the input level, meaning gain is not just volume, but a key part of the sound.

As you increase the input, RUST 2 moves seamlessly from clean to saturated, with no abrupt transitions.

Technical Informations
  • Supported formats: VST3, AAX, and AU.
  • Available sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz.
  • Compatible with Windows 10 and 11.
  • Compatible with macOS 10.15 (Catalina) to macOS Sonoma (version 14.x).
  • Native Apple Silicon support (Rosetta not supported).