MidSideSixteen

Multiband finesse for the master bus.

Fine-tune the dynamics of your mix with 16 frequency bands of mid-side compression, along with subtle gating and saturation on each band. MidSideSixteen helps you to stay in a state of flow, by automatically calibrating the gain-staging of each band so that you don't have to.

The plugin can add clarity and focus to your mix even while still on its default settings.

Features

• Sixteen frequency bands, with solo ("S.") button for each band
  
• Automatic threshold adjustment based on the incoming signal level—use the "Compression" knobs to control how far each threshold rides below the peaks in your signal
• Frequency-dependent attack timing designed to preserve transients
• Variable global release time
  
• Simple multiband gating with adjustable range up to 6dB
• Subtle multiband saturation with automatic drive and level trim on each band (oversampled if project sample rate is below 80kHz)
• Parallel processing via dual gain-matched dry/wet mix controls for dynamics and saturation
• Automatic make-up gain to match perceived loudness
• Mid-side processing (100% unlinked)
• Most controls can be automated

How to use

• Set the release time to best match the groove of your material
• Double-click the gain reduction display to toggle per-band controls
• To enhance transients and ambience, turn up the Compression dials, but avoid choking off any sustained tones
• Click the gain reduction display for instant A/B test (still uses CPU as if plugin activated)
• Double-click a dial to reset to its default value, or hold <CTRL>/<CMD> to fine-tune

Technical notes

• Available in VST3 format for PC, and VST3 & AU formats for Mac. AAX support coming soon
• Requires a compatible Digital Audio Workstation or other plugin host
• ~19ms latency, mostly from perfect-reconstruction crossovers
  
• Crossover frequencies not user-adjustable
• No external sidechain capability
• Plugin is designed for common audio signals such as music and voice; may not react meaningfully to artificial test signals such as chirps, impulses or bursts

This is our most CPU-intensive device—but because it's loudness-matched and largely EQ-neutral, you can deactivate it when not needed (using the controls in your DAW) without disrupting your gain-staging or sonic balance.

Please download and evaluate the free demo version of MidSideSixteen before purchasing, as we don’t yet offer refunds. Demo version here.