IK Multimedia have announced that the latest version of their mixing and mastering software suite is now available. T-RackS 6 includes eight new processing modules, and introduces a whole host of new features such as side-chain routing, improved metering, enhanced module management and more.
The suite comes packed with a huge selection of compressors, EQs and channel strips, all of which have been created using IK Multimedia’s renowned modelling technology, as well as a range of room, hall, plate and spring reverb effects based on some of the world’s top studios and gear. A significant addition to the collection is Master Match X, a new module that automatically creates processing settings based on a user-imported reference track, and allows the results to be fine-tuned to arrive at a final master.
New Modules
Here’s a list of the processors added in the latest version, along with IK’s descriptions:
- Master Match X: The next generation of intelligent mastering. Instantly analyse a reference song to match EQ, balance, compression, limiting and more. With internal or external references and a wealth of controls, anyone can create professional-sounding masters almost instantly.
- Channel Strip X: T-RackS' most advanced channel strip ever, this versatile unit delivers EQ, de-essing, dynamics processing and transient shaping in a single lightning-fast unit, with tailored presets for various instruments and ensembles.
- Bass ONE: Innovative, organic multi-algorithm processor that makes the low end thick, solid, clean, uncluttered, precise and powerful.
- Lo-Fi Punch: This harmonics and dynamics multi-processor can add and alter the audio texture, ranging from subtle warming to total squashing. It has dynamic tone shaping and convenient control to add textures, thickness, dimension, grit, life and movement.
- Dual Spring: Spring reverb is one of the foundations of everybody's sonic memories. Everything processed with a spring becomes fascinating, intense, dreamy and mysterious, yet comfortable and familiar. The Dual Spring pushes the concept by adding never-before-seen parameters to a spring unit, such as selecting the spring material, using stereo or mono single reverb, reverb length, reverb stretch and more. It offers classic analogue tone with digital flexibility and convenience.
- Delay Lab: This powerful delay unit adds movement, space and depth to vocals, instruments, rhythmic patterns and everything else. Its delay unit is clear and open-sounding, giving everything space and a sense of dimension.
- Pusher: Saturation driven further. A unique four-band processor that offers five different saturation types per band along with envelope, drive and colour controls. With limitless options from subtle enhancement to trashing total distortion, it's always musical and creative with all independent saturation types and settings per band.
- Filter Fusion: This do-it-all filter processor offers five unique filter types, including a model of the iconic Moog transistor ladder. It's combined with a dizzying array of controls and options, including a step sequencer for rhythmic use and an innovative modulation joystick for incredibly nuanced and expressive effects.
T-RackS 6 includes 60 modules that can be used as individual DAW plug-ins, but also includes a Mastering Console application that serves as an all-in-one suite for adding the finishing touches to a track.
Enhancements
As well as expanding the collection of modules, T-RackS 6 also benefits from an array of enhancements and improvements. A redesigned, resizable GUI gives it a fresh new look and provides a faster, more responsive experience, while a new browser system makes it easier to search for and load presets.
All of the included compressors have been kitted out with side-chain inputs, allowing for more in-depth control over dynamics processing, and a new metering system offers compatibility with a wide range of current loudness standards — including EBU R128, ATSC A/85, OP-59 and TR-B32 — as well as offering true peak PPM, Dynamic Range and RMS metering, all of which offer both graphical and numeric readout.
The included Mastering Console software has been redesigned, and now includes a new master bus that allows users to add up to four additional processors that can be applied across a whole project, as well as displaying I/O metering on each module in the chain to give a clear overview of its gain staging.
T-RackS 6 is available in four tiers, all of which include the T-RackS plug-in and Mastering Console, but vary in the amount of plug-ins they offer. New to the latest version is an INTRO version, which is available as a free download and comes equipped with Classic Comp, Classic EQ and Master Match X Lite plug-ins. It also allows users to test out any of the other modules for 14 days without any restrictions or commitment to purchase. IK Multimedia say that its important to note that porting modules from T-RackS 5 is only possible with the paid versions.
Compatibility
T-RackS 6 is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
T-RackS 6 is available now, with each version priced as follows:
- T-RackS 6 INTRO (three plug-ins): Free*
- T-RackS 6 (19 plug-ins): $/€99.99
- T-RackS 6 PRO (40 plug-ins): $/€199.99
- T-RackS 6 MAX (60 plug-ins): $/€299.99
*No module porting from T-RackS 5
