JMG Sound and United Plugins have announced the launch of a new, packed down version of their innovative saturation and widening processor. WideFire includes all of the core functionality of the more fully featured DarkFire, and is being offered as a free download for a limited time following its release.
Based on user requests, JMG Sound say they have created WideFire by extracting the core features found in DarkFire, presenting them in a new, simplified plug-in. The approach remains the same, with the plug-in offering a new take on stereo widening that promises to surpass the capabilities of traditional widening plug-ins. The effect employs some analogue-style saturation processing, but applies a widening algorithm to the newly generated harmonic content before mixing the results back with the original audio feed. The results are said to provide an exciting yet natural-sounding stereo field while retaining good mono compatibility, and the processor can be used to generate stereo content from mono sources.
The plug-in features a simple GUI that combines a large central Harmonics Level control with Drive, HP (high-pass) and Output dials, along with a Side Only switch that makes it possible to restrict the processing to the Sides element of a stereo signal. There are some useful tools included, too, including an A/B function for comparing different settings, and built-in undo and redo functions.
SOS Review
We reviewed JMG Sound’s DarkFire in the February 2025 issue — click here to take a look (print / web / app / replica / PDF editions).
Compatibility
WideFire is supported on PCs running Windows 10 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.10 and higher. VST, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
WideFire is available now, and is currently (10 March 2025) being offered as a free download for the next 10 days. It will then be subject to an introductory pricing offer of €9 until 30 April 2025, when it will increase to its full cost of €29. Those who already own DarkFire will automatically receive a license for WideFire.
