Neural DSP are a big name in the world of guitar and bass processing, with their renowned amp-modelling technology powering hardware systems such as the Quad and Nano Cortex along with a collection of software plug-ins. Their latest release falls into the plug-in category, but sees the company head in a new direction with an all-in-one processing solution for recording and mixing vocals.
Leveraging the company’s expertise in modelling analogue equipment, Mantra promises to deliver the warmth and musicality associated with vintage hardware, but with the precision, control and liability offered by modern, digital alternatives. It brings together a collection of processes including pitch-correction, EQ, compression, gating and de-essing, as well as offering tools for creating harmonies and applying effects, and is said to be ideal for everything from singing and rapping to voiceovers, podcasts and streaming. Despite the focus on vocals, Neural DSP say that the plug-in will happily tackle the likes of synths, drums, guitars and other instruments.
“Our mission with Mantra was simple. We wanted to put a world-class vocal studio into one plug-in so artists can focus on feeling, expression and performance instead of wrestling with technical hurdles. Mantra marks an exciting expansion into the broader world of audio production, giving vocalists, producers and creators a powerful, streamlined way to achieve incredible results with no compromises. Most vocal tools are either too basic or too complex — our goal with Mantra is to strike a balance, offering an intuitive solution that benefits both beginners and experienced producers alike. That vision has come to life, and we look forward to growing alongside our community as they redefine what’s possible in vocal production.” - Francisco Cresp, CPO and Co-Founder, Neural DSP
Modes & Tools
Mantra offers two modes of operation: Tracking Mode and Mixing Mode, with the former providing low-latency performance and reduced CPU usage, and the latter delivering enhanced quality and detail at the expense of additional latency and increased demand on system resources.
A Correction Section combines pitch-correction, gating, de-essing and a powerful Sculpt module, which intelligently analyses the user’s voice and mic in real time before applying a refined tonal curve designed to enhance clarity and presence. With the plug-in set to Mixing Mode, Sculpt adds dynamic spectral shaping that tames harshness and balances the vocal’s tone, working like a ‘smart’ multiband compressor without the need to configure any settings.
Mantra’s Multimode Compressor provides three classic ‘flavours’: Tube, Stress and Multi, offering a choice of musical, aggressive or modern-sounding compression, while a range of distortion options are provided by its Multimode Saturation module’s Tape, Tube and Digital modes.
Harmonies & Effects
In addition to its processing tools, Mantra features a built-in harmony generator and effects.
- Harmonies: Stack up to eight pitch-shifted voices with natural variation in pitch and timing. From subtle doubling to full choral textures, build layers effortlessly.
- Delays: Four unique delay types — Analog, Tape, Stereo and Dual — each with a built-in ducker to keep echoes clean and tucked.
- Reverbs: Hall, Plate and Ambiance modes add spatial dimension while keeping vocals front and centre.
- Modulation & Doubler: Studio-grade Chorus, Flanger and Phaser effects, plus a proprietary Doubler for realistic width and thickness — no second takes required.
“We believe technology should serve the art, not get in its way. Mantra removes barriers and gives creators the freedom to experiment, push boundaries and trust their instincts, knowing their vocal sound will stay consistent, inspiring and professional from the very first take.” - Francois Barrillon, Plugin Product Manager, Neural DSP
Compatibility
Mantra is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 13 and higher. VST, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Mantra is available now, priced at €199. A free 14-day trial version is available.
