The latest plug-in from PSPaudioware aims to offer a simple and intuitive way to handle compression in a range of multi-channel surround and immersive audio formats. Created in a collaboration with acclaimed immersive audio pioneer Ronald Prent, PSP auralComp is capable of providing up to 16 channels of compression, and also features an output stage with a final brick wall limiter.
Users are able to select their speaker configuration within the plug-in; surround and immersive formats from 5.1 through to 7.1.4 are supported, and it is also possible to use PSP auralComp to apply mid-side processing to stereo sources. Each individual channel is equipped with its own set of dedicated controls and metering, and it is possible to create up to eight side-chain submixes for detailed control over how the compressor sections react to the source material.
Each channel’s compressor section provides users with control over attack, release, threshold, ratio and make-up gain parameters, as well as a mix control to allow for parallel compression. Side-chain sources can be assigned at the bottom of each compressor section, and a Link control allows users to blend between the individual channel’s signal and the selected side-chain submix. When at 0%, the compressor will react entirely to its own channel’s signal, whilst a setting of 100% will cause the cause compression to be triggered by the submix.
The final section of the plug-in then provides control over input and output levels, and contains a brick wall limiter equipped with Drive and Ceiling controls. There are also three selectable modes that define how the side-chain submixes are summed: Natural, Rectified and RMS.
The company say that PSP auralComp is the first in a series of plug-ins created with Ronald Prent, whose credits as a recording and mix engineer include acts such as Depeche Mode, Helloween, Manowar, Iron Maiden, Rammstein and Def Leppard. He specialises in surround and immersive sound, and has played a key role in the development of new technologies for multi-channel audio formats.
Compatibility
PSP auralComp is supported on PCs running Windows 7 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.12 and higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available. The latest version of PACE’s iLok License Manager is required for authorisation, although a physical iLok dongle is not required.
Pricing & Availability
PSP auralComp is available now, priced at $299.
