United Plugins & FireSonic release FireSpacer

Published 24/7/24

Applies filtering to avoid frequency masking

The latest FireSonics plug-in to be released via United Plugins aims to solve the problem of frequency masking in busy mixes, helping to ensure that each element sits nicely in its own space. Aimed at beginners and seasoned pros alike, FireSpacer is capable of applying intelligent filtering to a track based on the content of a competing one.

The plug-in relies on a DAW’s side-chain routing facilities, and is designed to be inserted on a track that needs ‘shaping’ in order to make space for another important part of the mix, with its side-chain input fed from the track that needs prioritising. FireSpacer will analyse the incoming side-chain signal and create filter settings that attenuate competing frequencies in the main signal.

A central Amount control defines the amount of attenuation applied, while Mix and Max Freq controls allow users to limit the plug-in’s operating bandwidth. Four operation modes offer a selection of spectral and minimum-phase filtering options, with the former offering more accurate performance at the cost of additional CPU resources. A release parameter makes it possible to govern how quickly frequencies are restored once they’re no longer deemed to be in the way, and a Precision control determines how close frequencies must be to those in the side-chain signal before being attenuated. FireSonic say that the Precision control is useful only when using spectral modes.

The input, side-chain and output channels are each kitted out with gain controls and level meters, and the plug-in comes equipped with its own built-in undo/redo functions, as well as a handy A/B tool for comparing different settings.

Compatibility

FireSpacer is supported on PCs running Windows 8 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.10 and above. VST, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available. The plug-in can only be used in DAWs that support side-chain routing.