Neodynium 1.0: new visual audio compression plugin
updated 06:45 am EDT, Tue September 14, 2004
Neodynium 1.0 released
Elemental Audio Systems has released a new audio plug-in: is an innovative compressor and dynamics processing plug-in that employs sophisticated processing techniques to provide greater control of audio levels. Additionally, Neodynium introduces a cutting edge, visual approach to compression that supplies invaluable information for optimizing and directing compression efforts and ensuring effective compressor use. Neodynium is Mac OS X compatible and is available in RTAS, Audio Unit, and VST plug-in formats for use in hosts including Digidesign Pro Tools, Emagic Logic, Steinberg Cubase, BIAS Peak, and more. It is $160, but is is available for a limited time with a $20 discount.
Neodynium is controlled by interacting with a graphical depiction of its compression settings. Unlike the transfer curves and displays found on other compressors, Neodynium's Input/Output (I/O) Map provides a complete visual picture of the amount of compression being applied and the audio levels being affected.
"We designed Neodynium to be flexible - accommodating the varying needs of audio professionals, home studio enthusiasts, instructors, and students a like," said Elemental Audio Systems' Vice President, Brandon Ware. "But, we also wanted Neodynium to be exceedingly powerful. To meet these requirements, we had to break the mold of the typical compressor."
Neodynium also has the ability to affect distinct, user-specified level ranges. Different from multi-band compression, it allows users to focus on sounds and audio at different levels and expand and/or compress each separately--Neodynium treats each targeted range of levels as a virtually independent compression region, allowing for compression effects to range from muted to the complete alteration of the sonic character.
Neodynium includes a host of features for compression tasks: selectable side-chain/key input, up to three key filters (seven filter types available), target and processed key meters, "cloud" meters, Auto-Limiter, automatic gain compensation, look-ahead, and more.
