Solid State Logic X-EQ manual Introduction

Page 5

1. Introduction

Thank yo u for p urchasing t he X-EQ plug-in for the S SL

Duende platform. X-EQ is

a vers atile and comprehensive

mastering grade parametric EQ plug-in built from the ground

up for Duende. It has an unpre cedented clarity, smoothness,

and excellent high-frequency response.

 

The use of innovative coefficient generation and in novative

processing design provides superior perfo

rmance that

surpasses analogue EQ in both art istic freedom and sound

quality. This plug- in may we ll provide all the different EQ

options you will ever need.

 

 

A total of 10 EQ bands are provided, split into dedicated HP

and LP filters, LF and HF shelves and 6 bell bands. A Parallel

EQ mode is also provided which recreates the characteristic

sound of an o ld parallel

passive PEQ ci

rcuit buil t wit h

inductors and capacitors.

 

 

In addi tion to this, different fi lter t ypes are provided

independently for each of the 10 bands. The HP and LP filters have 5 different topologies available, the 6 bell ban ds each offer 9 d ifferent characterist ic s hapes and the LF and HF shelving filters offer variable Q. Together these cover the vast majority of EQ styles currently popular amongst professional users, including some legacy style s which are renowned for their artistic capability and some unique designs only possible in the digital domain.

Liberated from any analogue style control legacy, the X-EQ graphical user interface will especially appeal to people who like to s ee what they are hearing. The fully interactive EQ display shows the exact filter shapes and resulting curves of the different EQ b ands, and a real-time spectrum analyser allows you to see the effect of your EQ settings on the overall frequency spectrum of the sound source. Extensive control options in clude d ragable EQ nodes, traditional m ouse parameter control and exact numerical entry.

The plug-in is available in both mono and stereo instances in VST, AU an d R TAS fo rmats ma king i t c ompatible w ith virtually all audio software currently available on both PC and Mac.

As with other Duende plug-ins, X-EQ is capable of operating at 44.1, 48, 88.2 a nd 96kHz sam pling rates, where a mono instance at 44.1/48kHz occupies 1 Duende processing slot. This figure is doubled for stereo use and doubled again for 88.2/96kHz operation.

1

Image 5
Contents UserGuide Page Contents Page Introduction Key Features EQ Graphical User Interface Windows/PC System RequirementsApple Macintosh Installation & Authorisation An Audio Engineer’s Best Friend Some HistoryBest of the Analogue and Digital Worlds Analogue Parametric EQ ModellingNon- Linear Phase EQ Parallel Passive EQ Graphical EQ Display Operational OverviewMouse Operations in Graphical Display Control Options in Band Cont rol and Input/Out put SectionsSave, Load and A/B Functionality Meters Example To copy from location a to location BDynamic History Meter Peak Meter and Clip IndicatorRMS Meter FFT Spectrum AnalyserEQ Band Parameters and Control Range Gain Frequency Global BypassBell Filters Definitions EQ Filter TypesClassic Symmetrical AsymmetricalProportional Constant Q Invert Constant Q AsymmetricalConstant Q Asymmetrical Reverse Parallel Constant Q NewBessel Cut Filters CriticalChebychev Serial Mode EQ Signal FlowApplication Tips EQ Support Support FAQsPage Solid State Logic

X-EQ specifications

The Solid State Logic X-EQ is a cutting-edge equalizer plugin that combines the classic analog sound of SSL's renowned hardware with the flexibility and convenience of modern digital audio production. Designed to cater to both mixing engineers and producers, the X-EQ encapsulates SSL’s decades of experience in studio technology, providing users with a versatile and powerful tool for shaping audio.

One of the key features of the X-EQ is its comprehensive equalization capabilities. The plugin offers a nine-band EQ design that includes both analog-style and modern digital EQ modes. This versatility allows for a wide range of sound shaping, from gentle tonal adjustments to aggressive sculpting of frequencies. Each band can be adjusted independently, and the user can choose from a variety of filter types, including high and low shelves and parametric bands. This level of control enables sound designers to pinpoint and enhance specific frequencies within their audio tracks.

Another notable characteristic of the X-EQ is its unique "dynamic EQ" functionality. This feature allows users to employ frequency-responsive processing, which automatically adjusts the gain of specific frequency bands based on the input signal level. This intelligent response is a game-changer in the mixing process, particularly for managing problem frequencies that may only become problematic at certain levels, thereby resulting in a cleaner and more professional mix.

The user interface of the X-EQ is intuitive and visually appealing, utilizing SSL's signature design aesthetic. The layout is straightforward, allowing users to swiftly navigate through the various controls and settings. Additionally, the plugin supports AAF and OMF sessions, ensuring seamless integration into existing projects.

The X-EQ also includes advanced features such as a mid-side processing option, which enables additional control over stereo imaging. This allows engineers to manipulate the mid and side elements of a stereo mix separately, providing a greater level of detail in spatial arrangements.

Furthermore, the X-EQ employs SSL's proprietary algorithms, which are designed to deliver the best possible sound quality, retaining the warmth and character of analog equipment while ensuring pristine clarity and precision.

Overall, the Solid State Logic X-EQ stands out as a sophisticated and versatile equalizer plugin. With its blend of classic and modern technologies, it is an essential tool for any audio professional seeking to elevate their mix and achieve a polished sound. Whether used on individual tracks or during the final mixdown, the X-EQ empowers users to craft their audio with finesse and creativity.