Introduction

The Waves IR-1,IR-L and IR-360plug-ins create extremely high quality replicas of acoustical spaces and synthetic reverbs. They also allow the user to alter many aspects of the sound of these reverbs.

For the purpose of this Manual, when discussing attributes shared by the Waves IR-1,IR-Land IR-360Parametric Convolution Reverb plug-ins, we will simply refer to them all as the IR-series.

Overview

The Waves IR-series are convolution-based reverb processors. They give the user total control of a reverb's properties. Impulse Response Convolution is the process of forcing a certain acoustic signature on any incoming audio signal. An Impulse Response (IR) is created by feeding a very short pulse (Impulse) into a linear system and measuring the resultant output (Response).

Synthetic Digital Reverberation

Historically, most digital reverberation processors have used a synthetic reverberation engine for high efficiency. This would usually consist of two reverberation generators:

•The Early Reflections Generator. This generator is based on a short Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter with less than 100 reflections. A short stage of convolution is performed with this FIR.

•The Reverberation Tail Generator. This is based on a recursive Infinite Impulse Response (IIR) filter. The IIR comprises a feedback loop with a decay factor and inner dispersion filters. It makes the reverb more complex, less resonant, and more rich and natural sounding.

The tail generator is efficient. It can generate a one-second reverberation time or a five- second reverberation time using the same amount of processing power. Such reverbs usually allow a great deal of control over the reverberation properties. These controls have become classics. They include Reverb Time (RT), Predelay, Size, High and Low Frequency Damping, and Diffusion.

Typically, the goal for using a reverb is to emulate the acoustics of natural spaces such as rooms or halls, or to add "wet" reflections to "dry" sources for creative and aesthetic reasons.

Examples of these reverb processors include the Waves TrueVerb and Renaissance Reverb.

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Waves IR-360, IR-L, IR-1 manual Introduction, Synthetic Digital Reverberation
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IR-360, IR-L, IR-1 specifications

Waves is a trusted name in the audio processing industry, and its range of plugins has consistently set the standard for professional audio production. Among its extensive lineup, the Waves IR-1, IR-L, and IR-360 are renowned for their advanced convolution reverb capabilities, delivering studio-quality reverb effects that enhance any sound environment.

The Waves IR-1 is a high-quality convolution reverb plugin that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring a wide array of impulse responses derived from actual acoustic spaces, the IR-1 allows users to recreate the sound of various environments, from lush concert halls to intimate rooms. One of its standout features is the ability to manipulate the reverb tail, making it possible to fine-tune the duration and character of the effect. The IR-1 also includes controls for early reflections, damping, and pre-delay, enabling users to craft a reverb that perfectly complements their mix.

The Waves IR-L is a more streamlined version of the IR-1, designed for professionals who demand high-quality reverb but prefer a simplified interface. While it retains the core convolution technology and impulse response library of the IR-1, the IR-L focuses on ease of use, allowing for quick adjustments without sacrificing sound quality. One innovative feature is its “scalable” plugin structure, which lets users modify the plugin interface size based on their screen space. This makes IR-L ideal for both studio work and live sound applications.

Waves IR-360 is designed for immersive audio and 3D sound environments. By providing surround sound capabilities, it enables users to place sounds in a 360-degree space, making it ideal for film scoring and virtual reality audio. Like its predecessors, the IR-360 includes a rich selection of impulse responses, but it also integrates features tailored for spatial audio creation. This includes customizable parameters for azimuth and elevation, allowing precise control over sound placement in three-dimensional space. Additionally, the IR-360 supports various surround formats, making it versatile for multiple audio production contexts.

In summary, Waves IR-1, IR-L, and IR-360 offer powerful and innovative convolution reverb solutions, each designed with specific user needs in mind. With their advanced capabilities, extensive impulse response libraries, and user-friendly interfaces, these plugins cater to a wide range of audio production applications, setting new standards in reverb technology. Whether for music production, post-production, or immersive audio experiences, these tools are essential for achieving high-quality soundscapes.
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