Sampled-Acoustics Convolution Reverberation

In math, the term convolution means an integral which expresses the amount of overlap of one function x as it is shifted over another function y. In the literal sense, it means to “roll together” or to “fold together”. A convolution reverb blends together an input signal with another type of audio signal called an impulse response.

Sampled-acoustics convolution processors are a different type of digital reverb than the digital reverbs that preceded them. They are much more calculation-intensive, but offer the ability to faithfully convolve any given impulse response with any input signal.

The Impulse Response (IR) of a certain reverb hardware setup or the acoustics of a real space can be captured and imported into the sampled acoustics reverb. It will use the Impulse Response as a filter consisting of thousands of reflections. The longer the IR, the more intensive the calculation, and thus the more processing power that will be required.

The result is that running a dry signal through a typical sampled acoustics reverb will sound much like running it through the original device with the same settings, or like recording the signal in the sampled space with a microphone setup similar to the one used for capturing the acoustics. These reverbs usually offer very little control of the reverberation properties and are essentially designed to faithfully super-impose the sampled acoustics.

The Perfect Hybrid

The Waves IR-series plug-ins are designed to bridge the gap between synthetic digital reverberation and sampled acoustics convolution reverberation. They provide a convolution-based reverb processor with total control of the reverb parameters. The IR- series uses the impulse response as raw material. This allows the user to process the impulse response with controls that are similar to those offered in classic digital reverbs.

The process is power intensive. However, the manipulations performed on the impulse response are calculated offline so that they don’t consume all of the CPU’s power. Then they are applied by way of straightforward convolution.

The result is that you have the natural and high-quality sound of sampled space acoustics as well as the controls to shape the sound to your needs. These manipulations go beyond those offered in regular digital reverbs.

Waves IR-1 software guide page 5 of 40

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.

Waves IR-1, IR-L, IR-360 manual Sampled-Acoustics Convolution Reverberation, Perfect Hybrid

Models: IR-360 IR-L IR-1