Waves Audio has released the IDX Intelligent Dynamics, a smart, frequency-dependent compressor designed to optimise tracks’ energy, delivering greater punch and focus.
IDX can be inserted at the beginning of a plug-in chain and/or across multiple tracks to set a solid foundation on which to build the rest of a mix, and as effectively used on a master bus. The plug-in intelligently optimises energy levels, applying precise processing where needed.
While individual sounds may be good on their own, they can feel washed out within a mix. With IDX Intelligent Dynamics plug-in, vocals come forward without compromising the crispness of drum transients, while basses become punchy and well defined.
By using multiple detectors across the frequency range, IDX shapes the envelope of tracks, providing an ‘in-your-face’ sound without sacrificing depth. IDX employs a smart algorithm that automatically identifies the busiest areas of the frequency range – those that consume energy without enhancing the tone of instruments or vocals. It then compresses them by using ‘progressive attenuation’ (unlike a traditional compressor, which uniformly reduces the signal RMS above a threshold). As a result, frequency ranges that define the track’s key characteristics gain a distinct advantage and become more prominent.
Positioning IDX at the start of a plug-in chain effectively compresses frequencies that contribute to harshness and boominess, reducing the need for EQ. Its smart compression algorithm also enhances the important ‘good’ frequencies, bringing them forward in the mix.
Users can control IDX’s response speed with two modes: Hard mode delivers a fast response for transient sounds like drums and percussive elements, or when extra punch is desired. Soft mode provides a smoother, slower response, perfect for non-percussive sounds that need a more natural feel. The plug-in’s Tilt control adjusts the degree of high and low frequency compression. Turning it one way compresses the highs more, resulting in a darker tone. Turning it the other way compresses the lows more, resulting in a brighter sound.
Additionally, Waves’ IDX Intelligent Dynamics includes a zero-latency version for live applications. With just a few simple moves, IDX provides super-quick dynamic control over any input channel or group in your live mix.
Key features:
- Optimises track energy for more punch and focus.
- Gives a solid foundation to build a mix.
- Uses frequency-dependent progressive attenuation.
- Quick Match control balances input and output levels.
- Tilt control adjusts bright vs dark tone
- Hard and Soft modes control response speed.
- Zero-latency version for live sound.
