The audio engineering world has a new player in the game, and they're making a bold entrance with their debut plugin, Panoramic. Panorama Audio Labs, founded by Melbourne mastering engineer Nicholas Di Lorenzo, has developed a unique tool that aims to revolutionize the way we approach stereo field processing.
What sets Panoramic apart is its focus on side-signal processing, a technique that widens and shapes the stereo image without relying on traditional phase or delay tricks. This approach ensures a more stable and controlled result, especially when it comes to mono fold-down, a common concern for engineers.
The Power of Parallel Processing
Panoramic's strength lies in its four parallel modules, each offering a specific function to manipulate the stereo field. The Width module allows engineers to control the opening of the image, either in parallel or across the entire signal. Density, on the other hand, adds parallel compression to the sides, bringing out quiet details without affecting the center.
The Character module introduces odd-order saturation to the sides, adding weight and energy to the mix. Its Steal function is particularly intriguing, as it pulls harmonics from the mid channel and feeds them into the sides, creating a richer and more immersive sound. Lastly, the Air module provides presence and clarity by exciting the top end and taming harsh cymbals or sibilant vocals with its dynamic EQ.
A Unique Approach to Low-End Control
One aspect that caught my attention is the elliptical filter, which keeps the low end mono. This filter can be positioned before or after the modules, offering engineers a choice between a cleaner result by keeping the lows out of the processing, or an interactive approach where the lows engage with the modules before folding to mono. It's a clever way to maintain control over the low-end frequency spectrum.
Customizable and Scalable
Panoramic offers a range of customizable features, including 2x and 4x oversampling, linked or unlinked I/O for gain staging, and a mix control that allows for a 0 to 200% blend. The plugin's interface is scalable, ensuring it adapts to the user's needs and preferences.
A Mastering Engineer's Vision
What makes Panoramic even more fascinating is its origin story. It was developed by Nicholas Di Lorenzo, a mastering engineer who built the plugin from his own custom chains used on his masters. This personal touch and attention to detail are evident in the plugin's design, which prioritizes control and precision over a one-knob widener approach.
In my opinion, Panoramic is a testament to the innovative spirit within the audio engineering community. It challenges conventional techniques and offers a fresh perspective on stereo field processing. With its unique features and customizable options, it has the potential to become a go-to tool for mastering engineers seeking precision and control.
As we continue to explore the possibilities of audio processing, plugins like Panoramic remind us of the endless creative avenues that technology opens up. It's an exciting development, and I, for one, can't wait to see the impact it has on the industry.
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