AIR Ether is a versatile and powerful reverb plugin that pushes the boundaries of traditional reverb processing. This innovative tool combines eight distinct reverb algorithms with an array of post-processing modules, allowing users to shape and manipulate their sound in unique and creative ways. Ether’s interface is clean and intuitive, featuring a white background with clearly labeled controls for easy navigation. The plugin offers a comprehensive reverb section with pre-delay, reverb time, and damp controls, as well as an EQ and filter section for further sound sculpting. What sets Ether apart from conventional reverb plugins is its suite of five additional modules: Pitch, Modulation, Delay, Animation, and Compressor. These modules provide users with extensive options for transforming their reverb tails into complex, evolving soundscapes. The Pitch module allows for shimmer effects and tonal alterations, while the Modulation section adds movement and depth to the reverb. The Delay module offers synced and cross-fed delay effects, and the Animation section introduces tempo-synced modulation shapes. The Compressor module rounds out the package with dynamic control options. Ether also includes an LFO/Envelope section with four modulation modes and assignable destinations, providing even more possibilities for sound design.
Pros:
• Extensive sound-shaping capabilities with eight reverb algorithms and five post-processing modules
• Intuitive interface with easily accessible controls
• Wide range of presets showcasing the plugin’s versatility
• Compatible with major plugin formats and Apple Silicon processors
Cons:
• Bright white interface may be uncomfortable for users who prefer darker themes
• Some users might find the abundance of options overwhelming
Ether’s reverb section forms the foundation of the plugin, offering eight distinct space settings that cater to various sonic needs. Users can fine-tune the reverb characteristics using pre-delay, reverb time, and damp controls, allowing for precise adjustment of the reverb’s onset, duration, and high-frequency attenuation. The EQ and filter section provides additional tonal shaping capabilities, enabling users to sculpt the frequency content of the reverb tail.
The Pitch module is a standout feature, allowing users to alter the timbre of the reverb tail. By pitching the reverb up, users can create shimmering, ethereal textures ideal for ambient and atmospheric sounds. Conversely, pitching down adds weight and depth, perfect for creating lo-fi effects or adding richness to thin sources.
The Modulation section introduces movement to the reverb, featuring controls for shape, depth, and rate. This module is crucial for creating lush, evolving reverb tails that breathe life into static sounds. Users can dial in subtle modulation for natural-sounding spaces or push the parameters for more extreme, otherworldly effects.
Ether’s Delay module expands the plugin’s creative potential, offering BPM-synced delays with cross-feed capabilities for bouncing echo effects. The flexible input routing options allow users to feed the delay from various points in the signal chain, including the dry signal, pitched reverb, or a mix of both. This versatility enables the creation of complex, layered reverb-delay combinations that can transform simple sounds into rich, textured landscapes.
The Animation section adds another layer of motion to the reverb, providing a range of modulation shapes that can be synced to the project tempo. Users can adjust parameters such as rate, tonal balance, color, and smoothing to create everything from gentle undulations to choppy, rhythmic effects. This feature is particularly useful for adding interest to sustained sounds or creating pulsating ambient textures.
The Compressor module offers dynamic control over the reverb tail, with three input routing options and adjustable attack and release times. This allows users to shape the envelope of the reverb, adding punch to percussive sounds or smoothing out inconsistencies in the reverb decay.
Finally, the LFO/Envelope section provides four unique modulation modes that can be assigned to various parameters within the plugin. With BPM sync capabilities and a retrigger threshold control, users can create complex, evolving modulations that respond to the input signal or follow the project tempo.
When compared to other reverb plugins on the market, Ether stands out for its extensive post-processing capabilities. While many reverb plugins focus solely on creating realistic spaces or offer basic modulation options, Ether provides a complete toolkit for sound design and reverb manipulation. Its closest competitors might include plugins like Valhalla Shimmer or Eventide Blackhole, which also offer creative reverb effects. However, Ether’s combination of traditional reverb algorithms with multiple post-processing modules gives it a unique edge in terms of versatility. Unlike some other effect plugins that can be overly complex or CPU-intensive, Ether maintains a balance between power and usability. Its interface is more straightforward than some modular-style plugins, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. In terms of sound quality, Ether holds its own against high-end reverb plugins, offering clean, rich reverb tails that can be shaped into complex, evolving soundscapes.
This plugin is best for:
• Sound designers looking for a versatile tool to create unique atmospheric effects
• Electronic music producers seeking to add depth and movement to their tracks
• Film and game composers needing to craft immersive, evolving soundscapes
• Mixing engineers wanting a reverb plugin that goes beyond traditional space emulation
AIR Music Tech Ether pushes the boundaries of conventional reverb processing. Its combination of high-quality reverb algorithms and extensive post-processing modules makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of music production and sound design applications. The intuitive interface allows users to quickly access and manipulate the plugin’s many features, while the well-designed presets provide excellent starting points for exploration. Ether’s strength lies in its ability to transform simple reverb tails into complex, evolving soundscapes. The Pitch and Modulation modules are particularly effective in creating shimmering, ethereal textures, while the Delay and Animation sections add rhythmic interest and movement. The Compressor module and LFO/Envelope section further expand the plugin’s capabilities, allowing for precise control over dynamics and modulation. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from subtle space creation to extreme sound manipulation. Whether you’re a producer looking to add depth to your tracks, a sound designer crafting immersive atmospheres, or a mixing engineer seeking a reverb plugin with extra creative potential, Ether is certainly worth considering.