BLEASS Multiband Compressor is a powerful and versatile dynamics processor designed for both mobile and desktop music production environments. This plugin offers precise control over audio dynamics by splitting the signal into three frequency bands, each with independent compression settings. Its intuitive interface and innovative features make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from subtle mix adjustments to aggressive sound shaping. The plugin’s dual-stage dynamics processor for each band allows for both compression and expansion, providing exceptional flexibility in shaping the sound. Users can adjust the “Above” and “Below” thresholds independently, enabling precise control over both loud and quiet parts of the signal. This unique approach to multiband dynamics processing sets BLEASS Multiband Compressor apart from many of its competitors.
Pros:
• Intuitive user interface optimized for both desktop and mobile devices
• Dual-stage dynamics processor for each band, offering both compression and expansion
• Flexible sidechain system for advanced dynamics control
• Low CPU usage, making it suitable for resource-constrained mobile devices
• Soft clipping feature for adding subtle saturation
Cons:
• Limited to three frequency bands, which may be insufficient for some advanced applications
BLEASS Multiband Compressor also incorporates a flexible sidechain system, allowing users to choose which bands will key from the input signal and which will key from a filtered or external signal. This feature is particularly useful for corrective work, such as controlling resonances and sibilance, as well as for creative applications like ducking effects.
The BLEASS Multiband Compressor boasts an array of features that cater to both novice and experienced users. The plugin’s central panel provides a comprehensive view of all three bands, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. Users can set crossover frequencies by dragging boundary markers on the vertical bar at the top of the window, defining the low/mid and mid/high crossover points.
Each band features two threshold markers on its visualization, controlling the “Above” and “Below” compression thresholds. The current band level is displayed as an overlay, providing real-time visual feedback. This dual-threshold system allows for precise control over both the louder and quieter parts of the signal, enabling users to shape the dynamics of their audio with exceptional detail.
The plugin’s attack and release controls are globally adjustable using the “Att Factor” and “Rel Factor” parameters. These global adjustments affect all compressor bands simultaneously, streamlining the workflow while still allowing for fine-tuning. The “Below Attack” parameter applies a multiplier to the attack times of the “Below” compressor, offering additional control over how the plugin responds to quieter signals.
BLEASS Multiband Compressor includes a “Knee” control, which adjusts how the compressor responds when the signal level is near the threshold. This feature allows users to choose between a hard knee for more aggressive compression or a soft knee for more transparent processing. The “Look Ahead” feature adds a short delay to the processed signal, helping to catch fast transients and prevent unwanted artifacts.
The plugin’s sidechain capabilities are particularly noteworthy. Users can choose which bands will key from the input signal and which will key from a filtered or external signal. This feature opens up a world of creative possibilities, from corrective processing to innovative sound design.
A soft clipping feature rounds out the plugin’s offerings, ensuring that overly hot signals are tamed without harsh distortion. Instead, this feature imparts a subtle, valve-like saturation character to the audio, adding warmth and character when pushed hard.
Compared to other multiband compressors, BLEASS Multiband Compressor stands out for its intuitive interface and unique dual-stage dynamics processing. While plugins like FabFilter Pro-MB or iZotope Ozone’s multiband compressor offer more bands and more extensive features, BLEASS Multiband Compressor’s straightforward approach and low CPU usage make it particularly appealing for mobile producers or those seeking a more streamlined workflow. The plugin’s three-band limitation may be seen as a drawback compared to some competitors that offer four or more bands. However, this limitation also contributes to its ease of use and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for quick adjustments or resource-constrained systems. BLEASS Multiband Compressor’s flexible sidechain system is a standout feature that sets it apart from many competitors in its price range. While advanced mastering-grade plugins may offer more extensive sidechain options, BLEASS’s implementation strikes a good balance between functionality and usability.
This plugin is best for:
• Mobile music producers seeking a powerful yet CPU-efficient multiband compressor
• Mix engineers looking for an intuitive tool for quick multiband dynamics adjustments
• Sound designers who want to explore creative compression and expansion techniques
• Podcasters and voiceover artists needing precise control over vocal dynamics
BLEASS Multiband Compressor is a well-designed and feature-rich plugin that offers a unique approach to multiband dynamics processing. Its dual-stage compression/expansion system, intuitive interface, and flexible sidechain capabilities make it a versatile tool for a wide range of audio applications. While it may not have the extensive feature set of some high-end mastering plugins, its streamlined workflow and low CPU usage make it an excellent choice for both mobile and desktop production environments. The plugin’s ability to shape dynamics with precision, coupled with its soft clipping feature for subtle saturation, allows users to achieve professional-sounding results efficiently. Despite its limitation to three bands, BLEASS Multiband Compressor proves to be a powerful and user-friendly tool that can significantly enhance the quality of mixes, individual tracks, and sound design projects.