Fiedler Audio Spacelab Interstellar is a cutting-edge 3D audio production plugin that combines reverb, panning, and spatialization into a single powerful tool. Developed in collaboration with Fraunhofer IIS, the inventors of MP3, Spacelab Interstellar offers an object-based approach to audio mixing, allowing users to position up to 256 sound sources within a virtual 3D space. The plugin renders reverb individually for each object based on its position, creating a highly detailed and realistic sonic landscape. Spacelab Interstellar supports a wide range of output formats, from stereo to full-sphere 3D audio, including Dolby Atmos and MPEG-H. It features a high-quality binaural renderer for headphone monitoring and production, making it possible to work on immersive audio projects anywhere. The plugin’s interface provides intuitive control over object positioning and listener placement, facilitating creative workflows for music, film, broadcast, VR/AR, and game audio production.
Pros:
• Combines reverb, 3D panning, and spatialization in one plugin
• Supports up to 256 audio objects with individual positioning
• Compatible with a wide range of output formats, including Dolby Atmos and MPEG-H
• High-quality binaural rendering for headphone monitoring and production
• Intuitive interface for object and listener positioning
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for users new to object-based mixing
• Relatively high system requirements for optimal performance
Spacelab Interstellar boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart in the world of 3D audio production. At its core is a state-of-the-art reverb algorithm developed by Fraunhofer IIS, which provides realistic room simulations ranging from small enclosed spaces to vast environments. The reverb can be fine-tuned using nine frequency bands, allowing for precise control over the sound character. The plugin’s object-based approach is a standout feature, enabling users to place up to 256 audio sources within a virtual 3D space. Each object has its own independent early reflection pattern based on its position, contributing to a highly realistic spatial impression. The virtual listener can also be moved freely within the space, offering six degrees of freedom for immersive audio experiences.
Spacelab Interstellar’s 3D panner allows for precise object positioning around the listener, with automation capabilities for dynamic movement. The plugin supports a wide range of output formats, from stereo to full-sphere 3D audio, making it versatile for various production scenarios. Its compatibility with Dolby Atmos and MPEG-H workflows further enhances its utility in professional environments.
A unique feature of Spacelab Interstellar is its spatial EQ, which allows users to shape the reverb sound in eight different directions around the listener. This level of control helps prevent the reverb from cluttering the mix while maintaining desired presence.
The plugin includes a high-quality binaural renderer, enabling users to monitor and produce 3D audio on headphones. This feature is particularly valuable for professionals working in mobile or home studio environments, as it allows for accurate spatial audio production without the need for a complex speaker setup.
Spacelab Interstellar also comes with Spacelab Beam, a “transporter” plugin that can be inserted on individual tracks in a DAW. This allows users to send specific tracks into Spacelab’s 3D environment, even in DAWs limited to stereo operation.
The plugin offers two modes of operation: Source mode for spatial positioning and Classic mode for traditional send/return reverb effects. This flexibility allows users to integrate Spacelab Interstellar into their existing workflows while exploring new creative possibilities in 3D audio production.
In the realm of 3D audio production tools, Spacelab Interstellar stands out for its comprehensive approach, combining reverb, panning, and spatialization in a single plugin. While there are other plugins that offer 3D panning or immersive reverb separately, few provide the level of integration and object-based mixing capabilities that Spacelab Interstellar does.
Compared to plugins like NUGEN Audio’s Halo Upmix or iZotope’s Exponential Audio STRATUS 3D, Spacelab Interstellar offers more extensive object-based mixing capabilities and a higher object count. Its direct integration with Dolby Atmos workflows also gives it an edge over many competitors in professional post-production environments. In terms of reverb quality, Spacelab Interstellar is often compared favorably to high-end reverb plugins like Exponential Audio’s PhoenixVerb. However, Spacelab Interstellar’s ability to render reverb individually for each object in 3D space sets it apart, offering a level of realism and control that traditional reverb plugins struggle to match. While plugins like Waves’ Abbey Road Studio 3 or Nx Virtual Mix Room offer binaural monitoring solutions, Spacelab Interstellar’s combination of high-quality binaural rendering with comprehensive 3D mixing tools makes it a more complete solution for immersive audio production.
This plugin is best for:
• Professional audio engineers working on immersive audio projects
• Film and game sound designers requiring precise 3D audio positioning
• Music producers looking to explore spatial audio mixing
• VR/AR content creators needing advanced 3D audio tools
• Post-production facilities working with Dolby Atmos
Spacelab Interstellar represents a significant leap forward in 3D audio production tools. It offers a unique combination of high-quality reverb, precise 3D panning, and object-based mixing capabilities that cater to the growing demand for immersive audio content. The plugin’s versatility in supporting various output formats, including Dolby Atmos and MPEG-H, makes it a valuable asset for professionals working across different media. Its intuitive interface and powerful features like spatial EQ and binaural rendering provide users with unprecedented control over the spatial aspects of their mixes. While the learning curve may be steep for those new to object-based mixing, the creative possibilities opened up by Spacelab Interstellar are vast. The plugin’s ability to work within any DAW, even those limited to stereo operation, further enhances its accessibility. Despite its relatively high system requirements, Spacelab Interstellar’s performance and sound quality justify its position as a premium tool for immersive audio production. For audio professionals looking to push the boundaries of spatial audio, Spacelab Interstellar offers a comprehensive solution that combines cutting-edge technology with creative flexibility.