IK Multimedia ARC 4 is a comprehensive room correction system designed to optimize the acoustic environment of home and professional studios. This software-based solution combines an advanced measurement process with a powerful correction algorithm to address frequency response issues and improve the overall listening experience. ARC 4 builds upon its predecessors, offering enhanced features and a more intuitive user interface. The system includes a standalone measurement application and a plug-in that applies the measured correction to the output of your DAW. ARC 4 can be purchased with a MEMS measurement microphone or as a software-only package for those who already own a calibrated mic. The measurement process utilizes 3D VRM technology, allowing for either a quick 7-point or a more detailed 21-point analysis of the room. Once the measurements are complete, the ARC 4 plug-in applies the necessary corrections to achieve a balanced frequency response and improved stereo imaging at the listening position.
Pros:
• Improved measurement and correction algorithms for more accurate room analysis
• User-friendly interface with scalable UI and comprehensive metering options
• Virtual Monitoring feature simulates different playback devices and environments
Cons:
• Requires a separate measurement process before use, which may be time-consuming for some users
ARC 4 boasts a range of features designed to provide users with a flexible and powerful room correction solution. The measurement process is a key component of the system, offering two modes: a quick 7-point analysis for faster results, and a more comprehensive 21-point mode that captures data at three different height levels. This 3D approach to room analysis allows for a more accurate representation of the acoustic space, resulting in more precise corrections.
The correction algorithm in ARC 4 has been refined to deliver natural-sounding results while effectively addressing room-related issues. Users can choose between Natural and Linear Phase modes, with the former offering lower latency (64 samples) and the latter providing more precise correction at the cost of higher latency (2,100 samples).
The plug-in interface has been redesigned for improved usability, featuring a scalable UI that adapts to different screen sizes. The main display shows the room’s frequency response before and after correction, along with the target curve. Users can select from various factory target curves or create custom targets to suit their preferences.
ARC 4 is the Virtual Monitoring function, which simulates the frequency response of over 20 well-known studio monitors and consumer playback devices. This allows users to check their mixes on different systems without leaving their primary monitoring setup. The plug-in also includes a comprehensive metering section, borrowed from IK Multimedia’s T-RackS 5 software. It offers Peak, RMS, and LUFS metering with Dynamic Range (DR) indicators, both pre- and post-processing. The Trim adjustment feature automatically calculates level differences when switching between correction curves or virtual monitors, ensuring consistent playback levels.
ARC 4 supports high-resolution audio, with measurement at 48 kHz and playback support up to 32-bit/192 kHz. The system allows for saving multiple measurement profiles, making it easy to switch between different room setups or monitor configurations.
For users who need to fine-tune the correction, ARC 4 provides extended parameters that allow for more detailed adjustments. This level of control ensures that even the most demanding audio professionals can achieve the desired results.
In the realm of room correction software, ARC 4 competes with products like Sonarworks Reference 4 and IK Multimedia’s own ARC Studio hardware/software bundle. Compared to Sonarworks, ARC 4 offers a more comprehensive 3D measurement process and the unique Virtual Monitoring feature. However, Sonarworks has a larger database of headphone profiles for those who need headphone correction as well. When compared to ARC Studio, the software-only ARC 4 provides similar functionality without the dedicated hardware unit. This makes ARC 4 more flexible and potentially more cost-effective for users who already have a quality audio interface and measurement microphone. However, ARC Studio’s hardware component offers zero-latency processing and the convenience of a physical bypass button. Both ARC 4 and its competitors aim to solve similar problems, but ARC 4’s combination of advanced measurement techniques, natural-sounding correction, and additional features like Virtual Monitoring set it apart in the market.
This plugin is best for:
• Home studio owners looking to improve their monitoring environment
• Professional audio engineers seeking a flexible room correction solution
• Producers who need to check their mixes on various virtual monitoring systems
• Audio enthusiasts who want to optimize their listening space without extensive acoustic treatment
IK Multimedia ARC 4 plugin represents a significant step forward in accessible room correction technology. Its improved measurement and correction algorithms provide users with a powerful tool to address the acoustic challenges of their listening environments. The addition of the Virtual Monitoring feature expands the plugin’s utility beyond simple room correction, offering a valuable tool for mix checking and translation. The user interface strikes a balance between simplicity and depth, allowing both novice and experienced users to achieve satisfying results. The comprehensive metering and automatic level adjustment features demonstrate IK Multimedia’s attention to detail and understanding of real-world workflow needs. ARC 4’s performance in correcting room issues is impressive, with users reporting clearer, more focused sound and improved stereo imaging. The natural-sounding corrections avoid the pitfalls of over-processing, maintaining the integrity of the original audio while addressing problematic frequencies. For studios on a budget or those unable to implement extensive acoustic treatments, ARC 4 offers a cost-effective solution to improve monitoring accuracy. Its ability to save multiple profiles also makes it an excellent choice for engineers who work in various spaces or with different monitor setups.