Leapwing Audio DynOne is a powerful multiband parallel compressor plugin designed for professional audio production. It features up to five frequency bands with adjustable crossovers, allowing users to compress or expand each band separately. DynOne employs custom-built algorithms and filters for state-of-the-art processing, focusing on enhancing low-level details rather than squashing dynamics. The plugin offers both normal (inline) compression and parallel compression modes, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from individual tracks to full mixes. DynOne’s interface is clean and intuitive, with a resizable Retina display that prioritizes optimal workflow. The plugin supports sample rates up to 384kHz and is available in 64-bit VST, VST3, AAX, and AU formats for macOS and Windows. With its unique approach to dynamics processing, DynOne aims to provide transparent level boosting and tonal shaping capabilities for audio engineers and producers.
Pros:
• Exceptional transparency in level boosting and dynamics processing
• Flexible multiband design with adjustable crossover frequencies
• Intuitive interface with easy-to-use sliders and controls
• Program-dependent attack and release times for intelligent processing
• Supports high sample rates up to 384kHz
Cons:
• High CPU usage due to complex algorithms and high-quality processing
• Limited character compression capabilities for more aggressive sound shaping
DynOne offers a comprehensive set of features that set it apart from traditional multiband compressors. The plugin’s core functionality revolves around its multiband parallel processing capabilities, which allow users to shape the tonal balance of their audio material without sacrificing overall dynamics. The plugin provides up to five frequency bands, each with its own set of controls for threshold, ratio, attack, and release. Users can adjust the crossover frequencies between bands, offering precise control over which frequency ranges are affected by the processing. DynOne includes three filter quality settings: Ultra Quality, Master Quality, and Low Latency, allowing users to balance processing quality with CPU usage based on their needs.
DynOne’s standout features include intelligent algorithm for program-dependent attack and release control. Users can set minimum and maximum values for both attack and release times, and the plugin automatically adjusts these parameters based on the input signal. This adaptive behavior helps maintain a natural sound while still providing effective dynamics control. The plugin also offers a continuously adjustable Stereo Link control, allowing users to fine-tune the balance between linked and independent processing of the left and right channels. This feature is particularly useful for maintaining a consistent stereo image while still addressing channel-specific dynamics issues.
DynOne’s variable RMS/Peak detection system allows users to blend between RMS (average) and peak level detection, providing flexibility in how the plugin responds to different types of audio material. Additionally, the Envelope Weighting control enables users to adjust the plugin’s behavior from single-band to all-band detection, offering even more nuanced control over the dynamics processing.
The plugin includes multiple output options, including a full processed stereo mix and individual stereo pairs for each band. This feature allows for creative routing and parallel processing techniques within a user’s DAW. DynOne also incorporates K-Weighted LUFS loudness metering, providing valuable insight into the perceived loudness of the processed audio.
DynOne’s user interface is designed with workflow efficiency in mind. The main controls are presented as sliders, which can be linked or unlinked for global or individual band adjustments. The expandable Control section provides access to more advanced parameters, allowing users to fine-tune the plugin’s behavior to suit their specific needs.
While DynOne excels in transparency and low-level detail enhancement, it may not be the best choice for users seeking aggressive compression or distinctive coloration. Its high CPU usage might also be a consideration for those working on less powerful systems or with complex projects involving multiple instances of the plugin.
When compared to other multiband compressors and dynamics processors, DynOne stands out for its focus on transparency and its ability to enhance low-level details without overly compressing the audio. Unlike traditional multiband compressors that often introduce noticeable artifacts or color the sound, DynOne aims to provide a more natural and unobtrusive processing approach. In terms of functionality, DynOne shares some similarities with plugins like FabFilter Pro-MB and iZotope Ozone’s Dynamics module. However, DynOne’s parallel processing capabilities and its unique controls for program-dependent attack and release times set it apart from these competitors. While plugins like Waves’ Linear Phase Multiband Compressor offer similar multiband functionality, DynOne’s emphasis on transparency and its intuitive interface make it more accessible for users seeking subtle dynamic enhancements. Compared to character compressors or more aggressive multiband processors like Waves C6 or UAD’s Precision Multiband, DynOne may not be the best choice for users looking for heavy compression or distinctive coloration. Instead, it excels in situations where maintaining the original character of the audio while subtly enhancing its dynamics and tonal balance is the primary goal.
This plugin is best for:
• Mastering engineers seeking transparent level boosting and dynamic control
• Mix engineers looking to enhance low-level details in full mixes or busses
• Producers wanting to shape the tonal balance of tracks without sacrificing dynamics
• Audio professionals working with high-resolution audio (up to 384kHz)
• Users who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in CPU-intensive processing
DynOne by Leapwing Audio is a sophisticated multiband parallel compressor that offers a unique approach to dynamics processing. Its strength lies in its ability to provide transparent level boosting and tonal shaping, making it particularly well-suited for mastering and subtle mix enhancements. The plugin’s intuitive interface, coupled with its advanced features like program-dependent attack and release times and variable RMS/Peak detection, allows for precise and musical dynamics control. DynOne’s flexibility makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of audio applications, from individual track processing to full mix and mastering tasks. Its ability to maintain the original character of the audio while subtly enhancing its dynamics and tonal balance sets it apart from many traditional multiband compressors. For audio professionals who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in CPU-intensive processing, DynOne offers a powerful and unique solution for dynamics control and level management.