Mastering The Mix Fuser is a smart unmasking plugin designed to resolve conflicting audio channels in complex mixes. It employs a multi-faceted approach to achieve sonic clarity, combining volume balance adjustment, phase optimization, and intelligent mid-side sidechain ducking. Fuser’s standout feature is its “Resolve Conflicts” function, which automatically detects and addresses frequency clashes between two audio sources. The plugin is inserted as the final effect on the submissive channel (the one to be carved out), while the dominant channel is routed to its sidechain input. Fuser’s interface provides visual feedback on mid and side conflicts through red and yellow indicators, respectively. It also offers manual control over processing parameters, allowing users to fine-tune the unmasking effect. The plugin includes a unique phase rotation feature that minimizes phase cancellation when layering similar sounds, such as kicks and basses. Fuser aims to simplify the often time-consuming process of EQing for mix clarity, making it a potentially valuable tool for both novice and experienced mixers.
Pros:
• Intuitive interface with clear visual feedback on frequency conflicts
• Automatic “Resolve Conflicts” feature for quick problem-solving
• Unique phase rotation functionality for improved layering of similar sounds
• Mid-side processing capabilities for precise stereo control
• Delta listening mode for accurate assessment of processing effects
Cons:
• May encourage over-reliance on automated solutions rather than developing critical listening skills
• Limited to two-channel conflict resolution at a time
• Potential for overuse, leading to an overly processed sound if not used judiciously
Fuser’s feature set is comprehensive and tailored to address the common challenge of frequency masking in complex mixes. The plugin’s main display provides a real-time frequency analysis of both the submissive and dominant signals, with the latter represented by a white line and the former by a gray area. This visual representation allows users to quickly identify areas of conflict.
The “Resolve Conflicts” button is a key feature, automatically applying processing to transparently resolve channel conflicts and frequency masking. This can serve as an excellent starting point for further manual adjustments or as a quick fix for less critical mix elements.
Fuser offers granular control over its processing through manually created nodes on the frequency display. Users can double-click to create a node and drag it down to increase the processing amount. Each node can be individually adjusted for mid/side balance, Q factor, attack, and release times, providing precise control over the unmasking effect.
The plugin’s phase analysis and rotation feature is particularly innovative. It automatically finds the optimal phase rotation to ensure minimal phase cancellation when layering similar sounds. This can be especially useful for elements like kick drums and bass, where phase alignment is crucial for a tight, punchy low end.
Fuser also includes a “Gain Stage Fix” function, which adjusts the input gain to match the perceived volume of the submissive channel to the side-chained audio. This feature aids in setting an appropriate volume balance between conflicting elements, whether the goal is equal loudness or a slight difference in prominence.
The plugin’s metering section provides valuable information, including input and output levels in LUFS, helping users maintain consistent loudness throughout their mix. The delta listening mode allows for critical evaluation of the processing effect by isolating the difference between the processed and unprocessed signals.
Fuser’s mid-side processing capabilities enable users to apply different amounts of unmasking to the center and sides of the stereo field. This can be particularly useful for creating space in a mix without compromising the overall stereo image.
The plugin also includes advanced settings for fine-tuning its behavior, such as adjustable crossover frequencies for the mid-side processing and customizable frequency ranges for the conflict detection algorithm.
Compared to similar plugins like FabFilter Pro-Q 3’s dynamic EQ mode or iZotope Neutron’s Masking Meter, Fuser offers a more streamlined and automated approach to unmasking. While Pro-Q 3 provides more extensive EQ capabilities and Neutron offers a broader suite of mixing tools, Fuser focuses specifically on resolving conflicts between two channels with minimal user intervention.
Fuser’s automatic conflict resolution and phase optimization features set it apart from many competitors. However, plugins like Trackspacer offer similar sidechain-based spectral processing, albeit with a different user interface and workflow. Fuser’s emphasis on visual feedback and its unique phase rotation feature give it an edge in certain scenarios, particularly when dealing with low-frequency content.
This plugin is best for:
• Mixing engineers looking to quickly resolve frequency conflicts in complex mixes
• Producers working with layered sounds who need to create space for each element
• Novice mixers seeking guidance in identifying and addressing masking issues
• Anyone working with bass-heavy music genres where phase alignment is crucial
• Mix engineers dealing with time constraints who need efficient problem-solving tools
Fuser represents a powerful tool in the modern mixer’s arsenal, offering a blend of automated problem-solving and manual control. Its ability to quickly identify and resolve frequency conflicts can significantly speed up the mixing process, especially for those working on complex, multi-layered productions. The plugin’s intuitive interface and visual feedback make it accessible to beginners while offering enough depth to satisfy more experienced users. The unique phase rotation feature adds value, particularly for genres where tight, punchy low-end is essential. However, users should be cautious not to rely too heavily on its automated features, as critical listening and manual adjustments remain crucial skills in mixing. While Fuser excels at its primary function of unmasking, it’s important to consider it as part of a broader mixing toolkit rather than a one-stop solution for all mix issues. Overall, Fuser offers a compelling balance of functionality and ease of use, making it a worthy consideration for mix engineers at various skill levels seeking to enhance clarity and definition in their mixes.