Mastering The Mix Reso is a dynamic resonance suppressor plugin designed to identify and reduce problematic resonant frequencies in audio tracks. It employs intelligent algorithms to detect resonances and applies precise, dynamic EQ cuts to tame them without affecting the overall tonal balance. Reso offers both automatic and manual modes, allowing users to let the plugin find resonances automatically or manually add suppression nodes. The plugin features a sleek, minimalist interface with a large frequency spectrum display where users can visualize and interact with detected resonances. Reso is suitable for use on individual tracks, busses, or even the master channel, making it a versatile tool for mixing and mastering applications. Its ability to dynamically suppress resonances only when they become problematic helps maintain a natural sound while addressing issues that static EQ might struggle with.
Pros:
• Intuitive interface with clear visual feedback
• Automatic resonance detection saves time
• Transparent processing preserves overall sound quality
• Flexible manual control options for fine-tuning
Cons:
• May require careful use to avoid over-processing
• Limited to resonance suppression only, unlike some multi-function competitors
Reso’s core functionality revolves around its resonance detection and suppression algorithms. The plugin analyzes incoming audio in real-time, identifying frequency peaks that exhibit resonant behavior. Users can initiate this process by clicking the “Calculate Targets” button, which scans the audio and places nodes at detected resonances on the frequency spectrum display.
Once resonances are identified, users can engage the suppression by clicking “Engage Targets.” Each node represents a dynamic EQ band that attenuates the problematic frequency only when it exceeds a certain threshold. This approach allows transients and lower-level content to pass through unaffected, maintaining the natural character of the sound.
The plugin’s interface provides extensive control over each suppression node. Users can adjust the frequency, gain reduction amount, and Q factor (bandwidth) of each node by dragging it on the spectrum display. Soloing individual nodes allows for focused listening to isolate specific resonances. The ability to manually add, remove, or modify nodes gives users precise control over the suppression process.
Reso includes a delta monitoring feature, which allows users to listen to only the audio being removed by the plugin. This helps in identifying whether desired content is being affected and aids in fine-tuning the suppression settings.
The plugin also offers global controls for adjusting the overall suppression amount and sensitivity. These parameters allow users to dial in the perfect balance between resonance reduction and maintaining the original character of the sound.
Reso’s processing is designed to be phase-coherent and artifact-free, ensuring that the suppression doesn’t introduce unwanted side effects or compromise the integrity of the audio. The plugin uses high-quality filters that maintain the transient response and clarity of the source material.
For more advanced users, Reso includes sidechain functionality, allowing the resonance suppression to be triggered by an external audio source. This can be useful in complex mixing scenarios or for creative effects. The plugin also features A/B comparison, allowing users to quickly switch between two different sets of settings to determine the most effective configuration. Presets are included to provide starting points for various instrument types and mixing scenarios, though the automatic detection often negates the need for extensive preset browsing.
Compared to similar plugins like Oeksound Soothe 2 or Sonnox Oxford Dynamic EQ, Reso takes a more focused approach to resonance suppression. While Soothe 2 offers broader spectral shaping capabilities and Oxford Dynamic EQ provides more traditional multiband dynamic EQ functionality, Reso specializes specifically in identifying and taming resonances. Reso’s automatic detection feature sets it apart from many traditional dynamic EQs, potentially saving time in the mixing process. However, it may not offer the same level of broad-spectrum control as some competitors. The plugin’s simplicity and focused nature can be seen as both a strength and a limitation, depending on the user’s needs. In terms of sound quality and transparency, Reso holds its own against higher-priced competitors. Its ability to surgically target resonances without affecting the overall tonal balance is impressive, though it may require a more delicate touch than some “one-click solution” type plugins.
This plugin is best for:
• Mixing engineers dealing with resonant instruments like vocals, guitars, or cymbals
• Mastering engineers looking to tame harshness in full mixes
• Sound designers working with synthetic sounds that may have unwanted resonances
• Podcast producers needing to clean up voice recordings with room resonances
Mastering The Mix Reso is a powerful and focused tool for dealing with resonance issues in audio production. Its intelligent detection algorithms and transparent processing make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced users looking to improve the clarity and balance of their mixes. The plugin’s straightforward interface belies its sophisticated underlying technology, striking a balance between ease of use and powerful functionality. While it may not offer the broad feature set of some competitors, its specialized approach to resonance suppression makes it a valuable addition to any audio engineer’s toolkit. Users will appreciate the time-saving automatic detection feature, while also having the flexibility to make manual adjustments when needed. The plugin’s ability to dynamically suppress resonances only when necessary helps maintain a natural sound, avoiding the over-processed character that can result from heavy-handed static EQ cuts. Overall, Reso represents a well-executed solution to a common problem in audio production, offering a blend of intelligent processing and user control that can significantly improve the quality of mixes and masters.