MeldaProduction MConvolutionMB is a powerful and versatile convolution plugin designed for processing recorded or generated impulse responses (IRs). This zero-latency plugin excels in simulating various acoustic environments, including halls, rooms, and boxes, as well as emulating microphones and even other plugins. MConvolutionMB stands out with its multiband approach, allowing users to apply different impulse responses to specific frequency ranges. The plugin comes equipped with a collection of high-quality impulse responses, including a set of church IRs from www.hauptwerk.cz. Its user interface is comprehensive, offering extensive control over the convolution process while maintaining a logical layout. MConvolutionMB integrates seamlessly into various digital audio workstations, providing musicians, sound designers, and audio engineers with a robust tool for creating realistic spatial effects and unique sound transformations.
Pros:
• Zero-latency operation for real-time processing
• Multiband functionality allows for precise frequency-specific convolution
• Includes an integrated reverb and filter generator for custom IR creation
• Supports various file formats including WAV, FLAC, and MP3
• Offers extensive modulation options for dynamic effects
Cons:
• Steep learning curve due to the plugin’s complexity and numerous features
• Resource-intensive, especially when using long impulse responses or multiple instances
MConvolutionMB boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart from many other convolution plugins on the market. At its core is a sophisticated convolution engine capable of processing audio with zero latency, making it suitable for both studio and live applications. The plugin’s multiband approach allows users to split the audio into up to 6 frequency bands, each with its own impulse response. This level of control enables precise shaping of the spatial characteristics across different parts of the frequency spectrum.
The file manager in MConvolutionMB is particularly noteworthy. It provides easy access to both the internal IR library and the user’s file system, supporting WAV, FLAC, and MP3 formats. The plugin can recognize multichannel wave files and even combine multiple files for advanced multichannel processing, including true-stereo configurations. This flexibility in handling various file types and multichannel setups makes MConvolutionMB adaptable to a wide range of audio production scenarios.
One of the standout features of MConvolutionMB is its ability to generate impulse responses on the fly. The integrated reverb generator allows users to create custom reverbs with adjustable parameters, while the filter generator enables the creation of unique spectral effects. This built-in IR generation capability significantly expands the creative possibilities of the plugin beyond traditional convolution processing.
Each frequency band in MConvolutionMB can utilize two separate IR generators, which can be any combination of loaded files, generated reverbs, or filters. A simple slider controls the ratio between these two IRs, enabling the creation of dynamic, evolving spatial effects. This dual IR system, combined with the plugin’s extensive modulation options, allows for incredibly nuanced and expressive convolution effects.
The modulation system in MConvolutionMB is particularly powerful. Almost any parameter within the plugin can be modulated, with each modulator capable of functioning as an LFO, audio level follower, envelope generator, randomizer, or even a pitch detector. This deep modulation framework opens up possibilities for creating dynamic, evolving convolution effects that respond to the input audio or follow complex rhythmic patterns.
MConvolutionMB also includes a comprehensive set of post-processing tools. Users can adjust the stereo width, apply saturation, and fine-tune the overall tone of the processed signal. The plugin offers detailed control over the impulse response itself, including the ability to trim, reverse, and apply envelopes to the IR. These tools provide users with the means to sculpt the convolution effect precisely to their needs, whether they’re aiming for subtle spatial enhancement or dramatic sound design effects.
When compared to other convolution plugins on the market, MConvolutionMB stands out for its multiband approach and extensive modulation capabilities. While plugins like Audio Ease Altiverb and LiquidSonics Reverberate offer high-quality convolution processing, they typically operate on the full frequency spectrum. MConvolutionMB’s ability to apply different IRs to specific frequency bands provides a level of control that’s rare in the convolution plugin space. In terms of IR generation, MConvolutionMB offers capabilities similar to algorithmic reverb plugins like Valhalla VintageVerb or FabFilter Pro-R. However, it combines these generative features with traditional convolution processing, creating a hybrid approach that’s relatively unique in the plugin market. The modulation system in MConvolutionMB is more comprehensive than what’s found in many competing convolution plugins. While some plugins offer basic modulation of reverb parameters, MConvolutionMB’s ability to modulate almost any parameter with a variety of modulation sources puts it more in line with complex sound design tools like Eventide’s Physion or iZotope’s Trash 2.
This plugin is best for:
• Sound designers seeking a powerful tool for creating unique spatial effects
• Mix engineers working on complex productions requiring precise control over reverb and space
• Film and game audio professionals needing to simulate various acoustic environments
• Musicians looking to experiment with evolving, modulated convolution effects
• Audio post-production specialists requiring high-quality, flexible convolution processing
MConvolutionMB is a sophisticated and feature-rich convolution plugin that offers far more than simple impulse response playback. Its multiband approach, combined with the ability to generate and manipulate IRs, provides users with unprecedented control over spatial effects and sound shaping. The plugin’s zero-latency operation makes it suitable for both studio and live use, while its extensive modulation capabilities open up a world of creative possibilities. Despite its complexity, which may present a learning curve for some users, MConvolutionMB rewards those who invest time in mastering its features with the ability to create highly nuanced and dynamic spatial effects. Whether used for subtle acoustic emulations or extreme sound design, MConvolutionMB proves to be a versatile tool that can significantly enhance an audio professional’s toolkit. Its resource-intensive nature may require careful consideration in complex projects, but the sonic results it can achieve often justify the CPU usage. For those seeking a convolution plugin that goes beyond the basics and offers deep, creative control over spatial processing, MConvolutionMB is a compelling choice that can elevate productions across various genres and mediums.