Sound Particles AudioMatrix is a versatile channel routing utility plugin designed to simplify complex audio routing tasks in professional audio production environments. This powerful tool allows users to easily reroute any input channel to any output channel, supporting up to 64 channels of audio. AudioMatrix offers a flexible way to change connections, either using regular routing or applying special gain values (-3 dB, -6 dB, or custom values) with optional polarity changes. The plugin’s intuitive interface presents a virtual routing matrix, making it easy for audio professionals to visualize and manipulate channel connections. AudioMatrix is compatible with various audio formats and can be used in stereo, surround, and immersive audio workflows, making it an essential tool for sound designers, mixing engineers, and post-production professionals working on complex multichannel projects.
Pros:
• Supports up to 64 channels of audio for extensive routing capabilities
• Intuitive virtual routing matrix interface for easy visualization of channel connections
• Flexible gain and polarity control options for each routing path
• Compatible with multiple audio formats and immersive audio workflows
Cons:
• Limited to routing functionality without additional audio processing features
Sound Particles AudioMatrix boasts an impressive array of features that cater to the needs of audio professionals working with complex channel configurations. The plugin’s core functionality revolves around its ability to route any input channel to any output channel within a 64×64 matrix. This expansive channel support allows for intricate routing setups in various audio formats, from stereo to high-channel count immersive audio systems.
The virtual routing matrix interface is a standout feature, providing users with a clear visual representation of their routing configuration. This intuitive design allows for quick and easy adjustments, significantly reducing the time and effort required to set up complex routing scenarios.
AudioMatrix offers precise control over signal routing with its gain adjustment options. Users can apply predefined gain values of -3 dB or -6 dB, or set custom gain values for each routing path. This level of control is particularly useful when balancing levels across multiple channels or creating custom summing configurations.
The plugin also includes polarity inversion capabilities for each routing path, allowing users to correct phase issues or create specific audio effects by manipulating the phase relationship between channels. This feature is especially valuable in surround and immersive audio mixing scenarios where precise phase control is crucial.
AudioMatrix supports a wide range of use cases, making it a versatile tool in any audio professional’s toolkit. It excels in speaker array management, allowing users to adapt their mixes to different speaker configurations. For example, it can be used to reproduce 5.1 audio in a 7.1 studio environment, utilizing all surround speakers with appropriate level adjustments.
The plugin facilitates easy format conversion between different channel ordering standards, such as converting from 5.1 Film to 5.1 SMPTE. This feature is particularly useful for professionals working across different audio post-production environments or delivery formats.
AudioMatrix also enables quick and efficient mid-side processing by allowing users to convert stereo signals to mid-side configuration and back. This opens up new possibilities for stereo enhancement and precise control over the stereo image.
For immersive audio workflows, the plugin offers the ability to temporarily route any signal to the center channel for fine-tuning. It also provides tools for creating custom mono sums, controlling LFE levels independently, and managing subwoofer routing in the absence of a dedicated bass management system.
The plugin’s flexibility extends to basic upmixing and downmixing operations, allowing users to quickly adapt their audio to different channel configurations while maintaining control over the contribution of each channel. This feature is particularly useful when working with legacy content or preparing deliverables for various distribution platforms.
When comparing Sound Particles AudioMatrix to similar plugins, it stands out for its focus on pure routing functionality and its support for high channel counts. While many DAWs offer basic routing capabilities, AudioMatrix provides a more comprehensive and intuitive solution for complex routing scenarios. Compared to plugins like Waves’ StudioRack or Blue Cat’s PatchWork, which combine routing with effects processing, AudioMatrix maintains a streamlined approach focused solely on channel routing. In terms of channel count support, AudioMatrix surpasses many competitors by offering up to 64 channels, making it particularly suitable for immersive audio workflows. This sets it apart from plugins like Melda Production’s MChannelMatrix, which typically support fewer channels. However, AudioMatrix lacks the additional signal processing features found in some multi-purpose channel strip plugins. For users who require integrated effects processing alongside routing capabilities, plugins like Plugin Alliance’s bx_console N might offer a more all-in-one solution, albeit with less extensive routing options.
This plugin is best for:
• Audio post-production professionals working with surround and immersive formats
• Mixing engineers needing flexible routing solutions for complex multichannel projects
• Sound designers requiring precise control over channel relationships and summing
• Broadcast engineers adapting content for various output formats
• Studio owners managing multiple speaker configurations
Sound Particles AudioMatrix is a powerful and specialized tool that addresses the complex routing needs of modern audio production environments. Its ability to handle up to 64 channels of audio with precise routing, gain control, and polarity adjustment makes it an invaluable asset for professionals working in surround and immersive audio formats. The plugin’s intuitive interface and versatile feature set streamline workflows for tasks such as speaker array management, format conversion, and custom channel summing. While it may lack additional signal processing capabilities, its focused approach to routing excels in providing a clear and efficient solution for complex channel management. AudioMatrix fills a crucial niche in the plugin market, offering a level of routing flexibility and channel support that surpasses many built-in DAW tools and competing plugins. For audio professionals dealing with intricate multichannel setups or frequently adapting mixes to various output formats, AudioMatrix represents a significant workflow enhancement that can save time and reduce complexity in their projects.