SSL DeEss is a precision de-essing plugin designed for sibilance reduction and high-frequency control in audio production. Developed by Solid State Logic, a renowned name in professional audio equipment, this plugin aims to address the common issue of excessive sibilance in vocal recordings and other audio sources. The DeEss plugin utilizes a relative threshold algorithm, allowing users to adjust input levels without negatively impacting the de-esser’s response. This feature enables effective de-essing of both quiet and loud sibilant events, providing consistent results across varying signal levels. The plugin’s interface is sleek and intuitive, featuring an FFT graph with adjustable high-pass and low-pass filters for precise frequency targeting. The multi-shade waveform visualizer displays the affected portions of the audio signal, making it easier for users to fine-tune their settings. DeEss offers three processing modes – Stereo, Mid, and Side – catering to different mixing scenarios and stereo manipulation needs. The plugin also includes automatic auditioning and a built-in brighten control, which helps rejuvenate the high-end content that may be lost during de-essing.
Pros:
• Relative threshold algorithm for consistent de-essing across varying signal levels
• Intuitive interface with real-time visual feedback
• Mid/Side processing capabilities for enhanced stereo control
• Built-in brighten control to restore high-end content
• Automatic auditioning feature for efficient workflow
Cons:
• Relatively high price point compared to some competing de-essers
• Learning curve may be steeper for beginners due to advanced features
The SSL DeEss plugin boasts a comprehensive set of features designed to provide precise and flexible de-essing capabilities. At its core is the relative threshold algorithm, which allows users to adjust input levels without affecting the de-esser’s response. This innovative approach ensures consistent performance across varying signal levels, making it particularly useful for dynamic vocal performances or complex mixes.
The plugin’s interface is dominated by an FFT graph that displays the frequency spectrum of the input signal. Users can adjust high-pass and low-pass filters directly on this graph, allowing for precise targeting of problematic frequencies. Below the graph, a multi-shade waveform visualizer shows how much of the waveform is being affected by the de-essing process, with three distinct shades indicating different levels of processing intensity.
DeEss offers three processing modes: Stereo, Mid, and Side. The Stereo mode processes the entire signal, while Mid and Side modes allow for targeted de-essing of the center or sides of the stereo image, respectively. This flexibility is particularly useful when dealing with stereo recordings or when trying to maintain a specific stereo balance in a mix.
The plugin features three main rotary knobs for controlling the amount of de-essing, brightening, and lookahead. The Amount knob adjusts the intensity of the de-essing effect, while the Brighten control allows users to add high-frequency content back into the signal, compensating for any loss of air or brilliance caused by the de-essing process. The Lookahead function, when combined with the oversampling option, provides higher quality audio output by allowing the plugin to anticipate and react to sibilant events more accurately.
A unique feature of the SSL DeEss is its Auto Listen button. When engaged, this function automatically activates the audition mode for both the filter and compressor while adjusting relevant parameters. This streamlines the workflow by allowing users to hear the isolated problematic frequencies or the compressed signal in real-time as they make adjustments.
The plugin also includes a blend control, which allows users to mix between split-band and broadband processing modes. This feature provides additional flexibility in shaping the de-essing effect, allowing for a more natural sound or a more aggressive reduction of sibilance as needed.
DeEss comes with a set of carefully designed presets for different vocal types (Tenor, Alto, Soprano) and instrument processing, offering users a solid starting point for various audio sources. These presets can be easily customized to suit specific needs, making the plugin accessible to both novice and experienced users.
When compared to other de-essing plugins on the market, the SSL DeEss stands out for its relative threshold algorithm and advanced features. The FabFilter Pro-DS, another popular de-esser, offers similar visual feedback and flexibility but lacks the relative threshold feature. The Waves DeEsser, while more affordable, doesn’t provide the same level of visual feedback or mid/side processing capabilities. SSL DeEss’s built-in brighten control is a unique feature not commonly found in other de-essers, setting it apart from competitors. This function allows users to maintain the overall brightness of a signal while reducing sibilance, a task that often requires additional processing with other plugins. In terms of sound quality, the SSL DeEss holds its own against high-end competitors, delivering clean and transparent de-essing when used subtly, and effective sibilance reduction when pushed harder. Its oversampling and lookahead options contribute to its high-quality output, rivaling more expensive hardware-modeled plugins.
While the SSL DeEss may have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler de-essers, its advanced features and flexibility make it a more versatile tool for professional audio production. However, its higher price point may make it less accessible to hobbyists or those on a tight budget, who might find simpler, more affordable options sufficient for their needs. The automatic auditioning feature and well-designed presets help streamline the workflow, allowing for quick and effective de-essing across a range of audio sources. It’s particularly well-suited for professional audio environments where versatility and precision are paramount. However, hobbyists or those on a tight budget may find simpler, more affordable options sufficient for their needs.
This plugin is best for:
• Professional audio engineers and producers seeking high-quality, flexible de-essing
• Users working with a wide variety of vocal styles and instruments
• Mixers who require precise control over stereo image and mid/side processing
• Those who value visual feedback and intuitive interfaces in their plugins
• Audio professionals looking for a single, versatile de-essing solution for multiple applications
SSL DeEss plugin is a powerful and versatile tool for sibilance reduction and high-frequency control. Its relative threshold algorithm sets it apart from many competitors, offering consistent performance across varying signal levels. The intuitive interface, complete with real-time visual feedback, makes it easy for users to identify and address problematic frequencies. The inclusion of mid/side processing capabilities and a built-in brighten control further expands its utility in various mixing scenarios.
Overall, the SSL DeEss plugin stands as a robust solution for those seeking a professional-grade de-esser with advanced capabilities. Its combination of innovative features, intuitive design, and high-quality processing make it a valuable addition to any serious audio engineer’s toolkit.