Tokyo Dawn Labs TDR Nova GE is a powerful and versatile dynamic equalizer plugin that combines the functionality of a parametric EQ with a comprehensive dynamics processor. This parallel dynamic equalizer offers four fully parametric bands, each equipped with its own dynamics section, allowing for precise frequency-specific compression, expansion, and equalization. The plugin features a user-friendly interface with a visual representation of the frequency spectrum and dynamic processing, making it easy to identify and address problematic frequencies. Nova GE also includes high-pass and low-pass filters, as well as advanced features like equal loudness functionality, smart operations, and flexible dynamics processing options. The plugin’s clean and transparent sound quality, coupled with its extensive feature set, makes it suitable for a wide range of audio processing tasks, from subtle tonal shaping to more aggressive dynamic control.
Pros:
• Intuitive and visually appealing user interface with resizable window and multiple UI scales
• Excellent sound quality with minimal phase distortion
• Versatile dynamics processing options, including upward compression and downward expansion
• Smart operations for quick and effective problem-solving
• Comprehensive equal loudness functionality for accurate adjustments
Cons:
• Higher CPU usage compared to some competing plugins
• Limited to six bands (four fully parametric plus high-pass and low-pass filters)
TDR Nova GE plugin offers a comprehensive set of features that cater to various audio processing needs. The plugin’s four main bands are fully parametric, allowing for precise control over frequency, gain, and Q factor. Each band also includes a dynamics section, enabling users to apply compression, expansion, or limiting to specific frequency ranges. The dynamics processing is highly flexible, with options for upward compression and downward expansion, as well as adjustable attack, release, and ratio controls.
Nova GE’s smart operations feature is a standout, offering intelligent solutions for common audio problems. These operations can automatically identify and address issues like resonances, sibilance, or lack of presence, saving time and effort in the mixing process. The “Generate Multiband” operation is particularly useful for quickly setting up multi-band compression scenarios. The UI features a real-time spectrum analyzer that displays the input signal, output signal, and gain reduction. The resizable window and multiple UI scales ensure optimal visibility across different screen sizes and resolutions. The “no display” mode allows for a more compact view, focusing solely on the controls.
TDR Nova GE VST includes advanced sidechain options, including an external sidechain input and the ability to flatten the internal sidechain curve. The lookahead feature, while fixed at 0.5ms, provides additional precision for dynamics processing. The plugin also offers grouping of continuous parameters, allowing for relative adjustments across multiple instances. The equal loudness functionality is another key feature, allowing users to make EQ adjustments without being influenced by volume changes. This ensures more accurate and musical equalization decisions. The plugin also offers a “Surgical” curve mode for extremely precise adjustments, making it suitable for both broad tonal shaping and targeted problem-solving. The preset management system is robust, with a wide range of factory presets and the ability to save and recall user presets. The A/B comparison feature and undo/redo functionality further enhance the workflow, allowing for quick comparisons and easy backtracking.
Comparison to similar plugins:When compared to other dynamic equalizers on the market, TDR Nova GE holds its own in terms of sound quality and functionality. Its closest competitors include FabFilter Pro-Q 3, iZotope Neutron, and Waves F6 Dynamic EQ. While Pro-Q 3 offers more bands and additional features like mid-side processing, Nova GE’s smart operations and equal loudness functionality give it a unique edge. Neutron provides more extensive AI-driven mixing capabilities, but Nova GE’s focused approach to dynamic EQ may be preferable for users who don’t need the additional modules. The Waves F6 is perhaps the most similar in terms of core functionality, but Nova GE’s more modern interface and smart operations make it a strong contender.
This plugin is best for:
• Mix engineers seeking a versatile tool for tonal shaping and dynamic control
• Mastering engineers requiring precise and transparent frequency adjustments
• Sound designers needing creative EQ and dynamics processing options
• Podcasters and post-production professionals looking to address specific frequency issues
TDR Nova GE is a remarkably capable and versatile dynamic equalizer that offers professional-grade sound quality and an impressive feature set. Its intuitive interface, smart operations, and flexible dynamics processing make it suitable for a wide range of audio tasks, from subtle tonal adjustments to more aggressive sound shaping. The plugin’s ability to handle both traditional EQ duties and frequency-specific dynamics processing in a single interface streamlines workflow and encourages creative problem-solving. While it may demand more CPU resources than some alternatives, the trade-off in sound quality and functionality is likely worthwhile for many users. The inclusion of advanced features like equal loudness functionality and surgical EQ modes further enhances its value, particularly for critical mixing and mastering applications. Despite some limitations in the number of bands, TDR Nova GE remains a powerful and accessible tool that can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of audio production work.