Zynaptiq Unmix Drums is a groundbreaking audio plugin that allows users to manipulate the level of drums in mixed music in real-time. This innovative tool employs advanced source signal separation technology to provide frequency-dependent drum level control, ranging from significant boost (+18dB) to near-complete removal. The plugin’s versatility extends beyond full mixes, as it can also be applied to drum buses for unique shaping and enhancement of drum impact. Unmix Drums features an intuitive multi-level graphical user interface, offering frequency-dependent control of key parameters, a sample-accurate sub-bass (re)synthesizer, a high-precision analyzer display, Mid/Side operation, and an output limiter. This combination of features opens up new possibilities for mastering, music production, sample-based music creation, mash-ups, remixes, and DJ performances. The plugin supports all common sampling rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz in mono and stereo, and is available in AAX native, AU, RTAS, and VST formats for both Mac and Windows platforms.
Pros:
• Unique ability to boost or attenuate drums in mixed music
• Intuitive multi-level GUI for easy operation
• Frequency-dependent control for precise drum shaping
• Sample-accurate sub-bass synthesizer for enhanced low-end
• Supports multiple plugin formats and high sample rates
Cons:
• Learning curve for advanced controls and parameters
• Performance may vary depending on the complexity of the input material
• Potential for artifacts when pushed to extreme settings
Unmix Drums boasts an impressive array of features designed to give users unprecedented control over drum levels in mixed audio. The plugin’s core functionality revolves around its source separation technology, which allows for the isolation and manipulation of drum elements within a complex mix. This is achieved through sophisticated algorithms that analyze the audio input and separate the drum components from other instruments and vocals.
The user interface is divided into three levels of complexity, catering to both novice and advanced users. The basic view provides essential controls for drum level adjustment and threshold setting, making it easy to quickly boost or attenuate drums in a mix. The fine-tune view offers more detailed parameters, including Detection Density, which affects the precision of drum sound isolation, and Separation, which determines how aggressively the plugin separates drums from other elements.
One of the standout features is the frequency-dependent control, accessible through a breakpoint editor in the Curves view. This allows users to shape the impact and punch of drums across different frequency ranges, effectively creating an “impact equalization” that goes beyond traditional EQ and compression techniques.
Unmix Drums offers two distinct boost modes: Smooth and Punchy. The Smooth mode is designed for natural-sounding, moderate boosts and is particularly useful for pre-processing in drum extraction applications. The Punchy mode, on the other hand, produces a tight, snappy sound that can dramatically increase drum presence in a mix. Both modes also allow for boosting drum reverb, with Smooth focusing on early reflections and Punchy emphasizing long reverb tails. The plugin’s sample-accurate sub-bass synthesizer is a unique addition that enables users to add clean, punchy low-frequency energy to drums or full mixes. This feature is particularly valuable for extending the frequency range of recordings or creating powerful, club-ready beats without introducing phase cancellation or triggering issues.
Unmix Drums plugin also includes a high-precision analyzer display, providing visual feedback on the plugin’s processing. This helps users understand how the various parameters affect the audio and aids in making informed decisions during mixing or mastering. The Mid/Side processing capability allows for even more precise control over the stereo image of drums within a mix. To prevent overloading and maintain clean output, the plugin incorporates a hard-knee limiter. Additionally, “kill-switch” style drum level macro buttons provide quick access to extreme settings, useful for creative effects or rapid A/B comparisons.
When comparing Unmix Drums to similar plugins, it becomes clear that Zynaptiq has created a unique tool in the audio processing landscape. While there are other plugins that offer drum enhancement or transient shaping, few, if any, provide the ability to manipulate drum levels within a full mix to this extent. Traditional tools like EQ, compression, and transient designers can certainly affect drum sounds, but they lack the source separation technology that allows Unmix Drums to target drums specifically without significantly altering other mix elements.
Some plugins, such as iZotope’s Music Rebalance tool in RX, offer similar functionality in terms of isolating and adjusting mix elements. However, Unmix Drums stands out with its real-time processing capabilities and specialized focus on drums, making it more suitable for live use and specific drum-centric applications. The inclusion of the sub-bass synthesizer and frequency-dependent control also sets it apart from more general-purpose mix manipulation tools.
This plugin is best for:
• Mastering engineers looking to fine-tune drum levels in final mixes
• Remix artists and DJs needing to adjust drum levels in pre-mixed tracks
• Music producers wanting to reshape drum impact in full mixes or drum buses
• Sound designers seeking creative ways to manipulate percussive elements
• Sample-based musicians requiring precise control over drum samples within complex arrangements
Unmix Drums represents a significant advancement in audio processing technology, offering a level of control over drum sounds that was previously unattainable. Its ability to isolate and manipulate drum levels within a full mix opens up new creative possibilities for a wide range of audio professionals. The plugin’s intuitive interface, coupled with its powerful processing capabilities, makes it accessible to both novice users and experienced engineers. While it may require some experimentation to fully grasp its potential, the results can be truly impressive when used appropriately. The frequency-dependent control and sub-bass synthesizer further extend its utility, allowing for precise shaping of drum impact and low-end enhancement. Despite its strengths, users should be aware of the potential for artifacts when pushing the plugin to its limits, and that results may vary depending on the source material. Overall, Unmix Drums is a valuable tool for anyone working with drum-heavy music or seeking to refine the percussive elements in their mixes, offering a unique solution to common mixing and mastering challenges.