Realizing that many users were discouraged by the potential complexity of a multi-band compressor, Devious Machines set out to create a plugin that could redefine the possibilities. The result, Multiband X6, aims to make multiband dynamics processing more accessible and enjoyable, while delivering the full feature set and sound quality required by serious audio professionals.
The plug-in is capable of supporting up to six compression bands, but provides users with some useful features, such as macro control and automatic threshold adjustment, that allow them to quickly apply some processing across all frequencies before diving into individual settings for each band. Intelligent gain compensation and automatic level matching help maintain consistent signal levels while adjusting more detailed settings for each frequency band.
There are three different compression modes to choose from: Smooth, Crunch and Punch, each of which is said to have its own musical character and provide varying degrees of aggressiveness, with the latter adding a slight saturation to loud peaks. Devious Machines says that while the multi-band X6 is capable of producing sounds associated with iconic compressor designs of the past, its sonic palette expands much further and is capable of creating its own unique, modern sound.
In addition to compression modes, the plug-in also features advanced tuning that allows it to function in situations where it is desired to increase the dynamic range of signals rather than reduce it.
Those who want to delve even deeper into the Multiband X6’s settings can do so using the additional advanced settings window, which can be opened by clicking the gear icon at the bottom of the macro controls. Opening the window provides access to options such as various processing modes (Stereo, Mid and Side), selection of internal or external sidechain and filtering options, switchable linear phase mode, preset and up to 4x oversampling.
The wide range of options promises to make the plugin a versatile processor that excels at everything from leveling vocals and creating drums to adding finishing touches to subgroups and entire mixes. It has also been designed to deliver low latency performance and is optimized to ensure minimal CPU usage.
Up to Six Bands
Use the X6 as a single-band compressor, or precisely control every part of the frequency spectrum.
Smart Gain Compensation
Keeps the level consistent as you dial up the compression, saving you time and effort.
Auto-Threshold
Analyzes the input signal, then sets the thresholds for consistent compression across all bands.
Input-Output Match
Automatically adjusts the output level to match the input, for accurate A/B-ing.
Configurable Crossover
6-band Linkwitz-Riley crossover, with configurable slope per-band up to 48dB/oct, with minimum and linear-phase modes.
Mid/Side Processing
Shape the stereo width of your mix, and control mono elements independently.
External Sidechain
Perform sidechain ducking, with exact control over every frequency band.
Lookahead
Reduce transients in advance, with a selectable lookahead of up to 20ms.
Up to 4x Oversampling
For the ultimate in mastering-grade sound quality
Professional Metering
Peak, true-peak, LUFS and RMS metering of both input and output.
Spectrum Analyzer
Visualize the spectrum of both the input and output in realtime.
