The empty vessel makes the loudest sound
(W. Shakespeare)
Loudness processing is an essential part of the mixing and mastering workflow for music producers and audio engineers. But getting that perfect balance of loudness, punch, and clarity can often feel like a tightrope walk. Go too far, and you end up with an over-compressed, lifeless mix. Not far enough, and your tracks get lost in the loudness war. That’s when AI-Loudener enters the scene.
Neural Networks To The Rescue
Techivation aims to improve this delicate process with their new AI-Loudener plugin. Instead of relying solely on traditional DSP algorithms, this innovative tool leverages the power of machine learning to intelligently analyze and adapt its processing to the characteristics of your audio material.
The magic happens under the hood, where the AI-Loudener employs convolutional neural networks to scrutinize the incoming audio. This deep analysis allows the plugin to configure Techivation’s enhanced “M-series” algorithms in a way that is uniquely tailored to your track or mix.
So what does this mean for you? In essence, AI-Loudener can bring out the best in your audio without resorting to heavy-handed dynamics processing. It can add thickness, punch and perceived loudness while retaining the nuances, transients and dynamic range that give your music life.
But the AI wizardry doesn’t stop there. The plugin also claims to imbue your tracks with an extra dash of “harmonic excitement” and analog warmth – qualities that can be difficult to achieve through traditional loudness maximizes.
Here’s a walkthrough video:
AI-Loudener Key Features
- Intelligent Audio Analysis via convolutional neural networks
- Adaptive Processing tailored to your specific audio material
- Drive Control to adjust loudness enhancement intensity
- Output Level Control for precise output gain staging
- Oversampling options for pristine audio quality
- Input/Output Metering for visual feedback
- Internal Bypass Switch for easy A/B comparisons
- Undo/Redo History for flexible experimentation
Early user reactions have been promising, with producers and engineers praising the AI-Loudener’s ability to add heft and presence to drums, bass, and full mixes without any harsh artifacts. Of course, only time will tell if this innovative approach lives up to the hype.
Pricing and Availability
AI-Loudener is now available at an introductory price of $45 USD until April 30, 2024, after which the regular price will be $90 USD. Existing Techivation customers can take advantage of loyalty discounts and crossgrade pricing.
The plugin is compatible with all major DAWs on Windows and macOS, including VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats. A 14-day free trial is also available for those who want to test it out first.
Love it or hate it, Techivation’s AI-Loudener signals an exciting new era where machine learning could play a pivotal role in how we process and sculpt audio. For creators seeking a fresh approach to loudness processing, this plugin might just be worth taking for a spin. Speaking of Techivation, you might also want to check our recent Techivation M-Puncher review.
