Sonalksis StereoTools

StereoTools is one of the four plug-ins that comprise Sonalksis’ Mastering Suite Bundle, the other three being MaxLimit, MultiLimit, and Dithering-Q. Created to be a complete tool for stereo manipulation, the StereoTools offer not only processing features but also detailed graphics that help monitor frequency, phase and positioning.

StereoTools is currently priced at $219.99. The Mastering Suite Bundle is sold for $599.99. Sonalksis offers 14-day free trails and even software rentals for those on a budget.

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There is something I’ve been noticing about every Sonalksis product I tried, which gives the impression that it is a possible company “trademark”; simplicity and powerful results. The StereoTools isn’t any different. At first glance, this plug-in might give the impression of just being a very expensive product with not much to offer. It’s almost funny, but the few faders and knobs featured in its interface can definitely give a completely new character to any musical piece. Some of the features are very simple and useful, such as the precise output fader, a mono switch, panning and phase inversion switches for both left and right and flip for stereo imaging. The power of this tool can be found under the Width fader that can quickly compress your stereo mix to mono, but also can expand it to an even further spread. It can definitely make a mix fuller, richer, and bigger. The Zero Width Below Knob is another highlight of the product, letting you filter lower frequencies out of the stereo widener fader. The graphic screen is the other big plus of this plug-in. First you see the stereo graphic for visual monitoring of the sound spread. Underneath you can activate spectrum, a frequency versus amplitude graphic, and the one I personally liked a lot, a phase graphic that shows phase correlation in real time. This tool also comes with a few very useful presets and many setup customizations. The StereoTool is also of great use for positioning of single tracks in the perfect place in stereo imaging, making the mix cleaner and more professional.

I think a price reduction could make this product a little more accessible to everyone.

Once again, a solid plug-in. Faders and knobs offers firm precision. Graphics give accurate information.

Another great tool for mastering engineers and music producers as well as for the home studio lads who want to take their mixes to the best level possible, without leaving their homes or spending too much money. StereoTools can quickly and easily redefine sonic imaging, while enhancing quality and professionalism of your music.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

Sonalksis' StereoTools is one of the plug-ins found in Sonalksis' Mastering Suite. I think the plug-in is also available on it's own, but it's going to be cheaper if you get the full bundle. The plug-ins is essentially an in depth stereo processing and spatial effects, designed to give your mixes a wider spread. The plug-in is available for both Mac and PC systems and in RTAS, VST, and AU plug-in formats. I don't own the Mastering Suite as I've only used it on my room mate's system who has it. The interface of the plug-in itself is actually pretty in depth, especially for a stereo spread plug-in, which are usually pretty simple. It's got sliders for controlling balance, width, and left and right channel panning, as well as an overall output leveler. You can also invert phase for each stereo channel and use M/S if you'd like. There's also a nifty graph that can be set in a few different modes. I don't believe that a manual is something that's necessary.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

I don't own the Sonalksis StereoTools plug-in or the Mastering Suite that this is a part of, but I've used it a bunch at one of the studios I work at on a freelance basis. I don't have the specs of the computer they've got there off the top of my head, but it's an all Pro Tools HD system and can handle pretty much any plug-in, especially if it's being used only on the master buss. Of course as always it depends on what kind of system you have, but those who can run their DAW comfortably shouldn't have too much of a problem with StereoTools.

OVERALL OPINION

Sonalksis' StereoTools is one of the most complete stereo spread plug-ins that I've come across. While I don't find myself using it all that often, I will use it for getting a wider spread on some tracks for mixing and even more so on the master buss. I'd recommend checking out the Mastering Suite from Sonalksis as it's pretty complete and I think it's the best way to get this plug-in. It's not the cheapest if you were to get it on it's own, and as per usual you'll save some money if you get it within the bundle. Sonalksis makes some great plug-ins and this is a good example of their top quality work - definitely a cool plug-in to have around but not the most necessary for everyone out there.