MaxSynths and Turello have launched Sturiophonia, a freeware stereo imaging tool in VST plugin format for Windows which is based on a simple but effective method of widening the stereo image.
The aim of the plugin is to increase the stereo image of mono tracks and help to place the sound in the right place by the use of dedicated internal filters and pan controls. The idea behind it is very simple yet effective and adds to the sound a pleasant stereo effect.
The plugin was developed by MaxSynths, based on a concept by KVR Audio member Turi Curello (who also sent me a link to this freebie – thanks for that!). Capable of processing both mono and stereo sources, the plugin can be used on the master channel as well as for widening individual audio tracks.
See also: Best Free Stereo Widening VST Plugins!
The developer actually wrote that Sturiophonia was mainly created for adding a stereo width effect to mono sounds, however it also features a switch for activating the stereo input. Other controls include two filters, two pan knobs, an on/off switch and a dry/wet knob for mixing the processed signal with the dry audio track.
So how does the plugin work? I still haven’t tested it myself, however Turello explains that you should first adjust the two filter knobs in mono and then use the pan controls to achieve the stereo widening effect. Dear readers, if you’re testing this one please let me know how it goes! The reviews I’ve seen online so far are fairly positive, but I won’t be able to test the plugin myself before the weekend.
Download
Sturiophonia is available for free download via MaxSynths (3.8 MB download size, ZIP archive, 32-bit VST plugin format for Windows, made with SynthEdit).
5 Comments
Turi Curello
onThanks a lot Tomislav!
Bedroom Producers Blog
onThank you for the freebie!
UserFX
onJust tried it out in Reapper. I fed it a sound hovering around -14dBfs.
As soon as you begin to dial the effect in (wet/dry knob), levels spike extremely high and hit 0dBfs. So this is unfortunately unusable. Luckily there are enough stereo widener type alternatives.
Turi Curello
on@UserFX: Excuse, this is the first version and this VST has been conceived and designed with a purpose: Split a mono1stereo file in 2 mono file, the filters and after the pan must create a new stereophony, anyway we are at work to improve the concept… for others issues You can contact MaxSynths in their site!
Cheers
Crankcase
onI tried this and found it to be garbage. Not only is the ‘effect’ unpleasant, but it also disturbs the balance.