Earlier this year, Xilentch updated its free XM Series plugins, and this latest release, the StereoiXer, shares the same architecture as the developer’s popular mastering bundle.
StereoiXer is a free multiband spatial image processor, available in AU, VST3, and AAX formats for macOS and Windows.
The plugin lets you craft the ideal 3D soundstage with precision, thanks to its adjustable multi-band architecture.
One thing I liked about StereoiXer straight away is that it’s easy to create an immersive feel without throwing your sound into infinite space and losing its natural character.
I took a bunch of loops from the Mode Audio Quiet Piano pack that have lots of detail beyond the notes: pedal noise, hammers, keys, the pianist’s breath, etc.
Using the two main controls, it’s easy to find the right amount of depth and width to put you in the room with the piano.
Admittedly, this won’t be everyone’s immediate use for StereoiXer.
But I’ve sometimes found it harder to get a genuinely immersive feel from a more delicate source without overdoing it, making it too obvious, and ultimately losing the instrument’s intimate character and emotion.
So, I like how StereoiXer handles that sort of task.
You also have additional controls to fine-tune the spatial image and emotional intent.
Two of the more impactful parameters are Mono Anchor and Focus.
Mono Anchor maintains that solid core, while letting everything around it breathe. You can go a step further with the Phase Guard function, which preserves mono compatibility by limiting the processed signal.
The Focus parameter takes you between a sort of chorus effect and sharper transient clarity at either extreme.
The remaining parameters are Tilt, Balance, and Mix. The Tilt parameter is especially useful in the right context, as it subtly shifts the atmosphere between light and shade.
Of course, you don’t have to be overly subtle with StereoiXer, but that’s what I like about it so far.
The interface is clean and modern, much like the refreshed XM Series GUIs, and you’ll get a text tip when you hover over any adjustable control.
You’ve also got a handy correlation meter.
You can download the relevant installers from the developer’s Patreon page via Google Drive links.
If you find the plugin useful, you can donate to Xilentch at any time.
Download: StereoiXer (FREE)
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