aXCompressor is an ambisonic dynamics processor from SSA Plugins that applies familiar compressor controls to immersive audio, preserving spatial balance while taming levels.
Purpose
aXCompressor is a specialized dynamics processor designed specifically for ambisonic signals. Its primary goal is to control the dynamic range of immersive audio without damaging the delicate spatial relationships between sounds. It offers standard compressor parameters, making it approachable for engineers already familiar with stereo compression.
The plugin automatically detects the ambisonic order of the input signal, optimizing CPU usage for lower-order projects without manual selection. It processes up to tenth-order ambisonics, with the maximum order depending on the DAW’s channel count support. Input and output formats require the W channel on the first input, and the output matches the input format.
Key capabilities
The compressor includes input gain, output make-up gain, threshold, ratio, knee width, attack and release times, and selectable RMS or peak detection. These controls function exactly as they would in a stereo compressor, allowing for familiar adjustment of dynamics. A gain reduction display shows the amount of reduction over time, with an adjustable range via right-click.
The plugin preserves the spatial relationship between all sounds in the immersive scene, ensuring that compression does not alter the perceived localization or width. This makes it suitable for controlling peaks in ambisonic recordings or mixes without compromising the immersive experience.
Workflow
To use aXCompressor, insert it on an ambisonic track or bus with the W channel on the first input. Set the threshold and ratio to apply compression as desired, adjusting attack and release to shape the response. Use the gain reduction display to monitor the amount of reduction, and tweak the range for better visual feedback.
The plugin automatically matches the ambisonic order of the input, so no manual configuration is needed. Use input gain to boost or cut the incoming signal, and output make-up gain to restore overall level after compression. RMS detection is useful for consistent level control, while peak detection catches transient spikes.
Practical applications
aXCompressor is ideal for taming the dynamics of ambisonic field recordings, where unpredictable levels can occur. It can also be used on ambisonic mixes to ensure consistent loudness across a spatial audio project. The plugin’s spatial preservation makes it suitable for film, VR, and game audio post-production.
For music production, it can control the levels of ambisonic instrument buses or room captures without altering the spatial image. The tenth-order support enables working with the highest-resolution ambisonic formats, though DAW channel limits may restrict the order. Use it as the first insert in a chain to stabilize levels before additional spatial processing.
Key features
- Input gain and output make-up gain
- Threshold, ratio, and knee width controls
- Attack and release times in milliseconds
- RMS or peak detection modes
- Gain reduction display with adjustable range
- Automatic ambisonic order detection (up to tenth-order)
- Preserves spatial relationships in ambisonic signals
Best for
aXCompressor is best for audio engineers and sound designers working with ambisonic recordings or mixes who need to control dynamics without affecting spatial integrity, particularly in film, VR, and immersive music production up to tenth-order ambisonics.