SoundID Reference Virtual Monitoring Add-On by Sonarworks provides spatial simulations of studio monitors and consumer devices for headphone mixing, aiming to improve translation across playback systems.
Purpose and Core Concept
The SoundID Reference Virtual Monitoring Add-On from Sonarworks is designed to address the common ‘inside your head’ perception when mixing on headphones. It introduces spatial simulations of stereo studio speakers, adding depth and richness akin to listening in a well-treated control room. This aims to provide a more familiar monitoring perspective for producers and mix engineers.
Beyond studio monitors, the Add-On also simulates everyday consumer devices like cars, laptops, TVs, and smartphones. This dual approach helps users evaluate their mixes from different listening angles, supporting more consistent translation across playback environments. The simulations are calibrated to a reliable flat reference sound.
Key Capabilities
The Add-On delivers realistic simulations of high-quality near-field, mid-field, and far-field speakers, all calibrated to a flat reference. It also includes a Translation Check feature with spatial simulations of common consumer devices. This allows users to hear how their mix might sound in various real-world scenarios.
It works in plugin form within a DAW and also systemwide, meaning it can apply to all audio content played on your machine. The virtual studio environment uses engaging, dynamic visuals that make interpreting the audio simulations straightforward and intuitive.
Workflow Integration
In a typical workflow, you open the plugin on your master bus, select a virtual monitor simulation — such as a pair of near-field speakers — and mix while hearing the spatial depth of a treated room through your headphones. You can then switch to a car or smartphone simulation to check how your mix translates.
The systemwide mode lets you audition reference tracks or streaming content with the same virtual monitoring, helping you compare your mix to commercial releases under identical conditions. This makes the Add-On a versatile tool for both mixing and critical listening within a single headphone-based setup.
Practical Applications
This Add-On suits headphone mixing workflows where physical monitor speakers are unavailable or impractical. It helps amateurs and professionals alike achieve more reliable mixes that translate consistently across different playback systems, from studio monitors to car audio and mobile speakers.
It also serves as a quality check tool for producers who want to listen to their music in a simulated living room or car environment without leaving their desk. The realistic speaker simulations provide a deeper spatial perspective, enhancing the overall headphone listening experience for mixing and mastering tasks.
Key features
- Spatial simulations of studio monitors and consumer devices
- Calibrated to a flat reference sound
- Works as a plugin and systemwide
- Translation Check for consumer device comparisons
- Compatible with over 500 headphone models
- Dynamic, visual interface for device selection
Best for
Headphone-based producers and mix engineers who need more accurate spatial feedback than typical headphone imaging, and want to quickly check their mixes across simulated environments like cars, laptops, and studios without physical monitors.