A metering plug-in that guides spectral balance and mono compatibility through real-time analysis, genre references, and actionable feedback for cleaner, more consistent mixes.
Purpose and Core Function
true:balance is a metering plug-in focused on two key aspects of a mix: spectral balance and mono compatibility. It provides a clear, visual representation of your audio’s frequency distribution, helping you ensure that lows, mids, and highs sit well relative to each other. The plug-in displays both real-time and averaged spectrum data, giving you a stable view of your mix’s overall tonal character.
Beyond simple analysis, true:balance offers guidance. Target indicators show at a glance whether your signal levels are close to a chosen reference. A Balance Check feature delivers text-based suggestions on what actions to take, such as adjusting specific frequency ranges, to achieve a distribution similar to your reference. This makes it a practical tool for both quick checks and detailed mix refinement.
Key Capabilities and References
A central feature is the ability to compare your mix against genre-based references. These references are derived from extensive audio data and mixing experience, representing typical spectral distributions for various musical styles. This helps you meet listening expectations, as what constitutes a ‘good’ balance often depends on genre conventions. You can also load up to eight of your own reference tracks for project-wide consistency.
The plug-in’s channel data section provides essential information about stereo width and correlation values. This directly addresses mono compatibility, showing you the proportion of left and right channels. By monitoring these values, you can identify potential phase issues that might cause problems when your mix is played back in mono, ensuring a solid, compatible stereo image.
Workflow and Guidance
true:balance is designed for straightforward, intuitive use. The main analyzer is adjustable, letting you focus on specific frequency ranges as needed. Level values in the lows, mids, and highs are displayed relative to your chosen reference, simplifying the process of identifying imbalances without getting lost in excessive detail. The visual design aims to be clear and unambiguous, so you can trust what you see.
For users who want more direction, the Balance Check provides step-by-step text hints. It analyzes your current spectral distribution, compares it to your reference, and suggests specific modifications to bring your mix closer to the target. This feature is particularly useful for less experienced producers, but professionals can also benefit from its objective, reference-based perspective.
Practical Applications
This plug-in is suitable for mixing and mastering stages where spectral balance is critical. Use it to verify that a track sits well within its genre’s typical frequency range, or to align multiple tracks in an album for a consistent sound. The mono compatibility check is essential before finalizing a mix, ensuring it translates well across various playback systems, from club sound systems to portable speakers.
It’s equally valuable for beginners seeking concrete guidance and for professionals needing a reliable, objective metering tool. By focusing on the overall balance rather than individual frequencies, true:balance helps you avoid common mixing pitfalls like muddy lows or harsh highs. Its reference-based approach makes it a practical companion for achieving polished, genre-appropriate mixes.
Key features
- Real-time and average spectrum analysis
- Genre-based and custom reference tracks (up to eight)
- Target indicators for quick level assessment
- Balance Check with text-based mix suggestions
- Channel data section for stereo width and correlation
- Mono compatibility monitoring
Best for
Best for mixing and mastering engineers who need clear, reference-based guidance on spectral balance and mono compatibility, especially those working across various genres or ensuring consistent album sound. Its text suggestions also make it a great learning tool for beginner producers.