McDSP AE600 Active EQ
McDSP AE600 Active EQ is the next generation of active equalization, featuring new and unique EQ modes, independent control of fixed and active EQ bands, and an ultra-low latency algorithm.
Introducing The McDSP AE600 Active EQ
To properly understand the genius of the AE600, you have to be familiar with how EQ has traditionally worked in the past. Until very recently, EQs were “fixed”, meaning that once applied to a sound source, the change would affect the frequency response of the entire track unless applied manually or using automation. The AE600 was the first active EQ available on the Pro Tools platform. This TEC award nominated plugin is made up of 6 bands of both fixed AND active, or “dynamic”, equalization. It’s like EQ crossed with a compressor, where EQ only gets applied where and when a certain threshold is reached, making an engineer’s workflow faster and easier. The AE600’s active EQ response is determined by each band’s threshold, attack and release settings. Additionally, a thoughtfully designed ratio control determines input signal level sensitivity to further articulate how the active EQ will reach maximum active equalization
Watch The McDSP AE600 Active EQ In Action
How Does The McDSP AE600 Active EQ Work?
Every fixed and active band in the AE600 has its own gain, frequency, Q, and mode controls. EQ mode options include parametric, proportional Q parametric, 5x Q parametric, Baxandall shelving EQ, vintage styled EQ, X-style shelving EQ, Baxandall shelving EQ plus filtering, and high and low pass filtering. All bands are completely overlapping and can use the input signal or selected side chain inputs to trigger the active EQ response. The active EQ bands can be controlled via the response plot itself, or from the text readouts above and below the response plot.
AE600’s active EQ response is determined by each band’s threshold, attack and release settings. Additionally, a ratio control determines input signal level sensitivity to further articulate how the active EQ will reach maximum active equalization – a feature unique to the AE600 (and AE400) active equalizers by McDSP.
Peak signal text readouts for each active EQ band’s key signal allow quick setup of each band’s active EQ threshold and are located underneath band dynamics plots. Input and Output controls, individual band bypass, band control linking, and band key signal monitoring round out the features of the AE600.
Why The McDSP AE600 Active EQ Is Such A Big Deal
- Six fully overlapping fixed and active EQ bands
- Independent control over all fixed and active EQ parameters per band
- Selectable EQ mode per fixed and active bands
- Unique active EQ ratio response control
- Side chain support
- Double precision processing
- Ultra low latency
- Mono and stereo versions
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