X marks the sweetspot

As its first-ever plugin with dynamic processing capabilities, SSL claims that the X-DynEQ is its most advanced EQ plugin ever. Available as part of SSL Complete, the X-DynEQ joins the manufacturer’s “X” range of plugins and builds on the X-EQ 2 plugin to provide dynamic equalisation during recording, mixing and mastering. By boosting or cutting frequencies based on changes in the audio signal’s amplitude, the company says the X-DynEQ enables users to sculpt instruments, vocals and entire mixes without significantly altering their natural character or introducing unnecessary artefacts.

Initially developed for the X-EQ 2, the X-DynEQ features an enhanced version of the “node-based” user interface. Users can double-click to create nodes and can use keyboard and mouse wheel shortcuts to alter parameter values. Each node can access any of the X-DynEQ’s filter types and offers per-band stereo, left, right, mid or side signal processing. Users can also switch into “Focus” mode to concentrate on certain components of the stereo field, such as just the mid or side information. Meanwhile, the X-DynEQ’s piano roll view allows the matching of EQ frequencies to musical tones.

When nodes are switched to dynamic mode, Attack, Release and Threshold parameters become active. When not in dynamic mode, the X-DynEQ is a full 24-band parametric EQ. It features 20 different EQ types and filter shapes with dynamic EQ options for each shelf or bell filter. Three additional filter types are available with Notch, Bandpass and Tilt EQ, while the X-DynEQ also features “Auto” Attack, Release and Threshold parameters that adapt to the incoming signal. Sidechain dynamic nodes from the internal or external sidechain of any other node/band allow for additional EQing, repair work and creative effects.