Greetings, audio colleagues! As a true enthusiast of quality audio, I am always in search of tools that can give tracks that very spark, that depth and volume that make a mix unforgettable. Today, we’ll take a look at something interesting – the MOONI WIDER plugin from MOONI DSP. As the name suggests, it’s a stereo enhancer, but it’s not limited to just expanding the stereo base. It is a multifunctional tool that combines the capabilities of stereo processing and filtering, providing unique control over the spatial and frequency spectrum of your sound.
MOONI WIDER: More than just stereo
In the world of sound engineering and music creation, working with the stereo field is a key element in achieving professional sound. It often happens that individual mix elements sound flat or too concentrated in the center. Or, conversely, you need to “gather” blurred instruments. This is where tools like MOONI WIDER come into play.
This plugin is designed to help you manipulate the stereo image of your tracks, adding width, depth, or, conversely, focusing them into mono. But its capabilities go further thanks to the built-in filter and intuitive XY control.
Key features of MOONI WIDER
Let’s take a closer look at what this plugin offers:
- XY Filter Control: This is perhaps one of the most interesting features. You get an interactive XY pad that allows you to simultaneously control low-frequency (LPF) and high-frequency (HPF) filters, as well as panning specific frequency ranges. This gives incredible possibilities for adding color and dimension to your tracks. You can cut out unwanted frequencies on the sides or in the center, or vice versa – emphasize certain elements by panning them in the stereo field. Frequency control and the ability to solo individual channels (left or right) make this tool very flexible for detailed processing.
- Wider Control: The heart of the plugin. This control allows you to easily expand the stereo base of your track, making it “Super Wide”, or completely gather it into mono. This is extremely useful for instruments that need to take up more space in the mix (e.g., pads, guitars, backing vocals) or for those that should be as focused as possible (e.g., bass, lead vocals). A nice bonus is the Auto Gain function, which helps maintain the volume level when changing the stereo width, avoiding unexpected spikes or sags.
- Analog VU Meter: Visual control is important. MOONI WIDER is equipped with a nice analog VU meter. It not only adds a vintage charm, but is also a functional tool for monitoring the signal level. You can switch between displaying the input or output level, as well as calibrate it and adjust the sensitivity (gain). This helps control the dynamics and avoid overloads, especially when actively working with the stereo image.
Who is this plugin for?
MOONI WIDER will be a useful tool for both beginners and experienced sound engineers and musicians. If you work with mixing, sound design, or create music in any genre where working with the stereo field and frequency balance is important, this plugin can significantly simplify your workflow and open up new creative possibilities.
It is great for processing individual tracks, submixes or even the master bus, although you should use it with caution on the master bus. Try applying it to synthesizer pads, acoustic guitars, electronic drums, or for adding space to vocals or FX effects.
Conclusion
MOONI WIDER from MOONI DSP is an interesting and functional plugin that goes beyond the usual stereo enhancer. The combination of an intuitive XY filter, flexible stereo width control and a vintage VU meter makes it a valuable addition to the arsenal of any modern musician or sound engineer. It offers simple and effective ways to give your tracks the necessary space, depth and character.
If you are looking for a tool for fine or creative work with the stereo image and frequencies, be sure to try MOONI WIDER. It can become your secret ingredient for creating mixes that sound wide, dynamic and professional.
