Mercuriall WS-1: Classic Stereo Chorus
The chorus effect is a classic modulation effect that adds depth, movement, and volume to the sound. From barely noticeable thickening to wide, “floating” textures, chorus is an essential tool in music production. Mercuriall WS-1 is a compact plugin that replicates the character of a classic stereo chorus pedal, bringing its sound to your DAW.
How Chorus Works
The chorus effect simulates the sound of several instruments playing together, with slight variations in pitch and time. The plugin creates copies of the signal, delays them slightly, and modulates the pitch using an LFO. These modulated copies are mixed with the original, creating a thickening and the feeling of a “chorus” or “widening.”
Features and Controls of Mercuriall WS-1
Mercuriall WS-1 is a digital replication of a stereo chorus pedal with an intuitive interface:
- Stereo: Switch to activate stereo mode. In mono mode, one channel is processed. In stereo mode, each channel (left/right) is processed separately, creating a wide and spacious sound. Ideal for pads, guitar parts, and synthesizers.
- Depth: Controls the amplitude of pitch modulation. Determines how much the pitch “floats.” Low values give thickening, high values give a pronounced “wobble” that can approach vibrato.
- Speed: Controls the modulation speed (LFO frequency). Determines how quickly the “floating” occurs. Slow values – gentle movement, high values – fast, tremulous effect.
- Mix: Sets the ratio between the unprocessed (“dry”) and processed (“wet”) signals. Usually used in the middle for thickening or widening the sound, but can be at 100% for effects.
Where to Use WS-1?
The WS-1 plugin is versatile:
- Guitar: From slight thickening of clean parts in the 80s style to saturated lead parts. Stereo mode adds width.
- Bass Guitar: Adds depth, especially on fretless instruments or when playing slap.
- Keyboards and Synthesizers: Makes pads more voluminous, and synth leads more expressive and mobile. Stereo chorus is key to creating wide atmospheric sounds.
- Vocals: A light chorus can add thickness and airiness to the vocals, simulating double tracking.
Compatibility of Mercuriall WS-1
The plugin is available in VST and AU formats, compatible with most modern DAWs on Windows (64-bit) and macOS operating systems.
Conclusion
Mercuriall WS-1 is an effective and easy-to-use chorus plugin that reproduces the sound of a classic pedal. Its intuitive controls make it a great choice for both quick setup of a standard chorus and for experimenting with sound. Add depth and volume to your tracks with Mercuriall WS-1!
