Designed to eliminate subjectivity and biases, this plugin allows users to compare multiple audio segments, including different recording takes, plugin options, mix revisions, master versions, and other elements.

To remove subjectivity and biases in the comparison, blind tests can also be conducted in “test” mode.

Originally released earlier this year for NUGEN subscribers who completed the company’s annual survey, the plugin will soon be offered as a complete solution with significant updates. Among these updates is the ability to receive and compare up to four audio sources and compare stereo versions of surround mixes with any channel count. It also allows multiple plugin instances to link up and communicate directly instead of using an external send.

“Our engineers have been diligently working to enhance our AB Assist plugin, which will serve as a valuable tool in any session,” said Freddy Vinehill-Cliffe, Product Specialist at NUGEN Audio. “Whether used independently or in conjunction with our other utility solutions, Jotter and Aligner, AB Assist is sure to improve workflows and boost creativity”.

AB Assist is a fresh take on the former ABX machines, providing engineers with a simple and reliable way to compare two or more pieces of material. Among the useful tools in the plugin is the test function, which randomly relabels streams as X or Y to ensure a completely unbiased evaluation (in this case, listening) of music samples.

Additionally, an auto-level match function allows the user to match short-term loudness (LUFS) of sources, while a delta function shows the differences between sources. The mono-check feature compares mono fold-downs, and the smooth tool creates fades between sources. The software also features a “trim” function, enabling users to adjust the gain of one stream to match the subjective level of the other, further facilitating unbiased testing.

News source:https://nugenaudio.com/ibc-2023