The latest version of FabFilter’s popular reverb plug-in has arrived, bringing with it a huge selection of new features and improvements. Pro-R 2 introduces two new reverb algorithms, full immersive audio support with channel layouts up to 9.1.6, impulse response import capabilities and much more.
New Algorithms
Pro-R has long been renowned for its clean and natural sound — and the original modes are all still present — however, the latest version adds a pair of new algorithms that aim to expand its sonic palette with some retro-inspired reverbs. A Vintage mode is said to have been inspired by classic digital units from the 80s and 90s, offering a range of bright, spatial ambiences, whilst Plate delivers a metallic-sounding plate-style reverb ideally suited to vocals and drums.
Immersive Audio
Pro-R 2 supports channel formats up to 9.1.6, and will automatically configure itself when added to a surround or immersive channel in a session. A new Speakers panel has been added, allowing individual Decay Rate and Post EQ band settings to be applied to any combination of speakers, and a Surround Settings panel makes it possible to balance the relative levels of every reverb parameter between the front and rear of the immersive space. FabFilter say that a huge amount of work has gone into implementing surround cross-feeding, allowing the plug-in to deliver an exceptionally convincing sense of space.
Impulse Response Support
Although Pro-R 2 remains a purely algorithmic reverb, it now allows users to import impulse response (IR) files. Rather than using any convolution processing, however, importing an IR will result in the plug-in analysing the file and adjusting its parameters to match the sound as closely as possible. The feature makes it possible for users to take advantage of the wealth of free impulses responses available online, as well as emulating the sound of their favourite rooms or hardware reverbs.
New Controls & Browser
Along with the headline features, the update also greatly expands the plug-in’s toolset. A new Ducking control makes it possible to automatically drop the level of the wet signal below that of the dry, whilst a Thickness control can be used to add density and saturation to a sound. There’s also an Auto Gate with a tempo-sync function a Freeze button which will capture and hold the reverb tail indefinitely.
A dedicated preset browser replaces the original plug-in’s simple hierarchical menu, making it easier to navigate the collection of factory presets and user-created sounds. Editable tags can be assigned to sounds for customised searching, presets can be set as favourites for one-click filtering, and it’s possible to add author names and text descriptions. If the original Pro-R is installed, then all of its presets will also appear in the library.
Compatibility
Pro-R 2 is supported on PCs running Windows 7 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.13 and higher. VST, VST3, AU, AAX Native and AAX AudioSuite plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Pro-R 2 is available now, priced at $169£144 including VAT / €169. Upgrade options are available to existing FabFilter users via their online accounts.
