Applied Psychoacoustics Lab (APL) have announced the launch of Virtuoso v2, the latest version of their renowned binaural renderer software. Boasting some major new features and enhanced spatial accuracy, the release promises to help users make faster, more precise mix decisions when working on headphones.
Virtuoso Overview
Virtuoso uses binaural processing to give headphone users an experience that’s more similar to working on speakers, creating a virtual mixing room and supporting all popular channel layouts from mono up to multi-channel surround and immersive formats such as Dolby Atmos and Ambisonics. The company say that it allows users to precisely localise sound sources around them as if they’re being produced by real loudspeakers positioned at a distance, rather than the usual close-up sound associated with headphones.
Seven built-in room models are provided, with a selection of control and listening rooms joined by emulations of a dubbing stage, home cinema and living room. Each of the models can be customised by the users, with a set of options providing adjustment of key parameters such as a room’s size, reverb time, damping properties and overall ambience level. A set of five HRTF options are included, and the software is capable of importing custom files stored in the SOFA (Spatially Oriented Format for Acoustics) format. Four head-tracking message formats are also supported: APL, Audeze (for Maxwell), IEM and Nxosc (for Waves NX).
A built-in routing matrix allows users to freely assign any input signal to any virtual loudspeaker, making it possible to stray away from standard channel order configurations. A range of downmix algorithms are also included, along with variable downmix gain that can be applied on a per-channel basis.
What’s New In v2?
With the release of the latest version, Virtuoso is now available as either a standalone application or plug-in, and there’s a bundle option for users who require both. Both versions benefit from a newly introduced 10-band parametric EQ that can be used for adjusting the response of headphones, as well as an additional pair of HRTF sets. Those who opt for the standalone version also gain a new WAV/ADM player that makes quick work of auditioning both stereo and multi-channel WAV re-renders as well as Dolby Atmos masters, and makes it possible to see how mixes translate to different rooms and playback systems.
Check out the video below for an overview of the new features added in v2.
Compatibility
Virtuoso v2 is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.14 to 12.6.2. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available, along with a standalone application.
Pricing & Availability
Virtuoso v2 is available now, and is currently (9 October 2024) subject to the following introductory pricing offers:
- Virtuoso Bundle (Plug-ins & Standalone): $149 (usually $299)
- Virtuoso Plug-ins: $99 (usually $199)
- Virtuoso Standalone: $75 (usually $149)
Those who own the original version are eligible for a free upgrade.
