Nacre has officially released Close, a new proximity and source-focus effect for music production. This innovative plugin aims to reshape perceived distance and presence within audio signals. It allows producers to bring a sound element forward in a mix. Importantly, it achieves this without simply increasing volume. The primary goal is to make the source feel closer. Concurrently, it lets the surrounding room or ambience recede subtly.

Creative Distance Processing

Close operates by analyzing the incoming audio signal. It processes signals in short spectral frames. Subsequently, it gently reduces lingering, diffuse energy. This is achieved through the application of a soft spectral mask. This method distinguishes Close from traditional de-reverb or audio restoration tools. Instead, it functions as a creative effect. It carefully shapes the balance between the direct sound source and its environment. For instance, it can make a vocal feel more intimate. Moreover, it can bring a specific instrument into sharper focus within a dense mix.

Applications and Functionality

The plugin is particularly effective with audio material containing noticeable room tone or ambience. This includes roomy recordings, various samples, found sounds, spoken voice, and Foley effects. Close helps to achieve a clearer distinction between the source and its surrounding space. Consequently, this enhances focus and presence. Furthermore, the effect maintains the source’s original outline. This ensures that the clarity correction is gentle and musically coherent. Therefore, it is a valuable tool for producers. They can use it to refine spatial depth in their tracks.

Key Features and Controls

Users will find a straightforward interface. It offers essential controls for effective manipulation. The primary parameter, CLOSE, governs the amount of source-focus or proximity applied. A MIX knob allows for blending dry and processed signals. It defaults to 100% processed sound. Additionally, an OUTPUT trim is provided for manual level adjustments. This ensures that perceived distance alteration does not lead to level imbalances. Hence, it allows for fair comparison and smooth integration into a mix.Features

• Distance / presence processor for music production
• Analyzes signals in short spectral frames
• Gently reduces diffuse energy with a soft spectral mask
• Designed for creative source-focus, not transparent de-reverb
• Helps bring sounds forward without increasing loudness
• Maintains source outline with gentle clarity correction
• Suitable for roomy recordings, samples, voice, and Foley
• Main controls: CLOSE (proximity amount), MIX (dry/processed blend), OUTPUT (manual trim)

Pricing and Availability

Nacre Close is currently available for Windows users. It supports both the CLAP and VST3 plugin formats. This ensures compatibility with a range of digital audio workstations. Furthermore, the plugin is being offered at a launch price of $19. This introductory offer makes it accessible. It benefits producers looking to experiment with its unique spatial processing capabilities.

Price
Launch: $19

System Requirements and Considerations

The plugin requires Windows 10/11 (64-bit) for operation. While Close offers distinct advantages in shaping sound, its specific design philosophy is important. It is not intended as a universal restoration, repair, or hard de-reverb tool. Its function is primarily creative. It focuses on musical reshaping of distance and ambience. Furthermore, users should note a reported latency of 2048 samples. This might impact real-time monitoring in certain production environments. Despite these considerations, Close presents an interesting option for manipulating perceived spatial characteristics.

More info: Nacre | Close