TBProAudio LAxLimit V: Advanced Limiter with Dual Engines

TBProAudio has released LAxLimit V, an advanced look-ahead limiter for mixing and mastering. It is the successor to LAxLimit IV and includes a refreshed interface and several new processing tools. The plugin operates as a wideband linked-stereo limiter with inter-sample peak detection and up to 64x oversampling. Therefore, it suits broadcast, streaming, and multimedia use.

What’s new in LAxLimit V

Version 5 adds a second limiter engine. In addition, this second limiter can run in serial or parallel mode. In serial mode, it extends the limiting chain. In parallel mode, it offers more control over the stereo bus. Moreover, the new adaptive attack control adjusts the ratio between clipper and limiter levels. Specifically, it uses internal transient detection to reduce unwanted distortion. Another new feature is the Enhancer. It applies custom soft-clipping algorithms with adaptive compression. As a result, it can boost perceived loudness without increasing peak levels. Additionally, the Enhancer can be placed before or after the limiter stage. Finally, LAxLimit V now includes dithering and noise shaping to preserve detail at lower bit depths.

Limiter controls and sound shaping

LAxLimit V uses two brickwall look-ahead limiters. Drive, tone, attack, and release shape the overall response. The adaptive release circuit recalculates the release curve for each sample. Therefore, aliasing and pumping are minimized during heavy limiting. Similarly, the plugin includes a frequency-sensitive detector, sidechain support, and Mid-Side processing. Users can also adjust stereo link and latency modes. Furthermore, DAW tempo-based release times are available. For clarity, the limiter offers unity gain and delta monitor modes. Oversampling can be set up to 64x linear phase. Meanwhile, the DC blocker and input/output metering complete the processing chain.

Metering and loudness tools

The plugin provides detailed loudness metering. For instance, it supports RMS, EBU R128, and Dialog gated loudness measurements. True-peak limiting follows the ITU BS.1770-4 specification. In addition, the GUI includes input, sidechain, output, and gain reduction meters. Monitoring options cover left, right, mid, and side signals. As a result, it is easy to check the limiting process in detail.

Features

Features

Dual limiter engine for serial or parallel use
Adaptive attack and release controls
Enhancer with pre/post limiter placement
True-peak limiting per ITU BS.1770-4
Up to 64x linear phase oversampling
Mid-Side processing and stereo link
RMS, EBU R128, and Dialog loudness meters
Dithering and noise shaping
Sidechain support and DC blocker
Parameter A/B, undo/redo, preset management

Formats and price

LAxLimit V runs on Windows and macOS. For example, it supports VST, VST3, AU, AAX, and CLAP formats. A demo version is available. In demo mode, however, the plugin mutes audio every 90 seconds. Users can click the TBProAudio logo to continue. The full version costs €99.00. Moreover, VAT may apply based on location.