BIAS has announced SoundSoap Pro 2, a major upgrade to its professional audio noise reduction and restoration software plug-in for Mac OS X and Windows that combines four powerful restoration tools: Broadband noise reduction; Click and Crackle removal; Hum removal; and a Noise Gate.
SoundSoap Pro's intelligent broadband noise reduction is significantly enhanced in version 2 by new adaptive noise reduction (ANR) algorithms from BIAS. "SoundSoap Pro 2 provides 'super-intelligent' noise reduction", said Jason E. Davies, VP Sales & Marketing for BIAS, Inc. "Traditional approaches to broadband noise reduction require a selection of isolated noise in order to work effectively. In cases where the broadband noise changes over time — the results can suffer considerably unless the noise profile is re-learned and threshold and reduction settings are adjusted accordingly. SoundSoap Pro 2 addresses both scenarios effectively and automatically with minimal effort. For just a fraction of the cost of competing high-end software, or expensive dedicated hardware solutions, SoundSoap Pro 2 delivers amazing results."
Adaptive Noise Reduction (ANR) — automated noise reduction
The inclusion of ANR to SoundSoap Pro 2 means users will have significantly greater power than ever before. Instead of navigating through a noisy file to find an area of isolated noise to learn, users can leverage the advanced algorithms of SoundSoap Pro 2 to automatically extract a noise profile where previously impossible. The fact that the noise profile can be automatically re-learned dynamically is also a significant improvement over other solutions in cases where the broadband noise changes over time, according to BIAS.
Four Tools in One — an Integrated Approach
Rather than splitting the restoration process into separate plug-ins, SoundSoap Pro uses a unique, integrated interface that allows the user to access any tool quickly and easily from within a single plug-in window. Tool navigation tabs are labeled (left to right) "Hum & Rumble", "Click & Crackle", "Broadband", and "Noise Gate" — reflecting the suggested order in which the operations should be performed to obtain the best possible results. The tabs even provide convenient parameter feedback, allowing the user to monitor the primary tool settings globally — regardless of which tool is currently selected.
Multi-band NR: Speed, Usability & Performance with a Minimized Chance of Artifacts
SoundSoap Pro's approach to multi-band noise reduction focuses on speed, usability, and performance. SoundSoap Pro groups 512 frequency bands into 12 discrete threshold and reduction sliders — delivering dramatically enhanced efficiency, ease-of-use, and superb sonic results. The sliders may be easily grouped with a lock button, and 12 vibrant level meters assist in threshold adjustments. When used with SoundSoap Pro's additional attack, release, and tilt controls, even the toughest broadband noise can be easily and dramatically reduced, while greatly minimizing the chance of any inadvertent artifacts. With SoundSoap Pro 2, users can choose between two traditional noise profile learning options — snapshot and timed — plus new ANR options for automated dynamic noise profile analysis. Whether reducing broadband noise from air conditioners, fans, engines, or other sources, SoundSoap Pro 2 provides excellent results with minimal effort.
Enhanced Visual & Audio Monitoring Options
SoundSoap Pro's tool area features a unique, global, real-time spectrogram — providing constant visual monitoring of spectral noise that may be in need of treatment. With its intuitive color codes, the spectrogram allows users to discern problem areas and make relevant tool adjustments, all while listening to — and watching — the results. Furthermore, users can easily hear the noise they are reducing by selecting "Noise Only". Unlike Bypass — which can be used globally or for each tool, and which bypasses the processing — the "Noise Only" button allows the user to hear only what is being removed. These two features allow SoundSoap Pro users to ensure that undesired noise is effectively suppressed while desired signals are unaffected by the restoration process.
A Universal Restoration Solution, Supporting All Leading Plug-In Hosts
SoundSoap Pro 2 is designed for every major plug-in host on Mac OS X and Windows XP/Vista. The roster includes Peak (VST/Audio Units), Pro Tools (RTAS/AS), Logic/SoundTrack/GarageBand/Digital Performer (Audio Units), Nuendo/Cubase (VST), Sonar (VST), Audition (VST), Sonar (VST) and many other compatible hosts.
Pricing & Availability
BIAS SoundSoap Pro 2 will be available in late Q2 through the worldwide network of authorized BIAS dealers and distributors for a suggested retail price of $599. Original SoundSoap Pro customers will be able to upgrade to SoundSoap Pro 2 when available for a nominal fee to be announced upon release.
Customers purchasing new retail editions of SoundSoap Pro from April 15th, 2009 will be eligible to receive a free downloadable upgrade to SoundSoap Pro 2 when available. SoundSoap Pro is also included as part of the Peak Pro XT 6 bundle from BIAS.
Through the end of Q2, 2009, customers purchasing new retail editions of the current version of SoundSoap Pro may take advantage of a special promotion and receive a free downloadable edition of the BIAS Master Perfection Suite: a powerful collection of six advanced plug-ins for mastering, processing, and analysis - a $599 value.
BIAS' entry-level edition of SoundSoap remains available at a suggested retail price of $129. SoundSoap users may also crossgrade at a special price to SoundSoap Pro - contact BIAS for details.
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