FabFilter Pro-DS Intelligent De-Esser Plugin

Description

Professional Mixing and Mastering Tools

Even when using the best mics, pre-amps and converters, sibilance in vocal recordings can easily get over-accentuated during post-processing like compression or saturation. But don’t worry, FabFilter Pro-DS comes to the rescue!

Accurate detection

With its highly intelligent ‘Single Vocal’ detection algorithm, FabFilter Pro-DS accurately identifies sibilance in vocal recordings and attenuates it transparently.

When using the ‘Allround’ mode, Pro-DS becomes a great tool for high-frequency limiting of any material, like drums or even full mixes. Try it yourself!

Everything you need

FabFilter Pro-DS offers everything you need to get the best result possible, presented in a simple and easy-to-use interface. Wide band or linear-phase split band processing, an optional look-ahead of up to 15 ms, adjustable stereo linking with optional mid-only or side-only processing, up to four times linear-phase oversampling… it’s all there.

FabFilter goodies

Of course, you also get all the usual FabFilter goodies: perfectly tuned knobs, MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation for smooth parameter transitions, an excellent help file with interactive help hints, SSE optimization and much more.

Top Features

Intelligent Detection Algorithm: Accurately isolates and reduces sibilance while maintaining the natural tone of vocals and instruments.

Single-Band and Split-Band Modes: Offers both broad and frequency-dependent processing for precise control.

Wide Threshold Range: Works effectively on both subtle and aggressive sibilance.

Real-Time Waveform Visualization: Provides instant feedback for precise adjustments.

Lookahead Functionality: Predicts sibilance peaks for transparent de-essing without artifacts.

Adjustable Stereo Linking: Independently control the effect for the left and right channels or apply it equally across the stereo field.

Mid/Side Processing: Targets de-essing separately for the mid and side components of a stereo signal.

Zero-Latency Operation: No delay for real-time mixing with the option for lookahead for maximum precision.

Wide Frequency Range: Ideal for both vocal sibilance and harsh instruments or cymbals.

Intuitive Retina Interface: Optimized UI with real-time feedback for easy workflow.

Additional Features

Highly intelligent ‘Single Vocal’ detection and classic ‘Allround’ detection

Real-time de-essing display clearly showing the affected parts of processed audio

Adjustable Threshold

Range and detection HP and LP filtering settings

Optional mid-only or side-only processing

Up to four times linear-phase oversampling

Side-chain input meter, making it easy to choose a good Threshold value

Real-time spectrum analyzer built into the HP/LP filter controller

GPU-powered graphics acceleration

High-quality 64-bit internal processing

Double-click text entry of parameter values

Large and compact interface sizes

Transparent program-dependent compression/limiting

Wide Band or linear-phase Split Band processing

Optional look-ahead time up to 15 ms

Freely adjustable stereo linking

Stereo and mono plug-ins available

Supports common Pro Tools hardware control surfaces

MIDI Learn

Undo/redo and A/B comparison

Smart Parameter Interpolation

Sample-accurate automation of all parameters

Extensive help file with interactive help hints

Available in VST, VST3, Audio Units, AAX Native and AudioSuite formats (all both 64-bit and 32-bit)

Why You Need FabFilter Pro-DS

FabFilter Pro-DS was created to address the need for an intelligent and transparent de-esser that provides precise control over sibilance without compromising the natural sound of vocals or instruments. Traditional de-essers, which rely on static frequency bands, can lead to unnatural tonal shifts or the dulling of vocals. Pro-DS offers an advanced detection algorithm that dynamically isolates sibilance, ensuring effective control while preserving the audio’s integrity. It was designed to offer professionals an easy-to-use tool with superior quality for vocal mixing, mastering, podcast editing, and post-production work, while also maintaining the transparency that is essential for high-quality audio production.

Who This is For

The target market for FabFilter Pro-DS includes mixing and mastering engineers who require precise control over sibilance without affecting the tonal balance of a mix or master. It is also ideal for music producers working to refine vocal recordings and reduce harshness in bright sounds, podcast editors and broadcasters who need to tame sibilance in dialogue-heavy content, and post-production engineers working on voiceovers, ADR, and narration in film and television. The product appeals to professionals across multiple audio disciplines, from music production to post-production and broadcasting.

What This Package Competes With

Pro-DS competes with other de-essers such as the Waves Renaissance DeEsser, Sonible smart:deess, and Sonnox Oxford SuprEsser. The Waves Renaissance DeEsser is a basic tool effective for simple de-essing tasks, but it lacks the intelligent detection algorithm, split-band mode, and advanced stereo processing that Pro-DS offers. Sonible smart:deess uses AI to adjust settings automatically, but it can be overly CPU-intensive for those who need a more straightforward solution. Sonnox Oxford SuprEsser provides deep customization for de-essing but has a more complex interface that can slow down fast-paced workflows. In comparison, Pro-DS excels with its intelligent detection, transparent sound, and versatility in handling both subtle and aggressive sibilance, along with additional features like mid/side processing, zero-latency operation, and an intuitive interface that appeals to professionals who need both precision and efficiency.

FabFilter Pro-DS System Requirements

Mac

Cpu: Apple Silicon or Intel processor
Version: 10.13 or higher
Internet_required: No
Support: 64_bit
Plugins: VST-2, VST-3, AU, AAX, OTHER

Windows

Version: 11, 10, 8, 7 or Vista
Internet_required: No
Support: 32_bit, 64_bit
Plugins: VST-2, VST-3, AAX, OTHER

FabFilter Pro-DS Demo Video