In digital audio, Dither is added before any quantization or re-quantization process, in order to de-correlate the quantization noise from the input signal and to prevent non-linear behavior (distortion). Although dithering is usually considered an automatic function that can be ignored without consequence, mastering engineers know that redithering prior to delivery, but is the last opportunity to define the quality of their product. This is particularly relevant now that music distribution is no longer limited by a single delivery format targeting Compact Disc, and requires targeting high-resolution audio formats and multiple master file constraints.
Building on the foundations of MAAT’s original LINearise plug-in, LINpro incorporates an all-new engine, representing the debut of MAAT’s next generation dithering. The new plug-in retains and improves upon the versatility and reference quality of the original tool, while also enhancing the user experience.
MAAT’s CTO, Christoph Musialik (Algorithmix), guided the development to ensure absolute fidelity. As with other members of MAAT’s product family, extensive research and its double precision DSP (Digital Signal Processing) architecture contribute to uncompromising quality and exacting fidelity.
In addition to the default Triangular PDF (Probability Density Function) dither needed for many delivery situations, LIN also includes High Passed Triangular PDF as well as seven choices for optimal Noise Shaping. Four of the options are derived from the most recent thinking in psychoacoustically optimized 5th, 8th and 9th order shapes from researchers including Gerzon, Craven, Lipshitz, Vanderkooy and Wannamaker. Rectangular PDF and word length truncation, while not recommended as production choices, are also included as educational and informative options.
For rapid identification of the desired settings, 8-bit output is available alongside 16- and 24-bit word lengths. To aid visually oriented audio engineers, actual noise plots of each dither type are displayed for any given setting. Factory presets also quickly steer the user to an optimal solution for any common delivery scenario.
Mastering engineer and MAAT co-founder Friedemann Tischmeyer is obsessed with a streamlined user experience. “With LINpro, we built a gorgeous, understated user interface to control our mathematically exacting dither engine. Out of the box, we also have made things easy with presets that address all common use cases, plus special settings to allow engineers to easily hear changes as they are being made,” he states.
The product is available in all modern plug-in formats, including cross-platform AAX, VST 2 and 64-bit VST 3 as well as a Universal Binary 2 AU for macOS. Perpetual licenses for LIN are available now, exclusively from MAAT. Additional information, including user manuals, are accessible anytime at the company's website.
MAAT's name is derived from “Mastering Academy Audio Tools,” reflecting the deep connection and practical wisdom derived from years of real world experience of its founders creating audio tools for professionals worldwide.
www.maat.digital
