Apple Using WaveBurner Logic Pro 7.1 User Manual
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Stereo Spread
The Stereo Spread plug-in provides another commonly used mastering effect. It
enhances the perception of stereo width by extending the stereo base. Some stereo
enhancing algorithms function by changing the phase of the signal, which can cancel
some frequencies or distort your mix, producing unpredictable results. Instead of this
approach, the Stereo Spread plug-in extends the stereo base by alternately distributing
a selectable number of frequency bands to the left and right. This increases the
perception of stereo without causing unnatural-sounding cancellations or distortions in
the mix. The frequency range over which this effect occurs is set using the Upper Freq.
and Lower Freq. sliders.
The main parameters of the Stereo Spread plug-in are Order, Upper Intensity (Upper
Int.), and Lower Intensity (Lower Int.). The Order parameter determines the number of
frequency bands into which the signal is divided. The Upper Intensity parameter
controls the intensity of the base extension of the upper frequency bands. The Lower
Intensity parameter controls the strength of the base extension of the lower frequency
bands.
Human beings perceive stereo placement of sounds mainly in the middle and high
frequencies. If very low frequencies are distributed between the left and right speakers,
the energy distribution for both speakers will be significantly reduced. Therefore, it is
always best to select a lower intensity setting for the lower frequency bands, and avoid
setting the Lower Freq. below 300 Hz.