What is Harmonic Excitement and When to use it
Key Takeaway:
- Harmonic excitement in audio production refers to the process of enhancing audio by adding harmonics, resulting in a richer, fuller sound. Exciters, which are specialized audio processors, are often used to achieve this effect.
- Exciters work by generating harmonics, which are added to the original audio signal. This results in a more detailed, "exciting" sound. The first exciters were developed in the 1970s and were initially used in broadcasting.
- Exciters can be used in a variety of ways in audio production. They can add brightness to vocals, enhance the clarity of instruments, and improve the overall coherence of a mix. It is important to choose the right exciter for the particular sound you are trying to achieve.
What is harmonic excitement in audio production?
Harmonic excitement is a technique used in audio production to enhance the sound quality of a track by adding harmonic tones to the mix. These harmonic tones add a warmth and fullness to the sound, making it more appealing to the listener.
In essence, harmonic excitement is the process of adding new harmonics to existing frequencies in a track, which can result in a more vibrant and dynamic sound. By adding these harmonics through various tools and plugins, the audio engineer can achieve a desired level of harmonic excitement in a track.
However, it is important to note that overusing this technique can result in a cluttered and distorted sound. It is essential to strike a balance between harmonic excitement and preserving the integrity of the original sound. By incorporating harmonic excitement in the production process, audio engineers can create a more engaging and immersive listening experience for their audience.
Don't miss out on the benefits of harmonic excitement in your audio productions.
Understanding Exciters
As an audio engineer, I’ve always been intrigued by the concept of harmonic excitement in audio production. One tool that is frequently used to achieve this effect is an exciter. These devices have been around for decades and have evolved significantly over time. In this segment, we will explore exciters in greater detail. Specifically, we will dive into how exciters work and the science behind them. Additionally, we’ll take a look at the history of exciters, from the early days of recording to modern times, and how they’ve impacted the industry.
How do exciters work
Exciters generate harmonic frequencies that enhance the overall sound quality. By splitting the audio signal and processing specific frequency ranges, exciters introduce harmonics that are not present in the original signal. These new harmonics create a more pleasant and brighter sound, making it stand out in a mix. Essentially, exciters work by adding or amplifying new sonic elements in an audio signal.
Exciters typically use three components - a crossover or filter to separate low and high frequencies, a harmonics generator to add new harmonics to high frequencies, and a mixer to combine the original audio with the processed signals. The intensity of excitation can be adjusted through controls such as blend, saturation, drive, and EQ.
General suggestions when working with exciters include being mindful of overuse as it can result in unnatural sound artifacts and ear fatigue. Use it sparingly on certain elements like vocals and instruments that need an extra lift while avoiding using them on bass instruments or drums that require less harmonic excitement. Finally, try experimenting with different types of exciters to achieve critical listening positions better and preserve transients while adding harmonic enhancement.
Why settle for just one decade of outdated audio technology when you can use an exciter to bring your sounds into the future?
The history of exciters
Exciters have been a part of audio production for quite some time and understanding their history can provide insight into how they were developed. The concept of using exciters in audio production dates back to the 1940s when engineers discovered that intermodulation distortion could be used to create harmonic distortion. In the early days of recording, exciters were often used to add high-frequency harmonics to dull-sounding recordings.
The development of solid-state electronics in the 1960s allowed for more precise control over the harmonic content produced by exciters. Manufacturers started creating dedicated exciter units that could be inserted into a signal chain, allowing engineers to tailor the harmonics added. In the 1980s, Aphex Systems introduced the Aural Exciter, which became one of the most popular exciter units of all time.
With advancements in digital technology, exciters are now available as software plugins that can be used within digital audio workstations (DAWs). This has made them even more accessible and popular amongst music producers and engineers worldwide.
In recent years, some manufacturers have begun incorporating exciter-style processing into their compressors and EQs. This allows for additional harmonic content to be added without needing a separate exciter unit or plugin. Despite these advancements, dedicated exciters remain popular due to their unique sonic character and ability to add excitement and sheen to an audio mix.
Add some excitement to your audio production with these expert tips on using exciters.
Using Exciters in Audio Production
When it comes to audio production, there are a variety of tools and techniques that you can use to add depth and interest to your tracks. One popular way of achieving this is through the use of exciters. Exciters are a type of audio processor that can add harmonic excitement to your mix, resulting in a brighter, fuller, and more polished sound.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the different ways that you can use exciters in your audio production and the benefits that they can bring to your mix. We’ll also discuss why and when you might want to consider using an exciter, as well as some tips for choosing the right one for your specific needs.
Why and When to use an Exciter
Exciters are a useful tool in audio production that can add harmonic excitement to an audio signal. They can be used to enhance the perceived loudness and clarity of an audio track, which can make it more engaging and exciting for listeners. Additionally, they can be used to bring out certain frequencies and harmonics in an audio signal that may be otherwise difficult to hear or distinguish. This can lead to a more detailed and bright sound.
When considering why and when to use an exciter, it is important to consider the desired effect you are trying to achieve. For example, if you want to add some sparkle or sheen to a vocal track, using an exciter can help bring out the highs and upper harmonics of the singer's voice. Similarly, if you want to add warmth or thickness to a bass guitar part, using an exciter on the lower harmonics of the instrument can help achieve this effect.
One unique way to use an exciter is in mastering. During mastering, exciters are often used sparingly on individual tracks to bring out certain frequencies and harmonics that might be lacking in the mix. This can help create a more cohesive final product that sounds balanced across all frequencies.
To get the most out of your exciter plugin, it's important to choose one that suits your needs best. For example, some plugins excel at adding brightness and presence while others are better suited for adding warmth or thickness. You may also want to experiment with different settings such as mix level, frequency range selection, and distortion amount.
By understanding why and when to use an exciter and choosing the right plugin for your needs, you can add harmonic excitement and clarity to your audio productions, making them more engaging for listeners. Unleash your audio's inner diva with these exciting ways to use an Exciter.
Different ways to use an Exciter
Exciters can be used in various ways to enhance the audio quality. One of the ways is to add harmonic excitement by selectively emphasizing or de-emphasizing particular frequency ranges to produce a more polished and clear sound. Another way is to use an exciter as a multiband compressor by applying different levels of gain across frequency bands. Additionally, exciters can also be used to create stereo image enhancement by adding harmonics on only one side of the stereo field.
Furthermore, one unique feature of exciters is that they can add coloration or warmth to the audio signal. Exciters can emulate analog equipment such as vintage tube and transistor-based processors that add harmonics or distortion to achieve warmth and character in the sound. Some exciters even combine multiple types of processing such as saturation, compression, and equalization into one plugin for more customization options.
To make full use of exciters in audio production, it's essential to choose the right type that suits your specific needs. For example, if you're looking for a hardware-based solution with physical knobs and controls, SPL Twin Tube might be the best option. Alternatively, if you prefer digital processing with advanced features like integrated AI algorithms, Neutron 3 or Ozone 9 from iZotope may be more suitable.
Overall, there are many different ways to use an exciter in audio production depending on your creative vision and technical requirements. By experimenting with various settings like crossover frequencies, ratio levels and saturation amounts, you can uncover new possibilities for enhancing your music or dialogue recordings significantly.
If you don't choose the right Exciter for your audio, it's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole - it just won't sound right.
Choosing the right Exciter for your audio
To select the most suitable exciter for your audio needs, there are specific factors to consider. The exciter's frequency response range and processing type, harmonic distortion control, and multi-band processing capability all play a significant role.
The following table shows different types of exciters with their respective features:
| Type of Exciter | Frequency response | Harmonic Distortion Control | Multi-band processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aphex Vintage Aural Exciter plugin | 20Hz - 20kHz | Yes | No |
| SPL Twin Tube | 20Hz - 20kHz | Yes | Yes |
| McDSP's Shine | Full-spectrum | Optional | No |
| Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer | Full-spectrum | No | Yes |
| iZotope’s Neutron 3 and Ozone 9 | Full-spectrum | Optional |
Furthermore, it is critical to ensure that the chosen exciter compliments rather than overwhelms the mix by listening to how it works with individual tracks before applying it to an entire mix.
Once, a renowned producer struggled with choosing the perfect exciters while mixing a classic track. Despite trying multiple exciters, he was unhappy with the results until he decided to trust his instincts and used his judgement to select the right type of exciter.
Get ready for some sonic stimulation with these popular exciters in audio production.
Popular Exciters in Audio Production
When it comes to adding excitement to audio productions, there are a variety of popular exciters that can help elevate the sound. One such exciter is the Aphex Vintage Aural Exciter plugin, which has been used in music production for decades and provides a warm, analog-like sound. Another option that has gained popularity in recent years is the SPL Twin Tube, which utilizes a unique twin-triode design to add rich harmonics to the audio. Additionally, the McDSP Shine exciter provides a modern, transparent sound that can add clarity and sparkle to the mix. Other popular exciters include the Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer, iZotope’s Neutron 3, and Ozone 9.
Each of these plugins offers unique features and benefits, making them valuable tools in the audio producer’s toolkit.
Aphex Vintage Aural Exciter plugin
The vintage aural exciter plug-in by Aphex is a crucial audio tool used to enhance and add a harmonic presence to musical recordings. It carefully balances the harmonics present in an audio signal, adding rich detail and sparkle to it. Its advanced harmonic generator adds body, warmth, and vitality to tracks making them stand out in a mix.
One of the unique selling points of the Aphex vintage aural exciter plugin is that it allows you to independently adjust the low and high harmonics, giving you ultimate control over your sound enhancement needs irrespective of settings. As opposed to other plugins that might create unwanted distortion or phase issues, this software uses psychoacoustic principles that may bring about more clarity without ruining the integrity of your original recording.
If you want to achieve a warm and lively effect on your audio recordings, using Aphex vintage aural exciter plugin could be one option. For optimal results, ensure that part of your track isn’t overpowering before applying this effect – otherwise, it might counteract with other mixing elements like pan, volume levels or EQ changes- leading to undesirable sounds.
Get ready to double your tube excitement with SPL's Twin Tube exciter.
SPL Twin Tube
A notable feature of SPL Twin Tube is its blend knob, which allows users to mix in as much or as little of the enhanced signal as desired. This flexibility makes it suitable for various applications, from subtle tonal shaping to more extreme effects processing. Furthermore, the built-in M/S matrix enables precise control over stereo image and mid/side balance.
Pro Tip: Experiment with using SPL Twin Tube on different parts of a mix, such as vocals or drums, to discover its range of capabilities and add depth and character to your sound.
Get ready to shine with McDSP's Shine - the audio enhancer that will make your tracks sparkle like never before.
McDSP's Shine
One popular exciter in audio production is the McDSP's Shine. It utilises a unique combination of multi-band dynamic processing and harmonic enhancement to deliver a rich, polished and enhanced sound. The Shine plug-in allows subtle or extreme amounts of harmonic excitement that can be added at specific frequency ranges. It provides studio-quality saturation, compression and limiting, which can be used to make tracks lively and vibrant. Moreover, it features pan, width, and gain controls that can significantly shape the stereo image of any sound sources processed with it.
Pro Tip: To avoid over-processing with an exciter like McDSP's Shine, always monitor the output level while applying effects to your mix. Keep checking against reference tracks for easy comparison and ensure that you do not damage the overall mix cohesion by making individual instruments too bright or harsh-sounding.
Give your audio a boost of energy with the Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer.
Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer
An acclaimed tool in audio production, the Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer uses harmonic excitement to enrich audio output. It enhances the nuances and details of sound by adding clarity and body with a multi-band processing technique. The tool enables producers to add character and vitality to finished mixes or masters.
The Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer, through its unique multi-band processing mechanism, works by separating sound into different frequencies bands, enabling users to emphasize or reduce them individually. This feature allows using it on specific range(s) of instruments or vocals without disturbing other parts of the track. The resultant output sounds punchier, brighter, and more detailed with impressive stereo widening capabilities.
Unique details about this tool include its intuitive interface allowing easy usage; it is compatible with all major DAWs; designed for both mixing and mastering purposes, saving considerable time; and has an automatic level compensation feature that ensures no unwanted distortion.
The powerful story about this tool includes how some of the best mixing engineers swear by Waves Vitamin Sonic Enhancer's ability to bring life into their projects. Its versatile nature as an "audio sweetener" gives producers flexibility to adjust tonal balance creatively while keeping the original vibe intact.
iZotope's Neutron 3 and Ozone 9 - because even robots need a little excitement in their audio production.
iZotope’s Neutron 3 and Ozone 9
- Neutron 3 is a standalone software that offers users an intelligent mix assistant and track enhancer, which analyze tracks and suggest potential improvements.
- Ozone 9 with its modular approach gives the user maximum control over the mastering process from initial signal to final output.
- Moreover, both the plugins offer a vast array of presets that can be customized according to specific needs and desired results.
In addition, iZotope’s Neutron 3 and Ozone 9 allows users to achieve precise tonal balance, clarity, depth and volume in their mixes.
Interestingly, many well-known music producers use these plugins extensively in their production process to unlock infinite possibilities for creative audio processing. According to Sound on Sound magazine, "iZotope's Neutron 3 Advanced is designed to do what traditional channel-strip plug-ins don’t: it directs your attention outwards into the mix".
Conclusion: Are Exciters Still Relevant Today?
The use of exciters to generate harmonic excitement in audio production is still relevant today. This technology produces a unique sound that cannot be achieved through other methods. While many modern producers may overlook this technique, the subtle and nuanced effects that an exciter creates add a layer of sophistication to any mix. These nuanced effects cannot be replicated through the current technology, making exciters still a valuable tool in audio production.
If you are looking for a way to add some depth to your mixes, try an exciter in your next project. The technology has been around for many years and is still relevant today, producing results that cannot be achieved through other means. While some audio professionals may overlook the power of exciters, it is worth exploring the possibilities that they can bring to your projects.
It is essential to note that exciters should not be the only tool in your audio production arsenal. They are best used in conjunction with other methods and techniques to produce a high-quality mix. These subtle nuances that exciters bring are an impressive addition to the already cluttered landscape of electronic music production.
According to a reference from What is harmonic excitement in audio production, exciters create a unique sound that cannot be replicated through other methods. Their subtle and nuanced effects add a layer of sophistication to any mix and make them a valuable tool in audio production.
Some Facts About "What is Harmonic Excitement in Audio Production":
- ✅ Harmonic exciters are tools used to add clarity and sheen to recordings by boosting mid to top frequency range (3.5 kHz to 20 kHz) and adding harmonic distortion. (Source: Team Research)
- ✅ The first commercial exciter was the Aphex Electronics' Aural Exciter model in 1974, which added phase shift, distortion, and compression to recordings for a clearer sound. (Source: Team Research)
- ✅ While digital technology has eliminated the need for clarity boosts due to repeated playbacks, exciters are still popular tools in audio production, with both hardware and software versions available. (Source: Team Research)
- ✅ Exciters can be compared to seasoning in food - they should be used in moderation, as too much can mask the original flavor of the mix. (Source: Steve DeMott, Production Expert)
- ✅ Different exciters have different controls and functionalities, such as the SPL Twin Tube's gentler and focusable top, or McDSP's Shine as part of its 6060 Ultimate Module Collection. (Source: Steve DeMott, Production Expert)
FAQs about What Is Harmonic Excitement In Audio Production
What is harmonic excitement in audio production?
Harmonic excitement is the process of adding harmonic distortion to an audio signal to enhance its clarity or sheen. This is typically done using an exciter in the mid to top frequency range (3.5 kHz to 20 kHz), which helps sounds stand out in a mix without the need for riding faders or adding equalization.
How does an exciter work?
Traditionally, hardware exciters have three main controls: Drive, Tune, and Mix. The Tune knob selects the base frequency at which the exciter starts to work, Drive adjusts the density of the added distortion, and Mix controls the overall level. Early exciters were tube-based and added harmonic and intermodular distortion to the sound.
What is the history of the exciter?
The technique of exciting odd/even harmonics to overcome the dullness of analogue tape was first discovered accidentally in the 1950s but commercialized by Curt Knoppel and Marvin Caesar of Aphex Electronics with the Aural Exciter model 402 in 1974. The original hardware unit was lauded for bringing clarity and air to analogue recordings, and the technique has been used ever since.
When should I use an exciter in audio mixing?
Exciters are best used when a sound needs to stand out in a mix without the need for riding faders or adding equalization. They can be used to add sparkle and clarity to a mix, but excessive use can lead to artificial content and mask the original timbre of the audio.
What are some popular types of exciters in audio production?
Some popular types of exciters include the Aphex Vintage Aural Exciter, SPL Twin Tube, McDSP's Shine (part of the 6060 Ultimate Module Collection), and iZotope's Neutron 3 and Ozone 9 software with integral exciters. Many other software developers offer standalone or multi-use plugin/software exciters as well.
Do all users use exciters the same way?
No, because exciters are a highly subjective tool and their usage can vary depending on the engineer and the specific needs of the mix. Some engineers may prefer certain types of exciters or use them more sparingly than others.