Why You Need Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX for Your Mixing and Mastering Projects
Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX: A Review
Mastering is one of the most important stages in music production, as it can make or break your mix. It can also be one of the most challenging and frustrating stages, as it requires a lot of skill, experience, and patience. Fortunately, there are some tools that can make your mastering process easier and more effective. One of them is Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, a plugin that combines an ultra-transparent compressor, a loudness enhancer, and a comprehensive metering panel. In this article, we will review Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, explain how to use it, and compare it with other mastering plugins. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX can do for your mixes, and whether it is worth buying or not.
Slate Digital Fg X Mastering Processor Vst Osx
Introduction
Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX is a mastering plugin that was released in 2010 by Slate Digital, a company that specializes in creating high-quality plugins, virtual instruments, and sample libraries for music production. Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX is designed to make your mixes louder without altering the dynamics, removing punch, or skewing your mix balances. It does this by using a proprietary process called "Intelligent Transient Preservation", or ITP, which analyzes your mix peaks and optimizes a custom saturation curve that best preserves its characteristics. For example, if it sees a kick drum, it will create a saturation curve that best preserves low-end energy. If it sees a snare drum, it will saturate it with a curve that best retains midrange punch. Overall, the I Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX consists of three modules: FG-Comp, FG-Level, and the metering panel. FG-Comp is a transparent compressor that can smooth out the dynamics of your mix without adding any coloration or distortion. FG-Level is a loudness enhancer that can increase the perceived loudness of your mix without clipping or pumping. The metering panel provides you with various meters and graphs that can help you monitor and analyze your mix levels, frequency spectrum, phase correlation, and dynamic range. You can use each module separately or together, depending on your needs and preferences.
How to use Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX
To use Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, you need to have a compatible host application that supports VST plugins, such as Logic Pro, Cubase, Ableton Live, or Pro Tools. You also need to have a Mac computer that meets the minimum system requirements for Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, which are:
Mac OS X 10.7 or higher
Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
4 GB of RAM or higher
At least 100 MB of free disk space
An iLok 2 or iLok 3 USB dongle for authorization
Here are the steps to install and activate Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX:
Download the installer from the Slate Digital website or from your Slate Digital account.
Run the installer and follow the instructions on the screen.
Connect your iLok dongle to your computer and launch the iLok License Manager application.
Sign in to your iLok account and drag and drop the Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX license to your iLok dongle.
Restart your computer and launch your host application.
Scan for new plugins and load Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX on your master bus or on a separate track.
To access and navigate Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, you need to understand its user interface and its controls. The user interface is divided into three sections: the top bar, the main panel, and the bottom bar. The top bar contains the following elements:
The Slate logo, which opens the settings menu where you can adjust the oversampling, dithering, latency compensation, and other options.
The preset menu, where you can load, save, and manage presets for Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX.
The undo and redo buttons, which allow you to undo or redo your changes.
The bypass button, which bypasses the entire plugin.
The lock button, which locks the settings of all modules.
The help button, which opens the user manual in your web browser.
The main panel contains the three modules: FG-Comp, FG-Level, and the metering panel. Each module has its own bypass button, input and output knobs, and mode selector. The mode selector allows you to choose between four modes: Constant Gain Monitoring (CGM), Constant Loudness Monitoring (CLM), Clipper Only (CO), and Normal (N). CGM keeps the output level constant regardless of the input level. CLM keeps the perceived loudness constant regardless of the input level. CO bypasses everything except the clipper section of FG-Level. N is the normal mode where all modules are active. You can also click on the module name to collapse or expand it.
The bottom bar contains the following elements:
The link button, which links the input and output knobs of all modules.
The reset button, which resets all settings to their default values.
The A/B button, which allows you to compare two different settings.
The copy button, which copies the current settings to the clipboard.
The paste button, which pastes the settings from the clipboard.
How to master your tracks with Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX
To master your tracks with Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX, you need to adjust the settings and parameters of each module according to your mix and your desired results. Here are some general guidelines on how to use each module:
How to use the FG-Comp module for transparent compression
The FG-Comp module is a transparent compressor that can smooth out the dynamics of your mix without adding any coloration or distortion. It has four controls: Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release. The Threshold control sets the level at which the compression starts to kick in. The Ratio control sets the amount of compression applied to the signal that exceeds the threshold. The Attack control sets how fast the compressor reacts to the signal. The Release control sets how fast the compressor returns to its normal state after the signal drops below the threshold. Here are some tips on how to use the FG-Comp module:
Start with a low ratio (2:1 or 4:1) and a high threshold (-10 dB or higher) and gradually lower the threshold until you see some gain reduction on the meter. Aim for 1 to 3 dB of gain reduction on average, and avoid more than 6 dB of gain reduction on peaks.
Adjust the attack and release times according to the tempo and genre of your track. For faster and more aggressive tracks, use faster attack and release times. For slower and more relaxed tracks, use slower attack and release times.
Use the input and output knobs to match the level of the uncompressed signal. You can use the bypass button or the CGM mode to compare the before and after signals.
Use the FG-Comp module as the first module in your chain, before the FG-Level module.
How to use the FG-Level module for loudness enhancement and limiting
The FG-Level module is a loudness enhancer that can increase the perceived loudness of your mix without clipping or pumping. It has six controls: Gain, Ceiling, Dynamic Perception, Transient, Lo Punch, and Detail. The Gain control sets how much gain is added to your mix. The Ceiling control sets how much headroom is left before clipping occurs. The Dynamic Perception control sets how much dynamic range is preserved in your mix. The Transient control sets how much transient detail is preserved in your mix. The Lo Punch control sets how much low-end energy is preserved in your mix. The Detail control sets how much high-end clarity is preserved in your mix. Here are some tips on how to use the FG-Level module:
Start with a low gain (0 dB or lower) and a high ceiling (-0.1 dB or lower) and gradually increase the gain until you reach your desired loudness level. You can use the metering panel to monitor your loudness level in terms of RMS, LUFS, or PLR.
Adjust the Dynamic Perception and Transient controls according to your mix balance and genre. For more dynamic and punchy mixes, use higher values. For more consistent and smooth mixes, use lower values.
Adjust the Lo Punch and Detail controls according to your mix tonality and genre. For more bass-heavy and warm mixes, use higher values for Lo Punch and lower values for Detail. For more treble-rich and bright mixes, use lower values for Lo Punch and higher values for Detail.
Use the input and output knobs to match the level of the uncompressed signal. You can use the bypass button or the CLM mode to compare the before and after signals.
Use the FG-Level module as the last module in your chain, after the FG-Comp module.
How to use the metering panel for monitoring and analysis
The metering panel provides you with various meters and graphs that can help you monitor and analyze your mix levels, frequency spectrum, phase correlation, and dynamic range. It has four tabs: Level, Spectrum, Phase, and Dynamics. The Level tab shows you a peak meter, an RMS meter, a LUFS meter, a PLR meter, a K-meter, and a clip indicator. The Spectrum tab shows you a frequency analyzer that displays the frequency spectrum of your mix in real time. The Phase tab shows you a phase correlation meter that displays the phase relationship between your left and right channels. The Dynamics tab shows you a dynamic range meter that displays the dynamic range of your mix in real time. Here are some tips on how to use the metering panel:
Use the Level tab to check your peak, RMS, LUFS, and PLR levels and make sure they are within the acceptable range for your target platform and genre. For example, if you are mastering for streaming services, you may want to aim for -14 LUFS and 14 PLR. If you are mastering for CD, you may want to aim for -9 RMS and 9 PLR.
Use the Spectrum tab to check your frequency balance and make sure there are no unwanted peaks or dips in your mix. You can also use the solo and mute buttons to isolate or exclude specific frequency bands. For example, if you want to focus on the low-end of your mix, you can solo the 20-200 Hz band and mute the rest.
Use the Phase tab to check your stereo width and make sure there are no phase issues in your mix. You can also use the mono button to collapse your mix to mono and check for any loss of volume or clarity. For example, if you see the phase correlation meter dropping below zero, it means that your mix is out of phase and may sound weak or distorted in mono.
Use the Dynamics tab to check your dynamic range and make sure it is not too compressed or too dynamic for your genre and platform. You can also use the zoom button to zoom in or out of the dynamic range meter. For example, if you see the dynamic range meter showing a low value, it means that your mix is too compressed and may sound flat or lifeless.
Tips and tricks for getting the best results with Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX
Here are some tips and tricks that can help you get the best results with Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX:
Use high-quality audio files as your source material. Avoid using low-bitrate MP3s or other lossy formats, as they may introduce artifacts or noise that can affect your mastering quality.
Use a good pair of headphones or monitors to listen to your mix. Avoid using laptop speakers or earbuds, as they may not give you an accurate representation of your mix.
Use a reference track that is similar to your genre and style, and compare it with your mix. You can use the A/B button or a third-party plugin to switch between your mix and the reference track. Try to match the loudness, frequency balance, stereo width, and dynamic range of the reference track.
Use subtle adjustments and avoid over-processing your mix. A little goes a long way when it comes to mastering. Remember that mastering is not meant to fix a bad mix, but to enhance a good one.
Use your ears and trust your instincts. Don't rely solely on meters or graphs, as they may not tell you the whole story. Listen to how your mix sounds and feels, and make adjustments accordingly.
Comparison with other mastering plugins
There are many other mastering plugins available on the market, each with its own features, strengths, and weaknesses. How does Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX compare with them? Here are some of the most popular ones:
PluginProsCons
iZotope Ozone- Offers a comprehensive suite of mastering tools, including EQ, compression, saturation, stereo imaging, reverb, exciter, limiter, and more.- Has a smart assistant feature that can analyze your mix and suggest settings based on your genre and target platform.- Has a ton of presets and modules that can suit any style and taste.- Can be CPU-intensive and cause latency issues.- Can be overwhelming and confusing for beginners.- Can be expensive compared to other plugins.
FabFilter Pro-L 2- Offers a transparent and versatile limiter that can handle any type of material.- Has a simple and intuitive interface that allows you to adjust various parameters with ease.- Has a loudness meter that shows you the true peak level, LUFS level, PLR level, and more.- Does not have any other mastering tools besides limiting.- Does not have any presets or modes that can help you achieve different results.- Does not have any dynamic processing or saturation features that can add character or warmth to your mix.
Waves L3 Multimaximizertd>- Offers a multiband limiter that can split your mix into up to five frequency bands and apply different limiting settings to each band.- Has a priority control that allows you to adjust the relative importance of each band.- Has a dithering feature that can reduce the noise and distortion caused by bit depth reduction.- Can be CPU-intensive and cause latency issues.- Can be difficult and time-consuming to fine-tune the settings for each band.- Can cause unwanted artifacts or pumping if used excessively or incorrectly.
As you can see, Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX has its own pros and cons compared to other mastering plugins. Some of the advantages of Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX are:
It has a unique and innovative process that can preserve the dynamics and transients of your mix while making it louder.
It has a simple and user-friendly interface that allows you to adjust the settings with ease.
It has a low CPU usage and low latency, which makes it suitable for real-time processing.
It has a reasonable price compared to other mastering plugins.
Some of the disadvantages of Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX are:
It does not have any other mastering tools besides compression and limiting, which may limit your options and flexibility.
It does not have any presets or modes that can help you achieve different results, which may require more trial and error and experimentation.
It does not have any dynamic processing or saturation features that can add character or warmth to your mix, which may make it sound too clean or sterile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX is a mastering plugin that can make your mixes louder without altering the dynamics, removing punch, or skewing your mix balances. It does this by using a proprietary process called "Intelligent Transient Preservation", or ITP, which analyzes your mix peaks and optimizes a custom saturation curve that best preserves its characteristics. It consists of three modules: FG-Comp, FG-Level, and the metering panel. Each module has its own settings and parameters that you can adjust according to your mix and your desired results. Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX has its own advantages and disadvantages compared to other mastering plugins, so you need to weigh them carefully before deciding whether to buy it or not.
If you are looking for a mastering plugin that can make your mixes louder without compromising their quality, you may want to give Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX a try. You can download a trial version or buy the full version from the Slate Digital website. You can also check out some tutorials and reviews on YouTube or other websites to learn more about Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX and how to use it effectively. Remember that mastering is not a magic bullet that can fix a bad mix, but a subtle art that can enhance a good one. So, use your ears, trust your instincts, and have fun mastering your tracks with Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX:
What are the system requirements for Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX?
The system requirements for Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX are:
Mac OS X 10.7 or higher
Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
4 GB of RAM or higher
At least 100 MB of free disk space
An iLok 2 or iLok 3 USB dongle for authorization
How much does Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX cost?
The price of Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX is $149 USD. However, you can also get it as part of the Slate Digital All Access Pass, which gives you access to all Slate Digital plugins, virtual instruments, sample libraries, and online courses for $14.99 USD per month or $149.99 USD per year.
Is there a trial version or a demo version of Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor V ST OSX?
Yes, there is a trial version of Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX that you can download from the Slate Digital website. The trial version is fully functional for 14 days, after which you need to purchase a license or subscribe to the Slate Digital All Access Pass to continue using it.
What are some alternative plugins to Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX?
Some alternative plugins to Slate Digital FG-X Mastering Processor VST OSX are:
Brainworx bx_masterdesk: A mastering plugin that o