Sonarworks Updates Flagship Reference Product

SoundID Reference offers new features, multiple user interface and driver improvements   11-Mar-21

Sonarworks has announced the launch of its all-new and improved speaker and headphone calibration software SoundID Reference (formerly known as Sonarworks Reference). They say that, continuing its commitment to making a simple and affordable software that delivers reliable reference sound for creators, Sonarworks is adding new features and usability updates including Custom Target, Translation Check, improved systemwide drivers for Windows users, and many other enhancements to the user interface.

Martins Popelis, Co-founder and CPO of Sonarworks, told us, "We're excited to finally release what we've been working on for the last year. We've taken in all the feedback from our Reference users and worked hard to incorporate some of the long-awaited features. Moreover, we have simplified the user interface and have added many improvements to streamline the overall workflow."

Here's some details in the company's own words...

Custom Target Curve Adjustments in Real-Time
Creators have longed for the ability to make custom adjustments to the target curve in real time, and with SoundID Reference they can do just that!  Also, users can manually select the frequency range that the calibration will be applied to. This is done by using the Custom Target feature.

With the Custom Target feature the user can create bell and shelf filters and adjust their Q value to boost or cut specific frequencies. A filter can be created by clicking on the target curve while the user has selected Custom as their target mode. Filter values can be changed by either dragging the points or by manually turning the frequency or gain knobs.  Multiple filters can be combined to create a custom EQ preset according to what the user needs. The EQ presets can be renamed, duplicated or deleted.

A calibration frequency range adjustment is done by entering the "custom target mode" of the app or plugin and manipulating the side curtain sliders to adjust the frequency range to be calibrated. Calibration will only be applied within the active frequency range. It is done by moving the two curtain sliders from the sides of the frequency graph. Users can limit high frequency calibration with the right slider, low frequency calibration with the left slider or limit the mid-range calibration by flipping the active calibration zone. Calibration range curtain sliders can be used in combination with the adjustments to the target curve.   

Save Precious Time with Translation Check
Ensuring perfect translation has always been one of the key objectives of Reference software. The Translation Check feature in SoundID Reference aims to save creators time and many headaches by realistically simulating a plethora of different devices and device classes with the new Translation Check feature. Creators can now access a library of 20 predefined simulations that will allow them to check their mix in different listening environments without having to leave their studio chair, bedroom, airplane seat, or hotel room.

Two New Systemwide Driver Modes for Windows Users
SoundID Reference reshapes the systemwide audio calibration experience for Windows users by introducing two new powerful systemwide driver modes. First, the SoundID Reference Windows audio device insert offers the simplest and most straightforward user experience by allowing the user to skip the use of a virtual device driver. This mode also enables near to zero latency. The second is the new virtual ASIO-to-ASIO driver, which is the best choice for ASIO users who still want their calibration to be done through the Reference app and not the plugin. Simply put, creators can now benefit from systemwide calibration while keeping all the benefits of ASIO.

Updated User Interface for Improved User Experience
In order to improve the overall user experience, Sonarworks has listened to feedback and revamped its UI to provide a number of updates that will delight every SoundID Reference user. For instance, device and profile presets have been completely reimagined to provide clear structure and hierarchy. The headphone selection has been rebuilt and now provides a very user friendly way to find and attach a headphone profile to a preset. To help users hear a track in a different way and notice any missed imperfections in the audio mix or stereo balance, SoundID Reference provides a left / right channel switch option.

Pricing and Availability:
SoundID Reference is available today for purchase and upgrade. Users can also experience the new update with unlimited functionality during a 21-day free trial by visiting sonarworks.com/soundid-reference/trial.  

More information:

• Sonarworks