Free Plugin Spotlight - Spread Light

Spread Light is our free high-quality stereo width plugin that you can use in your music productions now.

But first, some of you might ask, what is stereo width actually?

Stereo width refers to the perceived spatial dimension of an audio signal within a stereo mix. Essentially, it dictates how wide or narrow a sound seems to the listener. Adjusting stereo width can position elements of your mix to seem closer or further away, thereby adding depth and enhancing the overall auditory experience.

Narrowing vs. Widening Stereo Width

  • Narrowing Stereo Width: When you narrow the stereo width, sounds become more centralized, creating a focused and tight mix. This technique is useful for elements that need to be prominent, such as lead vocals or solo instruments.

  • Widening Stereo Width: Increasing the stereo width can make sounds feel more expansive and enveloping. This is particularly effective for background elements like pads, backing vocals, and ambient sounds, giving your mix a lush, spacious quality.

We designed Spread Light with intuitive controls and two distinct modes—Mid/Side and Haas—for experimenting with stereo width.

Let’s have a look at the main parameters:

Width Control

The Width control adjusts the balance between the mid and side signals in the Mid/Side mode or the delay amount in the Haas mode. At 100%, the signal remains unaltered. Reducing it to 0% collapses the signal to mono, while increasing it beyond 100% enhances the stereo portion, making the sound wider.

Tilt Control

The Tilt parameter acts as a stereo panner, allowing you to position the audio within the stereo field. By combining Width and Tilt, you can find the perfect spot for each sound, ensuring a well-balanced mix.

Mid/Side vs. Haas Mode

  • Mid/Side (M/S) Processing: This technique separates the audio signal into its mid (center) and side (stereo) components. Adjusting these components independently offers precise control over the stereo field, making it ideal for detailed spatial adjustments.

Haas Effect Toggle

The Haas Effect Toggle switches between the Mid/Side and Haas processing modes, providing you with flexible options for achieving your desired stereo width.

Understanding and applying different stereo width techniques, including the strategic use of the Mid/Side and Haas modes, can significantly alter the character and dynamic of your music. By adjusting its Width, Tilt, and mode controls, you can craft anything from subtle enhancements during mastering to wide, immersive soundscapes.

Spread Light is our go-to lightweight stereo expander, and we designed it from the ground up to be high-end in quality - check it out for free and add it to your productions!

Spread Light is part of our Freebies package!

Go check it out here:

https://www.yum-audio.com/Freebies

Happy music producing 💡🎹