On the Waves Desser, why can the audio be either Wideband or Split, and how do I choose?
Most compressors containing a sidechain component can be used as de-essers. However, they require an external equalizer to select the frequency range for reducing. Such compressors have Wideband audio passing thru them and thus compress all frequencies equally.
This is the most traditional approach for purist or vocal-only applications. For powerful ‘esses’ and the more modern vocal styles, splitting the audio into 2 pieces is more effective and results in fewer side effects on frequencies outside the ‘ess’ range. If you must de-ess a mixed track of instruments and vocals, the Split method is nearly essential.
Choose the Split mode for the most accurate and strong de-essing and for mixed tracks.
Choose Wideband mode for gentle voice-track-only de-essing and when you do not want to have a crossover in the processing path.
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