UNMASK has been introduced as a psychoacoustically informed dynamic EQ designed to analyse incoming audio in real time and apply corrective processing. The plugin focuses on revealing detail, refining tonal balance, and enhancing clarity across spectral, tonal, and temporal dimensions.
The processor operates through three dedicated modules, each addressing a specific perceptual domain and controlled via a single Depth parameter. According to the developer, these modules work continuously, responding to the incoming signal and applying dynamic adjustments as needed.
The three processing domains are:
- SPEC – Frequency domain unmasking
- TILT – Spectral envelope shaping
- TIME – Time domain unmasking
Each module is designed to function independently, while also forming part of the broader UNMASK system.
The SPEC module focuses on frequency masking. In typical audio material, certain dominant frequencies can obscure quieter neighbouring content. SPEC analyses the signal to identify both masked details and prominent peaks, dynamically boosting elements that are buried while attenuating those that dominate. This process operates continuously, adapting to changes in the signal over time.
TILT addresses overall tonal balance by analysing the spectral envelope of the signal in real time. The module guides the frequency contour toward a user-defined slope of -3, -4.5, or -6 dB per octave. These target curves are based on spectral distributions commonly associated with perceptual balance. The aim is to establish a consistent tonal foundation without requiring broad manual EQ adjustments.
TIME operates in the temporal domain. It detects strong transient events, such as drum hits, pick attacks, or vocal consonants, which can perceptually mask lower-level content that follows. The module analyses these post-transient regions across the frequency spectrum and dynamically recovers detail that may otherwise be obscured. This approach is intended to reveal sustain and body that can be masked by preceding peaks.
In addition to these three core modules, UNMASK includes an external sidechain feature called EXT Glue. Rather than applying traditional ducking or compression, EXT Glue analyses the mutual masking between two signals. By resolving psychoacoustic conflicts between sources, the system is designed to help elements such as vocals and instrumentals share spectral space, envelope characteristics, and temporal behaviour more cohesively.
The interface centres on three primary Depth controls, one for each module. Each processor begins from a predefined default state, with further adjustment available where required. The design emphasises direct control over the three perceptual dimensions without requiring complex parameter management.
UNMASK is intended for use in mixing and sound design contexts where clarity, tonal balance, and detail retrieval are priorities. Its processing framework combines dynamic equalisation with perceptual analysis across both frequency and time domains.
$59 introductory price. $129 full price. Expiry unknown.
Click here to find out more about UNMASK, a dynamic EQ plugin developed by Three-Body Technology.
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