Steinberg WaveLab Pro 13 Mastering Software Suite - Electronic Delivery

Steinberg WaveLab 13 redefines audio mastering with full support for Dolby Atmos, delivering the tools to finalize immersive sound projects with precision and ease. The new Master and Album montages streamline ADM file handling, loudness normalization, and A/B comparisons with stereo masters. WaveLab 13 also introduces powerful new plug-ins like MasterRig 2, VocalChain, and UltraShaper, plus new creative tools for pitch shifting and spatial processing. Productivity enhancements such as multicore rendering, synchronized tab playback, and advanced envelope editing accelerate complex projects. Combined with improved visual organization and side-chain routing, WaveLab 13 delivers a complete solution for modern mastering.

DOLBY ATMOS MASTERING

The Master montage makes mastering a single ADM file flexible and efficient. At its core is the innovative Immersive Plug-in Hub, which enables standard VST 3 plug-ins to be inserted across up to 128 audio channels through a single interface. Full creative control is maximized by customizable sidechain routing and efficient mixdown of all channels. Sample level editing can be performed with WaveLab’s internal tools, while loudness and TruePeak normalization ensure consistent, professional results. A stereo reference track also enables accurate A/B comparison and length alignment of the ADM file with a stereo master.

The Album montage allows multiple ADM files to be assembled into a single, cohesive album master. They can be sequenced much like a stereo montage, arranged on one or multiple tracks. Clips can be visualized in multiple formats, from stereo through to 9.1.6, with the option to update the display automatically to match the Dolby Atmos Renderer.

Loudness and TruePeak normalization ensure accurate levels across multiple ADM files, with options to preserve or adjust differences between them and stereo masters. Stereo reference clips allow easy A/B comparison with the Atmos stream. Compatible ADM files can also be combined into a new file with crossfade support — ideal for live recordings or audiobooks — while multiple ADM files of any type can be merged into one.

WORKFLOW AND PRODUCTIVITY

Track plug-ins with sidechain capabilities can now have clip audio signals routed directly to them. The signal level from each clip can be adjusted, giving precise control over dynamics and creative effects. Workflows for techniques like ducking and rhythmic processing are simplified, opening up new possibilities for detailed, expressive sound design.

The visual organization of projects is improved by allowing the colors of clips and tracks to be managed automatically, based on custom rules. These rules can reference clip or track names, applied effects, or even clip position, creating a clear and structured view of complex sessions. By reducing visual clutter, this feature helps users to navigate projects faster and maintain creative focus.

Full A/B comparison of audio files and clips is now possible through WaveLab’s powerful multi-tab interface, ensuring a smooth and intuitive workflow. When this option is active, switching to another tab seamlessly continues playback from the same audio position as the previous tab. This is particularly useful for comparing related files, such as different versions of the same project, with precise ease.

Envelope editing now offers new options for greater precision and efficiency. Clone editing applies changes across all selected clips, while grouped fade editing streamlines adjustments for clip siblings. Fine control mode further enhances accuracy by damping mouse movements, allowing detailed edits without slowing down the workflow.

Full multicore support for Audio Montage elements means WaveLab 13 delivers dramatically faster workflows and unparalleled efficiency for complex projects. Multiple tasks can be processed simultaneously, significantly reducing rendering times. For example, rendering ten titles now takes only approx. 10% of the previously required time (depending on CPU performance), saving hours and allowing more focus on creativity and production quality.

NEW PLUG-INS:

• MasterRig 2: The next-generation mastering plug-in suite has undergone a major update, introducing a sleek modern design, fully scalable user interface, and sidechain support. It includes new and enhanced modules for EQ, compression, limiting, and stereo imaging.
• VocalChain: A state-of-the-art multi-effect tailored for vocal and speech processing, VocalChain integrates essential tools like EQ, compression, and reverb in a streamlined interface. It delivers
• polished, studio-quality results while simplifying complex vocal production tasks.
• UltraShaper: UltraShaper is a dynamic processor which merges advanced compression with powerful transient shaping. Ideal for adding punch or smoothing dynamics, it provides detailed control for sound character shaping at both the mixing and mastering stages.
• MixerDelay: Designed for surround and immersive formats, the MixerDelay aligns speaker channels by individually adjusting delay times. Essential for Dolby Atmos workflows, it ensures accurate spatial imaging and phase coherence throughout complex setups.
• Bass Manager: By managing bass routing and crossover points in multi-channel monitoring environments, this tool optimizes low-frequency distribution, enhancing clarity and consistency in immersive mixes. It’s indispensable for Dolby Atmos production.
• Underwater: Adding a distinctive tonal effect for creative sound design, Underwater simulates the acoustic characteristics of submerged environments. Perfect for film, games, or experimental music, it delivers authentic textures with adjustable depth and resonance.
• Pitch Shifter: A new pitch shift plug-in has been added.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

• Windows: Intel Core Series 3000, i5 Series (8th generation) or AMD Ryzen
• Mac: Intel Core, 4 CPU cores or more, i5 (late 2018) or Apple silicon
• 8 GB RAM | 84 GB free HD space
• Windows graphics (minimum): Graphics card with native Windows 10 support (Microsoft Basic Display drive not recommended)
• Windows graphics (recommended): AMD R or RX series and later or NVIDIA Series 700 and later
• OS-compatible audio hardware
• ASIO-compatible audio hardware recommended for low-latency performance
• Internet connection is required for download of installation package,
• license activation, account setup and personal/product registration