NUGEN Audio has announced that they are showcasing a new version of their AB Assist audio comparison tool designed to remove subjectivity and biases at IBC 2023.
AB Assist allows users to compare multiple pieces of audio, including different takes, plug-in options, mix revisions, versions of a master, and other elements. In addition, to remove any subjectivity or biases in the comparison, blind tests can also be conducted in ‘test’ mode.
AB Assist has popped up a number of times. We came across it back 2016 when we were able to offer it for free for a limited period. You can read our review in our article Review Of The Free Nugen Audio A|B Assist A|B Reference & Testing Plug-in.
Earlier this year, it popped up again when NUGEN Audio subscribers who filled out the company’s annual survey, were able to download it for free.
AB Assist Soon To Be Released With Major Updates
NUGEN Audio is planning that this little plugin will soon be offered as a full solution, complete with substantial updates. These new features will include the ability to receive and compare up to four audio sources and to compare stereo versions of surround mixes in any channel count. The new version will also enable multiple plug-in instances to link up and communicate directly rather than using an external send. Freddy Vinehill-Cliffe, Product Specialist, NUGEN Audio, told us…
“Our engineers have been working hard to enhance our AB Assist plug-in, which will serve as a valuable tool in anyone’s session. Used as a standalone or in combination with our other utility solutions―Jotter and Aligner―AB Assist is sure to improve workflows and increase creativity. We look forward to showcasing it to IBC attendees.”
Another of the useful tools in AB Assist is the test function, which randomly re-labels the streams as X or Y, to ensure a completely unbiased look at (or should that be, listen to) music samples.
Additionally, an auto-level match function allows the user to match the short-term loudness (LUFS) of sources, while a delta function will display the differences between sources. The mono-check feature compares mono fold-downs, and the smooth tool creates fades between sources. The software also features a “trim” function, which allows users to trim the gain on one stream to match the subjective level of the other ― further aiding in its unbiased testing.
If you are at IBC 2023 this year, then you will find the NUGEN Audio team on Stand P.24. If you are not going to make it to IBC in Amsterdam, then we will be featuring the new version of AB Assist very soon here on Production Expert.