eMo Generator by Waves test tone utility plugin interface

eMo Generator: Test Tone and Pink Noise Utility by Waves

eMo Generator is a test tone plugin from Waves that outputs sine waves and pink noise. It is used with spectrum analyzers to check filter curves and distortion, and as a source for sound design.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS

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01Overview

eMo Generator is a utility from Waves in the Studio Tools category. It generates test signals, mainly sine waves and pink noise, that you can route through your processing chain and measure. Because it produces known, repeatable signals, it gives you a reference for judging how an EQ, filter or system actually behaves. It is also available as part of the Waves eMotion LV1 live mixer.

Best for

Filter curve analysis
Distortion measurement
Phase correlation checks
Hum drum kick sounds
Snare layering
Car playback mix checks

Developer: Waves
Category: Utilities
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Generates sine waves and pink noise for test signals
Works with a spectrum analyzer to reveal filter curves
Analyzes distortion components using sine waves
Checks mono and stereo phase integrity
Sidechain gating for hum drum kick sounds
Gated pink noise to layer under acoustic snares
Included with the Waves eMotion LV1 live mixer

03In depth

Test tones for analyzing filters and distortion

Pink noise is useful with a spectrum analyzer, because its even energy per octave shows the shape of a filter curve clearly. Comparing curves from different EQ designs is one practical use. Sine waves serve the other side of the job: they let you isolate distortion components, since any harmonics that appear beyond the original tone point to the processing that created them.

Phase checking is another use. eMo Generator can help you check mono and stereo phase integrity, which is useful when a mix needs to hold up on systems that fold to mono.

Creative uses for drums and mixing

Beyond measurement, the generator can feed sound design. Gating a sine wave with a sidechained kick produces a "hum drum" kick texture. Gated pink noise can add body or air to an acoustic snare.

The developer also points to listening tests, such as mixing with pink noise to hear how a mix sounds at low listening levels, like playback in a car.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Waves
Type	Plugin
Category	Utility
Formats	VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What do I need to use eMo Generator?

eMo Generator is a plugin that runs inside a DAW or host that supports its format. Pairing it with a spectrum analyzer is recommended for filter and distortion analysis, as the developer describes it.

What formats and operating systems does eMo Generator support?

It is available in VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS. The listed system requirements include macOS Monterey 12 through Sequoia 15 and Windows 10 or later.