INTENSITY 2 dynamics processor plugin interface by Zynaptiq

INTENSITY 2: Dynamics Processor Plugin by Zynaptiq

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (32 ratings)

INTENSITY 2 is a dynamics processor plugin from Zynaptiq that brings out a sound's inherent detail, adds clarity and increases perceived loudness using essentially a single control. It runs as VST3, AU and AAX.

VST3AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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01Overview

INTENSITY 2 is Zynaptiq's second version of its processor for mixing, mastering and sound design. Its core circuit separates a signal into broad strokes and detail features, then boosts the detail while leaving the broad strokes in place. The developer positions it as an alternative to a conventional compressor: it has no threshold, ratio or attack and release controls, and it is operated mainly through one trackball. Version 2 adds three processing algorithms, mid/side processing and support for up to 16 channels.

Best for

Mix bus clarity
Mastering loudness
Drum bus density
Stereo side widening
Film stem processing
Podcast and speech clarity

Developer: Zynaptiq
Category: Dynamics Processors
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Three processing algorithms: SMOOTH, CRYSTAL and BRONZE
CRYSTAL and BRONZE run with near-zero latency of 3 samples
Optional 64-bit precision for the new algorithms
Stereo, Mid-only and Side-only processing modes
Up to 16 channels for immersive workflows
22 preset BIAS curves plus custom curve drawing
Optional soft-knee saturating limiter in the output stage
Resizable interface up to 200% zoom with help text

03In depth

Sound Character and Processing Algorithms

INTENSITY 2 offers three algorithms: SMOOTH, the renamed original algorithm, plus the new CRYSTAL and BRONZE algorithms. Zynaptiq describes CRYSTAL and BRONZE as bringing more bite and stronger transients to a sound. Both can optionally run in 64-bit precision, and the developer states they carry significantly reduced CPU load and near-zero latency of 3 samples.

An optional soft-knee saturating limiter sits in the output stage. It can add subtle glue, more forceful loudness, or overdrive, depending on settings.

Mid/Side Processing and Frequency Control

Stereo instances can process the full stereo signal, only the Mid channel, or only the Side channel. Zynaptiq says that running INTENSITY 2 on the Side channel produces a wide stereo image.

The processing amount can also be shaped by frequency using the BIAS function. Version 2 includes 22 preset BIAS curves, up from 10 in the first version, and a custom curve can be drawn with macro functions. Presets can be stepped and loaded via MIDI.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Zynaptiq
Type	Plugin
Category	Dynamics Processor
Formats	VST3, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is INTENSITY 2?

INTENSITY 2 is a dynamics processor plugin from Zynaptiq for mixing, mastering and sound design. It adds detail, clarity and perceived loudness and is operated mainly with a single control.

What formats and operating systems does INTENSITY 2 support?

INTENSITY 2 is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats as a 64-bit plugin. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What do I need to run INTENSITY 2?

The plugin supports macOS 10.15.x or newer on Intel and Apple Silicon, and Windows 10 or newer. It uses PACE copy protection, which requires a free ilok.com account and activation to your computer's hard drive or an iLok 2 or newer USB dongle.