Developer Nugen Audio is known for powerful production plug-ins like the Paragon convolution reverb, the Halo Upmix Surround mixing tool, and the MasterCheck plug-in which helps preview masters on modern streaming platforms. However, Nugen counts budget-minded and hobby producers among its customers as well. Thus, it followed up its Stereoizer Elements stereo enhancement plug-in with simplified Elements-branded variants of its Monofilter and Stereoplacer plug-ins for bass management and frequency-dependent stereo placement. They are being sold for USD 50 or USD 99 in a bundle. Very fair! Nugen Audio Focus Elements The Focus Elements bundle contains 3 plug-ins: Stereoizer Elements, Monofilter Elements, and Stereoplacer Elements. Stereoizer Elements can generate stereo audio from a mono source, adjust spatial balance, and widen the stereo image. Monofilter Elements can sum bass frequencies to mono, enhance their definition and loudness, and help with mixing or mastering for vinyl. Finally, Stereoplacer Elements can aid in restoration work by reconstructing stereo images from mono and helping with issues from poor stereo microphone placement. The Elements plug-ins are not one-knob operation tools, but they are very condensed and getting around them should be a no-brainer. They seem to make-up a competent mini stereo editing suite for the money. For more involved work, the USD 199 Focus bundle will cover more bases. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like upgrade pricing is available at this time. If you hesitate between Focus and Focus Elements, better contact Nugen and work it out. Focus Elements – Price and availability The Focus Elements bundle is being sold for USD 99 at the Nugen Audio website and dealer Plugin Boutique (affiliate link). The plug-ins are available in AAX, VST3, AU, and AudioSuite formats for 64-bit computers running macOS 10.7 or later and Windows XP or later. |
