Waves releases Z-Noise

Waves has announced the releases of Z-Noise, a new noise removal plug-in that features a brand new proprietary algorithm, accurate dynamic noise profiling, better low frequency resolution and advanced transient preservation. Ideal for background noise such as tape hiss, ground hum, and computer noise, Z-Noise is a true broadband processor which can eliminate high-frequency hiss and low-frequency rumble simultaneously, while preserving the sonic integrity of your source.

Other noise reduction methods need you to provide a section of pure noise in order to deliver optimal results. Z-Noise features an "Extract" mode which can create a noise profile from sources that contain signal, as well as a flexible "Adaptive" mode. This dynamic noise profiling delivers results when reducing noise that changes over time.

Z-Noise gives you the power to shape your noise profile with pinpoint accuracy, using a familiar 5-band EQ interface. Real-time operation means you can fine tune parameters and hear your changes as you make them. You can monitor the entire Audio output or just hear the Noise being removed. Z-Noise even lets you choose between increased frequency resolution or improved time resolution, or a combination of the two.

Features/Controls:

• Analyzer displays the Input signal in Red, the Noise profile in White, Output signal in Green, and the EQ profile in Orange.
• Noise Profile EQ offers 5 Band On/Off, Band Type, Frequency, Gain, and Q controls to shape your noise profile.
• Threshold determines the level below which the noise profile is cleaned, while the level above the profile is unchanged or processed minimally.
• Reduction defines the amount of noise reduction applied to the signal below the Threshold.
• NR The Noise Reduction meter displays the amount of noise being removed.
• Release sets the time it will take for noise reduction or gain attenuation to occur.
• Attack is the time it takes for attenuation to stop or for the gain to rise.
• Transient preserves transients by enhancing them before the noise reduction process takes place.
• Knee adjusts the sharpness of the gain reduction curve below the noise profile.
• Learn Use it to create a noise profile when you have a sample of pure noise.
• Extract creates a noise profile from sections that have mixed signal and noise.
• Adaptive scans your track in real-time and creates a noise profile on the fly.
• Smooth sets the highest frequency resolution.
• Punch delivers the best time resolution, perfect for recordings with significant attacks and transients, like percussive sounds or plucked strings.
• Norm offers a balance between frequency and time resolutions.
• Output lets you choose between Audio (the audio after Z-Noise processing) and Difference (the noise being removed).

Z-Noise is available for Windows and Mac OS X in VST, AU, DX, MAS and RTAS plug-in formats and costs $800. All Diamond, Broadcast & Production, and Restoration Bundle owners with current Waves Update Plan coverage can upgrade to Z-Noise for $600.

Until January 31st, 2006, owners of these bundles with current Waves Update Plan coverage can purchase Z-Noise for $400.

Demo versions are available.