SPL of Germany has announced the release of Gemini, a “Mid-Side” (M/S) encoder and decoder processor that integrates with SPL’s other 120-volt Mastering Series components to offer even deeper sonic control for the mastering engineer.
Using Gemini, mid signals in the center of the stereo field-such as voice, snare, or bass-can clearly be separated from the left and right side signals (often featuring guitar, keyboards or spatial sounds like cymbals), and can be individually processed. When working on the sum signal, M/S coding is often the best way to specifically get access to process individual elements within a stereo mix. Gemini has a street price of $2,799.00 USD and is available now from dealers in the US and Canada through its distributor Focal Naim America (formerly Audio Plus Services).
“Our new Gemini M/S processor adds even more access for mastering engineers to enhance a stereo recording,” says Hermann Gier, Managing Director at SPL. “Combined with other SPL components, such as the Hermes router, Gemini Mid-Side encoding and decoding becomes a powerful new tool for engineers to make the best sounding audio masters for their clients.”
The Gemini M/S processor also works on the stereo panorama using several front panel controls. With the ‘Balance’ control the user can position the mid signal within the stereo panorama. With the ‘Trim’ control users can adjust the level of the mid signal in relation to the side signal, and with the ‘Stereo Width’ control, the mixing ratio of both channels can be adjusted simultaneously. Gemini also features an ‘Elliptical Filter’ that moves low-frequency content from the Side into the Mid.
A pairing of Gemini and the SPL Hermes Mastering Router enables further possibilities. If the M/S encoder and decoder stages of Gemini are each paired with an insert on Hermes, the user can freely choose a position for the M/S encoder and decoder within the processing chain. For example, placing the M/S Encoder on the third position and an equalizer on the fourth insert allows for separate processing of the mid and side signal, and then placing the M/S Decoder stage of the Gemini on the fifth position generates a L/R stereo signal. If the user wants to add a compressor as a further device for M/S processing, they can place it on position 5 of the Hermes-the M/S Decoder stage would then move to position 6.
Gemini is another mastering product with SPL’s unique 120V audio rail technology, which offers increased headroom of up to +34dB and a dynamic range of over 141dB. Find out more about SPL’s technology at: https://spl.audio/120v-technologie/?lang=en
The new Gemini M/S processor is available now from dealers in the US and Canada, the retail street price is $2,799.00 USD. Visit the Gemini product page on SPL’s website for more information on using Gemini with the Hermes router: https://spl.audio/mastering/gemini/?lang=en
Watch the SPL Mastering Devices Overview video at: https://youtu.be/agJl2GGkkdM
