iZotope has launched Plasma – a new saturation plugin powered by machine learning to apply the effect where tit’s needed with efficiency.

The “world’s first” intelligent tube saturation plugin, iZotope Plasma uses machine learning to add saturation only where it’s needed in your mix.

Plasma is also the first instalment in iZotope’s new Catalyst Series, a suite of plugins designed to help users fix common audio problems quickly.

iZotope has designed Plasma to be a versatile tool that works in different contexts, whether you’re adding subtle warmth or creating more pronounced sounds with more and more harmonics.

Saturation, machine learning style?

Plasma’s key feature is Flux Saturation – an algorithm that analyzes your audio and applies saturation to specific frequencies.

Unlike standard saturators that apply the effect in a static fashion and evenly across all frequencies, Plasma adjusts how much it applies dynamically. Consequently, the effect is only applied to frequency areas the plugin deems necessary.

Meanwhile, iZotope Plasma includes 24 target profiles. Each is designed to apply various amounts of saturation to different types of audio, like vocals, instruments, sound effects, etc.

The interface is simple – boasting a visual display that makes it easy to adjust how the plugin will apply saturation to your signal.

On-board parameters include attack and release dials for fine-tuning the effect based on your audio’s dynamics while an Overdrive fader lets you dial in additional intensity.

Channel Modes and Frequency Handles make targeting specific parts of your audio easy, meaning you can choose to saturate only the mid or side channels, specific frequency bands or otherwise focus on either transient or sustained parts of the input sound.

Furthermore, Plasma comes with 49 presets making it easy to apply straightforward saturation in various mixing and mastering contexts without much setup.

Price and compatibility

Plasma is priced at $49 and available in VST, AU & AAX plugin formats.

However, owners of existing iZotope products can get Plasma for a discounted $39 until September 26th.