ApulSoft - ApUnmask v1.0.8 VST, VST3, AAX for Windows

• Opus Codec Psychoacoustic Detection: Employs the psychoacoustic analysis algorithms from the Opus audio codec to identify and isolate components masked by louder transients and dominant spectral peaks.
• Reversed Lossy Compression Concept: Decades of lossy compression research focused on removing inaudible material to save bandwidth; apUnmask turns this on its head by isolating that hidden "ghost" material and restoring it to the mix.
• Overshoot-Free Linear-Phase Bezier EQ: Shapes the extracted delta audio stream using high-precision linear-phase filtering with smooth Bezier curves that prevent phase smearing and pre-ringing artifacts.
• Dedicated Delta Audition Soloing: Instantly isolate and listen to the extracted masked content in real time to hear exactly what information is being retrieved.
• Mastering & Channel Utility: Functions as an invisible clarity enhancer on stereo master buses or as an intelligent dynamic exciter on drums, acoustic guitars, and vocals.
• Unlimited Undo / Redo & Human-Readable XML Presets: Full non-destructive parameter history alongside open, cross-platform XML preset files.

Understanding Audio Masking:

• Simultaneous (Frequency) Masking: Loud acoustic tones render softer neighboring frequencies inaudible to human perception within critical bands.
• Temporal Masking: Loud transient spikes temporarily desensitize human hearing immediately before (pre-masking) and after (post-masking) the transient event.

The apUnmask Mechanism:

• Rather than applying broad static harmonic distortion or standard dynamic high-shelf boosts, apUnmask analyzes the incoming audio using Opus perceptual models.
• It calculates the masking threshold across critical frequency bands and derives the exact delta signal that would otherwise be discarded.
• By providing dedicated Resolution, Gain, and Filter controls over this delta channel, users can selectively amplify sub-threshold musical nuance without increasing the overall peak volume of dominant instruments.

Step-by-Step Production Routine:

1. Insert & Calibration:

   • Insert apUnmask onto your Master Bus, Drum Group, or Lead Vocal track.
   • Adjust the input/master level until a steady, responsive delta signal is visible on the spectral display.

2. Isolate the Ghost Signal:

   • Engage the Delta Audition button. You will hear only the faint, masked components that would typically be removed during perceptual coding.

3. Tune Resolution & Character:

   • Sweep the Resolution control to calibrate the detector’s sensitivity to temporal vs. spectral masking boundaries.

4. Linear-Phase Frequency Sculpting:

   • Use the graphic Bezier EQ curve to emphasize desirable frequencies in the delta channel (e.g., air above 10 kHz, snare ring in the upper-midrange, or subtle vocal breath) while rolling off unwanted low rumble.

5. Blend to Perfection:

   • Disengage Delta Audition to return to the full mix.
   • Blend the unmasked signal into the dry track to achieve three-dimensional presence and high-definition separation.

• Binary Architecture: Native 64-bit Windows VST, VST3, and AAX
• Processing Resolution: 64-bit internal floating-point DSP
• DSP Latency: 3128 samples at 44.1 kHz (reported directly to DAW delay compensation engine)
• Preset Format: Cross-platform, human-readable .xml format (fully interchangeable across macOS, Windows, and Linux)
• Visual Interface: Vector-rendered GUI with resizable scaling, contrast adjustments, and custom color scheme support

Compatible Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs):

• Image-Line FL Studio
• Ableton Live (All 64-bit versions)
• Steinberg Cubase / Nuendo
• Apple Logic Pro (via Windows host bridges)
• Cockos REAPER
• PreSonus Studio One
• Bitwig Studio
• Avid Pro Tools (AAX Native 64-bit)

Installation Steps:

1. Host Preparation:

   • Close your DAW and any running audio host applications.

2. Execute Installer:

   • Run the provided installer executable as Administrator (Right-click -> Run as administrator).
   • Select your preferred plugin formats (VST, VST3, AAX) and verify your target installation directories.
   • Complete the setup wizard.

3. Launch & Verification:

   • The binaries are pre-cured and activated; no external keygens, serial inputs, or online connections are required.
   • Open your DAW, initiate a plugin rescan, and load apUnmask onto your master bus or track insert.