Peak Tamer from Nicky Howard

A modern solution for an old technique

Peak Tamer is a new standalone application that automatically applies gain automation to keep rogue peaks under control in an effort to avoid distortion, pumping or other unwanted artefacts from being introduced by dynamic processors during mastering. Developed by mastering engineer Nicky Howard, the software has been designed to provide engineers with the freedom to condition peaks in a way that's comparable to using manual gain automation, but with more speed, reliability and the benefit of recall.

Focusing on simplicity, the software is divided into a few key sections, each of which has been designed to help users quickly identify peaks and adjust how the underlying processing is applied to them. It has only a few controls, and is said to be capable of delivering consistent results within a few minutes. Once a file has been loaded in, a large central waveform display provides a clear representation of the track, with scaling options allowing users to zoom in and inspect any areas of interest.

A Threshold parameter makes it possible to set the point at which peaks will be attenuated, and along with a manual parameter, Peak Tamer also features a Suggested Threshold function that will present users with a starting point based on analysis of the file. The Threshold can be adjusted in fine 0.1dB steps, and it's possible to link the left and right channels so that identical processing is applied across both in an effort to preserve the stereo image, or leave them unlinked and have independent adjustment applied to each channel. There's also an LF Mode that's been designed to tackle sustained peaks caused by low-frequency energy.

All of the software's level adjustment is carried out using gain envelopes - there's no dynamic processing involved. The developer says that Peak Tamer hasn't been created with the aim of chasing loudness or creating audible character, but rather for providing downstream processors with a more consistent source so they may perform at their best.

Pricing & Availability Peak Tamer is available now, priced at £59.99 including VAT.

www.peaktamer.app

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