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Mathew Lane TiAMO - The KING of Dynamics

Mathew Lane TiAMO - The KING of Dynamics

Mathew Lane, the creator of the famous DrMS spatial processor, just released his brand new multiband dynamics plugin called "TiAMO" which is something I've never experienced before.

The team behind TiAMO had many visions in mind, but one of them really sticks out, and that is to make an outstanding 3 band dynamics processor that features multiple compression styles and gets as close to analog gear as possible. This plugin is not just an ordinary plugin that you can learn how to use in 1 minute. It requires your attention and creativity. Once you adapt to it, it'll be come your secret weapon for tight and punchy mixes & masters.

TiAMO is where compression world changes, so let's explore how it works.

The topics we're going to cover:

1. What is TiAMO?
2. How to use it?
3. Key Features
4. Where to use it?

5. Pros and Cons

1. What is TiAMO

Let's make sure you don't misunderstand me... 1176, LA-2A, Distressor & other compressors are outstanding and I personally use them all the time. TiAMO isn't an alternative to them. It's a unique plugin that does its own thing which can't be replicated by other processors.

TiAMO is a multiband dynamics plugin, with 3 separate sidechains.

In classic mode it works like a typical 3-band compressor, but once we dive in deeper and move away from the limitations of a classic 3-band, TiAMO becomes a beast.


2. How to use TiAMO

The way of using TiAMO is straight-forward. Insert TiAMO on signals that you want to compress or run through and that's it, you're ready to start using it. No need for extra routing etc.

You can use it in mastering as well, since this plugin represents that tool that can bring the exact amount of wanted harmonics and overall drive, so it's perfectly safe to use in mastering.


3. Key Features

Different Styles

TiAMO features different compression styles such as Mathew Lane's TiCo. Each of them will give a bit different sound and will serve for a different purpose.

Titanium: classic tight compressor – use on any source from subtle to extreme
Ti Gentle: more gentle version of Titanium – perfect for mix bus and mastering
Ti Bold: make a bold statement – great on drums, pop-piano and more
Ti Smash: ideal for parallel NYC style compression, using the Dry/Wet MIX control
Oxygen: airy smooth compression – your ticket for that nice up-front vocal
Hydrogen: relatively neutral/invisible compression – get anything naturally close
Nitrogen: warm and round compression – full and vintage vibe

Classic Mode

Once you load TiAMO, it'll be automatically set to this mode, which is the usual way of using a 3-band processor. If you ever want to just get back from advanced processing to classic mode, it's as easy as pressing the SET button on the top right.

Sidechain Section

This section represents the magic within TiAMO!

The sidechain faders allow you to define the impact of each sidechain (A, B, C) resulting in the trigger signal for the TiGHTNESS engine of that band.

Each sidechain can contribute POSITIVELY or NEGATIVELY to the trigger signal in that band. Balance them against each other for organic dynamics or creative triggering. This comes in very handy for the best possible results in both mixing and mastering.

Sidechain Listen

Each band has a sidechain listen button to check the trigger signal resulting from the combined sidechain mix for this band.

Crossover Adjustments

One of my favorite features is that you can independently adjust crossovers, the highpass and the lowpass filter, for an absolute freedom. This makes TiAMO great for both mixing and mastering.

Presets

TiAMO allows you to create your own presets with ease.

In collaboration with Mathew Lane (The creators of TiAMO) our studio made a few presets for you to use as your starting points which are also going to help you to learn how the plugin works much faster. They'll give you an idea and also inspire you!

4. Where to use TiAMO?


TiAMO works well in both mixing and mastering. I would highly advise using it on subgroups, mix bus and mastering since that's where you can really hear the power it offers. It also sound magical on vocals.

The audio examples are available in our YouTube video which you can view at the top of this blog post!


5. Pros AND Cons

Pros

  • The sound: Each TiAMO's compression style will fit a different purpose and it'll sound great.
  • High Grade Processor: As a mastering engineer, this is the workflow and processing I haven't experienced before. If you know a bit about how sounds work, you'll highly appreciate this plugin - it definitely deserves respect.
  • Not limited to certain genres: This plugin isn't limited to certain genres, which means you can use it on any genre.
  • Interesting to learn: TiAMO is fun to use and learn, and once you understand how it works, it'll become your favorite dynamics processor.
  • Responsible & Supportive Customer Service: Mathew Lane is always available for any questions.

Cons

  • Scary at the first sight: This isn't really a con, but when people see a lot of buttons and knobs, they get scared. TiAMO is a great looking plugin and even better processor, so definitely take your time to learn how it works and it'll become one of your favorite tools!
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