iZotope’s latest plugin, Neutron 5, introduces an innovative Phase module designed to address low-end mixing problems in music production. By detecting and optimizing phase interactions between sounds such as kick and bass, it can help improve low-end weight and punch. The module offers both a simple automatic adjustment with the Learn button and precise manual control with the Rotation and Delay parameters, making it useful in a range of doubling situations. Neutron 5 also adds features including Clipper and Density modules and Mid/Side mode, giving you more tools to shape your mix.
Why the Phase Module Can Help Solve Low-End Mixing Problems
iZotope has released Neutron 5!
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at one of Neutron 5’s most notable new features: the Phase module.
Phase Module: Video and Audio Comparison
First, listen to the audio before and after using the Phase module.
*Headphones or earphones that reproduce low frequencies are recommended for listening.
Using the Phase module improves the weight and punch of the low end.
This module helps resolve phase interactions and improve clarity across the sound, making it a powerful mixing tool.
When producing tracks where the low end matters, such as kick and bass, have you ever liked each sound on its own but found that the low end feels thin once they’re mixed together?
This may be caused by a phenomenon called phase cancellation.
What Is Phase Cancellation?
So, what exactly is phase cancellation?
Sound can be represented as a waveform, and the orientation of that waveform is called its phase.
When sounds with different phases overlap, they can interfere with each other. Some frequencies are canceled out, causing the sound to become quieter.
This is phase cancellation.
Phase cancellation is especially noticeable in the low frequencies, where it can significantly reduce the presence of the kick and bass.
How to Use the Phase Module
Neutron 5’s Phase module automatically detects and optimizes phase interactions, helping you achieve a clear, powerful low end with ease.
First, choose two tracks where phase interaction may be an issue, such as kick and bass.
Insert Neutron 5 on one track and activate the Phase module.
Send the other track to the Phase module as a sidechain input.
Click the Learn button to adjust the phase automatically.
Fine-Tune the Settings Manually
To make more precise adjustments, open the display settings and show the waveforms for both the main track and the sidechain.
Rotation adjusts the waveform’s orientation, while Delay adjusts its timing.
By combining these controls, you can precisely control phase interactions between the waveforms and align them as needed.
The module is also useful beyond kick and bass—for example, with guitars, vocals, and doubled parts—so it can adapt to a variety of situations.
Other New Features
Neutron 5 adds several new features beyond the Phase module:
- Clipper Module: Helps control distortion as you increase the level, leaving headroom while delivering a punchy sound. Its oversampling feature helps manage peaks effectively.
- Density Module: Adds detail, presence, and depth. Upward compression helps create a natural dynamic range.
- Additional Channel Modes: Includes Mid/Side and Transient/Sustain modes, allowing separate adjustment of the mid and side signals or the transient and sustained portions of a sound.
- Delta Button: Lets you monitor the difference made by processing so you can assess its effect on the mix and make adjustments efficiently.
- 11 Plugins: Includes the flagship plugin and 10 component plugins. Each can also be used on its own for a range of applications.
System Requirements Listed in the Original Article
Mac: macOS Ventura (13.6.9) through macOS Sonoma (14.6.1)
Compatible with Intel or Apple silicon (M-series) Macs, both natively and through Rosetta.
Windows: Windows 10 (22H2) through Windows 11 (23H2)
Pricing Listed in the Original Article
The article lists Neutron 5 at ¥41,600 (tax included).
The original article also lists discounted options: an upgrade version for owners of Neutron 4 or earlier Neutron Standard/Advanced versions, and a crossgrade version for owners of other iZotope product series.
Consider adding Neutron 5 to your setup and take your music production to the next level!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does the Phase module really make a difference?
Yes. Resolving phase interference helps prevent the low frequencies of the kick and bass from canceling each other out. Compare the audio examples in this article to hear the improvement in low-end weight and punch.
Q2. Is the Phase module difficult to use?
No. The basic operation is simple: click the Learn button to optimize the phase automatically. For finer adjustments, display the waveforms and use Rotation and Delay to make changes manually.
Q3. Can Neutron 5 be used for more than low-end mixing?
Yes. The Phase module can be used with guitars, vocals, doubled parts, and other material. Combining it with modules such as Clipper and Density can also help improve your overall mix.
Q4. I own an older version of Neutron. Is it worth upgrading to Neutron 5?
Yes. The new features can significantly improve your mixes, particularly low-end processing. An upgrade version is also available, making the switch more cost-effective.
Q5. Is Neutron 5 compatible with both Windows and Mac?
According to the system requirements listed in this article, it supports Windows 10/11 and Intel or Apple silicon Macs running macOS Ventura or later.
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