Excitance

Excitance is a dual-process harmonic enhancement plugin that approaches audio shaping with the methodological rigor of classic 1970s and 1980s outboard gear. Rather than relying on conventional EQ curves, it synthesizes new harmonic content in the highs while reshaping the low end through dynamics and phase manipulation, yielding genuine increases in perceived presence and weight without proportional peak level growth.

The plugin operates two independent parallel sidechain processors - the EXCITER and BASS ENHANCER - each working in isolation alongside an untouched dry signal. This architecture prevents interaction between processors, granting users surgical control over tonal sculpting across tracks, busses, and masters. The EXCITER generates harmonics through switchable clipper modes: Rectifier mode uses parallel half-wave rectification and soft saturation paths for characterful density, while Cubic mode applies a gentler asymmetrical soft clipper better suited to source material that doesn't demand aggressive coloration. Both modes employ transient-aware processing that prioritizes sharp attacks while handling sustained material more delicately.

The BASS ENHANCER demonstrates particular sophistication, reshaping low frequencies through a tunable second-order filter and leveling stage, then summating the result out-of-phase with the dry signal. This approach yields heavier bass perception without inducing clipping artifacts - quieter input material benefits from fill-in while louder passages remain relatively uncompressed.

Additional tools include a Spectral Phase Refractor for bass phase correction, continuous Peaking and Null Fill filter shaping, and AutoTrace bass leveling. Excitance suits mastering engineers, mix specialists, and producers seeking transparent enhancement rather than dramatic tonal transformation. Its single-interface workflow and per-section solo monitoring facilitate rapid assessment and integration into existing chain architectures.