The definitive 3D spatializer
Panorama is an advanced virtual acoustics plugin that delivers exceptionally lifelike auditory experiences suitable for both headphone and loudspeaker playback. Utilizing HRTF-based binaural synthesis and acoustic environment modeling technology, Panorama authentically replicates 3D sound propagation within physical spaces. Experience it yourself with a fully functional 30-day demo.
Do you own an older version of Panorama? Upgrade information can be found here.
Panorama has many possible uses, including:
3D audio production. Insert Panorama on each track in a mix, and use Panorama to pan the individual sounds around in the virtual space. This works best for headphone mixes (think of the possibilities for podcasting), but the same concept can be used for loudspeaker playback. You can use the sequencer to set up motion trajectories for the sources, or simply automate them.
Stereo panning effects. In conventional stereo mixes, sometimes you have a sound you want to treat specially. By applying 3D processing, Panorama can be used to create a panning effect that stands out from conventional power panning.
Stereo “auto-pan” effects. Panorama can work as a conventional stereo panner, and it has a powerful sequencer to automate pan positions. Hence you can create all sorts of modulating pan effects.
Stereo widening. Panorama can process stereo mixes to sound very wide when played back over loudspeakers.
Virtual monitoring. Panorama can be used to simulate stereo and surround playback for headphone playback.
Some of what's new in Panorama 7:
Here's a detailed review of Panorama 7 from Reviewer's Revival:
Wave Arts Panorama 7 Review (2023)
In addition to the overview video below, please see the following videos demonstrating different uses for Panorama 7:
Production Expert: Using Wave Arts Panorama 7 For Imaging In The Mix
Production Expert: Using WaveArts Panorama 7 In Post Production
For researchers, academics, or DIYers who want to explore using custom HRIRs, here are some resource links:
This is a fantastic tool for producers and studio engineers. I use it to add ear candy with interesting movement to sounds in my mixes. One of my favorite uses is to set up the sequencer to make sounds wrap around the listener's head in front, behind, and all around, with intricate control over the speed, size of orbit and shape of movement. You can make sounds move in fast or slow sweeps or to the beat of the song in any direction you want. Much more than a simple panner, this is a mixing engineer's dream for creating interest and enveloping soundscapes that have motion, depth, and width. I can see this being popular in movie soundtrack studios, surround mixing studios, ATMOS rooms, and future thinking producer toolkits who need sounds to come from around the listener or create otherworldly environments. There's even a doppler effect. Following objects that are moving around the screen is really fun and convincing, and even just spreading reverbs and delay trails to make custom spaces is very effective. I am stunned by how detailed and particular I can get with placing sounds and how good it sounds! This plugin is loads of fun to play with, and has a really rich sound! But best of all, creating these effects is super easy, so you won't be wasting a lot of time on automating pan pots. Lots of DAWS are adding surround panners, so take full advantage of that. I have already incorporated this into numerous mixes to make parts like guitar fills move around the 360 degree soundscape and to give pads and effects movement. It sounds incredible in headphones. Don't sleep on this plugin, it's one of the best secret weapons available, and you'll miss it the minute you take it off your mix.
Requires a host program that supports audio plug-ins. iLok licensing is supported but not required.
