Enhancer block

The information on this page supplements the official manuals.

Stereo Enhancer: supported by which Fractal Audio products?

• Axe-Fx III: yes (2x).
• Axe-Fx II: yes (1x).
• FX8: yes (1x).
• AX8: yes (1x).

Stereo Enhancer: X/Y switching or channels

• Axe-Fx III: yes (2 channels)
• Axe-Fx II: no.
• FX8: no.
• AX8: no.

Stereo Enhancer modes

The Enhancer's Modern mode uses multi-band techniques for a much more natural effect. Also, the effect is mono-compatible with no phasing problems when summing to mono. The effect both widens stereo signals and “stereoizes” mono signals. Low-cut and High-cut parameters allow control over the region of influence. It is NOT recommended to use the Enhancer if just using one side of a stereo output as phasing effects may be encountered. More information

The Classic mode uses old Haas effect delay-based processing. Haas effect in Wikipedia

"Classic enhancer mode is just a delay on one side (adjustable from 0 to 20 ms) plus pan & phase adjustment. The non-delayed side will tend to seem louder, just like if you used a delay block to get the same delay time." Bakerman

Stereo Enhancer input and output

The Enhancer only works when your OUTPUT signal is stereo. Also, don't use it if you only use one channel (left or right) of a stereo signal.

While a stereo input signal works best, the Enhancer can also "stereoize" an incoming mono signal. Of course, the output signal still has to be stereo.

Avoid phase cancellation when using Stereo Enhancer

When summing a stereo signal to mono, the Enhancer in Classic mode can cause phase cancellation. The Modern Mode is mono-compatible to prevent this.

Fractal Audio:

• "Never put the enhancer in parallel or you'll get phasing problems. That's why there is no bypass mode because it should always be in series." source
• "The Modern Enhancer will survive collapsing to mono but any enhancer should be used judiciously, especially for recordings." source

Widen the Panner with Stereo Enhancer

Make the Panner effect appear “fuller” and “wider” (stereo only) by adding the Enhancer.

Alternatives to Stereo Enhancer

Fractal Audio:
"Another way would be to use the Delay block. Set the Mix to 100%, dial in the desired amount of delay and set Balance to full right." source

More information

• Forum discussion
• Mono and stereo output
• Danny Danzi tutorial: HAAS delay and how to use it
• live double tracking