NEWS  Music Production  November 16, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In the wake of Cubase 13's recent debut, Steinberg takes a leap forward with Nuendo 13, a major update tailored for the post-production realm. This latest iteration enriches Nuendo's immersive audio capabilities, providing sound designers, mixers, dialogue editors, and ADR engineers with an array of innovative tools and features.

Immersive Audio Enhancement

Nuendo 13 embraces the object-based MPEG-H Audio format, introducing a new Renderer for MPEG-H Audio plug-in. This facilitates integrated authoring and content mixing, offering the flexibility of configuring different mix versions as presets. The update supports three-layer z panning, allowing sounds to be strategically placed below the listener. Notably, Nuendo 13 maintains compatibility with older projects through its continued support for the two-layer mode.

Dolby Atmos capabilities receive a boost, with the built-in renderer now accommodating 9.1.6 speaker configurations. This enhancement eliminates the need for external applications when working with higher channel counts, a limitation present in previous Nuendo releases.

Mixing & Sound Design Evolution

Nuendo 13 inherits several features from Cubase 13, including a revamped MixConsole and a Channel Tab for streamlined access to key parameters within the Project window. Additionally, a suite of new plug-ins such as EQ-P1A, EQ-M5, VocalChain, Black Valve, VoxComp, and the popular Vocoder enhance the creative toolkit. Headphones Match expands its compatibility with five additional models, catering to diverse monitoring preferences.

Dialogue & ADR Mastery

Building on Nuendo's reputation for robust dialogue editing and ADR tools, version 13 introduces game-changing features. The offline TonalMatch process enables the seamless transfer of audio characteristics, simplifying the alignment of ADR with original production sound. The AI-based VoiceSeparator plug-in efficiently isolates dialogue from intricate background noise.

The ADR Script Reader revolutionizes workflows, offering a dynamic display of ADR takes via a web browser on devices connected to the same network as the DAW machine. This digital script not only enhances accessibility but also updates instantly to reflect edits made by editors or session directors.

Additional Enhancements

Nuendo 13 incorporates general improvements, such as Track Versions for video track comparisons and the ability to export a new soundtrack directly into the original MP4 video file. Music-focused features from Cubase, like Drum and Key Editor enhancements, the Iconica Sketch orchestral sample library, MIDI 2.0 support, and new MIDI effects, further broaden Nuendo's versatility.

Compatibility, Pricing & Availability

Nuendo 13 is compatible with PCs running Windows 10 and above, as well as Macs running macOS 12 or higher. Priced at £859 including VAT / €999, it is available for immediate purchase. Steinberg offers various upgrade and crossgrade options, detailed on their website. 

(Images by Steinberg)