Nectar 3 Plus $129 - $249

TYPE: Full vocal editing suite of modules | PRICING: Nectar Elements £129 (contains Vocal Assistant and enough modules to carry out most vocal processes); Nectar 3 Plus $249 (adds Melodyne 5 essential and extra Unmask features) | KEY FEATURES: Vocal Assistant: Get polished vocals with AI; automatically set reverb, compression EQ, and more; automatic De-esser cleans up your sibilance | SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: AAU, AAX, VST2, VST3 (64-bit only for Nectar 3 Plus; 32- and 64-bit for Nectar Elements); Mac: macOS High Sierra (10.13.6) – macOS Big Sur (11.6.x; Windows: Windows 10

Nectar has become a go-to plugin for the pro producer looking to easily get vocals of all kinds sounding their best. It uses an array of reorderable modules to apply voice-optimised dynamics shaping, EQ, pitch correction, harmonisation, de-essing, distortion and effects to your audio.

One of the many highlights is a machine learning-driven system for automatically setting the plugin up based on analysis of the input signal. Called Vocal Assistant, it creates a custom preset to make your vocal sound objectively ‘better’ and more mixready. Select Assist mode, point the algorithm in the right direction by choosing Vintage, Modern or Dialogue as the source ‘Vibes’, and Light, Moderate or Aggressive as the processing ‘Intensity’. The input signal is analysed for a few seconds, while the modules are set up in the background to correct for dynamic fluctuations, resonant peaks, sibilance, and even adjust pitch correction and reverb mix.

In Unmask mode, Vocal Assistant clears space for the vocal by applying equalisation to any other track that’s fighting with it for space. The results are invariably well judged and effective, giving the vocals a perceived lift that’s almost always beneficial. This feature has also been enhanced for Nectar 3 Plus, the latest incarnation of Nectar.

Nectar 3 sounds incredible and flows beautifully. Highly recommended.