Betty Middle
Key Features
- Mid/side bass centering with adjustable Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters for precise frequency splitting
- Stereo width enhancement up to 200% for broadening the stereo image on any source material
- Built-in correlation meter for real-time phase monitoring and mono-compatibility checks
- Independent mid and side signal level controls for fine-tuning stereo balance
- Graphical display of split points and stereo field behavior for intuitive visual feedback
- Separate sum, mono (mid), and side signal processing sections for detailed stereo manipulation
- Available in VST, VST3, and AU formats with 64-bit support on both macOS and Windows
Description
Betty Middle is a mid/side processing plugin from CIS DSP Factory that centers bass frequencies while offering full stereo width control. It uses Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters to split the audio signal, letting you independently handle the sum, mid, and side components with precision.
The plugin's core strength lies in its frequency-aware stereo manipulation. You set a crossover point to define where bass centering kicks in, keeping low-end energy focused in mono while preserving stereo width above that threshold.
Betty Middle can also function as a dedicated stereo enhancer, widening the stereo image up to 200%. A built-in correlation meter provides real-time visual feedback on phase relationships, helping you avoid mono-compatibility issues during the widening process.
The graphical interface displays split points and stereo field behavior at a glance. Separate controls for mid and side signal levels give you hands-on balance over the entire stereo image, making it practical for both mixing and mastering tasks.
Version 2 expanded compatibility significantly, adding 64-bit support along with VST3 and Audio Units formats for macOS. This brought the plugin up to date with modern DAW requirements while retaining the straightforward workflow of the original release.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does Betty Middle differ from a standard mid/side EQ?
Betty Middle uses Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters to split the signal at a specific frequency point, then centers everything below that threshold to mono while leaving the stereo content above it intact. This is more targeted than a mid/side EQ, which adjusts gain across the entire frequency spectrum on mid or side channels separately.
Can Betty Middle cause phase issues when widening the stereo image?
The plugin includes a built-in correlation meter that monitors phase relationships in real time. This lets you push the stereo width up toward the 200% maximum while watching for any mono-compatibility problems before they reach the final mix.
What formats and platforms does Betty Middle V2 support?
Betty Middle V2 is available as VST and VST3 for Windows, and as VST, VST3, and Audio Units for macOS. Both 32-bit and 64-bit versions are provided, covering modern DAW environments on either platform.
Is Betty Middle suitable for mastering or only mixing?
It works well in both contexts. During mixing, you can center the bass on individual tracks like kick drums or bass guitars. In mastering, the crossover-based approach lets you tighten the low-end of a full stereo mix without collapsing the upper stereo field.
