HybridReverb2
Key Features
- Hybrid convolution engine combining impulse response fidelity with feedback delay network tuning for natural-sounding reverb tails
- Bundled room impulse responses synthesized using tinyAVE auralization software from Ruhr-Universitat Bochum at 48 kHz/24-bit quality
- Ultra-low latency down to 64 samples via segmented convolution, with an automatic performance optimizer that benchmarks your system
- Three-resolution envelope editor offering fine-grained control over early reflections, transition range, and late reverb decay
- 1/3-octave graphic equalizer for shaping the tonal character of the reverb tail independent of the dry signal
- Surround sound support through dedicated front and rear channel impulse response presets for quad-speaker configurations
- Open source and cross-platform with support for custom impulse responses through the built-in preset database editor
Description
HybridReverb2 is a convolution reverb plugin that pairs high-fidelity impulse response processing with the tunability of a feedback delay network. Developed by Christian Borss at the Institute of Communication Acoustics, Ruhr-Universitat Bochum, it placed second in the KVR Developer Challenge 2009.
The plugin ships with scientifically synthesized room impulse responses created using tinyAVE auralization software. These responses cover multiple room types, source distances, and damping profiles ranging from lush musical reverberance to subtle speech-appropriate tails.
One of its standout technical achievements is segmented convolution processing, which keeps latency as low as 64 samples while maintaining efficient CPU usage. An individual performance optimizer benchmarks your system at first launch to find the ideal segment lengths for your hardware.
The interface provides a three-resolution impulse response envelope editor for precise control over early reflections and late reverb decay. A 1/3-octave graphic equalizer lets you shape the tonal character of the wet signal, and the preset database editor allows importing your own custom impulse responses.
Impulse responses are designed for a quad-speaker layout with separate front and rear presets, enabling surround sound reverb when two instances are used together. The project is open source under GPL and actively maintained on GitHub with cross-platform builds available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I load my own impulse responses into HybridReverb2?
Yes, HybridReverb2 includes a preset database editor that lets you import and manage your own custom impulse responses. You can load any WAV-format impulse response file and save it as a preset within the plugin's database for quick recall.
How does HybridReverb2 achieve low latency for a convolution reverb?
The plugin uses a segmented convolution algorithm that splits the impulse response into multiple segments of varying length. This balances computational load across audio blocks, achieving latency as low as 64 samples. An automatic performance optimizer runs at first launch to determine the best segment sizes for your system.
How do the surround sound presets work?
The bundled impulse responses are designed for a quad-speaker setup with two front and two rear channels. To create a full surround reverb, you load two instances of the plugin: one using a "front" preset on your front channels and a second using the matching "rear" preset on your rear channels.
What is the difference between the music and speech damping settings?
The music damping simulates a more reverberant environment with longer decay times, suitable for adding spaciousness to musical material. The speech damping produces a subtler, shorter reverberation that avoids obscuring dialogue or narration clarity.
