In the world of music production and audio mastering, stereo width is a critical element. It determines how wide or narrow a mix feels, contributing to depth, separation, and impact. (often simply called Imager 2) is a free audio plugin developed by iZotope. It is part of the larger Ozone mastering suite but is also available as a standalone, no-cost tool.
Ozone is a vital component of the Earth's atmosphere, absorbing UV radiation and preventing it from reaching the surface. However, human activities have led to the depletion of the ozone layer, resulting in increased UV radiation exposure. This has severe consequences, including:
Unlike many stereo wideners that can introduce phase issues or make a mix sound hollow, Ozone Imager 2 combines intuitive visualization with precise stereo field manipulation, helping producers achieve width without sacrificing mono compatibility. ozone imager 2
2. Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) 2: Watching the Skies
The Ozone Imager 2 is part of a larger effort to advance Earth observation and environmental monitoring. Future prospects and collaborations include: In the world of music production and audio
The Ozone Imager 2 is a hyperspectral imaging instrument that uses advanced spectroscopy techniques to measure the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by ozone molecules in the atmosphere. The instrument consists of a telescope, a spectrometer, and a detector array. The telescope collects sunlight reflected from the Earth's surface and atmosphere, which is then focused onto the spectrometer. The spectrometer separates the light into its constituent wavelengths, allowing the instrument to measure the absorption spectra of ozone molecules.
One of its most powerful uses is "stereoizing" a mono source—like a thin synth or a dry vocal—without the need for CPU-heavy reverb or doubling effects. Why Producers Use It It is part of the larger Ozone mastering
The is fully functional for full-band stereo processing. However, the full Ozone 11 (or earlier) includes Ozone Imager (multi-band version) , allowing you to widen only midrange frequencies while keeping highs and lows untouched. For most producers, the free version is more than enough.