Stereo Tool , developed by Hans van Zutphen of Thimeo Audio Technology , is a professional-grade software-based audio processor used primarily by FM, AM, and internet radio stations to achieve a consistent and "expensive" broadcast sound. The phrase "stereo tool preset full" typically refers to one of two things: users seeking a preset that utilizes the "full" suite of licensed features (like the Advanced Clipper or Declipper), or a preset designed to give a "full," powerful, and wide sound to the audio output. Understanding Stereo Tool Presets Presets in Stereo Tool are configurations that combine multiple functions—such as multiband compression, AGC (Automatic Gain Control), and stereo widening—to produce a specific sonic signature without requiring manual adjustment of hundreds of individual sliders. Broadcast Signature: Many stations use presets to create a recognizable brand through sound. A "full" sound usually implies high loudness and consistent energy across all frequencies, common in Contemporary Hit Radio (CHR) formats. Feature Dependency: Some "full" presets require specific paid licenses. For example, if a preset uses the Advanced Clipper , a "beep" or tone will be inserted into the audio if you are using the free version. Complexity Levels: The software allows users to switch between "Simple," "Basic," "Advanced," and "Extreme Tweaker" operating modes to control how much of the preset's inner workings are visible. Popular "Full" & High-Performance Presets While there is no single preset officially named "Full," several popular options are known for delivering a complete, robust broadcast sound: Stereo Tool FAQ - Thimeo Audio Technology
This is a deep guide to creating a full, master-ready Stereo Tool preset — from scratch — covering every critical module. The goal: a polished, competitive loudness, controlled dynamics, dense but clear stereo field, and minimal artifacts.
1. Philosophy of a “Full” Stereo Tool Preset A full preset in Stereo Tool (by Thimeo) is not just an EQ or compressor. It typically includes:
Declipping (if source is clipped/distorted) Multiband compression & limiting Stereo image enhancement (widening, bass mono) Clipping / limiting (True Peak & loudness maximization) Optional: AGC, de-esser, loudness filter, phase rotation stereo tool preset full
The preset should work for FM radio, internet streaming (e.g., Spotify preset -14 LUFS), or podcast mastering — but the structure is similar.
2. Before Starting: Input Levels & Declipper Rule: Never drive Stereo Tool with a clipped file. If input is already clipped, enable Declipper (advanced license needed for full effect).
Set Declipper mode: Slow for music, Fast for speech. Threshold: auto or around -0.5 dBFS. Stereo Tool , developed by Hans van Zutphen
3. Signal Flow Order (Recommended) Input → Declipper → AGC (optional) → Phase Rotation → Loudness Filter → Multiband Compressor → Stereo Image (widening, bass mono) → Final Limiter + Clipper → True Peak Limiter → Output
4. Step-by-Step Deep Configuration A. AGC (Automatic Gain Control) Use if source level varies wildly (e.g., old songs + modern songs).
Target level: -12 dBFS (gives headroom for multiband) Attack: 200 ms (smooth) Release: 1000 ms Gate: -50 dB (avoid raising noise floor) Broadcast Signature: Many stations use presets to create
Skip for already normalized loud tracks.
B. Phase Rotation