Eclipsa Audio Element Plugin: Automating Audio Panning

Learn how to automate 3D audio movement using the Eclipsa Audio Element Plugin to create dynamic, immersive sound with position-based keyframe control.


Note: Automating audio panning may not be available in all DAWs.


Automated 3D Movement With Audio Panning

One of the key features of the Eclipsa Audio Element Plugin's audio panning is the ability to automate the movement of sound elements in 3D space. Automation adds dynamic motion to your audio, enhancing the immersive experience.

1. Open the Automation Dialog

  • Right-click on the Audio Element Plugin interface and select the Automation Dialog.

  • In the dialog box, choose the parameter you wish to automate. For instance, select the Y position (front-back movement) to automate depth.

  • Once you have selected the position to automate, add it to the automation list for the plugin. This makes the parameter available for automation in Pro Tools.

2. Set Up Automation

  • Right-click on the track and select the Track View Dropdown (by default "waveform" is selected) and select Eclipsa Audio Element Plugin --> Variable to display the automation lane for the variable. In this example we select Y for the Y-position.

  • A black line will appear representing the position of the variable over time.

3. Modify the Automation

  • Use the Grabber Tool (or any other editing tool) to add keyframes and adjust the variable position over time. For example:

    • Move the sound forward by setting the Y position to -50 at the beginning of the automation.

    • Move it backward by setting the Y position to +50 at the end of the automation.

  • Similarly other automation tools or recording hardware can be used to set the automation values. The use of these other tools is outside the scope of this document.

Automating Multiple Parameters

  • You can automate the Y (forward-backward), X (left-right) and Z (up-down) positions. This allows for complex movements, such as an audio object moving diagonally or spiralling within the 3D space.

  • The Roof feature in the Eclipsa Audio Element Plugin can be used to automatically adjust the Z position (up-down) of the panned audio when the Y position (front-back) or the X position (right-left) changes. This can simplify the creation of dynamic vertical movements such as a sound passing overhead. Alternatively, you can directly automate the Z position for precise height control.

Playback and Refinement

  • As you play the session, observe the sound moving forward and backward based on the automation. Depending on the DAW, movement can be refined by using additional keyframes or recording hardware.

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