Bark Filter 1.2.1

Bark Filter - Critical Band Analyser/Filter/Compressor

The Bark multi-band filter adopts a method that aligns with the reception characteristics of the human ear, which acts as a gate through which all sounds must pass. Mimicking the ear's behavior, Bark features a filter bank consisting of 27 highly steep bandpass filters that correspond to the critical bandwidth characteristic of the human auditory system. This design is based on the concept that the human ear operates similarly to a bank of filters, with each filter allowing frequencies within its particular critical band to pass through. When tones are separated by more than the frequency-dependent critical bandwidth, they are perceived as distinct tones. Additionally, Bark recognizes that the human ear has its own built-in multi-band compression system based on critical bands.

Derived from the Bark scale, the name "Bark" stems from a frequency scale where equal distances equate to perceptually equal intervals. This scale is approximately logarithmic above 500 Hz and progressively more linear below this frequency.

Multi-band compressors such as Bark can apply varying compression levels to different frequency bands. The benefit of employing multi-band compression over full-bandwidth compression lies in its ability to prevent unwanted audible gain variations or "pumping" in other frequency ranges caused by changes in signal levels within a single frequency band. Bark can operate as both a single-band compressor and in multi-band mode with up to 27 bands by connecting critical bands.

The linear phase filter bank in Bark boasts steep filter slopes that enable the creation of distinctive filter effects.

Features:

• Multi-band dynamic range compressor with up to 27 bands
• Variable number of compressor bands (1..27)
• Threshold/Ratio Attack/Release and Makeup Gain controls
• Linear phase precision filters for optimal transparency
• Real-time pre/post processing calibrated spectrum analyzer
• AudioUnit for AUv3 compatible hosts
• Inter-app audio compatible effect
• Audiobus 3 compatible with state-saving functionality
• Low-latency live usage with microphone and headphones
• Audio recorder