Selene Free Reverb Plugin
Flexible algorithmic reverb with integrated dynamics
Finding a versatile algorithmic reverb that delivers expansive spaces without washing out the clarity of lead vocals or percussive instruments can be a delicate balancing act. Selene, developed by Auburn Sounds, addresses this challenge with an adaptive reverb engine focused on spatial depth, harmonic color, and internal dynamic control.
Following Auburn Sounds’ traditional distribution model, the plugin is offered in both a paid Full Edition and a generous Free Edition. Rather than acting as an expiring trial or adding periodic noise bursts, the Free Edition retains the core sound engine, giving producers access to high-end acoustic spaces, vintage coloration, and deep mixing controls without financial barriers.
Spatial Architecture and Tonal Shaping
Selene’s internal structure operates with 64-bit double precision, offering a smooth transition between intimate rooms, reflective chambers, and endless ambient washes. The Diffusion parameter controls echo density, while the dedicated Early Reflections and Pre-Delay knobs allow precise acoustic placement within the stereo field.
For tonal coloration, Selene includes an input Drive circuit for subtle harmonic warmth and a Vintage knob that introduces the softer, band-limited behavior of early digital hardware reverbs. Frequency management inside the reverberation path is handled via an integrated 8-band damping EQ alongside visual low and high post-EQ shelves, ensuring the wet signal never crowds the low-end or turns harsh in the top frequencies. A dedicated Freeze button instantly captures infinite sustains for evolving ambient pads and transition effects.
Integrated Ducking and Gating
One of the standout features included in the Free Edition is its internal dynamics section. Reverbs often require complex external sidechain routing to prevent muddy mixes; Selene solves this natively with a built-in compressor/ducker and an integrated gate.
The ducker automatically attenuates the reverb tail whenever the dry input signal is active, allowing vocal lines, solo instruments, or snares to remain punchy and up-front. Once the phrase stops, the reverb tail swells back smoothly. The accompanying gate can be configured to produce classic 80s gated reverbs or to abruptly cut long decays before they bleed into subsequent musical phrases.
Free Edition vs. Full Edition
The Free Edition provides complete, unrestricted access to the reverb algorithm, the 8-band damping system, the dynamics stage, modulation, and stereo width controls (adjustable from 0% mono up to 200% super-wide). Upgrading to the paid Full Edition is entirely optional and unlocks two specific additions: a 2x linear-phase oversampling mode and a multi-mode shimmer engine with four dedicated pitch-shifting algorithms.
Compatibility & Specifications
- Platforms: Windows, macOS (Apple Silicon & Intel Universal), and Linux.
- Plugin Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, CLAP, and LV2.
- License: Free Edition (perpetual, fully functional for commercial and personal projects).
