iZotope’s RX audio editor has long been a favorite for audio repair and optimization. With the release of iZotope RX 11, the software continues to evolve, bringing even more powerful features and improved performance.

Continuous Technological Advancements

Since the early versions of RX, the technology has significantly advanced. Clever use of various modules allows users to transform poor quality recordings into pristine audio. RX 11 introduces new machine learning technology that streamlines the process of cleaning up and repairing audio problems, making it faster and more efficient.

Testing RX 11 Advanced

I tested RX 11 Advanced on a challenging audio track featuring dialogue inside a car driving on a cobblestone road, recorded with a GoPro Hero 5. The original dialogue was nearly unintelligible. By first removing the rumble through low-frequency cutting, I then used RX 10 Advanced’s Dialogue Isolate, which took 30 seconds to process a 4-second chunk of the 40-second audio file. In contrast, RX 11 Advanced processed the same chunk in just a few seconds with slightly better results, thanks to the Best (offline) option and the new multi-band tuning available exclusively in the Advanced version.

Enhanced Dialogue Modules

The Dialogue Isolate module in RX 11 has been upgraded, now incorporating Dialogue De-reverb and De-noise, which are also included in RX 11 Standard. The new highest-quality offline processing mode remains exclusive to the Advanced version. Additionally, RX 11 Advanced features Dialogue Contour, allowing users to fine-tune the character and expressivity of a voice, ensuring seamless dialogue edits even with multiple takes.

Repair Assistant and Spectral Editor

All RX 11 versions include a new Repair Assistant that accelerates track cleanup and is especially useful for polishing dialogue and vocals. The Spectral Editor ARA plugin, used as a secondary method on the test dialogue file, offers tools like Gain, De-Click, and De-Hum without leaving your DAW. Currently available for Apple Logic Pro (10.7+) in Rosetta mode, support for Avid Pro Tools and PreSonus Studio One will be added in a free summer update. Despite requiring more expertise, the Spectral Editor outperformed Dialogue Isolate in recovering the dialogue.

Loudness Optimization and Stereo Imaging

Both versions of RX 11 include a smart Learn function that analyzes tracks and adjusts loudness automatically with Loudness Optimize. Users can also visualize and process their stereo image with the new Mid/Side mode in the main window of RX 11 Standard and Advanced.

Conclusion

Since its inception, iZotope RX has been the leading application for audio repair and optimization. RX 11 continues this legacy with significant improvements, particularly in the Advanced version.

Pricing and Availability

• RX 11 Elements: $99 (discounted to $49 from May 15 to June 13)
• RX 11 Standard: $399 (discounted to $299 from May 15 to June 13)
• RX 11 Advanced: $1199 (discounted to $799 from May 15 to June 13)

iZotope RX 11 remains an essential tool for anyone in need of powerful audio repair and optimization capabilities.