SPL Big

BiG: the SPL stereo widener that complements the 500 series with a dual module

With BiG, SPL expands its 500 series range by offering a dual module entirely dedicated to stereo image processing. The goal is not simply to "fatten up" a mix, but to redefine the perception of width by working more creatively on frequency areas and their positioning in the stereo field.

As with SPL products oriented towards studio and mastering, the approach favors direct ergonomics and immediate musicality: a few well-thought-out controls, easy-to-dose action, and a signature aimed at effectiveness in both mixing and finishing.

Who is it for and what are the studio applications?

The SPL BiG is designed for sound engineers, producers, and home studio users who want to gain stereo width without diluting the center or losing clarity. It naturally fits on a stereo bus (mix bus), on stems (keyboards, guitars, choirs, reverbs), or as creative processing on already stereo sources.

In mixing, BiG helps to expand the space while maintaining control: you choose where the processing acts in the spectrum, then how this area projects (more forward or more backward), and finally how much width you add. In mastering contexts, it can be used to refine openness and the sense of depth, with precise dosing to remain compatible with mono listening and various systems.

Controls and functions: a sculpted stereo width, not just increased

RANGE: target the frequency area to widen

The RANGE control allows you to select the frequency range that will be affected by the processing. Rather than applying a global widening, you can thus direct your work: preserve a solid foundation, avoid blurring the lows, or conversely bring air and breadth where the mix needs it.

STAGE: place the material in the depth of the stereo field

The STAGE control is used to move the selected frequency range forward or backward in the stereo field. This is a particularly useful lever to create a clear hierarchy in space: push back an ambiance, give more presence to a pad, or better "anchor" an ensemble without overload.

BIGNESS: adjust the intensity of the widening

With the imposing BIGNESS control, you set the intensity of the processing. The advantage is to be able to go from a subtle widening (just enough to let a mix breathe) to a much more spectacular rendering for creative effects, while keeping a simple and immediate handling.

BASS function: bass reinforcement via passive filter

Another highlight, the BASS function reprises an idea already familiar to users of the SPL IRON Mastering Compressor. Here, bass enhancement is achieved via a passive filter, implemented in a circuit similar to the IRON's AirBass function. The result: a more present and "settled" low end, designed to remain musical and coherent in mixing or finishing contexts.

SPL design: through-hole components and German manufacturing

The BiG is assembled with Through-hole mounted components (through-hole components on the printed circuit board), a choice that allows SPL to use high-performance components. Like other SPL devices, it is manufactured at the brand's production site in Niederkrüchten, Germany, with particular attention to consistency and reliability in studio use.

Technical specifications

Category

studio effect

Number of channels

2

RANGE	selection of the frequency range to process	BIGNESS	adjustment of the widening processing intensity
STAGE	movement of the processed range forward or backward in the stereo field	BASS function	bass reinforcement via passive filter, circuit inspired by IRON's AirBass approach