Overview
Stage Depth is a True Stage Audio spatial depth processor designed to help place a sound source deeper into a recreated acoustic space. It is built around a simple idea: choose the type of space, decide how far into that space the source should feel, and monitor both the incoming and outgoing signal while you work.
The v1.0.5 interface keeps the identity of Stage Depth while adding the newer True Stage Audio visual language, continuous metering, a backplate view, and Guide Mode.
Quick Start
- Insert Stage Depth on a mono or stereo track, instrument, aux, group, or bus.
- Start in Processed output mode with Studio or Hall selected.
- Raise the Depth dial until the source sits where you want it in the stage.
- Use Auto Gain when you want Stage Depth to compensate for distance-related level loss.
- Use the input and output meters to confirm that signal is reaching and leaving the plugin.
- Click the encircled G button at the bottom left to open Guide Mode whenever you want on-screen help.
Interface
The main interface is organised from top to bottom: metering and depth control first, then the space and output choices, then utility controls. The design is intentionally direct so Stage Depth can be used quickly while mixing.
Depth Dial
Controls the amount of spatial depth applied. The centre number shows the current value from 0 to 100.
Input and Output Meters
Continuous left/right meters show signal activity. The dynamic readouts above the meters are smoothed so level changes remain readable.
Space Mode
Studio, Hall, and Hall II increase the recreated acoustic space from left to right.
Output Selector
Processed outputs the full processed result. Space Only outputs the recreated space component by itself.
Auto Gain
Compensates for distance-related loss of level. It is not intended to reproduce an exact dry-signal gain match.
Eco Mode
Provides a lighter operating mode for sessions where efficiency matters.
Space Only at 0%
When Space Only is selected and the Depth dial is set to 0, silence is expected because there is no recreated space component being sent to the output. The input meters remain useful here because they confirm that the plugin is still receiving signal.
Guide Mode
The encircled G button at the bottom left opens Guide Mode. Guide Mode places an overlay over the interface and shows interactive information points for the main controls.
Hover over an information point to display a larger explanation box. Only one explanation is shown at a time, keeping the interface readable on laptops and smaller screens. Click the G button again to close Guide Mode.
Guide Mode includes help points for the Depth dial, Space Mode, Output selector, Auto Gain, Eco Mode, and the backplate button.
Backplate View
The button at the top left opens the backplate view. The backplate contains product and account-facing information without crowding the main mixing controls.
The backplate shows the license status, the True Stage Audio website, the model name, the current Core version, and the design and development credit. Use the same top-left button to return to the main interface.
Installation
Stage Depth Core is distributed in plugin formats for supported DAWs. Install only the formats required by your system and host application.
macOS
The macOS installer on the Stage Depth Core DMG allows you to install the formats you need. Use Customize in the installer if you want to install only selected formats.
VST3:/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3/Stage Depth.vst3
Audio Unit:/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components/Stage Depth.component
AAX:/Library/Application Support/Avid/Audio/Plug-Ins/Stage Depth.aaxplugin
Windows
The Windows installer provides the available Windows plugin formats for supported hosts. Typical install locations are:
VST3:C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3\Stage Depth.vst3
AAX:C:\Program Files\Common Files\Avid\Audio\Plug-Ins\Stage Depth.aaxplugin
After installation, rescan plugins in your DAW if Stage Depth does not appear immediately.
Licensing
If Stage Depth requires activation, the license management window appears when the plugin opens. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate the plugin.
The backplate view displays the current license status, such as Activated or Trial mode, depending on the state of the licensing module.
Practical Tips
- Use smaller Depth values for subtle front-to-back placement.
- Use Hall or Hall II when the source needs to feel further away or part of a larger acoustic picture.
- Use Space Only to audition the generated spatial component, especially when learning what each mode contributes.
- Watch the input and output meters when working with low Depth settings so you can clearly separate signal flow from processing amount.
- Use Guide Mode as a quick reminder instead of leaving the manual open during a session.
Support
For product information, updates, and support, visit truestageaudio.com.