MELD Plugin Review: The Master Bus Solution for Dolby Atmos (But There's a Problem)

In this video, I take a look at MELD, a new plugin from Metric Halo that brings a master bus workflow to Dolby Atmos. One of the most common questions I get from people new to Atmos is how to glue everything together like they would in stereo, and MELD offers an interesting solution. It's a channel strip plugin that allows you to communicate across multiple instances, giving you the ability to group tracks and control parameters simultaneously across your entire Atmos session. The plugin features EQ, compression, saturation, loudness, and limiting, plus some really powerful sidechaining capabilities that let you create flexible routing scenarios. I also demonstrate some professional features like DC blocking and polarity controls that you don't often see in other plugins.

However, I need to be upfront about a significant issue: MELD currently has a bug in Reaper (and potentially other DAWs) where it doesn't save group assignments, which is a major problem given its $400 price tag. The interface is also a bit wonky and could use some refinement. While MELD is based on Metric Halo's highly regarded effects and offers great functionality for professionals transitioning from stereo to Atmos workflows, I'd recommend testing it thoroughly before purchasing. For hobbyists or those just starting out, I'd suggest looking at more affordable alternatives like SAMP from Hornet Plugins or simply embracing the traditional Atmos workflow without a master bus.