Introduction Hardwave Analyser is a free VST3 and CLAP plugin that runs on Windows, macOS and Linux (version 1.0.26). Among its metering tools is a phase-correlation meter that shows the stereo relationship of the signal in real time. Understanding this display helps you keep low-end elements mono-safe while widening higher frequencies where appropriate.
What the phase-correlation meter shows The meter reads from -1 (fully out of phase, opposite polarity) to +1 (perfectly in phase). A value near +1 indicates a mono or tightly correlated signal, while values approaching 0 suggest a wide or decorrelated image. Negative values mean the left and right channels are out of phase, which can cause cancellation when summed to mono.
Reading the per-band stereo width Below the main correlation bar, Analyser provides per-band width indicators. Each band corresponds to a portion of the 256 log-spaced frequency bands (20 Hz - 20 kHz). Use these to see which frequency ranges are contributing to width or phase issues.
Practical workflow
- Insert Analyser on the master bus - This gives a full-mix view of phase correlation.
- Watch the overall correlation - Aim for a value around +0.8 to +1 for the low-end (20 Hz - 150 Hz). If the meter drops below +0.7 in this range, check the kick, bass and low-mid elements for polarity or stereo processing problems.
- Inspect the per-band display - Identify bands where the correlation falls toward 0. Those are the frequencies where you have stereo spread. If you want a wider image, consider adding subtle stereo widening or reverb to those bands.
- Adjust processing -
For low-end issues, use a mono-sum or a high-pass filter on any stereo effect. For mid-high frequencies, experiment with a stereo enhancer, chorus, or panning adjustments.
- Re-check the meter - After each change, watch the overall correlation and per-band indicators to confirm the desired effect without introducing phase cancellation.
Tips
Keep the overall correlation above +0.9 for the sub-bass region to ensure mono compatibility on club systems. Use the "Flat" tilt mode for a neutral view; the -3 dB/oct and -4.5 dB/oct tilts can help you focus on lower frequencies if needed. * The true-peak detection in Analyser can be used alongside the phase meter to avoid clipping while adjusting stereo width.
Conclusion The phase-correlation meter in Hardwave Analyser gives you a quick visual cue for stereo balance across the frequency spectrum. By monitoring the overall correlation and the per-band width, you can keep the low end tight and mono-safe while deliberately widening the parts of the mix that benefit from a broader stereo image. This simple routine helps you achieve cleaner, more powerful mixes without needing additional tools.