Use the VST MultiPanner to place channels in the surround mix, or assign channels to the individual LRCS outputs.
Activate the MatrixEncoder.
What you now hear is the encoded stereo mix, the way it sounds when it is played back on a normal stereo reproducer. On the MatrixEncoder control panel, you can adjust the Gain of the Lt/Rt output by using the fader.
Activate the MatrixDecoder, open the control panel and click the Steering Mode button.
Now you can hear how the mix is reproduced in surround on a Pro Logic compatible system.
The Steering display shows an x within the surround field. The position of this x indicates the dominant direction of the mix, sometimes referred to as the dominance vector. Part of the processing that is applied results in the dominant channel being enhanced and the non-dominant channels being reduced in gain.
By activating and deactivating the Bypass button in the MatrixDecoder, you can compare the decoded mix with the encoded stereo mix, and make adjustments in the MixConsole as necessary.
The main goal is to produce a mix that sounds good in both the encoded and the decoded version. To compare the encoded or decoded mix with the unprocessed mix, switch off both the MatrixEncoder and the Decoder.
Important
The encoding/decoding process produces significant signal loss compared to the unprocessed mix. This is normal, and does not indicate that something is not working properly. However, with careful tweaking of the mix, you can decrease the signal degradation to a much more acceptable level. You have to adjust levels and other settings before the signal runs through the MatrixEncoder, because neither the encoder or decoder can control the mix in any way.
If you are satisfied with the result, bypass the MatrixDecoder, or remove it from its effect slot.
Connect a master recording device to the stereo mix output and perform a mixdown as usual.
Result
The resulting encoded stereo mix is compatible with common home systems that use the Pro Logic standard.
