Ozone Imager is a free stereo imaging plugin from iZotope, designed to give producers precise control over the width of their tracks and mixes.
Known for its clean interface and powerful widening algorithms, it’s a favorite for creating depth and space without sacrificing mono compatibility.
Despite being free, Ozone Imager includes features pulled straight from iZotope’s flagship Ozone suite — making it one of the most widely used stereo tools for modern producers.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.8/10)
Interface & Workflow
Ozone Imager is built with iZotope’s trademark sleek design. The central vectorscope shows real-time stereo activity, while intuitive sliders make it easy to widen, narrow, or even turn mono signals into stereo.
The plugin’s “Stereoize” modes allow you to add width to sounds recorded in mono, making it especially useful for synths, vocals, or guitars that need extra space in the mix.
The workflow is quick and beginner-friendly: just drop it on any track or the master bus, adjust the width slider, and use the vectorscope to check stereo balance at a glance.
Features
- Real-time vectorscope for stereo visualization
- Width control from full mono to ultra-wide
- Two Stereoize modes for converting mono signals to stereo
- Resizable interface with simple controls
- Mono compatibility safeguards
- Lightweight CPU usage — runs smoothly in any DAW
Price & Value
Ozone Imager is completely free, yet it shares DNA with iZotope’s premium Ozone suite.
Comparable stereo imaging plugins can cost anywhere from $50–$150, but Ozone Imager delivers professional-grade imaging at zero cost.
For producers working on a budget, it’s a no-brainer.
Pros
- 100% free with pro-quality stereo imaging
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
- Stereoize modes breathe life into mono tracks
- Lightweight and stable across all DAWs
- Built-in vectorscope for real-time visual feedback
Cons
- No advanced M/S EQ or multi-band imaging (reserved for Ozone Advanced)
- Stereoize can sound unnatural if pushed too far
- Limited compared to premium imaging suites
Verdict
Ozone Imager proves that not all essential plugins have to cost money. With its intuitive design, powerful widening features, and reliable vectorscope, it’s the perfect tool for producers looking to add polish and space to their mixes.
Whether you’re a beginner adding stereo depth for the first time, or a pro needing a quick, lightweight utility, Ozone Imager deserves a permanent spot in your plugin folder.
Rating: 9.8/10 — A free, high-quality stereo imaging plugin that punches far above its price tag.
FAQ
What does Ozone Imager do?
It adjusts the stereo width of your audio, letting you narrow or widen the sound field and visualize it in real time.
Is Ozone Imager really free?
Yes — iZotope offers Ozone Imager completely free with no restrictions.
Does it work in all DAWs?
Yes — it’s available in VST, AU, and AAX formats for all major DAWs.
Can I use Ozone Imager on mono tracks?
Yes — the Stereoize feature converts mono signals into stereo for added width.
Is it good enough for mastering?
Yes — while it’s not as advanced as Ozone Advanced, it’s more than capable of handling stereo adjustments in mastering chains.
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