iZotope RX 4 Review: Advanced Editing for Guitar Tracks

With the release of iZotope RX 5 right around the corner, here we look back at RX 4 and the editing potential this software holds for guitar players. iZotope RX has seemingly become an indispensable tool for many audio professionals. For those who aren’t familiar with RX, it is basically a complete software package that specializes in audio repair and enhancement. This is a very powerful program that is widely used for tasks like cleaning up dialogue, removing hum or excessive background noise, and even repairing clipped or distorted tracks. 

While we might initially think of using RX 4 in the context of post production (i.e. de-noising dialogue etc.) it actually has some very handy applications for those in music production. Specifically, for guitar players, RX 4 can be extremely useful for adjusting the dynamics, tone, pitch, and tempo of our tracks. Additionally, RX 4 can be used to successfully remove distracting aspects of an otherwise good performance. This can included getting rid of loud amp buzz, taming excessive pick attack, and even deleting random string squeaks. 

Traditionally, these types of tasks were not considered to be easily adjustable parameters after a performance had been recorded. The introduction of iZotope’s RX software (and its subsequent editions) have brought with it some significant steps forward in incorporating audio restoration, sound design, and musicality. While there is certainly no substitute for getting a good performance at the source, RX 4 provides the ability to seamlessly remove distracting elements and even rescue seemingly irreparable takes. In spending just a small amount of time with RX 4, you will quickly notice how extremely powerful and effective this program can be.

​Despite its undeniable usefulness, there are a few additional considerations for prospective users. RX 4 can be described as a unique blend of both visual and audio editing. It could be seen in many ways as a kind of ‘Photoshop’ for audio. While functionality and ease of use could be considered hallmarks of iZotope's products, those unfamiliar with previous versions of RX should expect to encounter a reasonable learning curve before getting the most out of this software. Additionally, the price point of this product may put it out of reach for some people. With that in mind, it should be noted that the standard version of RX 4 is significantly cheaper than the advanced version and does share a lot of the same capabilities. Among other features, this includes modules for removing hum, de-noising dialogue (and other audio), getting rid of pops and clicks, and dealing with distorted tracks.

All up, this is a very impressive bundle that significantly extends the editing capacity you would expect to find in a standard DAW. It must be said that the initial cost and complexity of RX is certainly proportionate to its power and usefulness. While a product like this in no way advocates a fix it in the mix mentality, it does allow unparalleled control over a wide range of elements in a performance after it has been recorded. Whatever the issue, with its collection of diverse modules that span numerous applications, iZotope RX is likely to have the right tool for the job.

---

Check out the videos to see it in action: