Sound Solution 1.31b is a highly regarded Winamp DSP (Digital Signal Processing) plugin developed by Alessandro Tomassini
. It is celebrated for its ability to deliver a professional "broadcast-style" sound, making it a favorite for internet radio broadcasters, Shoutcast DJs, and power listeners. Google Groups Core Functionality
The plugin functions as a powerful multiband processor that mimics the sound of high-end hardware FM broadcast processors. Key features include: Multiband Dynamics:
It uses advanced algorithms for multiband compression, expansion, and limiting to ensure audio clarity and "punch". Automatic Gain Control (AGC):
Provides real-time loudness leveling to smooth out volume differences between tracks. Broadcast Readiness: Sound Solution 1
Features a two-band limiter and a pre-emphasis generator, making the signal ready for FM transmitters, DAB diffusion, or webcasting. Stereo Enhancement:
Includes tools for stereo expansion and flexible equalization. Presets and Customization
The "one WITH all the presets" version is particularly sought after because setting up complex multiband processing manually is difficult and can easily ruin audio if done incorrectly. Popular Presets:
Soft enhancement with light AGC, ideal for general broadcasting. Part 8: Common Issues and Fixes (FAQ) The
Full-range AGC, designed for listening while performing other tasks (like gaming) where quiet tracks need to be boosted. "RADIO" Preset:
A common favorite for a tight, aggressive mix often used in live DJ sets. User Presets: The community often shares custom files to emulate specific radio station sounds. Google Groups Download and Compatibility Availability:
While the original developer's site is no longer active, the plugin remains available on archival sites like XMPlay Support It is often paired with other plugins like SQRSoft's Advanced Crossfade
to create a seamless, professional radio experience in Winamp. “Deep Space 9” (massive reverb + 3D unfold)
Primarily designed for Winamp 2.x and 5.x series, but it can also be used in other players that support Winamp DSP plugins via wrappers. Google Groups or instructions on installing it into a modern Winamp
Here is where the story gets interesting. Most torrents and abandoned plugin archives you find today contain Sound Solution 1.31b naked—meaning the plugin launches with only 6 factory presets (“Normal,” “Classical,” “Rock,” “Dance,” “Voice,” and “Max Bass”).
But old Winamp power users remember the other version: the one that unlocked a dropdown menu of 47 custom presets, including legendary names like:
These presets were allegedly curated by a user named Helmut_V from the now-defunct Winamp-Forums.com in 2002. He decompiled the original DLL, reverse-engineered the parameter mapping, and created a .ini override file that unlocked parameter ranges the stock UI hid from users.
When Apaiah issued a cease-and-desist (fearing their upcoming paid product would be undercut), the “full preset” version went underground, shared only via burned CDs at LAN parties and dead MegaUpload links. The “one WITH all the presets” became a codeword in forums—a shibboleth to separate true believers from casual downloaders.
Sound Solution 1.31b is a Winamp DSP plugin (DSP_SS.dll) developed by a mysterious coder or small team—its original author is nearly lost to internet history. Unlike later “lite” versions that shipped with 5 presets and a greyed-out “Pro” tab, 1.31b is remembered as “the one WITH all the presets--” because it unlocked every single audio shaping feature without restriction.