What is izotope relay
Last updated: April 1, 2026
Key Facts
- Relay enables inter-plugin communication (IPC) between iZotope products like Neutron, Nectar, and VocalSynth for automated mixing
- Available as a low-CPU-overhead utility with gain, pan, high-pass filter, and stereo width controls
- Compatible with VST 2, VST 3, Audio Unit (AU), and AAX plugin formats on Mac and Windows
- Included free with Tonal Balance Control 3, Neutron 5, Insight 2, and Nectar 4; standalone purchase is $129 USD
- Part of iZotope Music Production Suite 4 and Creative Suite membership packages
Overview
iZotope Relay is a modern utility plugin designed to streamline audio production workflows by enabling real-time communication between compatible iZotope plugins. It serves as a central hub that allows different audio plugins to share information and automatically adjust parameters based on the content being mixed or mastered.
Core Features
At its foundation, Relay functions as a mini-channel strip with essential mixing controls. These include gain adjustment for level control, pan for stereo positioning, high-pass filter for removing unwanted low frequencies, and stereo width control for adjusting the imaging of your audio. All of these features are designed with minimal CPU overhead, making Relay suitable for resource-constrained sessions.
Inter-Plugin Communication
The true power of Relay emerges when used with other IPC-enabled iZotope products. When you have Neutron 4, Nectar, or VocalSynth 2 running in your session alongside Relay, these plugins can communicate with each other to:
- Automatically adjust gain and frequencies to prevent frequency masking between tracks
- Optimize vocal presence and clarity in a mix
- Create cohesive spatial relationships between multiple instruments
- Share tonal balance information across your entire session
Plugin Format Compatibility
Relay is available in multiple plugin formats to ensure compatibility with virtually all modern digital audio workstations. It supports VST 2 and VST 3 formats for Windows and Linux environments, Audio Unit (AU) for macOS systems, and AAX for Pro Tools users. This broad compatibility means you can integrate Relay into your existing workflow regardless of your DAW choice.
Pricing and Accessibility
One of Relay's advantages is its accessibility. It comes complimentary with several iZotope products including Tonal Balance Control 3, Neutron 5, Insight 2, and Nectar 4. For those who need standalone access, iZotope offers Relay as a separate purchase for $129 USD. Additionally, Relay is included in both the iZotope Music Production Suite 4 and the iZotope Creative Suite membership programs, making it available to users at various price points.
Related Questions
How does iZotope Relay differ from other mixing utilities?
Relay stands out through its inter-plugin communication system that allows automatic adjustments between compatible iZotope products. Most mixing utilities lack this intelligent inter-plugin coordination, making Relay unique for streamlined, automated mixing workflows.
Can I use iZotope Relay with third-party plugins?
Relay is specifically designed to work with iZotope plugins that support IPC technology. It won't directly communicate with non-iZotope plugins, though you can still use its basic mixing controls on any track.
Is iZotope Relay free?
Relay is free if you own Tonal Balance Control 3, Neutron 5, Insight 2, or Nectar 4. Otherwise, it's available for a one-time purchase of $129 USD or through iZotope's subscription plans.
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Sources
- iZotope - Relay FeaturesProprietary
- KVR Audio - Relay by iZotopeUser-Generated Content
- iZotope - Neutron 5 Relay IntegrationProprietary