WaveLab Pro 13 Review – Features, Dolby Atmos Support & Mastering Tools

When it comes to professional audio mastering, WaveLab Pro 13 continues to set a high standard. Developed by Steinberg, this latest version focuses heavily on immersive audio, performance enhancements, and refined workflow tools designed for serious mastering engineers.

But is it worth the upgrade? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is WaveLab Pro 13?

WaveLab Pro 13 is a professional mastering and audio editing suite built specifically for final audio production. Unlike traditional DAWs that focus on recording and composing, WaveLab is engineered for precision editing, album assembly, loudness compliance, and final delivery.

It’s widely used by mastering engineers, post-production studios, and professionals who require accurate metering, advanced editing, and multi-format export capabilities.

What’s New in WaveLab Pro 13?

1. Dolby Atmos & Immersive Audio Support

One of the biggest highlights is native Dolby Atmos mastering support. Users can now import, edit, and finalize immersive audio projects (up to 9.1.6 configurations). This makes WaveLab Pro 13 future-ready for modern streaming platforms and surround formats.

If immersive audio is part of your workflow, this update is a major advantage.

2. Improved Performance with Multicore Processing

WaveLab Pro 13 better utilizes modern multicore CPUs, resulting in faster rendering times and smoother operation when working on large or complex projects. This is especially beneficial for mastering full albums or multi-track montages.

3. MasterRig 2 and New Plug-Ins

The updated MasterRig 2 provides a powerful all-in-one mastering suite that includes:

• Equalization

• Compression

• Limiting

• Stereo imaging

• Sidechain support

Additional plug-ins such as VocalChain, UltraShaper, Pitch Shifter, and creative effects add more flexibility without relying heavily on third-party tools.

4. Workflow Enhancements

WaveLab Pro 13 introduces several workflow refinements:

• Tab-synchronized playback for quick A/B comparison

• Improved visual customization and color management

• Better marker handling and envelope editing

• Enhanced Audio Montage features

These improvements may seem subtle, but they significantly streamline daily mastering tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros

✔ Professional-grade mastering environment
✔ Native Dolby Atmos support
✔ Powerful analysis and loudness tools
✔ Excellent album assembly workflow
✔ Faster performance with multicore rendering

Cons

✘ Steeper learning curve for beginners
✘ Not intended for recording or full music production
✘ Upgrades may feel incremental for stereo-only users

Who Should Use WaveLab Pro 13?

WaveLab Pro 13 is ideal for:

• Professional mastering engineers

• Post-production studios

• Mix engineers preparing tracks for streaming platforms

• Audio professionals needing strict loudness compliance

Casual producers or beginners may find it too advanced unless mastering is a primary focus.

Final Verdict

WaveLab Pro 13 doesn’t completely reinvent mastering software — but it refines and strengthens it in meaningful ways. With Dolby Atmos integration, improved performance, and enhanced built-in tools, it remains one of the most comprehensive mastering solutions available today.

If mastering is at the core of your workflow, WaveLab Pro 13 is a powerful and future-proof investment.