CTXMatrix – Advanced Crosstalk Cancellation Plugin
Background and Ralph Glasgal's Vision
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​Ralph Glasgal's core idea with Ambiophonics was to make high-quality crosstalk cancellation freely available to all audiophiles, so anyone could experience true 3D loudspeaker binaural reproduction without proprietary restrictions or high costs. He released the R.A.C.E. (Recursive Ambiophonic Crosstalk Eliminator) algorithm into the public domain and actively funded engineers, supported researchers, and collaborated with universities to advance the technology—hoping this would lead to free (or at least affordable) implementations, even accounting for ongoing support and hosting costs.
​CTXMatrix was developed fully in that spirit (and also because I wasn't satisfied with the xisting XTC): a free, lightweight tool implementing RACE-based XTC with user-friendly calibration. It was originally intended to be hosted and distributed through the official Ambiophonics website (managed by Ralph's staff), continuing his legacy of open, no-cost access.
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Unfortunately, the Ambiophonics Institute closed around early 2023 (Ralph turned 92 and stepped back), and the original ambiophonics.org site/content was removed. With the central hub gone, I'm now hosting CTXMatrix releases, downloads, betas, and updates privately on my OneDrive (linked from this site). This means the public release is no longer a linear, fixed objective tied to a central institute—it's now community (those who downloaded and provided feedback)-driven and hosted privately by me, evolving based on user feedback and testing.
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(Note: Earlier $10 software efforts like AmbiophonicsDSP by Robin Miller and Horowitz existed but didn't see further improvements or updates, highlighting the challenges of sustaining such projects long-term.)
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Version Status and Long-Term Plans
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My current Ver1.3 will expire in Jan 2027.
However, to be clear: all versions except the soon to be released Renderer (V1.3 and any short-lived future ones like v1.4 or v1.5) are planned to expire at one point to ensure only the best version of CTXMatrix will be in circulation.
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The "forever without restrictions" phrase (from my update blog post) refers to the upcoming CTXMatrix Renderer (targeted for release before then, now aiming for 2027). It will be a permanent, non-expiring tool that automatically loads and applies any pre-calibrated settings files you've saved—from V1.3, betas, or later or future versions. It functions like a dedicated viewer/player for your configurations: calibrate once (or create multiples for track-specific/A/B testing), save the file, and the Renderer handles playback forever—no redownloads or plugin switches needed. This ensures your setups stay usable long-term, even if I'm unavailable or development shifts. V1.3 serves as the current calibration generator; the Renderer provides the lasting playback solution of the modt current version of CTXMatrix.
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CTXMatrixLite delivers a full 180° 3D soundstage from conventional stereo speakers using enhanced recursive crosstalk cancellation (XTC). Available as both a standalone application and a 64-bit VST3 plugin for Windows. The standalone integrates directly with audiophile-grade media players (JRiver Media Center, Foobar2000, Tidal/Apple Music routed, etc.) via a virtual cable—no DAW required. Validated with JRiver Media Center 32; VST3 compatible with any supporting DAW like Reaper. Use native ASIO drivers from your interface manufacturer for best performance and lowest latency—avoid ASIO4ALL unless necessary.
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Routing to Standalone Player → Virtual Cable (free VB-Cable or similar) → CTXMatrixLite (Standalone) Works with JRiver, Roon, Audirvana, Foobar2000 and more. Set player output to cable input, CTXMatrixLite input to cable output.
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Key Features
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Precise five-stage calibration for optimal delay/attenuation.
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Works from ~20° to 65° speaker angles (20° ideal for max immersion).
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Stable, externalized 3D imaging with real-time XTC.
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Free for personal/non-commercial use.
Installation and Download Unzip the package: Contains CTXMatrixLite.exe (standalone—no install, just run), CTXMatrixLite.vst3 (copy to C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3), test audio files, LICENSE.txt.
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For VST3: Insert in your DAW. For standalone: Open EXE and route your player via virtual cable.
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Download CTXMatrixLite v1.3 (includes standalone + VST3 + Audio Test Files):
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Setup and Calibration For complete instructions—including speaker setup recommendations, single-ear occlusion test preparation, detailed five-stage calibration process with occlusion checks, baseline settings table, and troubleshooting—read the comprehensive README.
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For in-depth guidance on mastering the occlusion technique (critical for precise results): Read here.
Technical Notes
Statically linked—no dependencies on modern Windows. Loading issues? Install latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.
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Support
Post questions, issues, or feedback in the comments below (preferred—helps the community, answers repeated queries publicly). When reporting, include your speaker distances/angle, stage values, and problem track for faster help.
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Thanks for trying it out—enjoy the enhanced 3D!
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Important Note on Standalone Version
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The standalone application (CTXMatrixLite.exe) is now included in the ZIP alongside the VST3 plugin. It works as a processor for routing audio from your media player via a virtual cable (e.g., free VB-Cable). I'm still planning a thorough step-by-step write-up on setup and best practices for the standalone. Right now, my full focus is on refining the VST3 version and its integration for applications like domestic concert hall playback. Please bear with me if standalone support or responses take a bit longer—your patience is appreciated.
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