How to use CLA-3A: Enable Auto Makeup to maintain stable output while adjusting Peak Reduction?

Enable Auto Makeup to maintain stable output while adjusting Peak Reduction

How to use CLA-3A: Use HiFreq above flat position to reduce sensitivity to lower frequencies and act as a de-esser?

Use HiFreq above flat position to reduce sensitivity to lower frequencies and act as a de-esser

How to use CLA-3A: Select Analog mode at 50Hz or 60Hz to add modeled hum that matches your regional power supply?

Select Analog mode at 50Hz or 60Hz to add modeled hum that matches your regional power supply

How to use CLA-3A: Switch between Compress (3:1 ratio) and Limiter (100:1 ratio) modes via Comp/Limiter toggle?

Switch between Compress (3:1 ratio) and Limiter (100:1 ratio) modes via Comp/Limiter toggle

Plugin interface — screenshot pending

Compressor

CLA-3A

Name: CLA-3A
Author: Waves

Waves

The CLA-3A is a vintage solid-state compressor plugin modeled on an acclaimed 1969 hardware unit, featuring a T4 optical attenuator and program-dependent compression characteristics. It delivers the distinctive, unmistakable compression behavior favored by Chris Lord-Alge and engineers worldwide, with precision analog modeling that captures THD, variable release times, and authentic hardware hum characteristics.

Key Features

01T4 optical attenuator modeling for program-dependent compression

02Comp/Limiter toggle (approximately 3:1 ratio or 100:1 ratio)

03Peak Reduction control (0–10 range with non-linear scaling)

04Auto Makeup that automatically balances Peak Reduction and Gain controls

05HiFreq control for frequency-dependent compression above 1 kHz

06Analog mode with selectable 50Hz or 60Hz hum modeling

07VU meter with Input, Gain Reduction, and Output metering modes

08Stereo and Mono component options

Things to Try

01Enable Auto Makeup to maintain stable output while adjusting Peak Reduction
02Use HiFreq above flat position to reduce sensitivity to lower frequencies and act as a de-esser
03Select Analog mode at 50Hz or 60Hz to add modeled hum that matches your regional power supply
04Switch between Compress (3:1 ratio) and Limiter (100:1 ratio) modes via Comp/Limiter toggle

Official Website↗

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CLA-3A by Waves | Plugin Library