Plugin interface — screenshot pending
Compressor

CLA-3A

Waves

Where to get itAvailable from Waveswaves.com

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.

Written from the manual and checked against it. How we check

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
Formats
VST3AUAAX
Official Website↗

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