Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor

Key Information About Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor Software

• Linear phase multiband compression: preserves temporal coherence and limits coloration for precise mastering.
• 5 independent and parametric bands: full per-band controls to sculpt dynamics without compromising the mix.
• Compression, expansion, and "focusing" processing: work on each spectral zone like an advanced dynamics processor or even as a balancing tool.
• Smart features: Auto Makeup, Adaptive Threshold, and ARC (Auto Release Control) for quick settings and more reliable A/B comparisons.

What Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor Is For

Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor is a multiband dynamics plug-in designed for mastering and bus processing (mix bus, stem mastering, groups). Its linear phase architecture allows control of low-end energy, stabilization of low-mids, smoothing of aggressive high frequencies, or de-essing of targeted areas, while maintaining a stable stereo image and faithful sound rendering. It is particularly suited for productions where transparency is a priority: pop, electronic, hip-hop, modern rock, music for picture, premium podcasts.

Main Features

Transparent multiband processing in linear phase

Unlike many multiband processors that can introduce delays and a "smearing" sensation, the linear crossovers design aims for dynamic control with less smear and better transient clarity. The result is a more "surgical" spectral work, ideal when you want to increase density without losing definition.

Compression + expansion: a true dynamics processor

The plug-in is not limited to compression: you can compress one band, expand another, or even choose not to apply dynamics on certain areas to treat them differently. This approach facilitates modern mastering, for example by controlling the low end while restoring micro-dynamics to a midrange area, or tightening only a sibilance in the high frequencies.

Per-band settings: custom attacks and releases

Each band has dedicated controls, allowing adaptation of behavior to different zones: fast attack to tame sibilants, longer release in the bass to avoid overly audible level variations, and an intermediate setting in the mids to stabilize presence. This per-band independence makes the workflow more efficient and musical on complex masters.

Range, Adaptive Threshold, Auto Makeup, and ARC

The Range parameter acts as a practical limit on the maximum amount of compression or expansion, enabling quick achievement of a clean and controlled result. The Adaptive Threshold (a "de-masking" function) can help reveal a band masked by other spectral elements, even with light compression. The Auto Makeup works more precisely by considering bands individually (rather than only the overall level), to maintain level stability and facilitate comparisons. Finally, ARC (Auto Release Control) helps avoid typical artifacts from poor release settings, such as pumping or granular distortion.

Character customization

To adjust the compression feel, you can choose between two release characters: a softer opto mode and a tighter electro mode. The plug-in also offers a choice of compression curve with hard knee or soft knee, as well as a dither option to convert internal 48-bit processing to 24-bit according to your delivery needs.

Technical specifications

Type

Full software

Downloadable

Yes

Two release characters	opto (smooth) and electro (tight)	Memory	8 GB
Compression curve	hard knee or soft knee	Disk Space	16 GB
macOS	VST-2, VST-3, AU, AAX	Plug-in	Waves Linear Phase Multiband Compressor
Windows	VST-2, VST-3, AAX	Additional media	included
Systems	macOS Catalina 10.15, Big Sur 11, Monterey 12, Ventura 13, Sonoma 14