I have the waves ssl, and pretty much thought that they were the best eqs going, (along w the massenburg). URS and digiIII are pretty good too, also like the equim doodad, but the ssl and massenburg were the kings in my book, but different, massenburg being more clinical.
now I just got the the v-series, and though different, and while I still really like the ssl eqs, I believe that the v-series might just be the best software eq I have heard, bar none.
again they are different like someone said the ssl is punchy and has a nice cut, but the v-series is character, and has a real analog vibe going.
It works on acoustic guitars, which in my book is the highest possible compliment, sense almost no software eqs cut it for that task.
I got waves to extend my demo period and in the email the waves guy told me to push that outbut on the v4 eq and check out the added harmonics, he wasn't kidding.
Waves really hit a home run w these plugs IMHO
again the compressors in each bundle are different but compliment each other.
there are other good comps, sony, UAD la2a, UAD 1176, digiIII, massey.
haven't used the desser in the v-series yet.
then there is the ssl channelstrip, what a great gate on that puppy
probably the best software gate I've heard (sony is good too, but I think the ssl beats it, though I haven't really a/b'd them)
regardless of what one thinks of waves, they are building some good software
O, I am sorry, the most important thing, they look cool ;>)