Gearslutz.com - View Single Post - Waves V-Series vs API Collection vs SSL 4000 Collection -- I can only afford one

jdjustice · 26th August 2009

Hi !

I own the V-Series and API bundles and am a former owner of the SSL bundle.
Overall I think all 3 are excellent bundles ..

I am mostly a compression person and use very little EQ so I will just comment on the compressors (although I prefer the API EQs over the other sets).

The V-Series is nice but definitely has what I think of as a 'sticky' sound -- colored and thick, with character but (IMHO) not a ton of grace..
The API is a step up (and a totally different beast). I like the API a lot on vocals and also on the 2buss. However, if your primary need is for a buss compressor, I would not hesitate to say SSL is the way to go. That G-Series buss compressor is colored but sensitive and responsive but mean (if that makes any sense). It can be a TRUE 'glue' for your tracks... I miss it a lot (had to sell it last year at a bad financial time).

So for the type of application you're describing I would say SSL.
I have used all the URS plugins as well, and I am a fan of the graphical Neve and API models but not really keen on the Channel Strip Pro or anything much else save maybe the BLT for quick and easy stuff. URS wise, the N-series graphical is my top pick.

You will want to check out the CLA Compressors bundle -- the CLA-2A sounds like God had a role in its sound.... but even as much as I love those plugins, for smooth buss compression, SSL is the one to beat.

My 2 cents good luck

26th August 2009	#4
jdjustice Lives for gear Joined: Mar 2006 Location: US Posts: 2,361	Hi ! I own the V-Series and API bundles and am a former owner of the SSL bundle. Overall I think all 3 are excellent bundles .. I am mostly a compression person and use very little EQ so I will just comment on the compressors (although I prefer the API EQs over the other sets). The V-Series is nice but definitely has what I think of as a 'sticky' sound -- colored and thick, with character but (IMHO) not a ton of grace.. The API is a step up (and a totally different beast). I like the API a lot on vocals and also on the 2buss. However, if your primary need is for a buss compressor, I would not hesitate to say SSL is the way to go. That G-Series buss compressor is colored but sensitive and responsive but mean (if that makes any sense). It can be a TRUE 'glue' for your tracks... I miss it a lot (had to sell it last year at a bad financial time). So for the type of application you're describing I would say SSL. I have used all the URS plugins as well, and I am a fan of the graphical Neve and API models but not really keen on the Channel Strip Pro or anything much else save maybe the BLT for quick and easy stuff. URS wise, the N-series graphical is my top pick. You will want to check out the CLA Compressors bundle -- the CLA-2A sounds like God had a role in its sound.... but even as much as I love those plugins, for smooth buss compression, SSL is the one to beat. My 2 cents good luck __________________ Justin Justice