Waves SSL Channel EQ make up gain questionable

[esteso]

I'm loving this plug but the automatic make up gain is not correct and it makes it difficult (pretty much impossible, really, in a practical sense) to compare levels and settings.

From the manual: "Automatic gain make up, calculated from the Ratio and Threshold seettings, is applied by the compressor to maintain a sterady output level."

It works pretty well at lower ratios and thresholds but raise 'em up and all bets are off. Don't even think about trying to match levels with the fast attack on, it's off by 12db or even more. Sure you can raise the output gain, but that raises level with the comp bypassed or not, so again, no easy way to compare.

I checked peak and RMS with Inspector XL, but really all you need is a pair of ears to hear the difference. (I just couldn't believe it so I brought out the meter.)

[UnMix Studio]

Old thread, but I find this to be true. I just get over 6db of compressing and raise the Output Gain as my make up.

Anyone else realize this about SSL Channel Comp.

[psycho_monkey]

Originally Posted by UnMix Studio

Old thread, but I find this to be true. I just get over 6db of compressing and raise the Output Gain as my make up.

Anyone else realize this about SSL Channel Comp.

but that's kind of what the real channel compressors do as well..the auto-makeup gain only works so far. then you have to use the channel fader to balance.

[TheRealRoach]

Yeah it works like that. If you're using the compressor as a subtle tool then the auto makeup works surprisingly well. If you're using the compressor as an effect to over compress or smash stuff, then you'll definitely need to reach for the fader.

[UnMix Studio]

Yeah. I never use the board myself, but I'm ok with the result I get from th plug. My impression was that it must be that way since it "emulates" the strip from the board. I get good compression with it.