User Guide

Waves V-Series
page 13
Since V-Comp was modeled after a console’s master bus compressor, there is no
threshold control. On the original analogue console, master bus compressor threshold
was controlled by the master fader of the console – the higher the mix’s signal and the
more the master fader gain, the greater the compression.
In the analogue domain, ideal levels tend to fall between 0 and +5 dBU. Translated
to the digital domain, which is measured in dBFS, 0 dBU = -22 dBFS. This means
that ideal input levels to the V-Comp range from -22 to -17 dBFS. This may take a
bit of getting used to, since those accustomed to the digital world often seek the
hottest level on each track. However, Waves engineers chose to model the V-
Comp precisely after the original hardware, so it is preferable to provide input
levels similar to those expected by an analogue master bus compressor.
You can adjust the input level by using the Input control.
Output
Sets the output level of the V-Comp. Continuously adjustable ±18 dB.
Controlled in the same manner as the Input knob.
Click on the light to reset.
Meter Display
The meter has one scale, in dBFS, and a indication needle.
The Meter switch is used to choose the display mode. Only
one display mode (Input, Output, or Gain Reduction) is
shown at a time. In the Gain Reduction mode, the meter
indicates gain without make-up. The meter is disabled when
the V-Comp is in bypass. A red clip light indicates over-level.
Meter switch
Selects mode of meter display: input; output; gain reduction.