At the turn of the year, the pro audio community witnessed a massive shift in mixing workflows with the introduction of waves cla mixhub – namm 2019. Presented at one of the industry’s most anticipated annual trade shows, this plugin revolutionized how digital audio workstation (DAW) users approach large-scale session mixing. By porting the sound and workflow of Chris Lord-Alge’s personal Solid State Logic (SSL) console directly into a flexible software ecosystem, it bridged the gap between analog console ergonomics and digital convenience. For detailed mixing guides and plugin breakdowns, check out our comprehensive SM Mastering Audio Articles.
Analyzing the Console Emulation of waves cla mixhub – namm 2019
Designed in close collaboration with legendary mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge, the release of waves cla mixhub – namm 2019 sought to capture more than just the static EQ curves and compression characteristics of classic hardware. Instead, it introduced the innovative concept of “Buckets.” This feature allows users to group up to 64 channels into eight buckets of eight channels each, allowing mix engineers to view and adjust dynamic processing across multiple tracks simultaneously from a single window. This mimics the physical reach and visual overview of sitting at a real analog desk.
This multi-routing paradigm stands in stark contrast to traditional digital mixing, where users must open and close individual plugin windows. When we look back at the original product showcase of waves cla mixhub – namm 2019, its primary appeal lay in this exact visual efficiency. Coupled with modelled console saturation, gate/expander controls, and flexible routing pre- or post-EQ, the channel strip offers an aggressive, radio-ready tone that CLA is famous for worldwide. Similar to innovations from companies like iZotope, this plugin shifts the mixing mindset from microscopic adjustments to holistic system-wide processing.
Technical Specifications and Overview
To understand the processing power and cost efficiency of this channel strip plugin, let us analyze its core specifications:
| Name | Use | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waves CLA MixHub | Console Channel Strip Emulation & Bucket-Style Mixing | $199 (Regular retail; frequent sales available) | 4.8 / 5.0 |
Practical Studio Workflow Tips
Integrating a complex console emulator into your modern DAW workflow requires a methodical approach. To get the absolute best out of your sessions, consider the following practical steps:
- Organize via Buckets Immediately: Group your instruments logically (e.g., Bucket 1 for Drums, Bucket 2 for Bass, Bucket 3 for Guitars). This visual organization is the core philosophy of why the waves cla mixhub – namm 2019 was developed.
- Utilize the Console Drive: Do not be afraid to push the “Input” and “Drive” parameters on your lead elements. The analog saturation modeling emulates the harmonic distortion of pushing an SSL console’s preamps.
- Sidechain and Gate Routing: Use the built-in gate section to clean up bleed on live drum tracks before hitting the compressor section, ensuring a punchy and clean transients profile.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the legacy of waves cla mixhub – namm 2019 continues to shape how modern mixing engineers approach in-the-box workflows. By blending the sound of classic analog hardware with an innovative, multi-channel bucket system, Waves successfully solved the visual fragmentation of digital mixing. It remains an essential tool for those looking to inject energy, cohesion, and fast decision-making into their music production pipeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the “Buckets” in Waves CLA MixHub improve mixing speed?
The Bucket system groups up to 64 tracks into visual blocks of eight. This lets you adjust EQs, compressors, and gates across eight different tracks side-by-side inside a single interface window, eliminating the need to constantly open and close separate plugin windows.
Can I use Waves CLA MixHub on CPU-light systems?
Yes. Despite its comprehensive processing options (including EQ, compression, gating, and saturation), the plugin is highly optimized. It also includes an “Lite” version of the channel strip component to significantly save CPU resources when running massive track counts.
What console is modeled in the CLA MixHub?
The plugin models the custom Solid State Logic (SSL) 4000 E/G series console owned by Grammy-winning mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge, capturing its distinct analog saturation, routing capabilities, and legendary aggressive sound curve.
🛒 Official Product Info & Where to Buy
Check full technical specs, pricing, and purchase options directly from the official manufacturer or authorized dealer for Waves CLA MixHub – NAMM 2019.
Written by SM Mastering
Official content on sound engineering, mixing, mastering, and advanced electronic production by SM Mastering.