Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter brings one of the most iconic analog compressors in recording history straight into your DAW. Meticulously modeled in collaboration with Chris Lord-Alge, this plugin captures the warmth, musicality, and smooth optical compression of the original tube-driven hardware used on countless hit records. Ideal for producers, mix engineers, musicians, and content creators, the CLA-2A delivers timeless tone with effortless control.

Key Features of Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter

• Authentic emulation of the legendary electro-optical tube compressor/limiter
• Developed with Chris Lord-Alge, featuring his exclusive hardware-based presets
• Simple, effective controls: Peak Reduction, Gain, and Mix
• Smooth, transparent compression even at high reduction levels
• Rich tube saturation for warmth, depth, and harmonic color
• Limiter mode for powerful, sustained dynamic shaping
• Sidechain high-pass filter to target compression with precision
• Optional analog “hiss” and “hum” for vintage authenticity
• Zero-latency performance for live sound or tracking
• Built-in Mix knob for easy parallel compression

Example Use Cases of Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter

• Mix engineers smoothing and warming vocal tracks with classic optical compression
• Bassists & guitarists adding punch, sustain, and tube character to instrument parts
• Producers enhancing drums, pianos, and strings with organic, musical compression
• Podcasters & broadcasters achieving natural, controlled voice dynamics
• Live sound engineers taking advantage of zero-latency optical compression on stage
• Anyone seeking the unmistakable LA-2A sound inside any modern DAW

Why Choose Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter?

The Waves CLA-2A delivers the soulful warmth and effortless musical response of the original hardware, enhanced with modern features like sidechain filtering, analog on/off, and parallel mix control. Trusted by world-class engineers and loved for its sonic beauty, it’s the perfect tool for adding classic character and smooth, reliable dynamics to every mix.