CLA Classic Compressors is a collection of four legendary compressor models developed through a collaboration between Waves and renowned mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge. It features digital emulations of the CLA-2A, CLA-3A, CLA-76 Blacky, and CLA-76 Bluey, each respected for their unique tonal characteristics and dynamic control. These compressors have been staples in professional studios worldwide, prized for shaping the sound of countless hit records across various music genres.

The CLA-2A is inspired by the iconic electro-optical tube compressor known for its smooth, frequency-dependent compression that enhances guitars, bass, and vocals with warmth and presence. The CLA-3A captures the essence of a classic solid-state compressor, delivering transparent and quick-responding compression ideal for bass and vocal tracks. Both offer compressor and limiter modes, zero latency operation, and sidechain filtering, making them flexible tools for detailed dynamic shaping. Chris Lord-Alge’s personal presets provide a starting point crafted from his extensive experience.

The CLA-76 Blacky and Bluey models recreate two sought-after revisions of the famed Class A limiting amplifier from the mid-1960s. Known for their ultra-fast attack times and distinctive harmonic coloration, these compressors excel at adding punch and energy, especially on drums and aggressive instruments. Featuring an exclusive ALL control that emulates the original’s extreme settings and modeled pre-amp distortion for added edge, these units deliver powerful, dynamic impact. Both versions maintain zero latency and support high-resolution processing for pristine audio quality.