Name: Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter - pedal.ly
Brand: Waves Audio Plugins
SKU: CLA2ATDM
Price: 34.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (27 reviews)

Description

Wrap Your Tracks in Classic Silky Smooth Compression

The CLA-2A models what may be the most coveted and popular hardware compressor/limiter ever made. A favorite of studio engineers everywhere, this studio mainstay has graced countless vocal, bass, guitar, and other instrument tracks for over half a century with its alluring, warm sound.

Behind the strikingly simple interface, the original hardware’s optical-based dynamics processing relies on complex circuit interactions. Modeled from studio legend Chris Lord-Alge’s personally favorite hardware unit, CLA-2A perfectly emulates the original’s response and sound.

Superb Dynamics—Simple Interface

Choose compression or limiting, dial in gain reduction with the Peak reduction knob, add makeup gain with the Gain control—done. Superb dynamics control doesn’t get any simpler, or more effective, than this.

Legendary Attack and Release

The CLA-2A’s design sweetens attacks, yet lets consonants through so that vocal (and instrument) attacks retain their clarity. The release decelerates over time, for a smooth decay that never sounds choppy.

Warmth without Compromise

The CLA-2A is legendary for its warm sound, but it combines that with clarity and definition. Although tracks blend beautifully within a mix, pushing the peak reduction further adds punch and presence.

Added Extras for Flexible Mixing

Apply dynamics control across all frequencies, or just high frequencies to keep treble under control. Use the sidechain to lock compression to other tracks. Choose a totally clean sound, or add authentic-sounding hiss and hum. Dial in the MIX knob for parallel compression—and the TRIM knob for quick level adjustments.

Supervised by Chris Lord-Alge—With His Presets

The CLA-2A models legendary mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge’s favorite hardware unit, perfectly maintained in his studio for optimal performance. Chris supervised the modeling and created plugin presets for vocals, guitar, bass, drums and more, giving you superb starting points for your mixing.

Top Features

1. Authentic Electro-Optical Compression – Modeled after one of the most beloved vintage compressors of all time.

2. Chris Lord-Alge Approved – Based on CLA’s personal unit with presets designed by Chris for vocals, drums, bass, and more.

3. Tube-Modeled Saturation – Adds rich harmonic warmth and depth even at subtle settings.

4. Limiter Mode – Great for increasing sustain on instruments or fully locking vocals into a mix.

5. Parallel Compression Built In – Blend dry/wet signals instantly with the MIX knob.

6. Sidechain Frequency Filter – Choose full-range compression or target only high frequencies for tone shaping.

7. Trim Control – Quickly adjust output levels to fit your mix.

8. Zero Latency Processing – Ideal for both live and studio environments.

9. Optional Analog Artifacts – Add realistic hiss and hum for vintage authenticity or keep it clean for modern workflows.

Additional Features

The legendary electro-optical tube compressor

Natural-sounding even with heavy compression

Tube emulation adds musical harmonic saturation

Mix control for easy parallel compression

Trim control for quick level adjustment

Modeled from Chris Lord-Alge’s personal vintage hardware

Optimum attack/release times fit vocals like a glove

Limiter mode increases instrument sustain

Presets by Chris Lord-Alge for vocals, guitar, bass, drums, more

Zero latency for both studio and live mixing

Optional subtle analog hiss and hum for total authenticity

Includes sidechain frequency filter

Why You Need Waves CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter

The Waves CLA-2A Compressor/Limiter was created to bring the timeless sound and behavior of one of the most iconic analog compressors—the LA-2A—into the modern digital workflow. Recognizing the legendary musical warmth and transparency of the original unit, Waves sought to deliver this classic analog character with precision and flexibility to today’s producers, engineers, and artists. The plugin was developed under the direct supervision of Grammy-winning mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge, using his own meticulously maintained LA-2A as the model. The goal was to combine the simplicity and sonic beauty of the hardware with the convenience, control, and modern features that digital environments require, making the CLA-2A both a faithful emulation and a powerful upgrade for the current generation of audio professionals.

Who This is For

The CLA-2A is targeted at a broad spectrum of audio professionals. Mix engineers and music producers are primary users, valuing the plugin’s ability to add warmth and consistency to vocals, guitars, and bass tracks. Recording artists benefit from its professional-grade analog tone and easy-to-use interface. Live sound engineers are also a key demographic due to the plugin’s zero-latency processing and musical responsiveness. Additionally, home studio users and content creators seeking vintage tube tone without the complexity of hardware gear will find it appealing. Sound designers and film post-production engineers also use the CLA-2A for character-rich dynamics control on dialogue and instrumental layers.

What This Package Competes With

Competing products include Universal Audio’s LA-2A Collection, IK Multimedia’s T-RackS White 2A, Slate Digital’s FG-2A, and Arturia’s Comp TUBE-STA. While these alternatives offer varying degrees of fidelity and flexibility, the Waves CLA-2A stands out due to its unique combination of meticulous analog modeling, real-time zero-latency performance, and added modern conveniences like a sidechain filter and built-in mix knob. Unlike UAD’s offering, the CLA-2A doesn’t require additional hardware and comes at a significantly lower price point. Compared to IK’s and Arturia’s plugins, CLA-2A delivers deeper detail, more sonic character, and the stamp of approval from a major industry figure, Chris Lord-Alge. The Slate FG-2A is only available via subscription and lacks the customizable analog nuances found in CLA-2A, making the latter more accessible and sonically versatile.