In this video series for Production Expert, with the support of Waves, Michael Costa talks us through the Waves plug-in series. Michael focuses on the bass in this video and shows how the Waves F6 Dynamic EQ can give the bass more of a hi-fi sound and presence. This video also looks at the Waves Abbey Road RS124 compressor and how its Super Fuse mode can make each note sound distinct.

Many say the Abbey Road RS124 is the Holy Grail of smooth compression and can be heard on every Beatles recording made at Abbey Road. With the choice of distinct flavors, the Waves RS124 is the only software emulation, approved by Abbey Road Studios.

Accordingly, the Waves plugin features two distinct RS124 flavors, modeled from the original hardware:

Studio

Studio models RS124 serial no. 60070B – a favorite unit used for tracking at Abbey Road from the late ‘50s into the ‘60s, due to its faster attack and release times. This is the more aggressive sound of the RS124, which creates a beautiful “squashed” sound on transients.

Cutter

Cutter is a modification with slower attack and release times. The slower RS124s were favored for studio reduction mixes and in Abbey Road’s cutting rooms during the ‘60s. The more relaxed attack made these units suitable and more forgiving for bus compression and mastering purposes.

Waves Abbey Road RS124 Features

• Two versions - Studio and Cutter

• The RS124 is a feedback compressor with a variable recovery. Want it to become more aggressive? The included “Super Fuse” mode matches release time to attack time, creating a brutal compression character that sounds like it’s “fighting against itself.” Try this on your drum bus for complete room destruction.

• Expansion Panel: Side-chain Filter, Mix Knob, and Mid Side Options.

• Super-Fuse mode added for more aggressive results

• SC-HP, Mix knob, and MS options included

• High-Frequency Roll-Off option included

Full details on Waves Abbey Road RS124 can be found on Waves’ website, where a limited-time demo is available.