Waves Announces V17

Waves Audio has announced the release of V17, a major update across the Waves plug-in catalog that introduces a completely redesigned preset management system; new live sound and post-production enhancements; and Mix Unlock, a premium feature within StudioVerse that gives users greater control over finished stereo audio.

At the center of V17 is a brand-new preset management system implemented across the entire Waves plug-in catalog. The new workflow is said to improve how users browse, search, organize and save presets, making it easier than ever to access sounds without disrupting the creative process. The redesigned system features enhanced preset browsing, improved search functionality, management of favorite presets, and streamlined organizational tools, allowing users to quickly locate the settings they need -- whether working in music production, mixing, mastering, broadcast or live sound environments.

For live sound professionals, V17 enables the real-time analyzers within the Renaissance EQ and eMo Q4 plugins to run within the eMotion LV1 and SuperRack platforms. Other improvements include extended dynamic control plus a new 5Hz Frequency Shift option in Waves PSE (Primary Source Expander), for greater gain-before-feedback control; new touchscreen pinch control added in F6 and Q10; and more.

For studio users, V17 includes a new interface for the MondoMod modulation plugin, for increased usability and visual clarity; new I/O automation controls in CLA MixDown; AudioSuite support for the WLM Plus Loudness Meter, enabling faster offline loudness analysis and rendering for broadcast and streaming applications; and more.

V17 also introduces Mix Unlock, a powerful new premium feature within StudioVerse Audio Effects. Mix Unlock enables users to separate finished stereo audio into vocals, drums, bass and instruments -- in real time, directly within the DAW. Once separated, each element can be independently adjusted, processed, enhanced or creatively transformed using StudioVerse preset chains and Waves plugins. Mix Unlock opens new possibilities for real-time re-mixing and readjustment of finished audio, without requiring access to the original multitrack sessions.

The StudioVerse: Mix Unlock feature is included in Waves Creative Access subscriptions. It is also available for separate purchase -- and, for a limited time, it is free for owners of any Waves V17 plug-in.

In addition to the above new features, V17 delivers numerous stability improvements, workflow refinements, and bug fixes across Waves plug-ins, applications, and supported DAWs.