Waves MaxxVolume Software User Guide
Introduction
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MaxxVolume Overview
MaxxVolume is an all-in-one dynamics processor available in mono and stereo configurations. It performs four distinct dynamics processing functions: gating, low level compression, leveling, and compression.
By combining several acclaimed Waves dynamics processing technologies, MaxxVolume offers significant audio processing power while consolidating controls under a simple set of faders for straightforward operation. Each dynamics function is controlled by one or two faders.
The plug-in interface is organized with low gain or low signal level functions on the left side (to the left of the Energy Meter), and high signal level functions on the right side.
Key Functions
Low Level Compressor
The Low Level Compression function is managed by two faders: Threshold, which defines the level below which compression begins, and Gain, which sets the amount of gain applied to the compressed signal.
Low Level Compression is the inverse of standard compression. While standard compression attenuates signals above a threshold, low level compression boosts signals below the threshold, increasing their gain. This process compresses the dynamic range by raising lower levels while leaving higher levels unchanged.
A visual representation of low-level compression is provided, illustrating its effect on audio signals. The diagram shows a graph with 'input' on the horizontal axis and 'output' on the vertical axis. A standard compressor attenuates signals above a set threshold, resulting in a curve that flattens out at higher output levels. In contrast, low-level compression boosts signals that fall below the threshold, creating an upward curve in that region, effectively increasing the gain of quieter parts of the signal while leaving louder parts largely unaffected. This process is depicted with a red curve for standard compression and a blue curve for low-level compression, highlighting the 'compressed range' where gain is applied.
Gate
The Gate function is controlled by a single fader that sets the gating threshold. The gate applies gentle downward expansion to any signal below this threshold.
Leveler
The Leveler function, also known as Auto-Gain Control (AGC), is controlled by the Leveler fader, which sets its threshold and target. A Leveler is used to maintain constant levels over extended audio segments. It functions like a compressor with very long attack and release times, reacting to the overall signal ('the forest') rather than individual transients ('each tree'). A Leveler can be considered an RMS compressor.
MaxxVolume's Leveler smoothly and transparently adjusts the gain of signals exceeding its threshold, bringing them down towards the desired target level.
High Level Compressor
MaxxVolume's High Level Compression function includes compression with automatic makeup gain and output level control. It is similar to the Waves Renaissance Vox compressor.
The compressor is controlled by the Threshold fader, which determines the amount of dynamic range compression. An automatic gain makeup function compensates for the gain reduction caused by compression. The Gain fader sets the maximum output signal level.
Interface Elements
The MaxxVolume interface is centered around the Energy Meter. Low Level signal functions are located on the left side, while High Level signal functions are on the right.
Low Level Compression, Gating, Leveling, and High Level Compression can be enabled or disabled individually using the on/off buttons [✔️] located on their respective faders.
Energy Meter
Displays the audio signal's level after the Leveler's processing and before other dynamics processing functions. Range: 0 to -96dB.
Low Level Compression Controls
Threshold
Sets the threshold below which low-level soft-knee compression begins. The fader's position is indicated by a hairline on the Energy Meter. Supports an on/off button [✔️]. Range: 0 to -96dB.
Gain
Controls the maximum gain makeup and compression applied to signals below the Threshold. Applying gain values higher than the Threshold may result in a signal exceeding 0dB or clipping. Range: 0 to +48dB.
Gain Meter
Displays the amount of low-level makeup gain. Range: 0 to +48dB.
Gate Control
Threshold
Sets the level below which gating (downward expansion) is applied. Supports an on/off button [✔️]. Range: 0 to -96dB.
Loud/Soft Control
Adjusts the ARC™ release times. 'Loud' provides shorter, more aggressive release for louder output. 'Soft' provides longer release times for softer output. Range: Soft/Loud.
Leveler Control
Threshold/Target
Sets the threshold above which leveling is applied and the target level for the audio signal. To compensate for gain reduction caused by the Leveler, use the High Level Compressor function. Supports an on/off button [✔️]. Range: 0 to -48dB.
High Level Compression Controls
Gain Reduction Meter
Displays the amount of high-level gain reduction or attenuation. Range: 0 to -48dB.
Threshold
Controls the compressor threshold, setting the amount of potential dynamic range compression. Pulling the fader down applies automatic makeup gain corresponding to the resulting attenuation. The fader's position is indicated by a hairline on the Energy Meter. Supports an on/off button [✔️]. Range: 0 to -48dB.
Gain
Controls the maximum output level. Range: 0 to -48dB.
Output Meter
Displays the plug-in's output level, including peak and clip (signal exceeding 0dB) indication. Range: 0 to -96dB.
WaveSystem Toolbar
The bar at the top of the plugin allows saving and loading presets, comparing settings, undoing/redoing steps, and resizing the plugin. For more information, click the icon [⚙️] in the upper-right corner of the window and open the WaveSystem Guide.
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