Because the Peak Reduction turns the volume down , you use Gain to turn it back up . The magic of the CLA-2A is that the output stage is transformer-balanced. Cranking the Gain without any Peak Reduction gives you pure tube saturation without compression—a fantastic trick for dull digital synths.
This article discusses the Waves CLA-2A plugin. Always demo plugins to ensure they fit your specific workflow and CPU load. cla-2a compressor limiter
If you want your vocals to sit on top of a guitar wall, your bass to hold the center, and your mix to feel like a record instead of a grid—the CLA-2A is the one compressor you should reach for first. Because the Peak Reduction turns the volume down
The charm of the CLA-2A lies in its "bonehead simple" two-knob interface, allowing producers to focus on the sound rather than technical parameters. This article discusses the Waves CLA-2A plugin
: Modern additions that allow for parallel compression (wet/dry balance) and quick output level trimming without affecting the main gain stage. Best Use Cases Vocals : Renowned for adding "glue" and silky-smooth warmth.