Kramer HLS Channel by Waves channel strip plugin interface

Kramer HLS Channel: Console Channel Strip Plugin by Waves

Kramer HLS Channel is a channel strip plugin from Waves that models the EQ and mic/line preamp drive of the Helios console used at Olympic Studios, developed with producer Eddie Kramer.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS

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01Overview

Kramer HLS Channel is an effects plugin from Waves in the channel strip subcategory. It is built around the Helios console at London's Olympic Studios, a desk associated with recordings by Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley. Waves developed the plugin with producer Eddie Kramer. The emulation covers both the console's EQ and the behavior of its mic and line preamps, so it can be used on single tracks, buses or a master.

Best for

Vocal channel processing
Drum bus saturation
Bass tone shaping
Mix master coloration
Classic rock tones

Developer: Waves
Category: Channel Strips
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Models the Helios console's EQ in detail
Emulates mic and line preamp drive
Developed with producer Eddie Kramer
Three-band EQ designed for quick sound dialing
Optional historically based noise and hum
Variable harmonic distortion from preamp modeling
Available as VST2, AU and AAX
Runs on Windows and macOS

03In depth

Helios EQ and Preamp Character

Waves says the plugin models the Helios EQ and mic/line preamp drive in detail. The EQ is a three-band design, which the developer describes as helping users dial in a sound quickly.

The preamp modeling provides variable harmonic distortion, so the amount of drive and coloration can be shaped from clean to saturated. Waves also includes an optional noise and hum layer, which it describes as historically accurate, for users who want the console's background character.

Using HLS Channel in a Mix

HLS Channel is suited to processing individual tracks, buses and master outputs. The three-band EQ gives a direct route to the tonal shaping the console is known for, while the preamp stage adds saturation that can thicken low end and add warmth to a signal.

Because the plugin is intended for both track and bus use, it can serve as a single channel strip across several stages of a session.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Waves
Type	Plugin
Category	Channel Strip
Formats	VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is Kramer HLS Channel?

Kramer HLS Channel is an effects plugin from Waves in the channel strip category. It models the EQ and preamp drive of the Helios console at London's Olympic Studios.

What formats does Kramer HLS Channel support?

Kramer HLS Channel is available in VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What system does Kramer HLS Channel need on macOS?

On Mac, the plugin supports macOS Monterey 12, Ventura 13, Sonoma 14 and Sequoia 15 in VST, AU and AAX. On PC, it supports Windows 10 and later in VST and AAX.

Does Kramer HLS Channel add noise?

Yes, it includes an optional noise and hum layer that Waves describes as historically accurate. It can be used or left off depending on the sound you want.