Weiss DS1-MK3 mastering compressor limiter and de-esser plug-in interface by Softube

Weiss DS1-MK3: Mastering Compressor, Limiter and De-Esser Plug-in by Softube

Weiss DS1-MK3 is a mastering plug-in from Softube that combines de-essing, compression and limiting in one processor. Softube describes it as a line-by-line code port of the Weiss DS1-MK3 hardware unit.

VST3VST2AUAAXRTASWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

The Weiss DS1-MK3 brings the digital mastering processor used in many professional mastering studios into a DAW. Softube builds it as a code port of the original hardware rather than an emulation, and it runs at up to 32-bit/192 kHz. The plug-in combines de-essing, compression and limiting in a single tool, and it adds two new limiter algorithms alongside the original Weiss limiter. It is offered as a crossgrade for owners of Weiss DS5 Multiband Compressor.

Best for

Mastering compression
Brick-wall limiting
Vocal and mix de-essing
Mid-side mastering
Loudness control

Developer: Softube
Category: Mastering
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Combines de-essing, compression and limiting in one plug-in
Line-by-line code port of the original Weiss DS1-MK3 hardware
Processes at up to 32-bit/192 kHz
Stereo and mid-side de-essing with selectable filters
Variable soft-knee compressor with adjustable settings
Three limiter algorithms, including the original Weiss limiter
Second new limiter algorithm designed for true peak limiting
Waveform view in advanced metering
New presets from Bob Katz
Multiple instances can run on one mix

03In depth

Three Mastering Processors in One Plug-in

The Weiss DS1-MK3 covers de-essing, compression and limiting. The de-esser lets you choose your own filters and adjust frequency, and it can work in stereo or mid-side mode, so you can treat mids and sides independently.

The compressor offers variable soft-knee settings. Softube says the digital design can run at speeds no analogue unit could reach, with full control over the result.

The limiter includes the original Weiss algorithm plus two new algorithms. Softube notes that one of the new limiters is designed for true peak limiting.

Metering, Presets and Multiple Instances

The plug-in includes advanced metering with a waveform view. Softube also includes a set of new presets created by mastering engineer Bob Katz.

Because it is a plug-in, you can load several instances of the processor on the same mix at no extra cost, which is useful when you need separate processing on multiple tracks.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Softube
Type	Plugin
Category	Mastering
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX, RTAS
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is the Weiss DS1-MK3 plug-in?

It is a mastering plug-in from Softube that includes a de-esser, a compressor and a limiter. Softube describes it as a line-by-line code port of the Weiss DS1-MK3 hardware processor.

Which formats and operating systems does it support?

The plug-in is listed in VST3, VST2, AU, AAX and RTAS formats, and it runs on Windows and macOS as a 64-bit plug-in. Softube notes that TDM, VENUE and RTAS are no longer supported.

What do I need to use the Weiss DS1-MK3?

You need a compatible 64-bit host application such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Ableton Live, Studio One or Reaper, an iLok account and a Softube account. Softube recommends using the VST3 format.

07Developer

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