Which compressor do you prefer in pro mix applications?  Does the PC76 stand up to the more glamorous CLA 1176?

I haven't played with the CLA model, but based on what Waves has done in the last 5 years (like the Studio Classics Collection) I'm sure I would like it better. I feel like the PC76 isn't as punchy as the hardware, which is my main complaint with software compressors modeled after hardware most of the time, and indeed with software compressors in general.

I can tell you I don't use the PC76 at all. I much prefer the (old) UAD 1176LN model. From what I've heard the new UAD ones are really great- I'm interested if someone here has tried them.

http://www.uaudio.com/store/compressors-limiters/1176-collection.html


I'll have to dig into the demo on this new collection but I'm curious about other's impressions, too.

Peace,

Tunes

Do a search here on the forum. Someone did a detailed comparison and they concluded that for them, the waves 1176 was fantastic, and the Pro Channel 76 was just really good.  Not sure if that helps.

Haven't used the CLA much, just a brief demo once. I do have the IK Black 76 and the Softube FET compressor though and I prefer both to the PC76. It doesn't sound bad by any stretch, I just prefer the other two.   

When comparing the PC76 to other 1176 emulations very rarely do I choose the PC76 over the others. Waves, IK, PSP, etc. sound better to my ears.

I have a new UA 2-1176.  I use it on incoming mics (mainly vocal) after going through an Avalon 737.  Good god...it sounds like butter.  I even put it on the 2 bus to warm up the signal outta Sonar.  I usually either don't compress at all, or just bump the needles 1-2 db.  Man....it is a pretty good glue compressor.  I am buying a Manley Vari-mu in the next couple of weeks (or a Shadow Labs Optograph...I know someone that is selling it), so I doubt it will go on the bus after that.

I prefer hardware on mics and outboard gear.  I am usually fine with the pc76 for day to day stuff.  Just never to master.

I just got the CLA comps bundle recently for $199,and really like it,but having said that,a while ago I trialed the SSL bundle[too expensive at the time],but found I could replicate quite a few of the "included Waves presets",with the PC4K S-type Buss type comp,PC4K exp / gate,PC4K S-type channel comp,with the Gloss EQ[E or G type],and occasionally the PC76 U-type,and get incredibly close to some of the Waves SSL G or E type "channel strip module presets",and especially the singular SSL "mastering comp presets",with just the PC4K S-Type Buss compressor.

For ludicrous drum "hugeness" the Waves 76 blue/black,while better,is not a million times better,and the "dry/wet",on the PC76,is very handy,but the "all buttons mode"on the Waves is more dramatic,than the"infinity setting"on the Cakewalk PC76,but having them all,at an absolute tuppence-compared to the hardware,is where it's really exciting.

I don't think I would have bought the Waves comps individually,as the price is not justified,compared to how good the Cakewalk comps are,especially comparing the PC2A,to the CLA2A,but the Waves CLA3A is an interesting addition,and at basically $50 each,was too cool a deal to pass up.
Bob

I been using this 1176 emulation.. http://minimalsystem.com I can not compare it towards the others but for the price and its usability , I use this compressor all the time.. 

http://minimalsystem.com/...9_60&product_id=61

I been using this 1176 emulation.. http://minimalsystem.com I can not compare it towards the others but for the price and its usability , I use this compressor all the time.. 

http://minimalsystem.com/...9_60&product_id=61


Btw it's only 32 bit but works awesome in 64 bit

    I haven't found myself liking the PC76 too much, emulation wise, but it does get used. 

    I have been using the new UAD 1176 collection and I'm blown away with how great these plugs are, I need to get 2 more quads so that I can use them on everything.

    I'll Try out the waves stuff this weekend I think. Maybe the T-rack stuff too.