Introduction

You own a great sounding hardware EQ. It sounds great. It feels good. You know just how to “tweak” the knobs to get the sound that you are looking for. But perhaps you can’t afford to buy 97 more hardware EQs for every one of the 98 tracks in your current mix! Even if you could, wouldn’t it be like a dream come true if you could digitally save the various settings of your hardware EQs on all of the different tracks of your mix?

Now you can. With the Q-Clone you can “clone” your favorite hardware EQ and use it on an unlimited number of tracks, “tweak” the EQ in real time using the familiar hardware EQ knobs, create a library of the cloned presets, and then change them at any given time.

BASIC CONCEPT

The Waves Q-clone is an EQ-device cloning system. It captures the EQ curve of a single mono analog EQ and uses it to process any given track. This process can be repeated on several tracks, cloning different EQ-settings from the same device to each track.

The Q-Clone also comes with a great library of sampled EQ curves from classic, acclaimed and vintage hardware equalizers. The presets can be used without having your own hardware EQ to sample.

The Q-Clone can be opened on any given track. After a simple procedure is followed, the Q-Clone will create the image of the EQ hardware device that is connected to your DAW.

THE Q-CLONE PRODUCT

The Q-Clone clones the linear part of any system that it is connected to. It will not replicate distortions, noise, or other non-linear properties. However, it will perfectly replicate the sound of the filters and their phase responses.

The Q-Capture is a mono-only component so it will capture only mono devices. However, you can open a stereo Q-Clone component on a stereo track and it will apply the same EQ settings to both channels. This will be a perfectly matched stereo clone of the analog device.

The system is comprised of 2 plug-in components: The Q-Clone and the Q- Capture. This manual will go into more depth on the Q-Clone and the Q-Capture in “The Plug-ins components” section.

Waves Q-Clone Manual

Q-Clone specifications

Waves Q-Clone is a revolutionary plugin designed for audio engineers and music producers who seek to capture the essence of analog equalizers in a digital format. This plugin stands out due to its unique ability to replicate the character and tonal nuances of classic hardware EQs, making it an essential tool in modern music production.

One of the main features of Q-Clone is its advanced modeling technology, which utilizes Waves’ proprietary Quantum Modeling Technology. This technology enables Q-Clone to analyze and replicate the frequency response and dynamic behavior of multiple renowned equalizers with remarkable accuracy. Users can switch between different EQ profiles, allowing them to explore various tonal characteristics without the need to invest in expensive hardware. This feature not only enhances creativity but also simplifies the mixing process by providing instant access to revered analog tones.

Another key characteristic of Q-Clone is its intuitive interface, which is designed for ease of use. The plugin displays a clear and responsive graph of the frequency spectrum, allowing users to make precise adjustments. The visual representation of the EQ curve helps engineers quickly identify and enhance specific frequencies within their audio tracks. Additionally, Q-Clone includes features like bypass functions, A/B comparisons, and smooth transitions, empowering users to fine-tune their sound while maintaining workflow efficiency.

One notable technology integrated into Q-Clone is its ability to operate in real-time, making it suitable for both mixing and mastering applications. The plugin minimizes latency, ensuring that engineers can hear the changes they make without any significant delay. This is particularly beneficial during live performances or sessions where time is of the essence.

Furthermore, Q-Clone supports multiple formats, including VST, AU, and AAX, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of digital audio workstations (DAWs). This flexibility allows producers to incorporate Q-Clone into their existing setups, making it a versatile addition to any mixing or mastering chain.

In conclusion, Waves Q-Clone combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, making it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to harness the power of analog sound in a digital realm. Its comprehensive feature set and precise modeling capabilities enable users to achieve professional-quality results, enhancing their audio projects with the warmth and richness associated with classic hardware equalizers.