Waves Curves AQ: How the World’s First Autonomous Equalizer Works!
The Easy Way to Dynamic Sound Design
3,9 / 5,0 | 
With Curves AQ, Waves introduces the world’s first autonomous equalizer that takes an entirely new approach to frequency processing by integrating artificial intelligence – after they first introduced Equator. Instead of relying on pre-defined presets like conventional “intelligent” equalizers, Curves AQ uses generative technology to create individual sound profiles based on your audio material. This technology allows you to choose from five unique EQ profiles designed specifically for vocals, instruments, or entire mixes. These are not rigid presets, but dynamically generated spectral curves designed to reflect the natural character of the audio material. That sounds very exciting!
Waves Curves AQ – an Autonomous EQ Miracle?
The main advantage of Waves Curves AQ is, of course, its autonomous operation. As soon as you activate the “Learn” function, Curves AQ analyzes the incoming signal and creates five customized sound profiles. These profiles are called “Spectral Targets” and provide a clear visual orientation. The white curve shows you the target profile, while the colored curves (blue for cuts and red for boosts) represent the actual intervention in the frequency spectrum. A central element of the plugin is the ability to adjust the intensity of boosts and cuts globally or band by band. This precision allows for very flexible and efficient processing.
Of particular interest is the dynamic EQ control, which allows for a combination of static and dynamic sound processing. Depending on your needs, Curves AQ can operate in fully dynamic, static or hybrid mode. The Smart Tilt control provides an additional means of adjusting the overall tonal balance. Unlike conventional tilt EQs, this control not only changes the slope of the frequency spectrum, but also intelligently adjusts the spectral target curve. In addition, the offset function allows the target curve to be shifted along the X-axis, providing exciting results for creative sound design.
Spectral Targeting: How Curves AQ Intelligently Shapes Frequencies
Another highlight is MixSense, which takes into account the context of the mix. Rather than treating frequencies in isolation, MixSense allows you to adjust problematic frequency ranges in relation to other tracks. This is done through the sidechain input, allowing the EQ to make room for other elements in the mix. This adaptive adjustment adds transparency and punch to the overall sound.
Last but not least, Curves AQ also offers the typical live version, which is predestined for real-time use thanks to its latency-free processing. This is an invaluable feature, especially on stage or during performances. We have yet to test how Waves’ new autonomous AI equalizer performs in the studio. The initial specifications sound very promising.
Price and Availability
The introductory price of Waves Curves AQ is here at Plugin Boutique* at $65 / £51 / € 60, later the plugin will cost $155.
The plugin is available in 64 bit in the formats VST, VST3, AU and AAX and runs under Windows 10 or higher and macOS 12 or higher. A demo version is available for download from the manufacturer’s website.
More information about Waves Curves AQ
- Website from Waves
- More about Waves
*Note: This Waves Curves AQ review contains affiliate links that help us support our site. The purchase price and final price will always be the same! If you buy something through these affiliate links, we will receive a small “donation” and thank you for your support!
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