Waves / Abbey Road J37
User Guide
6
Chapter 2 – Quick Start
The most common use of the J37 is to add character to a dull track, and compress the audio without
using compressor. The “tape compression” that the J37 introduces has no time constants and thus no
pumping or other unwanted artifacts common to conventional compressors. Use it, for example, to
smooth transients or harsh high frequencies of an acoustic guitar. For a dirtier feel try going to the older
formulas (888/811) and lower speeds. Increasing saturation can give a cleanly recorded electric guitar
a creamy, mildly distorted sound. It can help shape kick drums to a very 60s sound, and enrich samples
and make them more real.
The possibilities with the J37 are vast. A good way to get to know it is to go over the presets supplied
with the plugin; they will give you a good idea of what you can do with it.
Use the Input level control (in its linked state) and the VU meters to adjust the input level. Make sure
the peak program material does not 1VU – +2VU. These are good recording levels for the
virtual analogue “tape.”
The J37 default setting is: Formula 815, 15 ips, NOM Bias, which is the “flattest” possible setting. Try
changing the formula to experiment with more pronounced effects.
In general, use 15 ips for program material that requires more sensitive handling of high frequency
(acoustic guitars, vocals, strings, brass, etc.).
Use 7.5 ips for program material that is more oriented toward the low frequencies (kick drums, bass
guitars, celli, electric guitars).
For a dirtier sound switch to the 888 Formula.
Experiment with the linked Level control and listen to the differences in harmonic distortion and
compression effect—the higher the input, the more compressed/distorted the result, the lower the input
level, the clearer it gets.
In the Stereo mode, the default processing uses Modeled Tracks 2+3. This gives a wider stereo image
and better reflect what would happen with a stereo track recorded to Tape. If this effect is too severe,
