If you’ve got a bunch of Waves plugins and you’re wondering, “Can I actually master a full track with just these?”

Short answer: Yes. 100%.

You don’t need fancy boutique tools. A clean, smart chain using Waves can give you professional results if your mix is solid.

Let’s break it down in a simple, no-overthinking way.

🎛 1. Clean Up the Tone (EQ First)

Plugin: Waves Linear Phase EQ

This is your “clean-up and polish” stage.

What I usually do:

• High-pass at 20–30Hz (remove useless rumble)

• Slight cut around 200–400Hz if it feels muddy

• Gentle high-shelf boost at 8–12kHz for air

Keep it subtle. If you’re boosting more than 2 dB, something might be wrong in the mix.

Mastering = tiny moves that make a big difference.

🎚 2. Add Glue (Light Compression)

Plugin: Waves SSL G-Master Buss Compressor

This compressor is famous for “gluing” the mix together.

Try this:

• Ratio: 2:1

• Attack: 30ms

• Release: Auto

• Only 1–2 dB of gain reduction

That’s it. Don’t squash it. Just a little control.

🎞 3. Add Some Flavor (Optional)

Plugin: Waves J37 Tape

If your track feels too clean or digital, add a tiny bit of tape vibe.

Keep the drive low. Very low.
This is mastering — not distortion day.

A little warmth goes a long way.

🎛 4. Fix Problem Areas (If Needed)

Plugin: Waves C6 Multiband Compressor

Only use this if something’s acting up:

• Boomy low end?

• Harsh highs?

• Vocals jumping out?

Keep gain reduction under 2 dB per band.

If you’re compressing heavily here, go back and fix the mix instead.

🎧 5. Widen (Carefully)

Plugin: Waves S1 Stereo Imager