BB Tubes Saturator by Waves: Analog Saturation at its best

What do we need Saturation? Well, Saturation is a fundamental technique in audio engineering that enriches recordings, samples, and synths with warmth and character by introducing harmonic distortion. It softens harsh transients, enhances perceived loudness, and replicates the beloved analog sound. Whether subtly applied for warmth or pushed to extremes for grit, saturation remains a versatile tool cherished by producers and engineers alike.

Waves BB Tubes is a saturation plugin with a touch of warmth and richness akin to analog equipment. A distinctive plugin within Waves’ Magma series, the interplay between the BEAUTY and BEAST knobs presents a diverse sonic spectrum, ranging from mild saturation to intense aggression, aiding in the crafting of productions with a rich sound quality.

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Waves BB Tubes

User Interface

As previously mentioned, BB Tubes functions as a tube saturator plugin designed to replicate analog sound. Within the plugin, two primary knobs, labeled ‘Beauty’ and ‘Beast’, take center stage. Each knob offers distinct saturation effects, providing valuable versatility. The ‘Beauty’ knob introduces subtle harmonic distortion, enriching the sound with warmth and depth. Conversely, the ‘Beast’ knob intensifies saturation, delivering a more pronounced and aggressive coloration to your audio. Furthermore, the ‘Beast’ knob offers the option to select between Type A and Type B, each presenting distinct harmonic structures.

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Left & Right panels

Although the BB knobs hold considerable importance, other controls matter too. On the left of the plugin’s interface, you’ll find the Sensitivity knob, which regulates the input gain, or dry signal. Adjacent to the Sensitivity knob, there’s a stylized LED indicator designed to provide visual feedback on the input level directed into the saturator. This LED indicator employs a color-coded system to aid in monitoring the strength of the signal: when the LED is off, it indicates a low signal level; green signifies that the signal is within a safe range; yellow denotes an optimal input level; and finally, red suggests that the signal is ‘hot’. A red LED doesn’t necessarily mean the signal is problematic, it might suit your needs perfectly.

The Bass Relief knob reduces the amount of bass going inside the Saturator, allowing better focus on mids and highs. Additionally, There’s also a transformer switch, adding subtle harmonic distortion and saturation for an analog touch. It’s a key element in BB Tubes’ sound but can be turned off for a cleaner, less colored effect.

The right panel offers a simpler layout. In the Tone section, you’ll find two knobs: Pre and Post. These act as EQ controls targeting the 10kHz shelf range. The Pre knob adjusts this shelf by up to ±9dB before saturation, while the Post knob does the same after processing. These knobs are highly useful and significant. Additionally, BB Tubes features a Mix knob for blending dry and wet signals.

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Demo

Below is a brief showcase of BB Tubes applied to an 808 bass and its resulting impact.

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Waves BB Tubes represents a powerful tool for modern audio production, seamlessly blending the warmth of analog sound with the convenience of digital processing. Whether adding subtle warmth to vocals or driving guitars with aggressive saturation, the plugin offers endless creative possibilities.

If you would like to purchase BB Tubes, you can do it on Waves’ official website for 29.99$, or additionally, you can subscribe to Waves’ Ultimate subscription for more plugins.

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