Available for download, the Waves Scheps Omni Channel is a plug-in designed to handle all of your channel-strip needs. Channel-strip plug-ins take their inspiration from the individual channels of large-format mixing consoles, on which you’d often find an EQ, a compressor, and a gate/expander module. These processes could frequently be swapped in order, but the effect was always one of efficiency, getting you closer to the sound you want without having to patch in external gear. Many plug-ins have operated with this concept in mind, but the Scheps Omni Channel brings some new features into the mix that help you create more realized sounds with just one plug-in instance.

The preamp section, for instance, features a switchable saturation circuit with three types of harmonic distortion. Low- and high-pass filters are on hand to shave off unnecessary frequencies within the preamp. A four-band equalizer section features shelving and parametric bands. Next, you’ll note the DS² section, a processor with its genesis in both traditional split-band de-essing and dynamic equalization. You can use this module to de-ess a vocal, to notch out unpleasant resonances in snare drums, or for any other dynamic/frequency-specific need. A gate/expander is also available, as is a compressor with three different circuit types for eliciting different timbres. Further expanding the Omni Channel’s functionality, an insert slot allows you to patch in any Waves plug-in you desire, be it a delay, a modulator, or even an additional Omni Channel module.

The modules can be moved around in any order you wish, so you can apply preamp saturation after equalization if that’s the vibe of the track. The software can be used in mixing applications, but zero-latency operation and control-mapping for eMotion LV1 Mixing Consoles makes this plug-in a good choice for FOH engineers. The Scheps Omni Channel Strip is compatible with Mac and Windows platforms, and operates in AAX, AU, Audiosuite, VST, and VST3 formats.