The latest plug-in to join the Waves line-up isn't a processor, but rather a tool for sending and receiving lossless audio from (or to) your DAW. Stream can be used to collaborate with others, share high-quality audio with friends and clients, or for quickly checking a mix outside of the studio.
The plug-in can be loaded on any DAW track, and setting up a stream is as simple as clicking the large Play button and sharing a link which can be opened either via an included Receiver plug-in, or a web-based player that can be accessed by anyone with no license required. Lossless audio is transmitted using the company’s proprietary Waves Falcon codec, and the system uses one-time links that will expire when left unopened, as well as offering optional password protection.
Stream is also equipped with a built-in Mic section that features gain and on/off controls, and has been designed to behave in a similar way to a studio’s talkback system. Any DAW channel with a mic connected can be assigned to the plug-in’s side-chain input, allowing users to speak to each other while sharing audio between their systems.
Compatibility
Stream is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and above. It is available in VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions. Supported web browsers for the Web Player element include Chrome (macOS, Windows, Android and iOS), Safari (macOS and iOS), Edge (Windows and macOS) and Firefox (Windows and macOS).
Pricing & Availability
Stream is available now, priced at $8.99 / month or $88.88 / year. It is also included in the company’s Waves Creative Access subscription packages and to Waves Mercury bundle owners with a current Waves Update Plan.