Waves Kramer PIE Compressor

$33.00 to $35.99

4.5 (7)

3 Critic Reviews

Waves

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Page last updated Jun 05, 2026

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$149.00 $34.99 $114.01 · All time low

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Description

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Bring the vintage warmth of classic rock to your digital studio with the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor. This expertly crafted plugin is a digital emulation of the rare '60s Pye compressor, a gem from the legendary Olympic Studios. Designed in collaboration with the renowned producer and engineer Eddie Kramer, this plugin captures the essence of the original hardware, known for its rich, musical compression.

The Kramer PIE Compressor is more than just a faithful recreation; it offers modern versatility with mono and stereo components, allowing you to shape your sound with precision. Whether you're aiming for subtle dynamic control or a bold, punchy effect, the plugin's compression ratios and limiter mode have you covered. The auto make-up gain feature ensures your output remains balanced, letting you focus on creativity rather than volume adjustments.

Crafted for the discerning audio professional, this plugin supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution in Native mode and offers compatibility with SoundGrid systems. Whether you're mixing in a professional studio or crafting tracks at home, the Kramer PIE Compressor is your ticket to that iconic, vintage audio flavor.

Key Features:

Modeled on a vintage Pye compressor from the '60s
Developed in collaboration with producer/engineer Eddie Kramer
Usable as a compressor or limiter
Auto make-up gain for balanced output
Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution (Native)
Compatible with SoundGrid systems
Includes mono and stereo components

Owner's manual

Waves Kramer PIE Compressor User Manual

Product specs

Available since	October 2016
Los artikel / bundelartikel	Los artikel
Delay	No
Dynamics	Yes
Effect Filter	No
Encoder/Decoder	No
Equalizer	No
Guitar amps/-effects	No
Channel Strip	No
Metering / Analysis / Correction	No
Modulation Effects	No
Multieffect / Plugin-Host	No
Overdrive/Distortion	No
Preamp / Saturation	No
Psychoacoustic tool / Enhancer / Exciter	No
Restauration	No
Reverb	No
Special FX	No
Summer / Mixing Consoles	No
Tape Simulation	No
Pitch Shifter / Harmonizer / Timestretching	No
Transient Processing	No
Vocoder / Vocal effect	No
Mastering Tools	No
Hardware Controller	No
Download	1

FAQs

What type of compression technology does the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor use?: The Waves Kramer PIE Compressor uses pulse-width modulation (PWM) technology, which is known for its fast, transparent, and low-distortion compression characteristics.
Is the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor suitable for drum bus compression?: Yes, the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor is particularly well-suited for drum bus compression, offering a classic sound that enhances drums, backing vocals, and master tracks with its unique character.
Can the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor be used with both Native and SoundGrid systems?: Yes, the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor is compatible with both Native and SoundGrid systems, making it versatile for various studio setups.
Does the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor include any modulation effects or special FX?: No, the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor focuses solely on dynamics processing and does not include modulation effects or special FX.
Is the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor available as a download?: Yes, the Waves Kramer PIE Compressor is available as a downloadable plugin, allowing for quick and easy installation.

Videos

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Waves Kramer PIE Compressor test.

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Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week: Kramer PIE Compressor

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Product Demo: Kramer PIE Compressor from Waves

Eric Tarr

I think Waves have actually done it this time!! 😱.. REAL pye compressor vs Waves kramer pie

Paul Third

Waves PIE Compressor - Plugin Review - HomeRecordingMadeEasy.com

Home Recording Made Easy

Analog PYE Compressor vs Waves Kramer PIE Compressor Plugin Shootout

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Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Waves Kramer PIE Compressor.

Features and functionality

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The Kramer PIE Compressor is praised for its "vintage" sound with a gluey-ness, although it has set threshold and attack/release points.
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The UAD version of the Helios emulation lacks gain compensation, but its simplicity and slight EQ drive make it a frequent choice for users.
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Use cases and applications

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Highly recommended for loud drum compression, and considered effective on a mix bus for the right project.
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The Lindell compressor's higher oversampling settings can smear transients, which is useful when aiming to create a heavily processed sound.
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Comparisons

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Described as closest to the 1176 compressor in all buttons in mode but with a distinct sound.
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The Lindell Audio 69 Series compressor is noted as a compex F760 type, featuring FET compression, which differs significantly from the sound profile of the Waves PIE Compressor.
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Users assert there isn't a better PIE compressor than Waves, highlighting its superiority in its category compared to others.
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Software and compatibility

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Waves licenses can be loaded directly onto a computer or flash drive, allowing portability and flexibility.
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The Waves business model is critiqued for limiting use to one computer, but it helps users focus on essential plugins they value.
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User experience

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Some users have reported issues with Waves licensing, experiencing random errors indicating they don't own licenses for plugins they have purchased.
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Owners find the Waves PIE Compressor consistently beneficial on drum bus and bass, delivering a pleasing tonal quality without requiring extensive tweaking.
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Critic Reviews

Waves Kramer HLS & PIE

soundonsound.com

Waves Kramer PIE Compressor is a sonic powerhouse, celebrated for its vintage emulation of the classic Pye compressor. It’s not the most versatile, but when it hits the mark, particularly on drum submixes, it delivers unmatched rock & roll excitement. While its unsubtle character may not suit every application, it’s perfect for those seeking a compressor that makes its presence felt. However, the installation process is cumbersome for users with older Waves plug-ins, potentially deterring prospective users. Overall, a compelling choice for those craving vintage character in their mixes.

positive

Full Review

Waves PIE Compressor review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Waves Kramer PIE Compressor is a splendid emulation of the classic 1960s Pye bus compressor. Praised for its transparent processing and ultra-realistic VU ballistics, it brings a lovely body to the sound that is both warm and detailed. While the faithful recreation is commendable, it does come with limitations, such as a small loss of high end and a restricted control set mirroring the original. Despite the lack of modern enhancements like adjustable attack or sidechain options, it's an excellent choice for overall mix compression, delivering tightness and definition without unwanted side effects.

positive

Full Review