Waves DeEsser

Waves DeEsser

Waves DeEsser is a focused vocal and high-frequency dynamics processor designed to reduce excessive “ess” and “shh” sibilance while maintaining a natural, clear sound. Its straightforward controls make it fast to dial in, whether you're cleaning up a lead vocal, narration, podcast, audiobook, or other detailed vocal recording.

DeEsser provides both Wideband and Split processing modes, allowing you to choose between gentler full-band control and more targeted high-frequency suppression. Its sidechain can use either a highpass or bandpass filter, with selectable processing frequencies from 2 kHz to 16 kHz.

A dedicated monitoring function lets you audition the frequencies being detected and removed, making it easier to identify problematic sibilance and set the threshold precisely.

Key Features

• Specialized de-essing for vocals and high-frequency harshness

• Reduces excessive “S” and “Sh” sounds

• Adjustable detection range from 2 kHz to 16 kHz

• Wideband processing mode

• Split-band processing mode

• Highpass or bandpass sidechain filtering

• Dedicated monitoring for the detected/de-essed signal

• Threshold control with attenuation metering

• Presets for male and female vocals

• Presets for full-mix applications

• Useful beyond vocals for cymbals, drum loops, amp simulations, and synthesizers

• Zero native latency

• Mono and stereo operation

Technical Specifications

Plugin Type: De-Esser / High-Frequency Dynamics Processor
Processing Modes: Wideband / Split
Frequency Range: 2 kHz–16 kHz
Sidechain Filters: Highpass / Bandpass
Processing: Hard-knee compression
Latency: 0 samples native
Channel Formats: Mono / Stereo
Sample Rates: Up to 192 kHz
Versions: Waves V17 and earlier supported legacy versions
Platforms: macOS / Windows
Formats: VST3 / AU / AAX

Professional Applications

Ideal for vocals, voice-over, podcasts, audiobooks, broadcast, dialogue, live sound, music production, and mixing. DeEsser can also be used creatively or surgically on cymbals, drum loops, guitar amp simulations, and synthesizers when high-frequency harshness needs to be controlled.