Weiss DS5 Multiband Compressor

The Weiss DS5 Multiband Compressor is a high-precision dynamics processor developed through the partnership between Softube and Weiss Engineering. While the original hardware Weiss DS1-MK3 is a wide-band processor, the DS5 expands this architecture into a five-band multiband format. Each band runs a line-by-line code port of the DS1-MK3 algorithms, providing the transparency and clinical accuracy associated with Weiss digital hardware in a flexible software environment.

Designed for mastering engineers and mix professionals, the DS5 allows for surgical control over the frequency spectrum. Users can address specific problematic areas—such as low-end buildup or harsh high-mid transients—without affecting the balance of the entire signal. The interface is built around a "Macro" workflow that adjusts all five bands simultaneously for rapid setup, while the "Expert" panel allows for deep-level parameter access of each individual Weiss unit.

The plugin features advanced crossover filters with three phase-correction modes (Dynamic, Static, and Linear) to ensure signal integrity across different use cases. Whether used for transparent bus compression or complex mastering corrections, the Weiss DS5 provides a level of digital processing density that is computationally impossible to replicate in standalone hardware form.

Key Features

• Five Independent Units: Each band utilizes the full DS1-MK3 algorithm for compression, expansion, or limiting.
• Macro Controls: Global adjustment of Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release across all bands simultaneously.
• Variable Phase Filters: Choose between Dynamic Phase (low latency), Static Phase, or Linear Phase (zero phase shift) crossovers.
• Flexible Sidechaining: Individual sidechain filters per band with internal or external triggering options.
• Mid/Side Processing: Full support for M/S operations to control stereo width and center-channel dynamics.
• Professional Preset Library: Includes specialized starting points from Bob Katz, Jonathan Wyner, Maor Appelbaum, and Philippe Weiss.