DS1-MK3

The Weiss DS1-MK3 is one of the most revered dynamics processors ever created for precise and musical dynamics control. Leading mastering and mixing engineers praise its transparency, unique feature set, and versatility. The DS1-MK3 is a full-band or band-selective compressor, limiter, and de-esser with M/S mode and parallel compression facilities. 

Since 2018, the DS1-MK3 is also available as a plug-in for any major digital audio workstation. The plug-in is a 1:1 code port provided by Softube in collaboration with Weiss Engineering.

THREE DECADES OF EXCELLENCE

The Weiss DS1 has been a staple in mastering studios worldwide for nearly three decades. It is not unlikely that it has been used on most of the major releases that have come out during that time. Its flexibility and musicality are unrivaled to this day.

FLEXIBLE IN USE

The DS1-MK3 is a two-channel digital de-esser, compressor, and limiter. It features linear-phase crossover filters that cover the whole audio band. This allows the DS1-MK3 to be used as a band selective or full band compressor and limiter. It is also possible to use the DS1-MK3 for parallel compression.

M/S MODE

The DS1-MK3 can be used for M/S compression, in which case the controls for the two channels are set to unganged. Similarly, the sidechain linking can be turned off, which is typically preferable for M/S operation.

PRESETS

The DS1-MK3 comes with factory presets, some of which are created at Weiss Engineering and others by mastering and audiophile extraordinaire Bob Katz. User presets can also be stored.

DETAILED CONTROL

The DS1-MK3 offers incredibly detailed control over the processing taking place. Not least can the unit’s release behavior be tailored in detail, with individual control over fast release (release after momentary peaks), slow release (release in response to changes in the average level), control over the RMS measurement window size, and also the unique release delay setting which adds a “hold” delay before the unit enters the release phase.

DIGITAL PRECISION

The unit operates in either 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, or 96 kHz sampling frequency, with internal 40-bit floating point arithmetic. It features transparent phase-linear crossover filters for frequency-selective compression.