Waves - Extreme-C SoundGrid Server

The Waves Extreme-C SoundGrid Server is aimed at sound engineers who want to maximise their processing power without weighing down their configuration. Its half-rack 2U format is discreet enough to slip into a flycase, but under the bonnet it's a different story. With a 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and 8 GB of RAM, this server is capable of handling huge sessions, both live and in the studio, while maintaining imperceptible latency - just 0.8 ms, even at 96 kHz.

Those who work with the SuperRack SoundGrid plug-in rack or who want to relieve their computer of the CPU load will immediately notice the difference. This little processing monster ensures a smooth, seamless flow, even under high pressure. The Neutrik EtherCON connector, monitoring LEDs for temperature and network, and reinforced RAM positioning make it a robust companion, just as at home on tour as in a well-heated studio control room.

The design, too, has evolved: sober, compact and elegant, it fits effortlessly into any professional installation. It can be rack-mounted on its own, or two side-by-side on a shelf, so it's easy to think about redundancy. And yes, it's small enough to travel in carry-on luggage, simplifying logistics for mobile technicians.

Compared to a Proton or a One-C, the Extreme-C pushes the envelope in terms of raw power. So it's ideal for those mixing large-scale shows, who need to load complex EQ, compression or reverb chains onto several dozen slices simultaneously.

It's the dream tool for those who don't want to compromise on the responsiveness or stability of their real-time audio processing.