Not a fan of vocalstrips but when i do use one is the OG CLA Vocals (without reverb and delay). I love the compression and the tone control on that plugin, i like the spreader also. Always at the end of the chain.

 

It's muscle memory now to fire up that plugin whenever I want quick vocal processing. I still use it for BGV these days. You are right, it has a sound and I already got used to it. Not many signature series plugin needed an update but this one already sold millions of copy and could really use a version 2.

 

Yeah, usually for a lead vocal, I will use different tools, and sometimes more than others, and it really depends on the singer and what tool works best for the song .... and often when sketching/skatting stuff out I'll use an "all in one" (I used to like Nectar 10 or more years ago for that kinda thing) but I'd be a damn liar if I said I didn't use CLA Vocals on BGV stacks as hell, I'm both lazy and it works quite well... but again, it's been a few years since I have and I don't think even have any waves installed on my new system...

 

Yeah, 100% muscle memory. That's why i'm not into more complex Vocalstrips. This one just works, pull some faders and boom, you're ready to go. Magic Flow by AA sounds impressive, but i'm lazy, so i will stick with the ones i know instead of going for a more complex route that will make my life harder.

 

CLA Vocals has been very useful indeed, this conversation has brought back to me this memory:

This video explains the ethos around CLA Vocals - memes, advantages and criticisms.
Jaycen Joshua seems to swear by it.

Around 4:50, George T analyzes the separate modules of CLA Vocals in Plugin Doctor.

Do not be set astray by the clickbait title... There is a lot to learn here, especially in the second half.

He has a fantastic YouTube channel for learning about other engineers and their techniques, do check it out.

 

It sounds good but the built-in hiss and hum are unbearable.