FOH engineer and producer John Buitrago used Waves’ SuperRack LiveBox for the Don Toliver 2024 Psycho Tour.
NORTH AMERICA – FOH engineer and producer John Buitrago (Karol G, Don Toliver, J Balvin, Lil Durk) used Waves’ SuperRack LiveBox for the Don Toliver 2024 Psycho Tour. The tour included shows in the U.S. and Canada from Oct. 10-Nov. 21 in support of Toliver’s latest Hip-Hop/Rap album, Hardstone Psycho.
More details from Waves (www.waves.com):
Waves SuperRack LiveBox Dante
Waves’ SuperRack LiveBox enables access to the power of your favorite studio-grade VST3 plugins, from Waves and other manufacturers, all running natively in a simple and robust turn-key solution. The new SuperRack LiveBox Dante® supports up to 128 channels, and features unrivaled low latency, PSU redundancy, and the reliable industry-standard SuperRack Performer audio plugin host—all in one 2U unit. Each SuperRack LiveBox Dante purchase also comes with the Waves Live bundle, which includes over 50 must-have plugins for state-of-the-art live mixing. SuperRack LiveBox gives live sound engineers and creative artists access to their favorite VST3 plugins by diverse brands, all running natively on a turnkey device that’s quick and easy to set up in any live or broadcast setting. (SuperRack LiveBox units with MADI connectivity, are available for orders as well.)
Buitrago comments, “The Waves LiveBox has been an absolute game-changer on this tour. One of its most beneficial features is its ability to run Waves plugins alongside VST plugins by other brands in a live environment, providing studio-quality processing in my mix. Its seamless integration and low latency empower me to shape the mix with the same finesse as in a studio—only now, it’s happening live, in the moment. From crafting crystal-clear vocals that cut through the mix to layering dynamic effects that bring the music to life, Waves’ LiveBox has become my ultimate tool for delivering unforgettable experiences. It’s not just about sound quality; it’s about creating magic—capturing and amplifying every nuance and detail for the audience. The LiveBox is a testament to how technology can elevate live performances to extraordinary heights.”
Buitrago’s setup for Don Toliver includes one Waves SuperRack Performer, a Waves Titan Server, two Waves Extreme-C SoundGrid Servers, one Waves Axis Scope, a Waves Mercury bundle, the Abbey Road Collection, and one Waves SuperRack LiveBox D (Dante).
Using Waves plugins is an integral part of Buitrago’s workflow. Highlighting his must-haves: “The SSL E-Channel plugin is essential for shaping vocals and drums in my live mixes. It provides all the EQ and dynamics tools I need in one plugin, allowing me to add punch to drum kits and clarity to vocals. It’s a staple in my toolkit, especially for processing individual tracks like vocals and drums. The SSL G-Master Buss Compressor is perfect for controlling dynamics, providing a smooth, professional touch on my left-right mix (LR). It helps glue the mix together by offering precise control while maintaining musicality, making it an indispensable part of my live setup.”
He continues, “I use the H-Delay Hybrid Delay to add depth and character to the mix for every single song, especially for Don’s vocals. Whether it’s a subtle slap-back delay on vocals or more pronounced effects, it’s perfect for creating space and dimension. Its versatility makes it a key component in recreating the same sonic experience as in Don Toliver’s recordings. The Waves BB Tubes plugin is my go-to for adding warmth and vintage analog character to the mix. It’s perfect for enriching both instruments and vocals with extra richness and harmonic content. I enjoy fine-tuning the Beauty and Beast knobs to find the ideal level of enrichment. The Bass Release option helps clean up instruments when necessary, while adding smooth texture and depth to the overall mix.”
He shares another favorite: “I rely on the C6 Multiband Compressor for precise control over specific frequency bands, especially on vocals. Whether I’m taming harsh mids or controlling low-end rumble, it helps me clean up the mix while maintaining balance. It’s especially useful in tight live settings when addressing problem frequencies.”
Buitrago concludes, “I’m thrilled to be using Waves SuperRack LiveBox on tour with Don Toliver. It’s a game-changer for live sound, providing me the flexibility to bring studio-quality processing into every performance. I’m deeply grateful for this groundbreaking tool that elevates every moment of our show to new heights.”
