Clarity Vx — Free Download
Waves Clarity Vx is a one-knob vocal noise reduction plugin that instantly removes hiss, hum, and background noise while preserving the original performance, powered by the Waves Neural Networks engine.

Purpose and Core Technology
Clarity Vx is designed for cleaning vocal recordings from unwanted background noise, such as AC hum, computer fan, or traffic sounds. It uses the same Waves Neural Networks engine as the larger Clarity Vx Pro, but with a simplified single-knob interface that requires no learning curve. The plugin is intended for musicians, home producers, and content creators who need fast, high-quality results without deep audio engineering expertise.
The engine is pre-trained on hundreds of thousands of vocal audio files, using machine learning and human evaluation to distinguish between voice and ambience. This means it does not need to ‘learn’ the noise profile of each recording, unlike older noise reduction tools. It works in real time and is fully automatable, offering a practical solution for time-sensitive projects.
Key Capabilities and Neural Network Modes
The plugin includes two ‘catch-all’ neural networks that handle different noise scenarios. The first, called Broad 1, is better at preserving both the main and secondary voices when more than one person is speaking. The second, Broad 2, is recommended for severe noise and is better at separating the main voice from background voices. Users can toggle between them to find the best match for their source material.
Each network processes input differently, so the choice depends on the recording. For example, Broad 1 might be chosen for a podcast with two hosts, while Broad 2 suits a single vocal with heavy traffic noise. The plugin also offers mono/stereo width control, giving users flexibility in shaping the output. The simplicity of the single knob means results are achieved in seconds.
Workflow and Usability
The workflow is centered around a single knob: turning it clockwise reduces noise while preserving voice quality. There are no complex settings to learn, making it accessible for non-engineers. The real-time operation allows for instant feedback, and the automation capability enables dynamic adjustments over time, which is useful for sections with varying noise levels.
Since no training or sample-specific setup is required, the plugin saves hours compared to traditional noise reduction methods. This makes it suitable for batch processing or quick fixes in a session. The interface is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that even users with no prior noise reduction experience can achieve clean vocals without artifacts or damage to the performance.
Practical Applications and Integration
Clarity Vx is ideal for preparing vocal tracks for any mix, production, podcast, or video. It works on all types of voices, making it versatile for music vocals, voiceovers, and dialogue. The plugin is particularly useful in home studios with unavoidable background noise, such as room tone or appliance hum, and for content creators who record in untreated spaces.
For music producers, it cleans raw vocal takes before further processing, ensuring a pristine foundation for effects and mixing. For podcasters and video creators, it improves clarity of speech without requiring expensive studio gear. The plugin’s speed and simplicity also make it a practical tool for deadline-driven projects, where quick turnaround is essential. Its real-time and automatable nature allows seamless integration into existing workflows.
Key features
- Single-knob noise reduction for vocals
- Powered by Waves Neural Networks technology
- Two neural network modes: Broad 1 and Broad 2
- Real-time processing with full automation
- Mono/stereo width control
- No learning or training required
- Suitable for all voice types
Best for
Musicians, home producers, podcasters, and video content creators who need fast, high-fidelity vocal cleanup from background noise like hiss, hum, or traffic, without technical expertise. Ideal for saving time on deadline-driven projects and for cleaning raw takes before mixing.