The "crack" refers to a well-known issue with the Waves Kramer Master Tape plugin, where some users have reported a distinct, unwanted "crack" or "pop" sound when using the plugin. This issue seems to occur when the plugin is inserted on a track and then bypassed or removed.

The Waves Kramer Master Tape plugin is a legendary tool for adding warmth and character to your mixes. While the "crack" issue can be frustrating, there are community-created patches and workarounds available to help alleviate the problem. Always be cautious when applying patches or modifying plugin files, and make sure to create backups before attempting any modifications. If you're not comfortable with the patching process, consider using alternative plugins or workarounds.

The Waves Kramer Master Tape plugin is a digital emulation of the legendary Studer A800 analog tape machine, which was famously used by Eddie Kramer (Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, etc.) to master many iconic recordings. The plugin aims to recreate the warmth, character, and sonic charm of the original hardware.

The "patched" situation refers to a community-created workaround or fix that some users have developed to alleviate this issue.