comma before 'whereas' [conjunction]: In the past..., whereas now

[SunnyS]

In the past, they were a reference for extremely good quality, whereas now they are not better than other manufacturers.

Do I need this comma after quality?

 

[Copyright]

In the past, they were a reference for extremely good quality whereas now they are not better than other manufacturers.

Do I need to insert a comma above?

I think you already have -- could you be more specific?