Quote:
Originally Posted by makeitwork  Russ-
Sweet list of toys, man. Wanna get specific? I'm sure that you've found that certain pieces of outboard have a particular affinity for certain instruments- for example, my black 1176 loves bass, but the blue stripe is a vocal fiend. Innovonics likes to bring out snare ghost strokes, Chandler TG1 rules on drum rooms, etc.
Would you care to shed some light on what you've found works best in your setup? I'd love to cop some of that insight- specifically, what you use those Altecs for, since I've never gotten them to behave for me!
While I've got you, got any thoughts on vintage gear vs. modern levels? A lot of the tracks I see are loud as hell (individually) and I don't think that the old gear is very happy with the levels way up there on input. Since you're spending a good amount of time on analog, you're probably hitting them at a more normal level, and I wonder if you've noticed a diff.
Appreciate your time and your craft man. Talk to you soon- best, Reid |
hello reid,
how's things? hope you're well...
this is a hard question and i could use up an entire page of different scenarios. and as i've said in other post i don't stick to a particular formula. i try different things everyday. and i'll use gear for subtle results as well as maximum results. i like the sound of the signal running through the transformers. all of the gear i favor, i have tried in all combinations and therefore i can make them work for what ever scenario i have. even for an entire album, i won't always have the same compressor for drums on every song even if it's the same kit/micing/drummer. i like variations...
i can give you some quick thoughts however...
the LA2A is s sure shot if you're looking for compression to track through. the have a subtle sound even at high compression. so if your looking to tame some transients in the bass or horns but still want to maintain a natural sound, the la2a at lower threshold settings is awesome.
the la2a, 1176 and 1178 are great for lots of things. i've used them on practically every instrument. vocals, guitars, bass, keys, pianos, drums...you name it. to they're like the work horse of the industry.
i like the altecs on guitars, keys, vocals and drums. you just have to bring the incoming signal down as it's got some crazy gain. but i like the texture of it.
regarding your "levels" question:
yes you're quite right. the levels are way louder than they used to be. i adjust the level trims from the console to get them to a more useable level. what happened to unity gain, right?
and i like the fairman tsc on vocals, strings and drums. but again, its great on a lot of things....
cheers