[Backhousepro]

I think both consoles do a remarkable job for the price point. I believe whoever said that choice depends on the type of music you wish to do is correct. Personally, for my work, the sound of console A would be a better choice. While console B did seem to add more heft to the mids and low mids, that would become an issue with the large-scale compositions that I do—far too much low mid information. Also, in the mix buss examples, console A had more clarity and definition. I could hear vocals and center-panned instruments more clearly. Console B had more of that midrange speaker-chugging sound on the guitars. In fact, to my ears, that made guitars overwhelm the mix. Also, there was more ringing on the floor tom, which also contributed to more low-mid heft. If you feel that this is where your music lives, then by all means, go for console B.

I also noticed some bias in the performances. For example, the guitar in example A were played more on the upper strings than on example B, where there was more attack on the lower strings. Despite that, objectively, I would still say that console B did have more information in the mid to low-mid range and the guitar recorded at 3 ft sounded closer and more full. Also, the the snare was performed differently on each example. I heard a much more confident performance on example B. Overall, I'd say all of the performances on console B were performed with more confidence and authority, as though the performer wanted B to win the shootout. I'll voice another opinion; punch is more in the music than the console. When the snare on example A was hit with authority, there was enough punch. I felt as though I was hearing the snare more naturally, as opposed to having a little boost from the console. Also, the low-mid emphasis of console B made the snare sound a tad mushy during softer hits.

Ultimately for me, this is a tough call. I liked the sound that console B imparted to individual instruments, but I'm looking for a mixer, not a preamp. And while I'd love to say I own a Trident, I'll have to go with console A (I'm assuming that A is the ATB). I'd expect more contrast and separation between instruments in a busy mix. From a practical standpoint alone, the additional I/O makes it a better choice for me. (I emphasize, for me). Again, I think both consoles hold their own quite well — who knows maybe one day Toft and Oram can peacefully co-exist.

Cheers, and thanks for all your hard work Ciozzi,

-B-