Console or Control Surface with Preamps

walth · 31st March 2007, 09:02 PM

Hello,

I’m adding some things to my studio and am considering a High end Console/Control surface or a Command 8, some high quality preamps and a high end monitoring system.

So far I’m considering a SSL AWS900+, a Sony DMX-R100, a Digidesign D Command with preamps

Or a

Digidesign Command 8
Neve 1084 (2)
Neve 1081 (2)
Focusrite ISA-110 (8)
Helios Type 69 pres (2)
Crane Song Avocet

I'm mainly tracking vocals, bass, percussion, some drums, guitars, keys, etc. Does anyone have experience with the AWS900+ or some of the other gear mentioned?

I want a good front end to my Logic/HD rig but also want to be able to mix in house. Will the Command 8 allow me to do this?

raal · 2nd April 2007, 01:39 AM

depends on your priorities but here's my take :

i heard an AWS awhile back and was impressed by the sound. had just been on a G+ the day before so the memory was fresh. the AWS is very open sounding and has huge amounts of headroom, but i ended up buying a D-Control. these are the main reasons:

1) i'm on PT, and AWS only does HUI for PT, so no spreading plugs on faders, etc.
2) 2 different automation programs seemed impractical to me (Awsomation + PT automation). some AWS users end up doing alot of the automation ITB even with AWSomation on hand, so it kind of defeats the purpose - so workflow wouldn't be as smooth imho.
3) already have several pres so no need for onboard pres.
4) too few channels on the AWS to be a fully OTB solution, and control for PT isn't in the same league as Dcontrol (on other DAWs with Mackie control it's alot more comprehensive).
5) most importantly i'd achieved satisfactory results with a hybrid approach before deciding.

pros for AWS:

1) latency free monitoring when tracking.
2) small footprint.
3) the sound.
4) SSL name.
5) works on several platforms.

a large part of my decision had to do with the fact that i work with PT exclusively; even then it was a difficult decision as the AWS is a fine piece of equipment - really depends on individual needs and sense of aesthetic.

don't think Command 8 will control Logic but not 100% sure. M-Audio Project Mix does control other DAWs besides PT, but not sure if it'll work on HD.

my advice is spend enough time on an both AWS and Icon systems before spending your $. there are several AWS and Icon users on this forum, maybe they could comment.

walth · 2nd April 2007, 01:52 AM

Thanks.
I appreciate the info.

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31st March 2007, 09:02 PM	#1
walth Lives for gear Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: San Diego Posts: 857	Console or Control Surface with Preamps Hello, I’m adding some things to my studio and am considering a High end Console/Control surface or a Command 8, some high quality preamps and a high end monitoring system. So far I’m considering a SSL AWS900+, a Sony DMX-R100, a Digidesign D Command with preamps Or a Digidesign Command 8 Neve 1084 (2) Neve 1081 (2) Focusrite ISA-110 (8) Helios Type 69 pres (2) Crane Song Avocet I'm mainly tracking vocals, bass, percussion, some drums, guitars, keys, etc. Does anyone have experience with the AWS900+ or some of the other gear mentioned? I want a good front end to my Logic/HD rig but also want to be able to mix in house. Will the Command 8 allow me to do this?

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2nd April 2007, 01:39 AM	#2
raal Lives for gear Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: mexico Posts: 3,415	depends on your priorities but here's my take : i heard an AWS awhile back and was impressed by the sound. had just been on a G+ the day before so the memory was fresh. the AWS is very open sounding and has huge amounts of headroom, but i ended up buying a D-Control. these are the main reasons: 1) i'm on PT, and AWS only does HUI for PT, so no spreading plugs on faders, etc. 2) 2 different automation programs seemed impractical to me (Awsomation + PT automation). some AWS users end up doing alot of the automation ITB even with AWSomation on hand, so it kind of defeats the purpose - so workflow wouldn't be as smooth imho. 3) already have several pres so no need for onboard pres. 4) too few channels on the AWS to be a fully OTB solution, and control for PT isn't in the same league as Dcontrol (on other DAWs with Mackie control it's alot more comprehensive). 5) most importantly i'd achieved satisfactory results with a hybrid approach before deciding. pros for AWS: 1) latency free monitoring when tracking. 2) small footprint. 3) the sound. 4) SSL name. 5) works on several platforms. a large part of my decision had to do with the fact that i work with PT exclusively; even then it was a difficult decision as the AWS is a fine piece of equipment - really depends on individual needs and sense of aesthetic. don't think Command 8 will control Logic but not 100% sure. M-Audio Project Mix does control other DAWs besides PT, but not sure if it'll work on HD. my advice is spend enough time on an both AWS and Icon systems before spending your $. there are several AWS and Icon users on this forum, maybe they could comment.

2nd April 2007, 01:52 AM	#3
walth Lives for gear Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: San Diego Posts: 857	Thanks. I appreciate the info.