Remastering options

[Braker]

Hi,

I am recording all my vinyl collection into my computer at best audio quality (hi fi cartridge, dedicated phono preamp, Fireface convertor).

Still there are some records which are poorly pressed or mastered. For example: lack of bass definition, harsh mids, no separation etc.

I'm looking for the best way to correct these problems - I guess you can call it remastering. Correcting the problematic areas, getting more punch when needed, warming up and smoothing when needed (I would try to do the same for warming my digital tracks like from CD, or even the occasional MP3).

I would love to hear what you guys think is the best option for this:

1. Hardware (analog?) units, EQ, compressor? (which ones)
2. Plug ins? (which ones) (waves? UAD-1?)
3. Special analog units like the Empirical Labs Fatso?
4. Something else?

I am looking for the best sounding solution for this, even if it costs alot.

Thanks!

[MASSIVE Master]

I'd just check out some gear lists...

The stuff you're looking for goes anywhere from several hundreds to several thousands per unit.

If you're starting to invest, maybe look at the UAD-1 collection... Whomping bang for the buck, there... Most of the tools you need, several choices of what to use, great for experimentation - And they don't sound half bad either.

[Braker]

Thanks MM,

I wasn't sure if UAD-1 is geared more towards multitracking or mastering. Also, I just found out that using it will cost me an extra 1 grand for the Magma 1 Slot Cardbus expansion (I work with a laptop).

I might end up going this route anyhow, but wondering - since I don't need this for real time processing, I'm less worried about using CPU power - are there other plugins for corrective remastering and warming up digital audio which are as good quality wise and which I can use on my laptop without a PCI card?

Thanks!

[Braker]

Actually maybe I got the price wrong cause I now see I might be able to use Magma expansion PCI without the chassis for something closer to 500 dollars.

[Bob Olhsson]

check out http://www.diamondcut.com/

[Braker]

Thanks Bob,

This looks interesting, do you actually use it? And what do you use it for?

I forgot to mention that all this remastering thing is not just for home use but it's for playing at the club - I'm a DJ playing Soulful House music.

[MASSIVE Master]

Originally Posted by Braker

Thanks MM,

I wasn't sure if UAD-1 is geared more towards multitracking or mastering. Also, I just found out that using it will cost me an extra 1 grand for the Magma 1 Slot Cardbus expansion (I work with a laptop).

I might end up going this route anyhow, but wondering - since I don't need this for real time processing, I'm less worried about using CPU power - are there other plugins for corrective remastering and warming up digital audio which are as good quality wise and which I can use on my laptop without a PCI card?

Thanks!

I should've mentioned - I'm not much of a plugin type, but the built-in stuff, including the analog modeling suite in Samplitude 8.x is pretty schveet...

[Bob Olhsson]

I haven't heard it but somebody I trust says it's wonderful.

[Braker]

Though in their site they say: "Home of DC-Art Audio Restoration Tools and dedicated to the music of the 20's, 30's and 40's"

So I wonder how does this relate the music that I play which is of the 90's and 21 century?

[dcollins]

Originally Posted by Bob Olhsson

check out http://www.diamondcut.com/

I keep meaning to DL the demo of this thing. Have you used it?

DC

[lucey]

Originally Posted by Bob Olhsson

I haven't heard it but somebody I trust says it's wonderful.