Channel Strip WOW Factor

[Tone Laborer]

Most recordists do find value in quality outboard. Hence, thousands of people with 1000s of dollars worth. But really, only you can make that subjective call.
It's your jaw.

I would think for recording keys most of the time, some sort of stereo setup would be a must.

[well2thebone]

yeah i'll probably just have to pick up a used strip and find out what its all about

[ST.]

I know I'm probably the minority here... but I've never really found a whole lot of use for outboard gear with my synths, whether it be using a pre-amp as a DI or line-in or using dynamics. I'll use analog delay or something like that, but other than that I don't really get the point.

I guess I don't see why some dynamics or EQ's would be necessary. Couldn't a lot of that be done with the synths' filters and envelopes etc.? To me, that's where the jaw dropping differences are.

I usually just go right into my converters-- and I like the results.

Then again, maybe I just don't have the right outboard gear

[pan60]

i would auditon some gear and deside what it is you like
persanalyy i would be looking at a 500 format system.
as for chanle strips the A-Design's Ventura.

from another thread.

Originally Posted by pan60

I have one and absolutely love it!
the instrument amp alone is killer! i want the EQ in the 500 format, big thumbs up: )
if you want to here it check out Shelea's new album. it is all over it Sheléa and Shelea | Facebook

[madgansound]

Originally Posted by well2thebone

Hey, I just thought id pose a question about buying a high end channel strip. Right now I have an apogee duet 2 that i use to record. I am doing electronic music using hardware synths. Technically, I can afford to buy some high end outboard gear, but i don't really want to unless I will have my jaw drop. If its only going to add just an extra little clarity or warmth or whatever, i'll probably just pass. In terms of outboard gear, given i have no experience w/ it, it seems like a channel strip would be the best bet as i could get a pre-amp, eq, and comp all in one. The usual suspects like api channel strip, neve portico 2, buzz arc, quartet 1 and 2 have caught my attention.

Just wondering if you guys think if buying one of those strips would be a game changer for me, or if i should put the money else where. Thanks.

Based on what your stated application will be, there is no 'game changer' with front end hardware that you could dump your money into. I would wager there are dozens of other places your money would be better spent if all your looking for is di's for your synths?

[Ward Pike]

I routinely record synths through a Focusrite 428 Mark 1, which is just a 4 channel preamp, but it does make a huge difference. The impact and solid low end can be heard by just about everyone.

Converters might be worth considering too though.