allen heath 14:4:2

[thegearguy]

I'm looking for a live board to go between me and my tape machine. I've got alot invested in systems already, I used to have a Mackie 32:8 but it was too big for my use. The 14:4:2 looks like it would be a good fit. Any feedback on the boards preamps, EQ section, and durability.

I currently have a motu 2408 II, motu timepiece AV, a tape machine, and I upgraded my G4 Mac to 10.3. I want to keep to the tape machine because its universal in my mind. I'll dump to the computer through the 2408.

[(DC)]

The MixWizard series is very solid. I've used the 16:2 MW and the GL2400. Both have very solid Mic Preamps and a nice EQ section.

As far as boards for this price... Allen and Heath is the way to go man.

[AdamLazlo]

I had an A&H console as an "in-between"/"need it now" console and I did like it. It was the model that had the two tubes on the stereo output.

It was right after I was using a Mackie 32x8 and the A&H sounded much better... I believe that was roughly 10 years ago as I was in-waiting for a Trident Series 65.

I do remember feeling that the EQ section (on the A&H) was more usable and pleasing -- less harsh and grainy as in the Mackie.

The pre-amps sounded good... it is a step-up from the Mackie, for sure.

Just overall I thought the A&H I had for a short time delivered the goods in a much better way than the Mackie ever did. With the Mackie I avoided the EQ as much as possible, with the A&H it was a joy to work with.

I probably would've kept the A&H console longer if I didn't have something else coming my way. If the newer A&H consoles are similar to the model I had, you'll be happy (regardless of the "tube-influence").

-- Adam Lazlo

[Andrew Kinsey]

I personnally really like the A&H 14:4:2, IMO the preamps and EQ are a step up from the Makie 8 Bus. The 14:4:2 is also quite an affordable unit and is certainly a lot cheaper than many competing products of a similar quality.

[007]

Seems a unanimous "yes" on all things Onyx these days, might be worth considering Mackie again, I think they succeeded at diluting their VLZ era of mediocrity and really stepped up their game with the Onyx series. I'm even considering the 800R for myself.

[NuSkoolTone]

I haven't tried the Onyx stuff, but I do OWN a 14:4:2. Great board IMO and quite flexable. Best EQ in its class hands down (Again IMO). It does have a warm/slightly dark sound to it though. Never Harsh.

The only thing to check out next to it is the Onyx stuff for this price range. Other than these two you might as well step up to the new Toft board from PMI coming out. However I don't think it's shipping yet for the public.

[Jason Poulin]

A&H




Jason