Manley Vari-Mu vs Crane Song STC8

[jazzfree3333]

I am going to buy a Compressor for mastering. I am still confuse whether should I buy manley Vari-Mu or Crane Song STC8. Is there any one could help me by giving some review and comments? Thank you very much.

[MASSIVE Master]

I have both and can't imagine being without either one.

That said:

The Manley is very "blue jeans and t-shirt" while the STC-8M is rather "lab coat with long hair" -- The VM is very laid back and relaxed, the STC is very precise, but cool.

THAT said:

If I had to have only one of them, I'd probably have to go with the STC. When I need "compression" I use the STC-8M. When I want "that vari-mu sound" I use the Vari-Mu. I use the STC more often than the VM. But when a mix is asking for the VM, it doesn't really want anything else.

[jayfrigo]

Originally Posted by jazzfree3333

I am going to buy a Compressor for mastering. I am still confuse whether should I buy manley Vari-Mu or Crane Song STC8. Is there any one could help me by giving some review and comments? Thank you very much.

This has been discussed many times, so do a search in addition to reading the comments that will no doubt follow here.

Both are excellent choices. The STC-8 is perhaps more flexible, while the vari-mu is capable of a unique magic in the right hands. On the mu, a lot of it has to do with how you drive the tubes, especially the input. Too little drive and you don't get the excitement and color the box is known for; too much drive and the bottom gets a little mushy; find the sweet spot and you get this beautiful, creamy sound and nice, subtle presence bump.

[jazzfree3333]

I am sorry....thank you very much for the feedback.

[jayfrigo]

Originally Posted by jazzfree3333

I am sorry....thank you very much for the feedback.

No apology necessary. I hope you were able to find the information you were looking for. If you have additional questions, feel free to ask.