Would you trade a Focusrite red 1 fo an API 3124+

convergence · 26th January 2007, 07:16 AM

Am I an idiot for consideringing this? what do you think? Also what is the general consensus here about the red 1.... I know the price difference... I'm just interested in what most people would rather have?

jdjustice · 26th January 2007, 07:22 AM

do you have any other preamps?

i personally like the Red series preamps and i don't know if i would do the trade...
would i purchase a 3124+ to add to my Focusrite Red pres? most definitely.

the API preamps are much more 'fashionable' than the Focusrites but they are not necessarily 'better'....
it really depends on what you want, what sources you want to record, and the sound you are going for....

cheers,
~j.d.

convergence · 26th January 2007, 08:08 AM

I just sold off all my pres except the red 1

I just sold:
2x hhb radius 40s
1x Presonus m80

I'm thinking about:

2 x Brent Averil 1073's to replace the hhb's
1 x Shadow hills gamma to replace the M80

And then the question of the Focusrite poped into my head and I kind of got the vibe that it might have been a nineties fad... good advertising with digidesign or something?

Im a young guy... 24.... so I just might be a little susceptible to a good advertising campaign:)

convergence · 26th January 2007, 08:11 AM

By the way JD thanks for the quick response...
-Rob Connolly

**TonyBelmont** · 26th January 2007, 08:45 AM

If I were you, I would make that trade.

dlmorley · 26th January 2007, 09:38 AM

I think I'd hang on to the focusrite. I like the red series.

nebula328 · 26th January 2007, 09:56 AM

I agree with most here. I wouldn't trade my RED 1 for ANYTHING...in fact I'd love to have 5 more!! But as with all gear, everyone has a different opinion...though, I've never heard anyone complain about having to use a RED1, 2, or 3 on any project. Just my 2 cents!

gym*

toolstudio · 26th January 2007, 09:58 AM

I would do it without a doubt, I'm not really a fan of the RED1.

wolfgang

convergence · 26th January 2007, 08:47 PM

Well it seems pretty 50/50.... huh? I guess that's the way it's gonna be in the high end gear.... thanks everybody:)

Sounds Great · 26th January 2007, 09:08 PM

The Red preamp is a beautiful piece. I always thought they looked stunning. But soundwise, I think I would go for the API, though I would have no problem using either one.

Meriphew · 26th January 2007, 09:27 PM

I'd do the trade in a heartbeat.

Musiclab · 26th January 2007, 09:49 PM

they are a way different color, the focusrites are darker. Be sure you want something brighter. Personally I prefer the API to my ISA 110 pre's, which the red's are supposed to be based on

max cooper · 27th January 2007, 12:09 AM

Don't do it.

AlexLakis · 27th January 2007, 12:12 AM

I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really like APIs and hate the Focusrite Red series.

Emi · 27th January 2007, 12:24 AM

DO NOT DO IT......it is all i have to say....Personally I have a RED8 and so far it is one of the finest mic pres around.....just BUY the API thing.....i´m sure they will complemnt each other nicely....
Emi

Sounds Great · 27th January 2007, 04:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pegleg

Now, I record a lot of 'acoustic' music - jazz, folk, classical, then some rock, alt, etc. If I ONLY did rock, I might prefer the API.

Exactly.

gearjunky · 27th January 2007, 04:52 AM

I love my Red 1 and I am not getting rid of it! Do I need some pres with some color? Yes but the Red is nice and clean with just a touch of Neve sound (not much) when pushed really hard.

I want to add API 3124, GR mp2nv, and Pacifica to my setup. I figure the combination of these and the Red will give me a nice pallete to choose from.

I would keep the Red if I were you and add other flavors slowly if needed...

my 2 cents.

jsvalmont · 27th January 2007, 05:04 AM

I like both the Red pres and API pres. I prefer the API sound over the Red (I LOVE API!), though the Red is certainly nothing to sneeze at and sounds very nice too. I do agree that the Red certainly has the edge cosmetically (and I too am a sucker for VU's). After much deliberation, I would probably trade for the API. Easier/sluttier choice, keep Red and buy the API too.

BTW, Have you demoed/used an API unit? I would do so before you make your decision, because your personal preferred sound should be the biggest factor in this equation, not just what some people tell you on a messageboard.

Confusionator · 27th January 2007, 06:09 AM

Yeah, you'd better demo this for yourself. Don't trust us opinionated bastards.

By the way, I think that, whether Red sounds good or not, the sound it gives back to me is never the sound I hear in the room, or the sound I hear in the room plus cool vibe that I get from API. I hate what Red does and plan never to use it again if I can help it.

convergence · 27th January 2007, 06:14 AM

Yeah I've tried the api but I've used the focusrite so much I feal like I just kind of new it better.... Maybe I got used to it you know.... I am interested in getting punchier drums and that has been my main reason for deliberation.....

And I'm sorry to anyone who doesn't like this thread.... I am just a new gear slut and don't know all the taboos yet

It seems to me I should just suck it up and just buy the api's in addition to the focusrites... maybe in a month or two huh?
Thanks again everybody...
-Rob C!

jsvalmont · 27th January 2007, 06:30 AM

There is nothing wrong with this thread IMO. It's fun to see what people say about these things; I was just saying not to let other peoples opinions be the primary source for your decision.

jsvalmont · 27th January 2007, 06:31 AM

BTW, punchy drums are one of the things that API's are famous for.

Sounds Great · 27th January 2007, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by convergence

Yeah I've tried the api but I've used the focusrite so much I feal like I just kind of new it better.... Maybe I got used to it you know....

If you want something in between with it's own mojo I really recommend a Hardy M1. Nothing but

picksail · 27th January 2007, 09:08 AM

Yes..trade

Emi · 27th January 2007, 11:54 AM

I love my red 8 on vocals...it´s just glamurous and it sounds with life and 3D, organic sound. and I sometimes I pass rock mixes trough it and it´s incredible what it does to the mix (more punch, the middle range is focused and the highs are just great).Just my opinion

Aearth · 27th January 2007, 10:26 PM

If you like the Red, why get rid of it? Save up and get the API later.

Nick

squeegybug · 27th January 2007, 10:47 PM

Here is the way I have always tried to do these, if want to narrow down the list: Buy one "thing" and use it (which you already have). Keep it, and buy a different thing. Use it a while. Use them both on the same sources. Make comparison mixes, not just solo recordings.

Decide which of the two is bringing what you like. Sell the other one and buy something different to replace it. Or trade. Rinse and repeat, always keeping the one you like best. Buying used can keep the educational costs down a bit.

After a while you will have experience with a bunch of equipment on your own sources, in your own rooms. That is something no one here can tell you. But I usually find the cream rising to the top after several of these comparisons, and can then choose a select few pieces (or one!) to suit my styles.

Steve

thethrillfactor · 27th January 2007, 11:00 PM

If the answer is no than there is your answer.

If the answer is yes than there lies your answer.

Sounds Great · 28th January 2007, 12:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thethrillfactor

Would you trade a red head for a Brunette? A blonde?

If the answer is no than there is your answer.

If the answer is yes than there lies your answer.

Well of course! You need all three.

thethrillfactor · 28th January 2007, 12:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sounds Great

Well of course! You need all three.

Exactly...you want all 3 at once.

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26th January 2007, 07:16 AM	#1
convergence Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 14	Would you trade a Focusrite red 1 fo an API 3124+ Am I an idiot for consideringing this? what do you think? Also what is the general consensus here about the red 1.... I know the price difference... I'm just interested in what most people would rather have?

26th January 2007, 07:22 AM	#2
jdjustice Lives for gear Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: North Carolina Posts: 2,261	do you have any other preamps? i personally like the Red series preamps and i don't know if i would do the trade... would i purchase a 3124+ to add to my Focusrite Red pres? most definitely. the API preamps are much more 'fashionable' than the Focusrites but they are not necessarily 'better'.... it really depends on what you want, what sources you want to record, and the sound you are going for.... cheers, ~j.d. __________________ jdjustice.net

26th January 2007, 08:08 AM	#3
convergence Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 14	I just sold off all my pres except the red 1 I just sold: 2x hhb radius 40s 1x Presonus m80 I'm thinking about: 2 x Brent Averil 1073's to replace the hhb's 1 x Shadow hills gamma to replace the M80 And then the question of the Focusrite poped into my head and I kind of got the vibe that it might have been a nineties fad... good advertising with digidesign or something? Im a young guy... 24.... so I just might be a little susceptible to a good advertising campaign:) __________________ I AM TOM BOMBADIL!

26th January 2007, 08:11 AM	#4
convergence Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 14	By the way JD thanks for the quick response... -Rob Connolly __________________ I AM TOM BOMBADIL!

26th January 2007, 08:45 AM	#5
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 10,150	If I were you, I would make that trade. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

26th January 2007, 09:38 AM	#6
dlmorley Lives for gear Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Belgium Posts: 3,094	I think I'd hang on to the focusrite. I like the red series. __________________ New-ish CD "Ghosts" Ursa Major Studios

26th January 2007, 09:56 AM	#7
nebula328 Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 24	I agree with most here. I wouldn't trade my RED 1 for ANYTHING...in fact I'd love to have 5 more!! But as with all gear, everyone has a different opinion...though, I've never heard anyone complain about having to use a RED1, 2, or 3 on any project. Just my 2 cents! gym*

26th January 2007, 09:58 AM	#8
toolstudio Lives for gear Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Germany Posts: 540	I would do it without a doubt, I'm not really a fan of the RED1. wolfgang __________________ toolhouse studios, germany NEW WEBSITE: www.tool-house.com www.myspace.com/toolhouse

26th January 2007, 08:47 PM	#9
convergence Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 14	ok Well it seems pretty 50/50.... huh? I guess that's the way it's gonna be in the high end gear.... thanks everybody:) __________________ I AM TOM BOMBADIL!

26th January 2007, 09:08 PM	#10
Sounds Great Gear Guru Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Twin Cities, USA Posts: 10,949	The Red preamp is a beautiful piece. I always thought they looked stunning. But soundwise, I think I would go for the API, though I would have no problem using either one. __________________ You awake with a start To just the beating of your heart. Just one man beneath the sky, Just two ears, just two eyes.

26th January 2007, 09:27 PM	#11
Meriphew Lives for gear Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Seattle USA Posts: 2,242	I'd do the trade in a heartbeat. __________________ www.myspace.com/meriphew

26th January 2007, 09:49 PM	#12
Musiclab Lives for gear Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Elmont NY Posts: 3,222	they are a way different color, the focusrites are darker. Be sure you want something brighter. Personally I prefer the API to my ISA 110 pre's, which the red's are supposed to be based on __________________ Lou Gimenez www.musiclabnyc.com

27th January 2007, 12:09 AM	#13
max cooper Lives for gear Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: tx Posts: 8,819	Don't do it.

27th January 2007, 12:12 AM	#14
AlexLakis Lives for gear Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Annapolis, MD/L.A. Posts: 3,612	I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really like APIs and hate the Focusrite Red series.

27th January 2007, 12:24 AM	#15
Emi Gear maniac Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Madrid Posts: 173	DO NOT DO IT......it is all i have to say....Personally I have a RED8 and so far it is one of the finest mic pres around.....just BUY the API thing.....i´m sure they will complemnt each other nicely.... Emi

27th January 2007, 04:52 AM	#17
gearjunky Gear Head Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Memphis, TN. Posts: 49	I love my Red 1 and I am not getting rid of it! Do I need some pres with some color? Yes but the Red is nice and clean with just a touch of Neve sound (not much) when pushed really hard. I want to add API 3124, GR mp2nv, and Pacifica to my setup. I figure the combination of these and the Red will give me a nice pallete to choose from. I would keep the Red if I were you and add other flavors slowly if needed... my 2 cents.

27th January 2007, 05:04 AM	#18
jsvalmont Gear nut Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Dallas, Tx Posts: 112	I like both the Red pres and API pres. I prefer the API sound over the Red (I LOVE API!), though the Red is certainly nothing to sneeze at and sounds very nice too. I do agree that the Red certainly has the edge cosmetically (and I too am a sucker for VU's). After much deliberation, I would probably trade for the API. Easier/sluttier choice, keep Red and buy the API too. BTW, Have you demoed/used an API unit? I would do so before you make your decision, because your personal preferred sound should be the biggest factor in this equation, not just what some people tell you on a messageboard.

27th January 2007, 06:09 AM	#19
Confusionator Gear addict Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 405	Yeah, you'd better demo this for yourself. Don't trust us opinionated bastards. By the way, I think that, whether Red sounds good or not, the sound it gives back to me is never the sound I hear in the room, or the sound I hear in the room plus cool vibe that I get from API. I hate what Red does and plan never to use it again if I can help it.

27th January 2007, 06:14 AM	#20
convergence Gear interested Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 14	Yeah I've tried the api but I've used the focusrite so much I feal like I just kind of new it better.... Maybe I got used to it you know.... I am interested in getting punchier drums and that has been my main reason for deliberation..... And I'm sorry to anyone who doesn't like this thread.... I am just a new gear slut and don't know all the taboos yet It seems to me I should just suck it up and just buy the api's in addition to the focusrites... maybe in a month or two huh? Thanks again everybody... -Rob C! __________________ I AM TOM BOMBADIL!

27th January 2007, 06:30 AM	#21
jsvalmont Gear nut Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Dallas, Tx Posts: 112	There is nothing wrong with this thread IMO. It's fun to see what people say about these things; I was just saying not to let other peoples opinions be the primary source for your decision.

27th January 2007, 06:31 AM	#22
jsvalmont Gear nut Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Dallas, Tx Posts: 112	BTW, punchy drums are one of the things that API's are famous for.

27th January 2007, 09:08 AM	#24
picksail Lives for gear Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Hollywood Posts: 3,326	Yes..trade __________________ Stewart Cararas Seventh Level Productions Myspace Profile Discogs _________________________________ The new is necessarily abstract - Rudolf Borchadt

27th January 2007, 11:54 AM	#25
Emi Gear maniac Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Madrid Posts: 173	I love my red 8 on vocals...it´s just glamurous and it sounds with life and 3D, organic sound. and I sometimes I pass rock mixes trough it and it´s incredible what it does to the mix (more punch, the middle range is focused and the highs are just great).Just my opinion

27th January 2007, 10:26 PM	#26
Aearth Lives for gear Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Sydney Australia Posts: 1,114	If you like the Red, why get rid of it? Save up and get the API later. Nick

27th January 2007, 10:47 PM	#27
squeegybug Lives for gear Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Missouri USA Posts: 2,012	Here is the way I have always tried to do these, if want to narrow down the list: Buy one "thing" and use it (which you already have). Keep it, and buy a different thing. Use it a while. Use them both on the same sources. Make comparison mixes, not just solo recordings. Decide which of the two is bringing what you like. Sell the other one and buy something different to replace it. Or trade. Rinse and repeat, always keeping the one you like best. Buying used can keep the educational costs down a bit. After a while you will have experience with a bunch of equipment on your own sources, in your own rooms. That is something no one here can tell you. But I usually find the cream rising to the top after several of these comparisons, and can then choose a select few pieces (or one!) to suit my styles. Steve

27th January 2007, 11:00 PM	#28
thethrillfactor Gear Guru Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: New York City Posts: 11,241	Would you trade a red head for a Brunette? A blonde? If the answer is no than there is your answer. If the answer is yes than there lies your answer.

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