XRack with 4000E modules or the real deal ?

[NDW]

Hello, the question is simple:

it is better to buy the XRack + VHD Preamp + E series EQ + E series dynamics
or
two channel strip by SSL4000E racked ?

I look at the sound, total recall is not so important, I only need two channel to process the tracks during mix.

Thanks

[waxx]

The VHD pre is way better than the 4000 channel pre, but i've not used the x-rack e-modules so i can't tell about those eq or dynamics...

[NDW]

Thanks, then I stay with my XRack and VHD

[ionian]

Originally Posted by NDW

Thanks, then I stay with my XRack and VHD

I would agree. If you can get the E series dynamics and EQ in a new package without all the maintenance problems, I would say it's better off to go with the X-Rack.

Besides, the racked channel strips are separate and they might not be able to be linked for the dynamics. The X-rack can link the dynamics for doing stereo tracks which is better in the long run.

Also, the Total recall system can copy settings for one module to the other so when working with stereo tracks you can more accurately copy the EQ settings from one channel to the other.


Just some thoughts!

p.s. Do you own the VHD pres? If so, how are you liking them? I'm interested in them as well!

Frank

[NDW]

I have only one VHD, I think to buy the second. Great pre and great filters.

I hope that SSL will make a new XRack E Series Buss Compressor
(I don't like much the G series...)

[waxx]

i've used vhd in a studio (only vhd and tubetech as pre's and you don't want tubetech pre's on every channel) and are now using them in our radio station studio. They are quiet but a bit boring and clean when vhd is off but they do deliver great recorded tracks wich mix easy. VHD is a kind of subtile colouring of the signal wich is mostly good. Don't expect very coloured signal like some transformer and or tube pre's can deliver, but they are very practical and flexibel pre's. A bit like modern focusrite isa's are practical and flexibel, but not exciting. The perfect utility pre in other words ...

we have a few 4ch vhd and a alpha channel in our studio at the radio station. and both are very very similar sounding (but not 100% the same). The advantage of the alpha channel is the eq, not the little difference between the pre's.

The 4000 channels i've used was a part of a 4048 console with g computer and e and g channels in a private studio in Brussels.

[NDW]

I use VHD to process the tracks in the mix, I use the filters in this unit mainly, so the transparent line pre is good for me.