on another thread thrill pointed out these two use different transformers (Belclere/Marinair). was under the impression they sound the same, but apparently not. so who prefers which and why? and if it's not a matter of which one's better what are the differences in sound? thank you.

bump

That's a good question, I curious as well.

It's been a while so I'm only like 85% sure of this... but if I remember correctly you only lose one transformer from the "line" input [as the line input on an 8058/68/88 occurs in the aux module located directly below the 31102 in those desks]... it's not too difficult to fit the line in [St. Ives 31267] transformer properly on a 31102 in which case they're damn near identical to a 1084.

Frankly I have found the 1084 to have a lower pain in the arse factor than the 31102 but the blue on the 31102 is just so fukkin' sexy looking it's a tough call on the best of days.

thanks for answering fletcher. yes, the mic/lne switching is done on the 32404 aux. module (if it's a mark I), right below the 31102. i was under the impression that 31102/1084 were identical except for the look and what you mentioned, but thrill pointed out they have different transformers (Belclere and Marinair), and thus a different sound.

so i was wondering if someone has compared the two and could tell me the difference. have 4 X 31102 getting the line in mod right now, but after thrill's comment i'm wondering...

yes it is.

thrill? anyone?

Yes?

Preferences?


I prefer the 31102 for tracking vocals.


Its a tad clearer and more forward.


I prefer the 1084 for mixing unless the tracks were recorded on a vintage Neve.


If given the choice of one or the other i would lean towards the 1084.

thanks thrill.

Why is this thrill?

More and more digital tracks i get to mix lack personality and mojo.

Especially the drums(both live and samples).

When mixing a Neve 10 EQ module is powerful tool when used in conjuction with the right comp.

I can take a blah snare and blow it up.

More powerful than the 31102 with the line mod? It's just that I'm on the verge of getting 4 to help mix the record I've just finished tracking, and it seems I can save quite a few £s/$s going the 31102 route.

D.F.

Just go for it.

Don't listen to me.

I am the pickiest bastard on the earth.

Also your taste may differ than mine.

now i'm wondering too... what really gets me is that they sound different at all!

i was under the impression that the 31102 was class ab whereas the 10 series is all class a. anyone know if this is true?

They are both class a... The 31105 is class ab.

And I wouldn't worry about the slight differences- They both sound outstanding.

the 1081 is A/B also.

Why is it such a big issue for you?

Do you feel you maybe missing something? heh

YES!!!!!

Than maybe you should rent one of each.

Get your friends over at VK to send you one of each. heh


That way you can decide for yourself if there is a difference and if so will it sway you in your decision.

if i were in the US i'd do that bro but i'm in mexico.
i'll prolly just bring the 31102s and get a pair of 1084 or 73s later and compare. sell whichever, or keep 'em all! GS is gonna get me divorced! and i'm not even married yet (will be oct.1)!

Bro there is still time to run.

from my wife or the 31102s? badump.

Dude you are calling her your wife already?


Man i can see who will be the boss.


Just buy all the gear you can now...


cause in the future it will be...


What is a gearslut and no you are not spending that much on that.