Hey Tchad,

Firstly, Thanks Again! We all appreciate your time very much.

My question is, do you have any vocal effects or treatment to the voice you like to start a mix with? i.e., reverbs, distortion effects, certain compressors/settings, etc? thanks!

I used to to always run the vocal through a Neve channel, no EQ, to start, then an API 550a> Distressor or ADL>Pultec EQP 1A for top. Sometimes a de-esser between the 550 and compressor.
I most often use digital delays on Vocals, guitar stomp box types, DOD, MXR, Moog.
I some what copy this set-up in the box but instead of the Neve I place a Phoenix, set mildly.

Hi tchad,
you mean analog delays on vocals I suppose? Like the ones you mentioned? What about your classic digital studio delays like PCM 42, AMS DMX, SDE 3000, 2290? Or do you use those more for instruments?
And second, running stuff through the Neves when you mix: are you after distorting the vocals by running them through the mic input again?
Thanks.
Doug

Thanks Tchad! What did you use to distort Ed Vedder?

Thanks for the correction.
I also use the digi delays but rarely on vocals.
Neves- no, I'm using the line amp (and sometimes EQ) when mixing just because I like the sound.
When needed, the old Neve mic pres have no rival for distortion on vocals and GTRs and.......

Hi tchad

whats your favourite flavour of neve

73? 81? 95?

I own four 1084's, so they're my favorite.

which phoenix settings do you usually go to for vocals?

Not used a lot on vocals but when I have there's been no 'go to' setting. I try them all if I need to, though I usually start with Dark Essence.

thanks Tchad!

Tchad,
The Pultec thing seems to be a constant (for you) when it comes to mixing vocals. On the other hand, the API 550A is not exactly the worst eq either; can you explain what you don't like about it, so you need to use the pultec? Is it too harsh for you on vocals?
Thx. Doug

I use both in a mix. The Pultec I use for HF (16K) boost which unlike the API you can shape. Very smooth airy sound. The API is used for reducing harshness and sibilance (5-7K) and adding mids, if needed, in the 1.5K range, my favorite frequency on an API.