If you had to pick a mic/pre EQ combo for DI tracking of Rhodes and analog synths with the specific intent of capturing a Herbie/Stevie/Les McCann vibe what would you pick?

I have read every API vs. Pacifica vs. BAE vs. Vintech vs. 'insert pre here' thread but never really hear the instruments or recording vibe that I am into personally used as a reference (seems to always be rock or hip hop).

So far I have been leaning towards testing the API A2D and the Pacifica units in conjunction with the API 5500 (and the Reddi tube DI for my Rhodes and tracking bass).

As this purchase is solely for my own enjoyment I do not need it to be capable of a modern radio friendly sound. Are the combos I have in mind a good start (for the price range) or am I completely off track?

As always, thanks in advance for any insights/advice.

I think you might find that alot of those killer rhodes sounds are acheved by micing up an amp... but i also think that any of the boutique gear you mentioned will do the job really well. This is a taste thing, so the only way to know is to try them... sorry

FWIW, i generally use API pres at home, and Neve 1066's or a custom tube pre/DI at work for my keys... also, last time i tracked a wurly, i used a custom tube DI into a pultec into an old LA2A then into a Neve 1066... i think you would have liked that sound!

That really wasn't nice!

i think an old school sound is gonna require more than a pre/eq. tape ought to be invited to the party. an 1176, la2a, even a 160 is a welcome friend. a sweet old fender amp and an re20, sm7, 440, 67... something that oozes character. real plate reverb, or a good spring. or both.

you can fake it with plugs, but it'll never chime and vibe like it's 1973 in a dark smoky room full of sad joy, flawless imperfection.


gregoire
del
ubk
.

Thanks for the additional thoughts on the signal chain ubk.

well I've used the Pacifica with great result with a Rhodes..

Usually for recording old skool Keys I use my Sebatron VMP 4000e...crunk the DI ,put the EQ switch to "Deep" and piss in my pants...
my 2cts

Thanks Hawaii,
Never heard of the VMP 4000e-have to look into it further.

How true. I've never felt the plugs were any where near as good.
I've been searching for a long long time to get anywhere near that kind of
vibe.
All this technology seems to be taking us away.