Harrison 950mx Analog Console

Harrison Consoles has announced the 950mx a new analog console aimed at the DAW-centric studio owners and production suites. The 950mx was developed using a lot of the design features from Harrison's flagship consoles but in a format more suitable for the project studio.

From the website:`

"The Harrison 950mx Console sports a history-rich analog design incorporating many of the same high-end modular design elements found across a wide range of Harrison console models from eras past such as the 32 Series, MR Series (2, 3, 4, 5 and 7), SeriesTen, SeriesTwelve, MPC and LPC. The 950mx provides a superior analog mixing platform that will cost effectively complement today’s high performance music studio where investments in powerful DAW’s and high-end specialized outboard gear are the norm."
".....Designed with input from studio engineers, it is specifically designed to minimize some common ergonomic issues found in today’s studio using DAW and outboard based setups: “Where do I put a keyboard, mouse or trackball and where do I put the computer monitor/s?” The 950m solves those issues by providing a 2-tiered front bolster which is wide and deep enough to comfortably locate a DAW keyboard and mouse or trackball (with sufficient cable access). A generous flat top is ideal for locating DAW monitor/s and/or small speakers. The 950mx module area is supported at a 15 degree pitch providing comfortable viewing access and control immediately above your keyboard, mouse, and DAW control surface(s)."

I like the features of the 950mx especially the dual stereo mix busses (one with transformers, the other electronically balanced, both with compressors) which can be summed together and the choice of mono and stereo inputs (purchased in groups of four). Harrison also has a line of studio furniture to complement the 950mx.

Take a look at the video showing the features of the 950mx:

FEATURES:

Input Channels

Mono Mic / Line Inputs (purchased in groups of 4)

• Insert Switch (pre-eq/fader, send is always active)
• Robust 48v Phantom Power
• Separately Switchable, Sweepable HP + LP Filters
• 3 Band EQ with Sweepable Frequency
• Left/Right Pan Knob
• Input Pad (for connecting line level signals to mic preamp)
• Poarity Reverse Switch
• Line-In Selector (separate input, with unity gain)
• Mic Pre Gain
• 4 Aux Sends
• Each aux is selectable pre/post via jumpers
• Channel ON Switch, with lighted indicator
• Solo Switch
• 100mm Fader
• (2) Stereo Mix Bus Assigns (Red & Black)
• 4-LED Input Meter
• Post-Fader Direct Output

*Original 950m modules with fixed EQ and filter frequencies are also compatible with the 950mx frame

Stereo Line-Level Inputs (purchased in groups of 4)

• Stereo Insert Switch (pre-eq/fader, send is always active)
• Separately Switchable HP + LP Filters (stereo tracking)
• 3 Band "Tone" Controls (stereo tracking)
• Input Balance
• Left->Right, Right->Left, and Mono Sum Switches
• Input Trim Knob
• 4 Aux Sends
• Each aux is selectable pre/post via jumpers
• Channel ON Switch, with lighted indicator
• Solo Switch
• 100mm Fader
• (2) Stereo Mix Bus Assigns
• 4-LED Input Meter

Master Section

• Mix Bus 1 Compressor (In/Out Switch, Threshold, Release Time, 4-Segment Meter)
• Mix Bus 2 Compressor (In/Out Switch, Threshold, Release Time, 4-Segment Meter)
• Oscillator / Talkback Assignment Switches (Aux 1-4, Mixbus 1,2)
• 4 Aux Send Master Knobs
• Stereo Mix Bus 1 Master Fader
• Stereo Mix Bus 2 Master Fader
• Stereo Mix Bus 1 & 2 VU Output Meters

Monitor Section

• Oscillator (On/Off, 100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz, -20dB pad)
• Studio Monitor Source Selection (Ext, Aux 1-4*, Mix Bus 1,2)
• Headphone Level
• Speaker Level
• Speaker B Selector Switch
• Monitor Mono
• Monitor Mute
• Talkback Microphone
• Talkback Level
• Talkback Enable
• Headphone Jack

Alt Output Section

• Alt Output "A" Summing Source Selections (Ext, Aux 1-4*, Mix Bus 1/2)
• Alt Output "A" Level/Mono/Mute
• Alt Output "B" Summing Source Selections (Ext, Aux 1-4*, Mix Bus 1/2)
• Alt Output "B" Level/Mono/Mute
• Alt Output Talkback Switch (talk to A, talk to B)

Note: when monitored directly in the console, Aux 1+2 are mono, while Aux 3+4 are monitored in stereo left & right.

Chandler TG2-500 Preamp

Chandler Limited will be showing their new TG2-500 Pre at NAMM 2014 on Jan 23-26. It has all the features of the original TG2 plus an added fine gain control. The TG2 is an industry favorite and I'm sure the TG2-500 will be popular with many 500 series aficionados.

From the website:

"Chandler Limited, recognized globally for signal processing and related music and audio products that deliver the classic analog warmth recording and performing professional musicians seek, is pleased to announce the forthcoming TG2-500 Pre Amp. Building upon the popularity of the company’s acclaimed TG2 Pre Amp / DI, the new TG2-500 delivers the classic sound of the EMI TG12428 pre amp used in EMI/Abbey Road recording and mastering consoles in the late 60s and early 70s—in the company’s 500 series module form factor.

Using the identical TG2 circuit, transistors, and transformers, the TG2-500 delivers 10 – 60 dB of gain and uses a coarse gain control and a fine gain control as found on EMI consoles. The unit provides 300 and 1200 Ohm input impedance as on the TG2, which the company’s customers have come to value.

Equally important, the Chandler TG2-500 delivers frequency response identical to the TG2. Equally notable, the TG2-500 has the same high frequency bump and mid forward tone that users enjoy with the TG2, along with the warmth inducing distortion which contributes to its sound. The end result is a creamy, smooth tone with a surprisingly open, clear top end. The sound, as explained by many users, has the ‘warmth and punch’ of the Neve, but with a nicer, expanded top end.

Chandler Limited owner and chief product designer Wade Goeke commented on the company’s new TG2-500 Pre Amp, “The TG2-500 is a product we’ve been asked about for a number of years. In the past, I always commented that I had not yet found the right way to engineer this unit in the 500 series form factor. Now, I’m pleased to report that, after working on this challenge for quite some time and attempting a number of different methods in the process, I’ve made everything work to my satisfaction. I’m glad I was patient because I genuinely believe our users will be pleasantly surprised and very pleased with the results!”

Chandler hasn't yet disclosed the price or availability of the TG-2 500.

Tech Tues: Using Logic Pro X Drummer to control any drum plugin.

This is a follow up to last week's post on fixing/replacing drums. It's a video tutorial by songwriter/producer/musician Greg Kocis showing how to use the Logic X's built in Drummer to control a 3rd party drum plugin. Greg uses the Steven Slate Drum Library in this example but it can be used with others as well. Click the links in the video for more Logic X tips. He also has his 8000+ Apple Loops library on sale for $49.99 (regularly $99.99)

Pebble and Bam-Bam

UK's Unity Audio has announced their new speaker line called "The Pebble and Bam-Bam". I had a chance to audition their highly acclaimed "The Rock" studio monitors a few years ago while working at Metropolis Studios in London. Unity Audio will showcase the speakers at NAMM 2014. Price TBA.

Here's the press release from the website:

"UK manufacturer Unity Audio Ltd is following on from the critically acclaimed Rock MK II and Boulder active monitors with the production of the new active Pebble and Bam Bam.

The Pebble

Like the existing Rock, Boulder and Avalanche sub-woofer monitor models, the Pebble will have a sealed cabinet for fast accurate bass reproduction and feature the same internal cabinet Aperiodic Vent like the Avalanche sub-woofer for extended low frequency range. The Pebbles will be sold and packaged as a pair and will feature a high quality 5" woofer and soft dome tweeter with 2x 180 watt OEM discrete amplifiers and custom crossover. The new models are built with different components to the existing range but still feature high quality parts that are built and tested in the UK.

Designed for critical near-field desktop applications and for those wanting brutally honest monitoring but at a more affordable price point The Pebble will outperform the competition in similar sized cabinets and even larger ones too.

The Bam-Bam

The Bam-Bam is a new concept, again it's a sealed Aperiodic Vent cabinet design and has the same dimensions as The Pebble but it features a single 7" woofer with the same 180 watt discrete amplifier as The Pebble.

The Bam-Bam is not a sub-woofer but should be thought of as an expansion of The Pebble. The Bam Bam will be packed and sold in pairs to run next to or underneath The Pebbles. It transforms The Pebble into a 3 way system with the bass woofer housed in a separate cabinet which will totally eliminate unwanted low frequency cabinet resonance in The Pebble mid and HF range to extend low frequency response and increase SPL. Interconnect cables running power and audio will be supplied with the Bam-Bam package to link audio and power through from The Pebbles.

The Pebble & Bam-Bam are exciting additions to the Unity Audio studio monitoring family, which are used by high profile artists, engineers and producers such as Coldplay, Queens of the Stone Age, Alan Moulder, Mike Crossey. These products will expand Unity Audio's market by making professional monitoring more affordable to home studio users and pros alike."

Music Producer, Salaam Remi - Pensado's Place #145

This weeks episode of Pensado's Place features Grammy Winning Producer, Label Exec and longtime friend and collaborator Salaam Remi (who is currently nominated for four Grammys). Dave and Herb start off by disclosing some of their plans for the show and a recap of their Belmont University event. Salaam speaks on his favorite bass and his production style.
His retelling of the first time we worked with Amy made me a little melancholy but also reminded me how much fun we had on those sessions. He also speaks on working with other artists such as Lauryn Hill, Nas, Miguel and the big influence his Dad Van Gibbs (a renowned producer and musician in his own right) had on him. In the Corner Office segment he gives even more insight into his songwriting/production and how important the sonics/engineering is. My favorite 'Salaam quote' - "It's their (the artist's) book I just put the cover on it."





Here's the Tonight show performance of "One In The Chamber" with Salaam and Akon.
It's the single from his Grammy nominated album of the same name with features from many artists such as Estelle, Corinne Bailey Ray, Jordan Sparks, Ne-Yo and Stephen Marley. It also features two upcoming artists CJ Hilton and Liam Bailey.



Salaam's "One In The Chamber" Album can be purchased on iTunes.

The CD will be available in March.

I need FUEL ASAP.

Lacie FUEL - 1TB Wireless Hard Drive seems like the perfect choice for a backup drive for your Mac or iPad/IOS device. (According to the manual it can also be used with Windows and Android devices). Its not the only choice (See CNET's review of WIFI hard drives.) but seems fairly easy to setup and can be used while connected to the internet. 

I'm a little disappointed that Lacie does not recommend using the FUEL as a TimeMachine Backup for your Mac, but the ability to use it with multiple devices at the same time is a definite plus.

Lacie FUEL Features:

• Store your movies, songs, photos, and documents. The 1TB hard drive can store over 300 high-definition (HD) movies (1.5GB MP4 H.264), 125,000 songs, or 100,000 photos.¹⁾
• Load your media quickly. Your LaCie Fuel includes a USB 3.0 port for fast transfers, up to 5Gb/s. To take advantage of the faster transfer rates available to USB 3.0, plug your device into a Windows® or Mac® computer with a USB 3.0 port. The LaCie Fuel can be connected to a USB 2.0 port but transfer rates will be slower, up to 480Mb/s.
• Share content with more people. Your LaCie device can stream up to three or more Wi-Fi enabled devices at the same time, so more than one person can access your wireless media library at the same time.
• Enjoy up to 8 hours of continuous play. Your LaCie Fuel provides up to 8 hours of continuous video streaming.²⁾
• Do more. While you’re listening to music or viewing movies or photos on your mobile device, you can also browse the internet from your home network or your favorite Wi-Fi hotspot.
• Manage your digital media files. Use the Seagate Media™ app to play your music in the background, personalize your photo slide shows, add movie bookmarks, and more.
• Synchronize your media files. Automatically synchronize all your media files with your LaCie Fuel using the free Seagate Media Sync™ software.
  
  

The Lacie FUEL costs $199. The website says currently out of stock but available soon.

Tech Tues: Tips on fixing drums.

I recently had a Twitter discussion about miking drum kits with @RobSommerfeldt, @CreateMusicPro, and @EvilPowerMaster. This gave me the incentive to do a post about live drums. It just so happens that James of Pro-tools-expert.com posted a tutorial showing how to fix live drums. I'm sure we've all had days where due to time constraints or using a not so great sounding kit we got less than stellar results. These tips also work well with programmed drums.

Another way to fix drums is to do sound replacement/augmentation with various software such as:

1. Slate Digital's Trigger,

2.WaveMachineLab's Drumagog

3. or SPL's DrumXchanger.

4. Avid's own SoundReplacer is Protools AudioSuite only.

I like to hear the sounds in context while I search for the right drum sample to replace or augment the original sound. There are other drum replacement plugins but these are the ones I'm most familiar with.

Here are some videos showing the drum replacement plugins I mentioned.


Slate Digital Trigger EX kick replacement tutorial:




WaveMachineLabs Drumagog tutorial:




SPL DrumXchanger Snare Replacement tutorial:




Sound Replacer tutorial:

Would you use this as a controller?

The AlphaSphere is a different approach to the MIDI/DAW Controller. It is designed by Adam Place founder of the company Nu Desine. The AlphaSphere comes in two styles; Nexus and Elite. They offer a unique way to trigger sounds/samples and play music with 48 pressure and velocity sensitive pads. When used with the included AlphaLive software the AlphaSphere can be used as a standalone instrument or as a controller for your DAW.

ELITE ONLY FEATURES:

• MIDI port to connect AlphaSphere to external MIDI compatible hardware
• 2 x Assignable Dials
• 3 x Assignable Buttons
• Custom soft touch finish
• Available in black

HARDWARE:

• 48 tactile pressure and velocity* sensitive pads
• Ergonomic and spherical modular design
• Hexagonal lattice pad layout, allowing for alternative notational arrangements
• Responsive LED lighting
• USB 2.0 connectivity and bus powered
• Fully compatible with any MIDI software
• Dimensions: 26cm(W) x 26cm(D) x 32cm(H)
• Weighs approximately 3kg

*8 smallest pads are pressure sensitive only.


SOFTWARE:

• Custom software allows the device to be programmed to a highly customised level
• Use as the devices MIDI mapping editor
• Use to trigger, loop, and manipulate audio samples
• Use to record and manipulate MIDI and audio step sequences
• Convert pad data to OSC (Open Sound Control) messages
• Comes with a 1GB library of audio loops and hits compiled by professional sample library companies
• Program pads individually or by custom groups
• Store up to 20 ‘scenes’ of pad settings within a single project
• Open-source under the GNU General Public Licence v2.
• Runs on both Mac OS X (10.5 and above) and Windows (XP SP3 and above)
• Supports Core Audio, ASIO, WASAPI and DirectSound

MIDI COMPATIBILITY:

• Map preset notational scales or layouts to the pads, or set notes to pads individually
• Compatible with polyphonic aftertouch
• Set the pressure of each pad to send polyphonic aftertouch, channel aftertouch, mod wheel, pitchbend, or a CC message
• Supports multichannel MIDI, allowing multiple instruments to be played at the same time

Here's a video interview he did for Dubspot showing how he came up with the idea and how it can be utilized as a controller.





Here's a tutorial showing the AlphaSphere being used with Logic Pro X:



More tutorials featuring other DAWs can be found here.

The AlphaSphere Nexus can be purchased on their website  for £500/821.45 USD, the Nexus sells for £1000/1642.90 USD. U.S./Canada customers are urged to buy from from any of their North American dealers.

Tech Tues: Slap Delay Tips and Tricks

In ITL #92 Dave gives some great tips on using slap delay and tells how it was done in the pre DAW days with analog tape machines. The last time I saw it done with tape was over a decade ago when Salaam and I worked with Carlos Santana at Fantasy Studios in San Francisco. Santana's engineer the great Jim Gaines (he engineered Steve Miller's classic album "Fly Like An Eagle" and many others.) used a 1/4 inch 2 track to create a slap delay.

Here are some of my favorite plugins for slap delay. They are all UAD emulations of classic analog machines that were used in many studios in the past.

The effect can be done with other delay plugins including the stock delays in your DAW. The key is to experiment and see what cool sounds you create. Leave me a comment if you have any tips/techniques you would like to share.

The ToneCraft 363 Tube Direct Box

 Tonecraft Audio is a California based company that was formed by "Jon Erickson and Ryan Feves to create handcrafted professional audio equipment for the studio and stage." Jon is a renowned designer with multiple TEC Award nominations and Ryan is a top notch bass player.

Their premiere release is the 363 Tube Direct Box:

"The NEW Tonecraft 363 Tube Direct Box is the professional player’s solution for a consistently great direct sound in the studio and on the stage. The 363 has the ability to aggressively shape tones like a vintage tube amp and function as a full frequency, high performance tube direct box for musicians with an appreciation for the sounds, style and build quality of golden era equipment (50′s-70s) looking to vastly improve their 1/4″ sound. This includes electric and upright bassists, acoustic and electric guitarists, keyboard players and electronic musicians."

The 363 seems to be very solidly built. I'm sure it has great tone/color as well. It has tons of gain (40db) and dual outputs. The 2 band EQ with +/- 20db of boost/cut along with a bypass switch is a nice addition.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Input: 10 meg, unbalanced.

• Thru: Tube buffered loop of the input signal. Fully isolates input from external loading vs. a standard passive loop. May be connected to an amplifier or tuner.

• Volume: Preamp stage gain control. Variable 0-40db Gain

• Bass and Treble: Classic Baxandall EQ circuit with +/-20db of boost and cut.

• Eq/Bypass: Bypass mode has extended flat frequency response from 5hz to 75k and is ultra hi-fi. EQ mode is more amp-like in character with expanded tonal control.

• Outputs: Dual balanced line level outputs with separate level controls. May be driven simultaneously to full +22dbu output level. Cinemag Hi-Nickel Output transformer.

• Dedicated Ground Lifts for each output

• Frequency Response: 5hz-75k

• Tube Complement: 1 Tung Sol 6SL7 2 Tung Sol 6SN7GT

• Custom Steel chassis

• Handwired, turret construction. Highly serviceable.

• Engraved and illuminated clear front panel. Adjustable brightness. Custom engraving available

• Extremely low noise.

• Handmade in the U.S.A.

• Voltage: 115v/230v 60hz switchable on the exterior

• Dimensions: 13″ x 8.5″ x 3.5″

• Rackmount kits available

Tonecraft Audio said the 363 Tube D.I. will be available in Jan 2014. Price to be announced.

Happy Holidays! from Gobbler.

Gobbler sent me an email stating that they're giving away free online storage space to all those who refer people to their website. The great thing about this offer is that both the inviter and invitee get extra space when the people you invite sign up.
I use Gobbler daily and find it a fast and secure resource for collaborating and transferring files.

Hey Gary, The holidays are here, and we want to give you more free space for your projects. Just refer at least one friend to Gobbler within the next 7 days and both you and everyone you refer will get a coupon for 25GB of extra bonus space, free for an entire 2 months! Invite Friends to Gobbler There's no limit on how many friends you can pass this deal onto, and since every referral gets you both 512MB of lifetime bonus space, there's truly never been a better time to give the gift of Gobbler. Wishing you, your family, and your friends, the happiest of holidays, - Team Gobbler

You can read my previous posts on Gobbler here and sign up here.

NI's Supercharger has nothing to do with a car, and it's free.

Native Instruments new Supercharger Compressor plugin is available as a free download until Dec. 31st. The simple straightforward layout makes it easy to use and it has both side chaining and parallel processing. Not bad for a free plugin. The sound? Download it and try for yourself. The above pic is an actual setting that I used on the drum buss for a Logic Pro session. It took maybe 20 seconds to get a good sound.


    From the Manual:

"SUPERCHARGER is a superb character compressor with a simple but powerful interface, which makes compression easy to use, even for the inexperienced user.

SUPERCHARGER can be used on a channel or a group of channels (often referred to as a 'bus') within your host software. It contains factory presets that lend themselves to compres- sion scenarios you are likely to encounter in your productions."

From the website:

"SUPERCHARGER adds unique, colorful character to anything it touches. Inspired by a one-of-a-kind boutique tube compressor, its one-knob simplicity lets you sculpt your dynamics at full speed with total focus on the sound. Designed for versatility, SUPERCHARGER is the perfect all-round tool for anything from warming up a vocal to crushing your drums completely."

FEATURES:

• Input Trim:  Adjust so the green indicator is lit for best results
• SideChain:  Selects external side chain input signal.
• Compress Knob:  Adjusts amount of compression. Turn clockwise for more compression. If the input knob is properly set the signal level will remain constant.
• Punch:  Slows the attack to allow more transients if needed.
• Dirt:  Adds saturation to the signal for more character.
• Mix:  Use for parallel signal processing.
• Output:  Adjusts output level of compressor.

Available for both Mac and PC:

Mac: Mac OS X 10.7 or 10.8 (latest update), Intel Core Duo, 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)

Windows: Windows 8, Windows 7 (latest Service Pack, 32/64 Bit), Intel Core Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2, 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)

Formats: AU, VST, RTAS, AAX 32- and 64-bit

Download the Native Instrument Supercharger Compressor here.

Tech Tues: Easy ways to transpose Audio and Midi in Protools

Yesterday I had to transpose some audio for a project I was mixing in Protools. By habit I went to the audiosuite menu to use an offline plugin but there's more than one way to do this.

Here's two short videos from ProToolsQwikTips with tips on transposing audio and midi in Protools.




If you have any other tips/methods, let me know and I will add it to the post.

PreAMPed 1.0.1 beta and Free Giveaway Contest

Matt from LVC Audio commented on my previous post on their PreAMPed plugin that they now have a beta 1.01 update with some new features and also a giveaway contest. To enter the giveaway leave them some feedback on the beta here.

Here is a list of the changes in the update:

New Features

Bypass Buttons

PreAMPed 1.0.1 has a new set of bypass buttons. The buttons enable you to bypass some of the major processing sections of PreAMPed. This can be useful in A/B comparisons, or to minimize CPU usage. 

The buttons include:

• Preamp: for bypassing the preamp modeling
• Saturation: for bypassing the additional saturation and high pass controls
• EQ: for bypassing all EQ controls
• Individual EQ: for bypassing any of the 4 EQ sections
• Stereo: for bypassing the Wide and Balance controls
• Revised Oversampling

The original version of PreAMPed included 2X oversampling. This worked well in many cases, but problems occurred when using the Mix control. The original oversampling filters had zero plugin latency, but they were minimal phase filters. When the processed signals were mixed with the original signal, phase cancellation occurred.

PreAMPed 1.0.1 has a new oversampling scheme. The original button has been replaced to allow for 2x, 4x, and 6x oversampling selector. The upsampling and downsampling filters have been converted to be linear phase. The result is some latency at the plugin output (compensated by the host), but there are no more phase cancellation issues when using the Mix control.

Knob A/B Comparison

When any knob is double-clicked, the current value will be reset to the default value. If the knob is double-clicked again, it will return to the previous value. This is a convenient way to A/B different settings. Right-clicking on a knob will change the knob’s default value. Then, when the knob is changed again and double-clicked, the new value can be A/Bed with the new default value.

Please keep in mind that right-clicking the knobs will only change the value for the current plugin instance. Loading another plugin will reset the default values to the “factory” default. Additionally, some DAW programs allow the user to select different options by right-clicking on a plugin. The knob’s default value will be changed, but the DAW my pop-up an additional menu as well.

Fixes and Enhancements

• made demo bypass less annoying (shorter duration of bypassed sound, and longer intervals between bypassed sound)
• improved waveform display
• fixed VST3 format error that prevented audio output
• fixed Clip LED from remaining stuck on when knob was adjusted
• fixed overlapping text on OSX and Windows 8 (increased GUI size)
• General GUI enhancements (improved preamp model buttons, improved knob position indicators on small knobs, and removed drop shadows on some GUI elements)

You won't mind having this Hippo in your studio.

Alta Moda's Hippo is a VCA based 500 series stereo compressor with some additional touches. I first heard about this unit a few years ago but never had the opportunity to use it.

"The Alta Moda Audio Hippo is a high-performance bus compressor designed for the 500-series compatible rack systems. The Hippo is based on a VCA topology made popular in highly successful recording consoles of the 1980's, but includes many modern features not found on typical bus compressors."

It seems like a solidly built unit and from the online feedback the sonics match the appearance. I think it would be great not only for mixing purposes but tracking as well.

Here are excerpts from an article by Russ Long in  Pro Audio Review Magazine:

"The Alta Moda HIPPO is a fantastic two-mix compressor that works well on virtually any audio source."
"After several months of use I came to the conclusion that there isn't anything this wonder module doesn't sound good on. The box performs flawlessly on bus compression duties. I think this is its true strength.
When tracking drums.... it performed well in every instance. It performed brilliantly on piano and acoustic guitar...... I found the Soft Link mode indispensable.... It also does a stellar job with bass and lead vocals...."

FEATURES:

• The Hippo features extended attack, release and ratio settings for wider control ranges. Selected controls are continuously-variable for enhanced resolution and versatility.
• Six-position High Pass Filter on side chain for better control of bass-heavy material.
• Six-position Warmth control adds rich harmonic distortion to fatten tracks.
• Unique channel linking options allow for better control of stereo imaging, including the ability to run the channel detectors independently of one another (Dual mode).
• Dual, 20-segment gain-reduction meters monitor both detectors with 1dB resolution.
• Blend control allows varying the output between dry and compressed signal for more subtle compression effects.
• Gold-contact relays completely remove unit from signal path when bypassed.

Price $1250 at Little Fish Audio

The WA76 Discrete Compressor and the Original Urei 1176 Peak Limiter.

Warm Audio said they're close to releasing their rendition of the famous 1176 Compressor. I've been hearing good things about Warm Audio's products and I'm curious to hear what their WA76 sounds like. I'm a longtime user of the 1176 and even though I use the UA 1176 plugin more often these days I'm still interested in any new hardware that companies have to offer.

From the website:

"The WA76 Limiting Amplifier is a modern reproduction of the Classic 1176 Revision D. Every effort was made to remain faithful to the original designs including the use of Reichenbach Engineering’s (now CineMag) transformer designs that were used in the original. The classic 1176 was a major breakthrough in limiter technology — the first true peak limiter with all transistor circuitry offering superior performance with a signature sound — and set the standard for all limiters to follow. The ultra-fast attack time and trademark sound have lured legendary artists and studio moguls alike to the 1176 — Peter Frampton, Joe Satriani, Joe Chiccarelli, Vance Powell, and Mike Elizondo are just a few names on a list that’s continued to grow, for nearly 50 years. "

SPECIFICATIONS:

• True to the Classic 1176 compressor in design and performance
• Completely discrete signal path
• Modeled after the D revision
• Utilizes USA made CINEMAG input and output transformers
• Supports the famous “all buttons in” ratio setting
• Ultra fast attack time
• Class A line level output amplifier
• Input impedance - 600 ohms, bridges-T control (floating) 
• Frequency Response ± 1 dB 20 Hz to 20kHz
• XLR and TRS inputs. XLR and TRS outputs
• 55db of gain
• Less than 0.4% total harmonic distortion from 50 Hz to 20 kHz with limiting
• Signal to noise ratio is greater than 74 dB at +25 dBm
• EIN -104.1 dbm
• Attack time, 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds
• Release time, 50 milliseconds to 1 second
• Meter provides dB gain reduction and dB output
• Internal power supply, external 24v AC power transformer
• 19″ Rackmount chassis, 2U
• 1-year warranty

The WA76 should be available in February or March 2014 for $599.

Here's an updated Facebook post I did a few years ago on the original Urei 1176 Peak Limiter:

Urei 1176 Peak Limiter

The Urei 1176 Peak Limiter was used on The Fugees "Nappy Heads (Mona Lisa)" remix produced by Salaam Remi (@SaLaAMReMi). The 1176 is one of Urei's most well known units (now manufactured by Universal Audio as both hardware and software). The controls are pretty simple. There is an input and output, attack and release and 4 ratio buttons. There are also meter display select buttons and an off switch. The input knob adjusts the input signal level and also acts as a threshold for the limiter circuit. The output knob adjusts the output level of the unit so you can apply make-up gain to the signal after limiting. The 4 ratio buttons are 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1 which might seem like a limitation but when used in conjunction with the input knob is actually quite versatile (to really squash the signal try pressing down all 4 buttons at once.). The attack ranges from 20 to 800 microseconds which is very fast (great for drums) and the release varies from 50 milliseconds to 1.1 secs. which gives you extensive control over the signal. The attack knob also serves as the limiter switch (notice the word off under the knob. When the attack knob is turned completely counter clockwise limiting is disabled. For both the attack and release knobs fastest settings are when the knob is turned completely clockwise. The meter select switches allow you to view the amount of gain reduction (GR) or the output level at +4 or +8 reference level which is important to maintain proper gain structure. The OFF switch turns off the unit. The little box sitting on top of the pair of 1176's in the pic is called an 1176 SA and is basically a Stereo Adapter (SA) which allows you to link 2 1176's together as a stereo unit. The connectors are the barrier strip type and are found on the rear of the 1176 along with the rca connector for the 1176 SA. There are many revisions of the 1176 (A thru H) with the original being a silverface with blue paint around the meter section. 

Here are some short video clips featuring the 1176:

 

Here's a link to a page with descriptions of the different revisions

http://www.dancetech.com/item.cfm?threadid=4219 

Here's an Ebay page with a list of current auctions

 http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=m570&_nkw=Urei+1176 

For more info on the UA reissue of the 1176 go to

http://www.uaudio.com/hardware/compressors/1176LN.html 

and for the UAD software 1176 Classic Limiter Plug-In Collection ($199) which requires a UAD card or firewire accelerator,
Visit http://www.uaudio.com/store/compressors-limiters/1176-collection.html

The UA 1176 reissue ($1999) can be purchased at B&H Photo, Video and Pro Audio (@BHPhotoVideo)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/342384-REG/Universal_Audio_1176LN_1176LN_Dynamics_Processor.html

Here's the iTunes (@iTunesMusic) link to the "Nappy Heads(Mona Lisa)" remix
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/nappy-heads-remix/id169704381?i=169705241

Tech Tues: Mix Engineer Phil Tan Made Rihanna's "Diamonds" Shine Bright

Here's a video of "Full Sail Recording Arts graduate/Hall of Fame inductee Phil Tan as he walks through his mix session for Rihanna's chart-topping hit single, "Diamonds," talks about his career, and answers questions about his mixing techniques." He gives some honest, realistic insights into the music industry.

Two 500 series LA-2A style compressors from IGS Audio.

IGS Audio has announced their One LA 500 compressor for the 500 series market. The unit is a dual slot mono module with the original Teletronix audio path with tubes on both input and output. It's a simple but impressive looking unit with easily read and operated controls. The large VU meter is a definite plus. Anyone familiar with the LA-2A will be  right at home with this unit.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• 500-series double module, mono unit,
• +4dB operating level,
• the original Teletronix 68. audio path,
• tubes powered by 250V DC,
• JJ 12AX7 input and RFT 12AU7 output tubes,
• Sowter input transformer,
• Edcor output transformer,
• OEP sidechain transformer,
• T4B replaceable photocell,
• Power consumption: max 180mA per slot,
• Input impedance: 10k Ohm,
• Maximum output: +21dBU,
• Amplification: 36dB,
• Gain reduction: 36dB,
• Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz, +/-0.1 dB,
• Potentiometers manipulators,
• Hard wire bypass,
• Compressor/Limiter mode,
• Large VU meter,
• 3 years warranty,
• Shipping weight: 3kg.

Price: 725 EUR/$994 USD

The Photon 500 is their other LA-2A based unit;

From the website:

"The PHOTON 500 is an optical compressor, based on technology from the 60's, first used in the UREI LA-2A limiter and later in the LA4. As homage to these legendary products, we packed this technology into a 500-series module. The PHOTON 500 uses an opto-coupler, which introduces negative feedback in the audio path, taking care of gain reduction. It also has an electronically balanced input with 2520 compatible op-amp in the gain stage and a Carnhill transformer balanced output."

 FEATURES:

• Peak Reduction: controls the gain of the side-chain circuit,
• Hard wire Bypass,
• Ratio: 2:1, 4:1, 12:1,
• Sidechain Hi-Pass filter: Flat, 60, 120Hz,
• London/New York: Advanced compression curve modeling, like SLAM.
• Output: 12-pole stepped makeup gain.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• 500-series module, 
• Input impedance: 10kOhm, 
• Max input level: +24 dBu,
• Output impedance: 600Ω by Carnhill,
• Maximum Output Level: +32 dBu,
• Total Harmonic Distortion: max 0.5%,
• Frequency response: +/- 0.2 dB 8Hz to 20kHz,
• Gain: 30dB,
• HPF: Off, 60Hz, 120Hz,
• Signal to noise ratio: more than 99 dB,
• Power supply: +/- 16V,
• Power consumption: 110mA,
• Dimensions: 133x37x180mm,
• Weight: 700g,
• 3 year warranty.

Here's a quick demo of a pair of PHOTONs being used on a drum loop:

Price 525 EUR/$720 USD

IGS products can be purchased in the US at Atlas Pro Audio.

See my previous posts on IGS Audio gear here.