I record on a portable interface when on the road and I run back some of the key tracks like vocals and main instruments through analog gear. It gives me the freedom to run it in cycle and tweak the gears to my liking and print back to computer. I try to recreate that sound in plug-in only as a challenge and sometimes it’s not easy. Sometimes you have to stack multiple plugins to get close but by the time you get there it feels like a lot of work. I believe some of the best engineers who claim they only mix in the box have already tracked or run most of their tracks through analog first. And that is very effective as those subtle analog flavors on a number of tracks will make a significant difference on the overall mix. Also makes your mixing session go fast. Great video as always.
I think analogue gear does have an edge but imo it's so minor that when the mix is done you barely hear it, if you hear it at all. If you have tons of money, analogue outboard is a lot of fun but unless you are a rock star with world fame, imo it's just not worth the price anymore. That's what I find a pitty: the exaggerated prices. We all know electronic parts cost almost nothing. A tube tech CL1B (apart from an AMS Neve DMX1580s) are the only outboards I have; In a CL1B there is hardly anything in there. Yet they charge over 3000 for a single unit. To build one maybe costs 100 or 150 bucks. That's why I like Tegeler Audio. They offer top material for affordable prices. Outboard should be less expensive. Same with some synth manufacturers. Take DSI, Moog, Neve, etc. All top brands but they want excessive profit marigns. That's too bad.
You can get 99% of the way there inside the box but reaching that destination is much faster when it comes to getting that legit sounding/feelling compression, saturation and distortion. The majority of people that are going to listen to the music can't tell the difference. micing amps vs. DI recorded instruments is one of those things where it's almost impossible to get a DI recorded guitar to sound quite right to fool someone with a trained ear into thinking it was recorded via micing amps
Cool story from the past bro. What if I give you a perfect tracks with luxury plugins and then see how long it will take you to match that with analog hardware. You won't be able to. Because it's not the same thing
I sometimes feel that the irony is that analogue gear is often easier to use - it's more benign, it does less and it's harder to mess up when you have one real compressor vs a dozen plugins; so it's probably better for beginners to learn on. Experienced mixers, folks like Andrew Scheps, can move ITB because they know exactly what they are aiming for and are more able to tame their plugin collections. A lot of the big name guys from the 80s and 90s era, like CLA and Joe Barresi, always appear in front of their SSLs, but then that's now sort of their brand, it makes them stand out in a crowded market place. I find that plugins like the Brainworx Black Box MS with its density control and the adjustable headroom on the Shadow HIlls Mastering Comp are a big help as an easy way to dial in more of what a plugin does and then reduce the impact to get a more natural result. Great vid Dom, food for thought.
As somebody working a in studio with an SSL 4048G+ and also having my own spot with plenty of analog gear, I think : - Analog makes a different during the recording stage : You can track through plugins now. A lot of them offer latency free options (not only UAD). But it's true that tracking through gear (or plugins for that matter) makes mixing easier along the way. And it's true that the wider sweet spot of analog makes it "safer" to track through. - The "wow factor" making artists/clients comfortable : I agree fully. - Analog makes a difference when mixing, you can get to the sound quicker : I think it is true but if I am being really honest : The recall/print or the patching will take as much time as piling up plugins to get to the sound desired. So analog will only be effectively quicker if it is used as "set and forget", like preset. Although hardware do not sound more "3D". They are still stereo or mono imho ^^. - Bigger sweet spot with hardware : Yeah I could agree to that. When pushed they sound great. It is kinda true but a lot of modern hardware sounds absolutely crap when pushed now. - Hardware is inspiring : It's idiosyncratic but I agree too, for me at least. - Music is a human thing : Well depending on how things will go, this statement will either age very well or awfully badly ^^. What you forgot to mention it's that, as soon as audio engineering remain a thing (which I don't think it will much in the near future), hardware is an investment. When buying something second-hand, you can resell it for me and it can help facing tough financial situation. I recently made 1k profit on a sale of a second hand gear. And no I am not 50 y old, I just was lucky to find a great deal, restore the unit (very basic stuff) and sell it back.
Analog gear forced me to use my ears more. To be more critical with my decisions. Plus turning knobs and pushing buttons makes me feel more connected to my craft. But definitely not required to make good music. Great video Dom.
Absolutely love your thoughts on using the hardware, and your ears instead of eyes on a plug-in, as this is the exact experience I have with hardware synths; becoming part of the machine and working with it - often with two hands. As soon as I get out of the box I feel so liberated and connected with the music.
I think the biggest flaw in comparing analog gear to plugins is: If you hear a difference, any difference, most people will automatically assume that the hardware is better…tadaaaaa….marketing. I have plugins that are the reason I sold the hardware, because for my taste, or in my opinion, the plugin does a better job. But I know, if you want to buy a 5000$ compressor…any sound difference goes in favour of the gear…
this is so true who decides that the difference is better since they are both still interpretations of the source material which analog intentionally changes, digital is more true to source since it adds no discolouration
@@nicefish10 That is the common believe. But the technologie at the time (in the 1920s and 1930s) limited the applications of the mathematical formulars behind it. There is no argument that the digital technologie today is prefered by the industry that invented all of this. And I don‘t mean the music industry, that was just a side product…
Exactly !! Well said. These guys are tapping themselves on their own shoulders, tooting their horn. In the hopes of eliminating competition. Look at me I have analogue gear you cannot do what I can do ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
Analog is cool cause it gave me a reference in terms of the difference between analog and digital. Now knowing the sound of analog, it feels like I can get my digital plugins to get closer to that sound. I think that is a pretty useful bit. But if you are starting out, I don't think you should invest in it right away. It can get mad expensive. There is so much to learn first about music that can be done without analog. But once you feel you can take the leap monetarily and mentally, it is a pretty powerful plunge.
Everything is personal choice really. I have both Analog and Digital, Analog is the true source though. You could call it special sauce really. Have Warm Audios VCA Bus Comp and their 1073 pre amp and EQ, comparison is night and day
It is common knowledge that you can do a high quality hit record in the box. It is also known that it is more cost effective and has many advantages. But some want to be more hands on in the process. Knobs,faders and can get to their results with analog. Music is feeling. An experience. And if you get it with a console and hardware then nothing someone says matters. The debate for some is about quality. For others it is being right and saying others are wrong. Obviously the cost difference is large but if you have the means and prefer being involved with analog then it's what you should follow. You have a new subscriber Dom.
The quality preamps and microphones still make sense sense. But with lack of recall and the expense involved in hardware, im not sure it is worth it in 2024. I'd advise someone to put that money towards a high spec cpu.
Before watching: if somebody can't make a good mix with stock plugins they aint gonna know how to use equivilent hardware stuff either. And I'm not trying to say I'm any genious on mixing either. I'm pretty avarage. But I know I would't automatically make something better by buying any fancy stuff.
I’ve been a composer/musician/producer for almost 50 years, and owned a good sized 24 track studio some years ago, but later downsized to a project studio. When the UAD1 card first came out I compared the 1176LN plug against my 1176LN, specifically on vocals, and I couldn’t hear any difference at all. I saw the future, and sold all my analog outboard gear. Made a pretty penny, too! I’m primarily a musician these days, and not really in the recording business anymore, and only have myself to impress, so I’m perfectly happy with plugs. I don’t even own a guitar amp anymore.
Really? If you let them work hard I don't have to strain myself to hear a clear difference. Neither do my clients, even with Acustica Audio plugins the difference is clear. Only when you do very subtle moves, it's not so obvious.
I've been professionally mixing/mastering for over 15 years. Aside from when I worked in professional studios, I did it 100% in the box till about 2 years ago. It is entirely possible to make "industry standard" music just in the box. That being said, about 2 or 3 years ago I started buying analog gear HOWEVER I only got the stuff I felt like plugins just didn't do the job as good as I knew was possible. So I stick with compression and saturation for my hardware. I don't have any analog EQ or fx and don't intend on getting them. The mixbus is the best place to start in my opinion. Get a GOOD mixbus compressor (I chose the WesAudio Dione and it's AMAZING) and build from there. I waited till I felt like plugins were holding me back to start purchasing analog gear and I think that's the best way to do it! Great video as usual Dom, thank you!
Exactly! This is the most reasonable philosophy when it comes to investing in analog hardware. It also doesn't need a boutique price tag to be good. The Dione is awesome, indeed, and so is the slightly pricier Tegeler Audio Creme.
I think your sleeping on the analog eq. I’m almost the opposite. Compression, whatever analog eq though… once your up boosting past 10db analog absolutely crushes digital eq. Just my two cents. Just one solid stereo eq is really all you need. I believe Wes audio has one if you like that brand
@@shoogabooga2072 Ohhh I have some analog EQs. I have a few channel strips, I should have been more specific in my comment. I meant like stand alone EQ, those I don't have any of but I've used TONS. I totally agree they are better than digital. What I mean is the cost-to-value ratio isn't worth it. I find much of the money to be much more "worth it" with compression and saturation when it comes to analog. No plugin has EVER gotten me even close to the sound my analog gear does when it comes to compression. EQ, sure analog sounds a little better but honestly, I'm rarely boosting or cutting much more than 4 or 5dB in my work so I just don't get the same cost-to-value as I do with compression/saturation. I've done the null tests and while of course, I didn't get a complete null the difference was very very minor whereas with compression I have a completely different experience. I have a Wes Audio Dione and I've shot it out against every SSL G Buss Compressor style plugin I own and I own ALL of the popular ones lol. Digital compressors just sound flat and boring to me but analog compression really gives me an "immersive" sound, you know... "depth" haha! I thought all those sayings were just BS till I dove into analog and heard it for myself. Thanks for the comment! That's what's awesome about mixing/mastering. It's all very subjective and we all hear, process, and experience sound in different ways!
@@matt_nyc_audioengineer yeah analog rules haha. How is that compressor by the way? I was thinking about getting one for the recall. Have you used a racked Xlogic ssl comp? I just looove those. But recall..
@@shoogabooga2072 Ya, I've used loads of the X Logic stuff over my days. The Dione is next level tho. The additional THD circuit is worth the money alone. The recall is really fantastic too! I love turning knobs and dials but honestly I rarely even touch the unit. I use the plugin to control it so I don't have to leave the sweet spot. It sounds fantastic! So does the Rhea which is their Mu style compressor.
In my opinion. It is critical to have a good recording chain of: microphones Rode K2, Shure SM7b, 2 x Rode NT5, Rode NTR Ribbon microphone etc. Go into a channel strip like Focusrite ISA-430 Mk2, into good A to D converter. I agree about the analogue recording chain. Record to 48k and 24 bit. Mix in software. I find my Mackie CR1604-VLZ mixer and RNC1773 compressor works really well too, cheap and very effective. On the rare occasions I need to record drums I go to another studio. Most of my drums are samples played with a mouse or MIDI keyboard. (I must get a Roland V-drum kit.) Most pf my gear has been purchased used. Lots of people buy gear, lose interest, and sell it. For bass I have Ampeg PF 20-T going into a 15" EV or a Avalon U5 for DI. Mesa Boogie Nomad 100 and a choice of several speakers for guitar. There are 4 basses and 3 guitars in the studio maintained with intonation set correctly and new strings available. As for the psychological effects, I let my work speak for itself. I find people don't come to my door unless they have heard my previous work. I would prioritise making the studio feel good than some boutique compressor. Have a nice artist's lounge, a kitchen with cans of drink and some wine in the fridge. I have the services of my wife as a quality catering service. She is good, she cooks or takes orders and gets Thai take away. I have put way more time into learning about composition and arrangement than worrying about gear.
I have a Warm Audio TB12 (preamp) for my vocal mic and i love the way it adds colour to the sound. It makes it feel way more alive. I also tried to record vocals through preamp emulations on my Antelope Discrete 4 Synergy Core and even though they sound great and do make a difference from just the interface preamps themselves, they can't compete with the TB12... The TB12 feels way more alive and real.
And also, what you said about the analog wide sweet spot, i find it true on it as well. I rarely touch its settings. It sounds awesome almost 90% of the time without having to tweek it
Agree to some extent. There is one interview from Rupert neve where he makes references to some studies involving the perception of frequencies by the body even though you cannot hear them. With that said, most of the analog "praise" can be understood as something that people perceive but are not able to pin point where it is. Whether is the way the current hits the wave in comparison to no current on the digital, digital sounds flat. And as I tried to investigate more and more, it turns out that lack of transformers makes it difficult for one to mix. Another challenge with digital is that it is easy to overdo. There is no limitation. And that lack of limitation creates some limitation to the end product added to the fact that you get a flat record it does not how many professional plugins you use. While you put a track into a class A circuit with transformer, you are literally done. Drive the volume a little bit for saturation and the tracks are sitting right there where they should. Then you can go with only 1 eq on digital (yes 1 eq), no added compression. I could go endlessly speaking about the diferences. But from the moment that "good sound" has been defined by analog over the years, then is clear that if you want good sound you should try atleast to understand the analog . . . Then you judge od course. But first understand the sonic portion foe you to be able to judge. The sound everybody is looking for is analog. Period!!!!
Another great vid Dom... my personal preference for analog is for 3 reasons. 1 I suffered option paralysis with plugins, I am now more limited and thus more creative with fewer options. 2 I got an error message "Cubase no longer supports 32 bit plugins", my analog gear will outlast me and will still run when we have 256 bit processors in our phones lol. 3 there are 2 letters of the alphabet that instantly make me lose the will to live... IT, the less I need my computer the better. The last point is prob me being a luddite, however I think the first 2 points are worth considering.
Best ‘analog’ DAW is UAD Luna Pro 😊 Has that good old days workflow with its extensions, tape simulations and summing. I’m a Cubase head but love LUNA Pro
Analogue gear/hardware is great till it gets old and you have to get them repaired or you get your studio robbed. I always tell people no solution is perfect so its up to you.
i am not fan of analog gear for several reasons... but that's me.. this debate has started for years and years and in a serious talk everyone can have real points to show out in a conversation... in the end of the day, Analog gear or Plugins, they will deliver the job should anyway... the most important things are 1) the one using that gear, no matter what it is.. 2) when using something, knowing what you're doing, and most importantly know what to expect when applying something.. in other words working with intention...
As an engineer who built his dream studio in 2020 with tons of analog gear , a c800g , elam 251 mic and a plethora of analog synths coveted pieces etc. Financially this will absolutely do nothing to make you more money from a client , at all. I've had clients actually prefer shitty digital pumping compression over hardware , like shit off a phone on bandlab...demoitis is so real lmfaooo. BUT analog gear shoots up in value , all my hardware has appreciated in value. Not only do I think it sounds amazing during recording/even some post processing stuff. I also love summing so much and 2-bus hardware processing. Hybrid for life... I love it because my studio is essentially a savings account for me. Just reflipped 2 pieces and profited 1k back after using it for a year. Wild
I've been producing like 100% in the box since 2009 for most of my music except for when I record guitar(acoustic and electric for which I used an isolated cab I built to record my Mark V in 2014 and 2015 before purchasing a Mesa Cab Clone in 2016 and more recently a Torpedo Live). But I recently started to purchase analog gear and plan to slowly go hybrid!
Seems like Tech has caught up for this to even be a question. I know I have found more than a few guitar amp sims that sound so close to the real thing you can not do a blind test! You can also put effects on headphones through a daw with some great plugins real time as well. Like my first statement said........
I 100% experienced that singers perform better with a nice front-end. Nice pre-amp with some compression to give a big sound in their headphones and suddenly stop moving their head away when they hit louder notes. Makes it more fun for everywhere. I also noticed that you cant away with more gain reduction on the way in than can do with a plugin. And finally, when I decided to upgrade my vocal chain (including the mic) I dont have to do a lot in mixing. Some low-cut, maybe a boost. Finish it off with a nice La-2a plugin, add verb/delay and done. I used to spend ages on vocal EQ and compression with plugins.
Decided to skip McDSP APB in lieu of a few carefully picked plugins that are as close to analog as you can get ITB...Tone Project, Schwabe Digital, PSP...ETC. Even the SSL channel strips sound excellent and add some body. Now I use Kelvin as first insert...this already adds that weight, then adding additional emulations after just elevates the experience.
I think most people are mislead by the analog industry and youtubers but in reality the best starting investment you can do is buying a really good channelstrip with eq and comp (try to aim for an optical one one the way in like Dom already said) and youre set for a long time. i wish someone would have told me this 10 years ago ;D
Dom. I’m a big fan and really appreciate all the videos you post. I’ve learned so much from you regarding Cubase and “in general” recording techniques. But, I do have a question I’m hoping you can answer regarding real drums. When I choose to use the various programmed drums in Cubase, my songs sound more professional, or should I say, more professionally mixed. I can use the same recording techniques on my guitars, bass, vocals, and keys, but if I use “real” drums, the mix seems to fall apart. It’s like there’s a cohesive element that disappears. Do you have any secrets to mixing real drums and obtaining that tight, cohesive, professional sound? I’m using DW’s, high end Zildian cymbals, SM57’s, AKG414’s, 12 foot ceilings, different room sizes, but there’s just something missing. I call it a glue that holds the rhythm tight. I’m not sure if I’m explaining this properly.
Make an extra parallel drumbus and use a fair amount of compression, blend it in with the mix of the separate drum tracks. Also if you use room effects you should use it on the complete drum kit, this gives it a more cohesive sound. And of course use a bus compressor on the drumbus 👌🏼
Analogue gear preference is purely psychological and/or based on the physical interface. In blind tests people can't tell the difference in terms of sound quality between analogue and digital. I should know. I've done the tests as part of my work.
So wrong.. in most cases the differences are so obvious I don't even bother with blind testing. Same goes for my clients.. They always pick the hardware and not because they are snobs (actually some of them absolutely hate the audiophile attitude).
My observation is that it depends on how the piece is recorded and mastered. Both digital and analog are only good in the hands of those who are good. The top guys can use whatever equipment or technology available and it will always sound good.
Even the plugin designers (not their sales team) admit that plug in emulation aren’t accurate. Even more so when it comes to tracking. Tools are tools. Use what you have but let’s not compensate/discount what nicer tools are able to accomplish.
there was a very good test on Audiofanzine on this subject: very few people could tell the difference between a mix. ITB (with paid or free plug-ins) and a mix made with very expensive analog hardware!
Hi Dom. Thank you for this. I've always wondered whether one can emulate an analog environment by using plugins in the input channel. Is this advisable? Can you maybe make a video on this?
Speaking for vocal recording - mic pre-amp all the way and I recommed API 512V or a used XLogic XR 621, but you will need an X-Rack or Mynx rack for the latter. My 3rd recommendation is the SSL Six 500 series, but need a 500 series box for that too. Of course it might depend on your mic and those pre-amps work good with my Neumann TLM 107
The best piece of gear I have is my Rupert Neve Newton Channel. It's pretty much all I need to record vocals and I've had other hardware but mostly clones. This is the most affordable thing that is the actually the real deal.
I have a CL1B too and agree it's a beast. It adds nice sound to vocals; But it is my opinion you can get a good sound allowing singers to perform as you nicely put it with any software compressor too. It will just sound a little less great but not bad. In my beginning years I recorded vocals with a 15 year old SM58 which we borrowed from a club and which smelled because every drunk DJ had been sptting in it for years. We didn't have money for a pre amp so I used my cheap Mackie VLZ 4 channel console with their "mic pre's" built in. Given that little console cost mayby 100 bucks you can imagine.... And from there, directly into digidesign 882 ADDA converters, probably the worst converters ever. And we sold quite some copies. Honestly, I can't say that all sounded really awesome; It didn't, compared to nowadays in the box quality. Just saying, while I agree anaologue gear is great, imi in 2024 you can perfectly do without and still make great sounding performances.
Hi Dom, was just seeing your video where you explained how to create customized scripts for midi controllers and was super informative. Can you please help me in understanding how to assign one rotary knob from my midi controller so that I can scroll between tracks in my project window as well as the mixer window ,. Right now, I can see two different options to go to previous track and next track and would have to assign 2 rotary knobs, thanks a lot in advance☺
This analog mandolin is REALLY worth it. No VST coming out of your monitors can imitate an actual string creating variable sound pressure waves through the air.
THe analog vs digital thing has been over for years. FOlks who think analog must be the way just haven't figured that out and learned to live with that as freedom of choice will always be there.
Great video. I can't afford the great analog gear but i do use inexpensive stuff and get great results. I have my Beheringer Tube ultragain rack mount preamp going into my ART Pro VLA II compressor. I have 3 mics that I use for vocals. A Warm Audio WA47jr, an Apex 435 and my Lewett 240 Pro. The first 2 mics go through the rackmount gear while the Lewett runs through my Presous series 3 mixer which is my audio interface.
Nobody has ever come to my studio because I have a specific plug-in. And I own tons of plug-ins. But I get phone calls every day because I own chandler, germanium compressors, universal audio 1176, and LA 2a, Distressors, Neves, Avalon ,Orange, Neumann, Mesa, Marshall, Fender, Ampeg, Lexicon, Flea, Bock, Royer, etc. I also own at least a dozen very nice snare drums that are always on display, two very nice drum kits, and about 20 Very nice guitars that are hanging up in the studio. It’s also about creating an atmosphere for the artists that breeds trust, comfort, and a creatively safe and inspiring environment. You don’t get that with a plug-in. Sonically plug-ins can do amazing things these days nobody can dispute that. But you weren’t going to create a full on creative experience just by having some plug-ins on the computer. It takes so much more than that. But people that try to do everything all inside the box gets super defensive. Mixing with a mouse sucks. Mixing with Hardware is waaaay more satisfying and gets you physically connected to the music. You don’t get that with a plug-in
Soy cantante y para mí cantar en vivo incluso sin compresión en mi in ear es un suplicio, tienes que estar muy pendiente de los cambios de dinámica y te quita poder de la interpretación. Gracias Don
DOM, This was great video. I noticed you have a Rupert Neve Designs Master Bus Transformer. How do you like having the red and blue silk at the same time? I really want one of those but they are so expensive. You should do a video on it!
It's interesting you speak about the "sweet spot being wider" when it comes to analogue gear. I commented on another video earlier today about plug-ins & digital mixing etc and I was mentioning that back when I was recording in an all analogue studio the sweet spot of an *entire mix* was a lot wider than what it seems to be when one is mixing in the box with plug-ins. And this wasn't even flash gear. Foxtex R8 tape machine, Alesis compressors, Boss & Peavey mulit-FX rack units.
You lose the center The Wider you go in the music is less punch. Also there's no reason scientifically for it to be wider whether it's processed by electricity or by electrons
@@levondarratt787 We're not talking about wideness in terms of *stereo width* nothing like that. It's to do with that when mixing on analogue gear there is a far greater tolerance zone where a mix sounds "good" and.or "done" (or in Dom's case, when a sound is dialed in on a piece of analogue outboard gear) then there is on in-the-box DAW mixing or plugins. I agree with what you are talking about though (re: stereo width), it always sounds gruntier when it's closer to mono!
Great video, only analogue gear I have is the Dangerous 2-Bus+, summing to it creates depth, almost 3D and warmth I cant seem to match with my 1,000+ plugins.... :D
I mix hybrid and even though I really like my distressor plugins, I would never get rid of my hardware distressors are my vari mu comps.. I have 16 units of hardware eqs & compressors and they’re here to stay.
I have to say, I’m a life long software guy. Recently got a couple of hardware bits and there is absolutely no comparison in terms of what sounds better. I was surprised. I would say plugins are 80% at best. Question is how to build a hybrid workflow that doesn’t get in the way of creativity…
One thing that usually is forgotten when comparing is that the signal will go through the preamp/input on the audio interface. Could that be the reason for some of the difference? I have heard about professional studios just sending the sound out and in again with no outboard gear just to get the analog touch.
I am a photographer and musician. In photography, good gear makes a huge difference. Crap lens and camera will yield bad pictures even in pro's hands. However this is completly opposite when it comes to music. Give a cheap mic and hear a bad voice from a good singer? No way. Hand over a great composer, a cheap midi keyboard and a free music software. The outcome will amaze you. Discussion is over. Feed your creativity, not your greed!
The ONLY reason analog gear is still relative is "Latency". That tiny bit of latency working "in the box" only is a problem. In just a couple years from now, and computers are so fast that there will be no Latency ...will finally be the nail in the analog coffin. Until then, we still need analog gear. But time is running out my analog friends. ;). I will say I,m referring to "gear". Instruments like Acoustic Guitars, Grand Pianos, Violins, Horns, Percussion, Synths, etc... will always be needed.
OK, i understand that you need a compressor while recording a singer, but it's not clear why it has to be analog? Why not use a plugin? Or why not use a compressor from the Line6 Helix for example? Why does it have to be analog?
I don't like when all the pieces of audio processors vanish somewhere in the virtual realm. You know what I'm talking about when your PC crashes and you have to buy a new one and reinstall everything. Likewise it keeps me happy when I'm surrounded by real music instruments. It just gives a good feeling to look at a guitar for example. The hardware has some important psychological impact, you can touch all the knobs very fast, faster than playing with a mouse, and you can see what you are doing immediately, it is like a feedback of what you are doing.
It all comes down the player making the music, it will sound good and anything if the song is written and played good. now saying that I had a ton of equipment and had to work hard to make some bands sound good you heard on the radio.
Great video, Dom. I agree with everything! Independently of the sound, the experience and the results are very different when using real, touchable stuff, and virtual, mouse driven stuff. What I always say about this is that it's not the same playing Gran Turismo than driving a real car. Both are fun on their own way, but nowhere the same.
I’m more fascinated by your shirt changing colors in real time.
lol
it's the Doppler effect, cuz the camera moves onto him
It's not bro,You're on DMT.
Cool story bro. Use your ears,always.
Merch? Or pit whiff?
Lots of great advice. “Listen with your ears and not your eyes” is huge. Staring at numbers on a screen can be a real problem. Thanks Dom!
It's very interesting how quickly you can change your shirts, Dom! 😄
🤣
Who cares
6:08 makes me think of a friend who bought a big console and never used it, nor even plugged it in. The console being there got him a lot of clients.
@7:10 Mic Drop. You said it all in that sentence Dom! Bless up Sir
I record on a portable interface when on the road and I run back some of the key tracks like vocals and main instruments through analog gear. It gives me the freedom to run it in cycle and tweak the gears to my liking and print back to computer. I try to recreate that sound in plug-in only as a challenge and sometimes it’s not easy. Sometimes you have to stack multiple plugins to get close but by the time you get there it feels like a lot of work. I believe some of the best engineers who claim they only mix in the box have already tracked or run most of their tracks through analog first. And that is very effective as those subtle analog flavors on a number of tracks will make a significant difference on the overall mix. Also makes your mixing session go fast. Great video as always.
I'm considering this tbh as plugins take so much CPU space and feel unnatural using a mouse.
I have to at least use mixing tools on my midi keyboard.
I think analogue gear does have an edge but imo it's so minor that when the mix is done you barely hear it, if you hear it at all. If you have tons of money, analogue outboard is a lot of fun but unless you are a rock star with world fame, imo it's just not worth the price anymore. That's what I find a pitty: the exaggerated prices. We all know electronic parts cost almost nothing. A tube tech CL1B (apart from an AMS Neve DMX1580s) are the only outboards I have; In a CL1B there is hardly anything in there. Yet they charge over 3000 for a single unit. To build one maybe costs 100 or 150 bucks. That's why I like Tegeler Audio. They offer top material for affordable prices. Outboard should be less expensive. Same with some synth manufacturers. Take DSI, Moog, Neve, etc. All top brands but they want excessive profit marigns. That's too bad.
You can get 99% of the way there inside the box but reaching that destination is much faster when it comes to getting that legit sounding/feelling compression, saturation and distortion. The majority of people that are going to listen to the music can't tell the difference. micing amps vs. DI recorded instruments is one of those things where it's almost impossible to get a DI recorded guitar to sound quite right to fool someone with a trained ear into thinking it was recorded via micing amps
Cool story from the past bro. What if I give you a perfect tracks with luxury plugins and then see how long it will take you to match that with analog hardware. You won't be able to. Because it's not the same thing
If you can afford decent analog gear, go for it 100%!
I sometimes feel that the irony is that analogue gear is often easier to use - it's more benign, it does less and it's harder to mess up when you have one real compressor vs a dozen plugins; so it's probably better for beginners to learn on. Experienced mixers, folks like Andrew Scheps, can move ITB because they know exactly what they are aiming for and are more able to tame their plugin collections. A lot of the big name guys from the 80s and 90s era, like CLA and Joe Barresi, always appear in front of their SSLs, but then that's now sort of their brand, it makes them stand out in a crowded market place. I find that plugins like the Brainworx Black Box MS with its density control and the adjustable headroom on the Shadow HIlls Mastering Comp are a big help as an easy way to dial in more of what a plugin does and then reduce the impact to get a more natural result. Great vid Dom, food for thought.
As somebody working a in studio with an SSL 4048G+ and also having my own spot with plenty of analog gear, I think :
- Analog makes a different during the recording stage : You can track through plugins now. A lot of them offer latency free options (not only UAD). But it's true that tracking through gear (or plugins for that matter) makes mixing easier along the way. And it's true that the wider sweet spot of analog makes it "safer" to track through.
- The "wow factor" making artists/clients comfortable : I agree fully.
- Analog makes a difference when mixing, you can get to the sound quicker : I think it is true but if I am being really honest : The recall/print or the patching will take as much time as piling up plugins to get to the sound desired. So analog will only be effectively quicker if it is used as "set and forget", like preset.
Although hardware do not sound more "3D". They are still stereo or mono imho ^^.
- Bigger sweet spot with hardware : Yeah I could agree to that. When pushed they sound great. It is kinda true but a lot of modern hardware sounds absolutely crap when pushed now.
- Hardware is inspiring : It's idiosyncratic but I agree too, for me at least.
- Music is a human thing : Well depending on how things will go, this statement will either age very well or awfully badly ^^.
What you forgot to mention it's that, as soon as audio engineering remain a thing (which I don't think it will much in the near future), hardware is an investment. When buying something second-hand, you can resell it for me and it can help facing tough financial situation. I recently made 1k profit on a sale of a second hand gear. And no I am not 50 y old, I just was lucky to find a great deal, restore the unit (very basic stuff) and sell it back.
Fixing fusions for a living ? 😅
Haha not talking about the Fusion here ;).
Analog gear forced me to use my ears more. To be more critical with my decisions. Plus turning knobs and pushing buttons makes me feel more connected to my craft. But definitely not required to make good music. Great video Dom.
Dom what are your techniques for bringing plugins closer to that hardware sound ?
Perhaps that would be a good video ;)
Count me in on watch that one!
Absolutely love your thoughts on using the hardware, and your ears instead of eyes on a plug-in, as this is the exact experience I have with hardware synths; becoming part of the machine and working with it - often with two hands. As soon as I get out of the box I feel so liberated and connected with the music.
I think the biggest flaw in comparing analog gear to plugins is: If you hear a difference, any difference, most people will automatically assume that the hardware is better…tadaaaaa….marketing.
I have plugins that are the reason I sold the hardware, because for my taste, or in my opinion, the plugin does a better job.
But I know, if you want to buy a 5000$ compressor…any sound difference goes in favour of the gear…
this is so true who decides that the difference is better since they are both still interpretations of the source material which analog intentionally changes, digital is more true to source since it adds no discolouration
I disagree. Hardware is always better because it’s the original. The plug-ins wouldn’t have anything to emulate if it wasn’t for the hardware first.
@@nicefish10 That is the common believe.
But the technologie at the time (in the 1920s and 1930s) limited the applications of the mathematical formulars behind it.
There is no argument that the digital technologie today is prefered by the industry that invented all of this.
And I don‘t mean the music industry, that was just a side product…
Exactly !! Well said. These guys are tapping themselves on their own shoulders, tooting their horn. In the hopes of eliminating competition. Look at me I have analogue gear you cannot do what I can do ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
@@nicefish10 Whenever you say "ALWAYS", you're probably wrong. 🤣
Analog is cool cause it gave me a reference in terms of the difference between analog and digital. Now knowing the sound of analog, it feels like I can get my digital plugins to get closer to that sound. I think that is a pretty useful bit. But if you are starting out, I don't think you should invest in it right away. It can get mad expensive. There is so much to learn first about music that can be done without analog. But once you feel you can take the leap monetarily and mentally, it is a pretty powerful plunge.
Everything is personal choice really. I have both Analog and Digital, Analog is the true source though. You could call it special sauce really. Have Warm Audios VCA Bus Comp and their 1073 pre amp and EQ, comparison is night and day
This is the best description I’ve heard for analog/ digital. Do what feels good 😊
Imagine having a 12000$ mono signal chain so the singer can feel comfortable. 😂
It is common knowledge that you can do a high quality hit record in the box. It is also known that it is more cost effective and has many advantages. But some want to be more hands on in the process. Knobs,faders and can get to their results with analog. Music is feeling. An experience. And if you get it with a console and hardware then nothing someone says matters. The debate for some is about quality. For others it is being right and saying others are wrong. Obviously the cost difference is large but if you have the means and prefer being involved with analog then it's what you should follow.
You have a new subscriber Dom.
The quality preamps and microphones still make sense sense. But with lack of recall and the expense involved in hardware, im not sure it is worth it in 2024. I'd advise someone to put that money towards a high spec cpu.
Before watching: if somebody can't make a good mix with stock plugins they aint gonna know how to use equivilent hardware stuff either.
And I'm not trying to say I'm any genious on mixing either. I'm pretty avarage. But I know I would't automatically make something better by buying any fancy stuff.
no way in hell i’m ever going back fully in the box hybrid is the way
Can you do a video on how to build, connect, setup, integrate with digital and use the analog gears for tracking/mixing/mastering?
I’ve been a composer/musician/producer for almost 50 years, and owned a good sized 24 track studio some years ago, but later downsized to a project studio. When the UAD1 card first came out I compared the 1176LN plug against my 1176LN, specifically on vocals, and I couldn’t hear any difference at all. I saw the future, and sold all my analog outboard gear. Made a pretty penny, too! I’m primarily a musician these days, and not really in the recording business anymore, and only have myself to impress, so I’m perfectly happy with plugs. I don’t even own a guitar amp anymore.
Really? If you let them work hard I don't have to strain myself to hear a clear difference. Neither do my clients, even with Acustica Audio plugins the difference is clear. Only when you do very subtle moves, it's not so obvious.
@@ignacedhont9816 A difference? An improvement? What, exactly?
There are really good points I've never though about before while working in a home studio.
I've been professionally mixing/mastering for over 15 years. Aside from when I worked in professional studios, I did it 100% in the box till about 2 years ago. It is entirely possible to make "industry standard" music just in the box. That being said, about 2 or 3 years ago I started buying analog gear HOWEVER I only got the stuff I felt like plugins just didn't do the job as good as I knew was possible. So I stick with compression and saturation for my hardware. I don't have any analog EQ or fx and don't intend on getting them. The mixbus is the best place to start in my opinion. Get a GOOD mixbus compressor (I chose the WesAudio Dione and it's AMAZING) and build from there. I waited till I felt like plugins were holding me back to start purchasing analog gear and I think that's the best way to do it!
Great video as usual Dom, thank you!
Exactly! This is the most reasonable philosophy when it comes to investing in analog hardware. It also doesn't need a boutique price tag to be good. The Dione is awesome, indeed, and so is the slightly pricier Tegeler Audio Creme.
I think your sleeping on the analog eq. I’m almost the opposite. Compression, whatever analog eq though… once your up boosting past 10db analog absolutely crushes digital eq. Just my two cents. Just one solid stereo eq is really all you need. I believe Wes audio has one if you like that brand
@@shoogabooga2072 Ohhh I have some analog EQs. I have a few channel strips, I should have been more specific in my comment. I meant like stand alone EQ, those I don't have any of but I've used TONS. I totally agree they are better than digital. What I mean is the cost-to-value ratio isn't worth it. I find much of the money to be much more "worth it" with compression and saturation when it comes to analog. No plugin has EVER gotten me even close to the sound my analog gear does when it comes to compression. EQ, sure analog sounds a little better but honestly, I'm rarely boosting or cutting much more than 4 or 5dB in my work so I just don't get the same cost-to-value as I do with compression/saturation. I've done the null tests and while of course, I didn't get a complete null the difference was very very minor whereas with compression I have a completely different experience. I have a Wes Audio Dione and I've shot it out against every SSL G Buss Compressor style plugin I own and I own ALL of the popular ones lol. Digital compressors just sound flat and boring to me but analog compression really gives me an "immersive" sound, you know... "depth" haha! I thought all those sayings were just BS till I dove into analog and heard it for myself.
Thanks for the comment! That's what's awesome about mixing/mastering. It's all very subjective and we all hear, process, and experience sound in different ways!
@@matt_nyc_audioengineer yeah analog rules haha. How is that compressor by the way? I was thinking about getting one for the recall. Have you used a racked Xlogic ssl comp? I just looove those. But recall..
@@shoogabooga2072 Ya, I've used loads of the X Logic stuff over my days. The Dione is next level tho. The additional THD circuit is worth the money alone. The recall is really fantastic too! I love turning knobs and dials but honestly I rarely even touch the unit. I use the plugin to control it so I don't have to leave the sweet spot. It sounds fantastic! So does the Rhea which is their Mu style compressor.
Your T-shirt changing colour is making me dizzy, Dom 😅
I want to have a colour changing shirt….looks cool 😎 😂😂😂😂
Your shirt is changing color! I was like "Whaaaat" 😲. Very interesting opinions about the psychological impact of analog equipment.
Great video! It's been insanely busy lately but I've got some down time now to get a good healthy dose of Dom Sigalas ❤🔥
Welcome back man!❤
ANALOG SAVE TIME DUDE WITH GREAT RESULT
In my opinion. It is critical to have a good recording chain of: microphones Rode K2, Shure SM7b, 2 x Rode NT5, Rode NTR Ribbon microphone etc. Go into a channel strip like Focusrite ISA-430 Mk2, into good A to D converter. I agree about the analogue recording chain. Record to 48k and 24 bit. Mix in software. I find my Mackie CR1604-VLZ mixer and RNC1773 compressor works really well too, cheap and very effective. On the rare occasions I need to record drums I go to another studio. Most of my drums are samples played with a mouse or MIDI keyboard. (I must get a Roland V-drum kit.) Most pf my gear has been purchased used. Lots of people buy gear, lose interest, and sell it.
For bass I have Ampeg PF 20-T going into a 15" EV or a Avalon U5 for DI. Mesa Boogie Nomad 100 and a choice of several speakers for guitar. There are 4 basses and 3 guitars in the studio maintained with intonation set correctly and new strings available.
As for the psychological effects, I let my work speak for itself. I find people don't come to my door unless they have heard my previous work.
I would prioritise making the studio feel good than some boutique compressor. Have a nice artist's lounge, a kitchen with cans of drink and some wine in the fridge. I have the services of my wife as a quality catering service. She is good, she cooks or takes orders and gets Thai take away.
I have put way more time into learning about composition and arrangement than worrying about gear.
I have a Warm Audio TB12 (preamp) for my vocal mic and i love the way it adds colour to the sound. It makes it feel way more alive. I also tried to record vocals through preamp emulations on my Antelope Discrete 4 Synergy Core and even though they sound great and do make a difference from just the interface preamps themselves, they can't compete with the TB12... The TB12 feels way more alive and real.
And also, what you said about the analog wide sweet spot, i find it true on it as well. I rarely touch its settings. It sounds awesome almost 90% of the time without having to tweek it
Definitely! It worth! The clients likes full racks, but nobody hears a difference.
Agree to some extent. There is one interview from Rupert neve where he makes references to some studies involving the perception of frequencies by the body even though you cannot hear them.
With that said, most of the analog "praise" can be understood as something that people perceive but are not able to pin point where it is.
Whether is the way the current hits the wave in comparison to no current on the digital, digital sounds flat.
And as I tried to investigate more and more, it turns out that lack of transformers makes it difficult for one to mix.
Another challenge with digital is that it is easy to overdo. There is no limitation. And that lack of limitation creates some limitation to the end product added to the fact that you get a flat record it does not how many professional plugins you use.
While you put a track into a class A circuit with transformer, you are literally done. Drive the volume a little bit for saturation and the tracks are sitting right there where they should. Then you can go with only 1 eq on digital (yes 1 eq), no added compression.
I could go endlessly speaking about the diferences. But from the moment that "good sound" has been defined by analog over the years, then is clear that if you want good sound you should try atleast to understand the analog . . . Then you judge od course. But first understand the sonic portion foe you to be able to judge. The sound everybody is looking for is analog. Period!!!!
Another great vid Dom... my personal preference for analog is for 3 reasons. 1 I suffered option paralysis with plugins, I am now more limited and thus more creative with fewer options. 2 I got an error message "Cubase no longer supports 32 bit plugins", my analog gear will outlast me and will still run when we have 256 bit processors in our phones lol. 3 there are 2 letters of the alphabet that instantly make me lose the will to live... IT, the less I need my computer the better. The last point is prob me being a luddite, however I think the first 2 points are worth considering.
I've been using GAP Comp-3A for all the vocals I record, and voice overs too - highly recommended!
Very underrated company altogether! I wish more people knew about them.
Okay, Μaster....this video is the master of videos, especially for home studio... and thanks again... as for the mandolin, it's not too late...
This message gives a lot of perspective. Thank you, and and enjoy that real mandolin too!
Congrats on getting a mandolin! They are fantastic instruments, so am sure you will have a great time learning yours. Always enjoy your vids.
Mandoline best intro ever.
Best ‘analog’ DAW is UAD Luna Pro 😊 Has that good old days workflow with its extensions, tape simulations and summing. I’m a Cubase head but love LUNA Pro
Great explanation between the two! Thank you for all of your great content!
awesome video! thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Great video love my analog hardware
Analogue gear/hardware is great till it gets old and you have to get them repaired or you get your studio robbed. I always tell people no solution is perfect so its up to you.
I wish all youtube channels had such a positive vibe and community
A great idea for "block" colors! Thanks
i am not fan of analog gear for several reasons... but that's me.. this debate has started for years and years and in a serious talk everyone can have real points to show out in a conversation...
in the end of the day, Analog gear or Plugins, they will deliver the job should anyway... the most important things are
1) the one using that gear, no matter what it is..
2) when using something, knowing what you're doing, and most importantly know what to expect when applying something.. in other words working with intention...
As an engineer who built his dream studio in 2020 with tons of analog gear , a c800g , elam 251 mic and a plethora of analog synths coveted pieces etc. Financially this will absolutely do nothing to make you more money from a client , at all. I've had clients actually prefer shitty digital pumping compression over hardware , like shit off a phone on bandlab...demoitis is so real lmfaooo. BUT analog gear shoots up in value , all my hardware has appreciated in value. Not only do I think it sounds amazing during recording/even some post processing stuff. I also love summing so much and 2-bus hardware processing. Hybrid for life... I love it because my studio is essentially a savings account for me. Just reflipped 2 pieces and profited 1k back after using it for a year. Wild
Great lesson! Thanks Dom!
Inspiring video and... I love you t-shirt 🤣
I've been producing like 100% in the box since 2009 for most of my music except for when I record guitar(acoustic and electric for which I used an isolated cab I built to record my Mark V in 2014 and 2015 before purchasing a Mesa Cab Clone in 2016 and more recently a Torpedo Live).
But I recently started to purchase analog gear and plan to slowly go hybrid!
This was so interesting and useful Dom. Thanks
Great video, loaded with honest/helpful perspective!! 🙂💛
Glad it was helpful!
Seems like Tech has caught up for this to even be a question. I know I have found more than a few guitar amp sims that sound so close to the real thing you can not do a blind test! You can also put effects on headphones through a daw with some great plugins real time as well. Like my first statement said........
Dom,
Thanks for thugs video. You’re absolutely right about analog gear.
I 100% experienced that singers perform better with a nice front-end. Nice pre-amp with some compression to give a big sound in their headphones and suddenly stop moving their head away when they hit louder notes. Makes it more fun for everywhere. I also noticed that you cant away with more gain reduction on the way in than can do with a plugin. And finally, when I decided to upgrade my vocal chain (including the mic) I dont have to do a lot in mixing. Some low-cut, maybe a boost. Finish it off with a nice La-2a plugin, add verb/delay and done. I used to spend ages on vocal EQ and compression with plugins.
Decided to skip McDSP APB in lieu of a few carefully picked plugins that are as close to analog as you can get ITB...Tone Project, Schwabe Digital, PSP...ETC. Even the SSL channel strips sound excellent and add some body. Now I use Kelvin as first insert...this already adds that weight, then adding additional emulations after just elevates the experience.
Schwabe sucks. Mixbus hypetrain, for his buddy who codes plugins.
I think most people are mislead by the analog industry and youtubers but in reality the best starting investment you can do is buying a really good channelstrip with eq and comp (try to aim for an optical one one the way in like Dom already said) and youre set for a long time. i wish someone would have told me this 10 years ago ;D
Dom. I’m a big fan and really appreciate all the videos you post. I’ve learned so much from you regarding Cubase and “in general” recording techniques. But, I do have a question I’m hoping you can answer regarding real drums. When I choose to use the various programmed drums in Cubase, my songs sound more professional, or should I say, more professionally mixed. I can use the same recording techniques on my guitars, bass, vocals, and keys, but if I use “real” drums, the mix seems to fall apart. It’s like there’s a cohesive element that disappears. Do you have any secrets to mixing real drums and obtaining that tight, cohesive, professional sound? I’m using DW’s, high end Zildian cymbals, SM57’s, AKG414’s, 12 foot ceilings, different room sizes, but there’s just something missing. I call it a glue that holds the rhythm tight. I’m not sure if I’m explaining this properly.
Make an extra parallel drumbus and use a fair amount of compression, blend it in with the mix of the separate drum tracks. Also if you use room effects you should use it on the complete drum kit, this gives it a more cohesive sound. And of course use a bus compressor on the drumbus 👌🏼
Thanks so much! I really appreciate the guidance and will give this a try.
Analogue gear preference is purely psychological and/or based on the physical interface. In blind tests people can't tell the difference in terms of sound quality between analogue and digital. I should know. I've done the tests as part of my work.
So wrong.. in most cases the differences are so obvious I don't even bother with blind testing. Same goes for my clients.. They always pick the hardware and not because they are snobs (actually some of them absolutely hate the audiophile attitude).
I can almost always hear the difference. That said, the song is king.
My observation is that it depends on how the piece is recorded and mastered. Both digital and analog are only good in the hands of those who are good. The top guys can use whatever equipment or technology available and it will always sound good.
Even the plugin designers (not their sales team) admit that plug in emulation aren’t accurate. Even more so when it comes to tracking.
Tools are tools. Use what you have but let’s not compensate/discount what nicer tools are able to accomplish.
there was a very good test on Audiofanzine on this subject: very few people could tell the difference between a mix. ITB (with paid or free plug-ins) and a mix made with very expensive analog hardware!
Hi Dom. Thank you for this. I've always wondered whether one can emulate an analog environment by using plugins in the input channel. Is this advisable? Can you maybe make a video on this?
I like the intro 🥰 remembering me to witcher game soundtrack😊
ahahhaha Dom I was paying so much attention to your words that I almost didn't notice your shirt going from green to cyan to green again! 😆
bro that's your studio in the b roll? You have some incredible pieces of hardware...
Thank you my friend ❤️
I am my way to analog gear but I'm confused that which is first, especially between mic preamp and compressor
Speaking for vocal recording - mic pre-amp all the way and I recommed API 512V or a used XLogic XR 621, but you will need an X-Rack or Mynx rack for the latter. My 3rd recommendation is the SSL Six 500 series, but need a 500 series box for that too. Of course it might depend on your mic and those pre-amps work good with my Neumann TLM 107
The best piece of gear I have is my Rupert Neve Newton Channel. It's pretty much all I need to record vocals and I've had other hardware but mostly clones. This is the most affordable thing that is the actually the real deal.
I find that where analog really makes a diff is.on the way in too...❤
I have a CL1B too and agree it's a beast. It adds nice sound to vocals; But it is my opinion you can get a good sound allowing singers to perform as you nicely put it with any software compressor too. It will just sound a little less great but not bad. In my beginning years I recorded vocals with a 15 year old SM58 which we borrowed from a club and which smelled because every drunk DJ had been sptting in it for years. We didn't have money for a pre amp so I used my cheap Mackie VLZ 4 channel console with their "mic pre's" built in. Given that little console cost mayby 100 bucks you can imagine.... And from there, directly into digidesign 882 ADDA converters, probably the worst converters ever. And we sold quite some copies. Honestly, I can't say that all sounded really awesome; It didn't, compared to nowadays in the box quality. Just saying, while I agree anaologue gear is great, imi in 2024 you can perfectly do without and still make great sounding performances.
Very true! Great video! Thank you!
Hi Dom, was just seeing your video where you explained how to create customized scripts for midi controllers and was super informative. Can you please help me in understanding how to assign one rotary knob from my midi controller so that I can scroll between tracks in my project window as well as the mixer window ,. Right now, I can see two different options to go to previous track and next track and would have to assign 2 rotary knobs, thanks a lot in advance☺
Best video that I saw for long time.
If you have a great song and great production I don't think it matters much these days.
This analog mandolin is REALLY worth it. No VST coming out of your monitors can imitate an actual string creating variable sound pressure waves through the air.
THe analog vs digital thing has been over for years. FOlks who think analog must be the way just haven't figured that out and learned to live with that as freedom of choice will always be there.
It's true about the compressor for vocalists, but you could just buy Volt interface with 76 compressor emulation for cheap
Great video. I can't afford the great analog gear but i do use inexpensive stuff and get great results. I have my Beheringer Tube ultragain rack mount preamp going into my ART Pro VLA II compressor. I have 3 mics that I use for vocals. A Warm Audio WA47jr, an Apex 435 and my Lewett 240 Pro. The first 2 mics go through the rackmount gear while the Lewett runs through my Presous series 3 mixer which is my audio interface.
Yes. Especially mic preamps!
Love your videos bro.. I want u to do one of my mixes
Nobody has ever come to my studio because I have a specific plug-in. And I own tons of plug-ins. But I get phone calls every day because I own chandler, germanium compressors, universal audio 1176, and LA 2a, Distressors, Neves, Avalon ,Orange, Neumann, Mesa, Marshall, Fender, Ampeg, Lexicon, Flea, Bock, Royer, etc. I also own at least a dozen very nice snare drums that are always on display, two very nice drum kits, and about 20 Very nice guitars that are hanging up in the studio. It’s also about creating an atmosphere for the artists that breeds trust, comfort, and a creatively safe and inspiring environment. You don’t get that with a plug-in. Sonically plug-ins can do amazing things these days nobody can dispute that. But you weren’t going to create a full on creative experience just by having some plug-ins on the computer. It takes so much more than that. But people that try to do everything all inside the box gets super defensive. Mixing with a mouse sucks. Mixing with Hardware is waaaay more satisfying and gets you physically connected to the music. You don’t get that with a plug-in
his shirt changing color was messing with my head lol'
Soy cantante y para mí cantar en vivo incluso sin compresión en mi in ear es un suplicio, tienes que estar muy pendiente de los cambios de dinámica y te quita poder de la interpretación. Gracias Don
DOM, This was great video. I noticed you have a Rupert Neve Designs Master Bus Transformer. How do you like having the red and blue silk at the same time? I really want one of those but they are so expensive. You should do a video on it!
Try Access Analog which is how I tried it!
It's interesting you speak about the "sweet spot being wider" when it comes to analogue gear. I commented on another video earlier today about plug-ins & digital mixing etc and I was mentioning that back when I was recording in an all analogue studio the sweet spot of an *entire mix* was a lot wider than what it seems to be when one is mixing in the box with plug-ins. And this wasn't even flash gear. Foxtex R8 tape machine, Alesis compressors, Boss & Peavey mulit-FX rack units.
You lose the center The Wider you go in the music is less punch. Also there's no reason scientifically for it to be wider whether it's processed by electricity or by electrons
@@levondarratt787 We're not talking about wideness in terms of *stereo width* nothing like that. It's to do with that when mixing on analogue gear there is a far greater tolerance zone where a mix sounds "good" and.or "done" (or in Dom's case, when a sound is dialed in on a piece of analogue outboard gear) then there is on in-the-box DAW mixing or plugins. I agree with what you are talking about though (re: stereo width), it always sounds gruntier when it's closer to mono!
Great video, only analogue gear I have is the Dangerous 2-Bus+, summing to it creates depth, almost 3D and warmth I cant seem to match with my 1,000+ plugins.... :D
I mix hybrid and even though I really like my distressor plugins, I would never get rid of my hardware distressors are my vari mu comps.. I have 16 units of hardware eqs & compressors and they’re here to stay.
I have to say, I’m a life long software guy. Recently got a couple of hardware bits and there is absolutely no comparison in terms of what sounds better. I was surprised. I would say plugins are 80% at best. Question is how to build a hybrid workflow that doesn’t get in the way of creativity…
Great as always Dom!!
this works the same way with guitar amps too 🔥
One thing that usually is forgotten when comparing is that the signal will go through the preamp/input on the audio interface. Could that be the reason for some of the difference? I have heard about professional studios just sending the sound out and in again with no outboard gear just to get the analog touch.
This was very useful.
I am a photographer and musician. In photography, good gear makes a huge difference. Crap lens and camera will yield bad pictures even in pro's hands. However this is completly opposite when it comes to music. Give a cheap mic and hear a bad voice from a good singer? No way. Hand over a great composer, a cheap midi keyboard and a free music software. The outcome will amaze you. Discussion is over. Feed your creativity, not your greed!
Also in the realm of subtle distortion, saturation, adding harmonics etc., the analog equipment still gives better results, I find.
You rock, super helpful!
Im selling everything I had for mixing, just a vari-mu and a vca comp for tracking.
The ONLY reason analog gear is still relative is "Latency". That tiny bit of latency working "in the box" only is a problem. In just a couple years from now, and computers are so fast that there will be no Latency ...will finally be the nail in the analog coffin. Until then, we still need analog gear. But time is running out my analog friends. ;). I will say I,m referring to "gear". Instruments like Acoustic Guitars, Grand Pianos, Violins, Horns, Percussion, Synths, etc... will always be needed.
OK, i understand that you need a compressor while recording a singer, but it's not clear why it has to be analog? Why not use a plugin? Or why not use a compressor from the Line6 Helix for example? Why does it have to be analog?
yea same goes with all guitar and bass analog gear. Cant really make music without my tube amps and pedals!
I don't like when all the pieces of audio processors vanish somewhere in the virtual realm. You know what I'm talking about when your PC crashes and you have to buy a new one and reinstall everything. Likewise it keeps me happy when I'm surrounded by real music instruments. It just gives a good feeling to look at a guitar for example.
The hardware has some important psychological impact, you can touch all the knobs very fast, faster than playing with a mouse, and you can see what you are doing immediately, it is like a feedback of what you are doing.
Will never work digital only again. Hybrid is the way to go.
It all comes down the player making the music, it will sound good and anything if the song is written and played good. now saying that I had a ton of equipment and had to work hard to make some bands sound good you heard on the radio.
Great video, Dom. I agree with everything! Independently of the sound, the experience and the results are very different when using real, touchable stuff, and virtual, mouse driven stuff. What I always say about this is that it's not the same playing Gran Turismo than driving a real car. Both are fun on their own way, but nowhere the same.