I use a PreSonus Monitor Station V2 But the rest of my setup is better, UAD Apollo X8P and Barefoot footprint 02. I was told the PreSonus was a very transparent unit. Do you know this one ?
@ColtCapperrune - Thanks for this and all the awesome vids you've made available! I'm literally sitting in the center of my studio trying to figure out if I want to add in the Monitor controller that I've been having for a while. I'm sure I'm on the more budget friendly side with my devices, but I still have room to grow into the higher-end gear that you have??? I have the UA Volt 476P and I was gonna add my Behringer Xenyx Control 2. Can you explain how best to bring these 2 together???
Hi @ColtCapperrune kind of an off the subject question but can you tell me who made your desk with those 10-11 space racks? I'm looking to do something very similar. Thanks!
The RME Fireface UFX units are both super reliable and offer super good I/O for a home studio, but the addition of their ARC USB controller that plugs directly into the back of the interface is a brilliant "monitor controller" with a big volume knob, speaker b, dim, mute and mono buttons (+ 8 totalmix snapshot hotkeys, all customisable of course), even a talkback button if you need it... RME converters are also pretty darn good for a home studio at least and TotalMix is the best routing software ever created, so can't go wrong!
I second this. The most transparent monitor controller is no monitor controller - just use your interface if you can. Normally I wouldn’t have gone for the RME ARC but I’m so glad it was bundled when I bought it - can’t live without it now.
I have the RME system. Unfortunately, my sub needs a separate feed (it’s not in line with the monitors). Wish I could figure out a way to utilize it without a split of some sort. Someday a new sub will be in order.
@@AndrewCCMlink/group the subs with your mains in totalmix. Set balance first then link the faders and the ARC volume control will control the volume altogether.
IMO, the only cheapish passive monitor controller that's worth owning is the Heritage Baby R.A.M. All of the other passive designs use a stacked potentiometer, which is inherently flawed based on how potentiometers change as they age. The two pots (left and right) don't age the same and will have differences in frequency and even left right balance. The Baby R.A.M. uses a stepped switch to attenuate. It also has mono summing and a dim and mute switch. 2 ins, 2 outs. Works great.
Bro all you talked about was the Grace. One of the most expensive monitor controller out there. Would be cool if you had some other recommendations. Im in the market for one but can't see myself spending that much on a grace even though im sure its incredible and I'd love to own one. You should have called this video "my review of the grace monitor controller"
I have the Dangerous D-Box+ and I love it. It replaced 2 pieces of gear- my Mackie Big Knob (original) and Dangerous Convert-2 DAC. Same DACs as the Convert-2, but with more features (analog summing, for one), and it makes room on my desk!
I have the original one, and it still crushes. Love how the summing sounds, would be cool if there was a desk remote though but it's not necessary for me at least.
Top 3: 🥇 grace design m905 (with the DAC) 🥈 crane song avocet (mine 😊😊) 🥉dangerous music monitor st The avocet have an incredible DA converter, I am using lynx converter, I was just amazed by the quality of the avocet's converter !!! Also a great feature, you can flip the phase of the left monitor, so in mono you can check the phase correlation.
Great video! One thing that I don't think was mentioned: For me, the biggest technical and sonic difference between the different monitor controllers is the way in which the volume is controlled. All of the cheaper models use a conventional potentiometer, which makes the signal for the left and right channels different in the lower control range (so the stereo image shifts between the two channels when controlling the volume). In addition, such devices often lose treble at low volumes. The only way to do this properly in the analog world is with a relay-based system, like the Avocet, the Grace or Dangerous. Or in my case the Heritage RAM 5000, which sounds absolutely fantastic. In such systems there are different relays with different attenuation levels, which all sound the same and there is no difference between the left and right channels. I'm not a big fan of potentiometer-based controllers - before using something like that, I would work without a monitor controller and prefer to attenuate the signal digitally via the interface.
10 years ago I bought my TC BMC-2, the thing is a little gem, it values so much more than it costs, transparent as air. I just take it anywhere I go. Right now I'm mixing in a bedroom through the onboard spdif out of my computer.
I'm using an Audient Nero monitor controller, 4yrs now. My 24 track recording console is all analog as is all my recording gear and the Nero is also analogue and that's the reason I got it, but it is so neutral, and designed to be that way. It has all the ins and outs you could ever need for most situations. It was $500 I believe, anybody looking for a monitor controller, should check out the specs on a Nero.
I switched to barefoot monitors that have the ability to simulate ns10 & cubes and totally pulled my controller out of the process... the only thing that I miss is the mono button but honestly not that big a deal and I have 1000% confidence my monitors are not being colored by a controller since they just get direct outs from my interface.
I have a simple passive controller to switch between 2 sets of monitors. It was very inexpensive and does the Job. I also checked if there would be a sound difference verse interface and monitor control and nothing. No loss in sound, no change in detail. I never heard of a warm monitor controller. Did it have tubes or a transformer in it?
I can't understand how a monitor controller could ruin your mixes unless it was defective or specifically designed for sonic coloration. It should be easy to check it with a scope and a spectrum analyzer and also do a null test.
I agree. It’s all about objective measurements. Not subjective interpretations. This was a Grace review. Period. Great machine, installed a few at my customer’s studios. A measurement with a spectrum analyzer and/or scope with a cancellation test would have shown the design flaws if there were any. I have measured many wireless mic systems. Very interesting. But that’s RF radios, compression, etc. Monitor controller must have a simple and straightforward audio path and be transparent by definition. Unlike RF gear. Basics should be a good potentiometer or gain reduction resistance ladder design. And thats’s were things go wrong electronically with a lot of flawed and cheap designs. A potentiometer is audio transparant by design, but can degrade level wise due to deterioration of the resistance tracks. And crackle after time. That’s all. Active units can use different Opamp designs and might alter the sound. Same with VCA designs as we knew from the old analog consoles. Not to forget DC decoupling (can become filters) and balanced circuit design. And of course D/A converters. So yeah: measure and you know. Side line: in the ‘90 I sold DJ mixers with resistor ladders under the faders. Each resistor had a reedrelais controller by a small magnet which was attached tintje mechanical fader on a metal rod track. Great design.
I had a presonus central station that totally degraded the signal. Great features but unplugged it immediately. I stick with my Apollo x now with minimal features but decent sound quality.
Do you still have the Presonus central station, and if so are you trying to sell it? I'm an aspiring audio engineer trying to build my small studio setup.
@@emekaokoli3079 Sorry, I gave my unit to a friend doing the same thing as you. I really believe in recycling stuff when it make sense. It’s a great unit for what it does. Many professionals use it daily with great results.. I just struggled, until I changed. I guess everyone is wired differently. Good luck though. I’m sure you’ll get there. Sounds like your already on the right path.
The SSL12 and Big Six and Audient iD44 mk II all have provisions for two sets of monitors, two headphone outputs with separate mixes, loopback and many other functions.
Awesome video! I recently upgraded from an Apollo Twin to a Lynx Aurora with a Trinnov D-MON and I was shocked how big of a difference it made it the way my speakers sound. In comparison, the Apollo sounded flat, dull and just objectively worse. The Aurora feels like a blanket was lifted off my speakers and I'm really hearing things properly now!
I‘m using the SPL Marc One and I was surprised what a difference a good controller makes. I especially like the crossfeed function and that you can change from drummers perspective to audience perspective and the mono function is gold for fast checking on possible phase issues. Great video, Colt!
On the budget side, for mixing I use a Tascam US 16x 8 all programmed with a Elgato Streamdeck in the daw. 3 stereo outputs for my Tannoy/Yamaha/Focal sets, mono out for the sub. Dedicated headphone output. Mono with one click and even volume control on the streamdeck. Leveling the different monitor outputs is done in the daw hardware outputs. Just takes a lot of programming the streamdeck (wich does do midi programming). No budget monitor controller that effects the sound and less DA/AD conversion.
Another great video Mr Colt !!! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience ! Through out the years I have used a few various monitor controllers, Mackie Big, Central Station and for the last 5-6 years it has been the Drawmer MC 3.1. A blanket was lifted. However, I am still not 100% satisfied, occasionally when mixing at very low volume, the right side will be quieter than the left. I twist the main volume knob several times and it fixes it. Petty and small issue, but annoying. I’m not sure if this is a norm for most controllers, or if mine is “special” Lol
Just ordered The new Heritage Audio Ram 1000. Upgrading from a JBL monitor controller. That thing was making my audio sound phasey. Research but one must never skimp on their monitoring system. If you get expensive monitors and a high quality monitoring system to go along with it.
I understand the premise behind this video. However, if your monitors are calibrated to your room and RTA, then it should sound the same correct? If you aren’t calibrated, then sure it would sound different based on the controller (and the speakers for that matter).
awesome video Colt, never really considered the controller being something to pay attention to other than the "creature comforts" I need in the studio. It makes perfect sense that the circuitry would play a part in the audio but it's something I have definitely overlooked.
Ive been using the SPL 2control for a few years now.. Was going to upgrade to the SPL Phonitor 2 or 3... But I have no reason to, does everything I want.. Its table top, but I got the room as I don't have anything on my 6 foot desk besides an Avid Dock and a Rolls Talkback Mic mute... (Keyboard and mouse are on a keyboard pull out stand) If I build a proper studio, and not just this remote VO recording setup (ok I do promo mixes, and some 3-10 minute sports docs but 95% of my work is VO records and 15 second news promos for radio) Id go with something like the Grace or Trinnov.. Mainly for routing and speaker management for 5.1/Atmos.. as id be getting a desk which would be my main Stereo monitor control.
So you don't need an audio interface if you have this monitor controller right? Am I missing out on anything if I just have a nice monitor controller without any dedicated audio interface?
I use a SPL MTC Mk2 (for my Focal's Trio 11 and Dynaudio' s Core 47). Of course it isn't a Grace, but it works quite well, but honestly I miss digital I/O as well as Bluetooth.
Thank you Colt. Awesome video. I'm sorry. I am new to this. Do you really need the Grace Design m908 for ATMOS or will the Grace Design m905 suffice? Because the Grace m908 is very expensive and is well out of my budget.
the m905 is for stereo only, while the m908 can control up to a 24 ch speaker system. It also can do all your room correction eq and a whole bunch of other things. Yes it is expensive, but much less compared to a comparably spec'd mtrx system.
I run a crane song Solaris DA and a laptop. Best mixes I’ve done ever. 15 years on consoles, hybrid setups, and different summing mixers and they are all waste of time for mixing now a days.
My Soundtracs Topaz 48/24/8/2 Desk is an excellent monitor controller ... before that, my DENON PMA 2x65 watt Hi-Fi amp has a pretty transparent record out / monitor selector circuit :)
Absolutely love your videos. I live in Nashville and would love to meet you sometime. I am exploring and researching Atmos like a madman possessed right now. The monitor controller for Atmos is so crucial because it needs to do so many things. And because of the cost of so many of these units is so high, it plays a large role in the barrier to entrance into Atmos. Yesterday I found (thru another Atmos engineer) a software monitor controller. Have you heard of Ground Control Sphere? If so, do you have an opinion of it, either based on experience or even just what you're read and heard from others vs. the obvious hardware choices?
Interesting. My Audient iD 44 mkII and SSL 12 have good monitor controls. For more demanding situations I use my Big Six or my Audient 4816 SE mixing console.
That is a super flexible monitor setup for sure. I use the PreSonus Monitor Station V2 (extremely affordable) with my Genelec's (with Sub) & Auratone's and it's been excellent with no color to the sound that I have personally noticed (maybe I am just so used to mixing with it I just know what needs to be where freq wise to be fair) but I'm also only using 2 monitor setup to A/B. I'd be scared to try that Grace system to know my setup is actually NOT good. Uuugh
@@gullcreekstudio1391 I've honestly never noticed anything (maybe I am just used to it / oblivious... heh)but it's good to know as I have several Revive pieces. ART PRO VLA II and DBX 560A. Does great work. Thanks for the info.
@@gullcreekstudio1391 I need to thank you! So I decided to buy a brand new Monitor Station V2 .... had it shipped directly to Revive to do the mod (didn't know they did until you told me) and got it back pretty recently. Immediately I noticed a punchy midrange and the high end is far smoother with more headroom. It 100% sounds better. I kept my original to A/B and the difference is actual profound, again especially in the mid / high end. It just flat out sounds so much better. Thanks! It really made a big difference.
For sure! It really is a pretty amazing difference for only a couple hundred dollars. It puts it right up there with the heritage system2000 for almost half the cost. I personally think that the V2 when modified...is one of the best controllers next to the dangerous st, grace and avocet
Do you know the pan law for that Grace unit? I'm using my Apollo twin - which I'm quite happy with - BUT... the big minus is that the mono doesn't have any attenuation, so mono always sounds louder which makes it difficult to do comparisons. Thanks for all you do Colt!
Love the versatility and being able to set up cue mixes right from the monitor controller! One central location that allows you to disperse audio across the room instead of rigging up a headphone amp setup externally - keeps things super clean! Did you shift your video workspace to a 2:1 ratio? The widescreen look is awesome in this space!
They’re bigger model, the M908 is a dedicated Dolby Atmos converter. It’s very pricey, but has all the room tuning and delay built-in as well. For a $3000 monitor controller, I do not think it is overpriced without having Dolby Atmos built into it, as there are a handful of high-end monitor controllers in that same price range that only do stereo. Hope that helps!
Colt, how do you reach the secondary functions? Like on the mono button it says L-R, which I suppose would be the "side check" (or L side phase flit) feature, for M/S check like on the Avocet. Is it possible to check the sides, too with this controller? (that's the only thing I think of the Avocet as being superior than this)
Dope! Question: Can this potentially replace your audio interface if you wanted it to or would this be used in conjunction with your audio interface? How do you have it set up? Thanks
It could replace your audio interface, if you never needed, headphone, monitoring, and never planned to record anything, or mix with any hardware. If everything you did, was ITB, then it would work. But if you do ever plan on recording, anything, mixing with hardware, or needing, a separate headphone mix, all of that comes from your interface. Hope that helps!
I have a presonus central station and 2 pairs of monitors (8 inch and 5 inch) plus an avantone mono monitor… Getting a subwoofer but don’t think i have enough outputs. should I get another one or how can i work around it
I have not compared the conversion in the symphony to the Grace, but I know the symphony has incredible conversion. Sorry that that’s not any help. Every song I’ve ever worked on, is on Spotify, but I hate Spotify. They are still trying to overturn the music modernization act, and in doing so they’re actively trying to screw artists. So I will never promote Spotify for anything. That said, there is an Apple Music playlist in the description of this video, you can find everyone of those songs on Spotify.
It is now true that many new moderately priced audio interfaces have better quality converters than high end audio interfaces that were designed more than six years ago.
how does a good monitor controller convert the signal to a better signal from your interface? is that even possible? and if you have cheap monitors it prob wont help anyway ?
I have one and haven’t noticed any coloration. I’m not saying it doesn’t. But it is subtle at the very worst. The best part is that it uses a stepped attenuation. So it attenuates both channels exactly the same. Some of the less expensive ones will lower one channel slightly more or less at certain points, and that moves the center image.
I have a Grace Designs M905 Digital too! It’s amazing, I switched from a Mackie bigknob to a Presonus studio then to the M905, as I grew. Wow, I must say the Presonus is muddy and lacks mid and hi end clarity compared the the M905. I get better depth and width definition from my monitors. I felt like I bought new monitors the day I got it. I’d never go back. Plus, I can monitor the sides under one button. No more plugins on my mix buss.. The Digital conversion is top quality, I use the Digital output from my interface and will never use the direct outs now. Believe me there is a difference, and I’m using the Apollo X16 which has stellar conversion stats.. I really wish Grace had a 2 channel mastering ADC I’d probably buy that too.. you have to remember the Grace M905 is not the new controller in town it is aged quality, that you can invest in. And never regret it.. My opinion, even if you mix in the box, your controller speakers and sound management is still massively important.. even if you mix on headphones, try the Grace headphone DAC.. it’s crazy.. I’ve bigged it up enough, what’s bad? The USB interface sometimes drops out or incorrectly syncs but that could be down to me using an M2 Mac.. problem happens mostly after boot.. I’ve learned not to use it and let my intercase do all the work. Is just sometimes it’s nice to monitor with out turning the whole studio on, especially if I’m just watching Colt’s videos.. Correction top notch Colt videos! 🎉🎉🎉
$3k Grace to the $799 drawmer, It better be a lot better. I'm just happy with my $500 Central Station Plus. It pretty much ahs everything one would want at a fraction of the cost. (Maybe also a fraction of the sound quality but I can't tell). If this was my bread and butter job i would have the grace but damn thats a lot of dough. always like watching your videos though. Lets see some with more on your CAPI H2's and Serpent SB4001. I own these thanks to you. ;)
Heritage Audio R A M System 2000 Love the True Sound it gives at around 1100$ 24K Gold Relays BurrBrown Coverters SUB Drop in Level matching Left Right Mutes Spdif in Made in Madrid Spain .
Would be interesting to take the scientific approach and do a comparison between a low budget/mid budget/high budget controller. For example running the same signal through the 3 and null test them, to hear how the device affects or not the sound. Almost 4000$ for a controller is not quite in the budget for the majority of us I think. And without a scientific experiment, we can easily be biased.
I feel that high-end converts in the monitor controller is confusing. I want everything to be of the same quality. Monitoring and what I am sending out to my hardware. Clearly people use this monitor converters i just feel why not just buy a highend interface. I have danger music monitor controller and it’s extremely flexible.
That’s why I don’t take advice from UA-cam let alone from Companies who made the product you praise it today we Buy it and tomorrow you change and what about our decision
Hope this helped someone! There’s also a link to my budget monitor controller recommendation in the description of this video
I use a PreSonus Monitor Station V2 But the rest of my setup is better, UAD Apollo X8P and Barefoot footprint 02. I was told the PreSonus was a very transparent unit. Do you know this one ?
@@mcsweet1966 Dude Ive used the Central station for years, I also had an SPL 2and honestly I could not tell the difference, .
What was that first monitor controller? Also, have you compared the Grace to a Burl unit? Thank you for your work on this....
@ColtCapperrune - Thanks for this and all the awesome vids you've made available! I'm literally sitting in the center of my studio trying to figure out if I want to add in the Monitor controller that I've been having for a while. I'm sure I'm on the more budget friendly side with my devices, but I still have room to grow into the higher-end gear that you have???
I have the UA Volt 476P and I was gonna add my Behringer Xenyx Control 2.
Can you explain how best to bring these 2 together???
Hi @ColtCapperrune kind of an off the subject question but can you tell me who made your desk with those 10-11 space racks? I'm looking to do something very similar. Thanks!
The RME Fireface UFX units are both super reliable and offer super good I/O for a home studio, but the addition of their ARC USB controller that plugs directly into the back of the interface is a brilliant "monitor controller" with a big volume knob, speaker b, dim, mute and mono buttons (+ 8 totalmix snapshot hotkeys, all customisable of course), even a talkback button if you need it... RME converters are also pretty darn good for a home studio at least and TotalMix is the best routing software ever created, so can't go wrong!
I second this. The most transparent monitor controller is no monitor controller - just use your interface if you can.
Normally I wouldn’t have gone for the RME ARC but I’m so glad it was bundled when I bought it - can’t live without it now.
I have the RME system. Unfortunately, my sub needs a separate feed (it’s not in line with the monitors). Wish I could figure out a way to utilize it without a split of some sort. Someday a new sub will be in order.
@@AndrewCCMlink/group the subs with your mains in totalmix. Set balance first then link the faders and the ARC volume control will control the volume altogether.
@@AndrewCCM I see. My sub has bass management built-in, so I just send my stereo output to the sub.
@@marcreevesmusicI may try that. I hate to lose an output, but maybe use one of the headphone pairs that is not used. Hrmm
IMO, the only cheapish passive monitor controller that's worth owning is the Heritage Baby R.A.M. All of the other passive designs use a stacked potentiometer, which is inherently flawed based on how potentiometers change as they age. The two pots (left and right) don't age the same and will have differences in frequency and even left right balance. The Baby R.A.M. uses a stepped switch to attenuate. It also has mono summing and a dim and mute switch. 2 ins, 2 outs. Works great.
Also colours the audio...
Bro all you talked about was the Grace. One of the most expensive monitor controller out there. Would be cool if you had some other recommendations. Im in the market for one but can't see myself spending that much on a grace even though im sure its incredible and I'd love to own one. You should have called this video "my review of the grace monitor controller"
I like my Mackie Big Knob. I'd like a better one, but for now it does just fine. All the controls I need.
I have the Dangerous D-Box+ and I love it. It replaced 2 pieces of gear- my Mackie Big Knob (original) and Dangerous Convert-2 DAC. Same DACs as the Convert-2, but with more features (analog summing, for one), and it makes room on my desk!
I have the original one, and it still crushes. Love how the summing sounds, would be cool if there was a desk remote though but it's not necessary for me at least.
I had the original d-box. It was compared with Grace Design and never look back. A big upgrade and the remote controller is amazing.
@@josemedina940 I bet and would hope so for the price lol. Maybe could grab one too someday if I ever make money from this lol
The Dangerous Monitor ST is the one I use. It’s one of the best IMHO and hard to beat! So transparent!
I agree with you. Grace Design is the best monitor controller that I had. M-908 is on the way.
Top 3:
🥇 grace design m905 (with the DAC)
🥈 crane song avocet (mine 😊😊)
🥉dangerous music monitor st
The avocet have an incredible DA converter, I am using lynx converter, I was just amazed by the quality of the avocet's converter !!!
Also a great feature, you can flip the phase of the left monitor, so in mono you can check the phase correlation.
I love my Dangerous Monitor ST 🔥🔥🔥🔥
It is a fantastic option as well!
For those on an unlimited budget
I've run the gamut from Antelope to Dangerous. Added a BURL Orca to my setup in 2018 and found perfection.
I have the same Grace 905 monitor controller as yours and I Love it !!! Got mine from Sweetwater as well last year
Great video! One thing that I don't think was mentioned: For me, the biggest technical and sonic difference between the different monitor controllers is the way in which the volume is controlled. All of the cheaper models use a conventional potentiometer, which makes the signal for the left and right channels different in the lower control range (so the stereo image shifts between the two channels when controlling the volume). In addition, such devices often lose treble at low volumes. The only way to do this properly in the analog world is with a relay-based system, like the Avocet, the Grace or Dangerous. Or in my case the Heritage RAM 5000, which sounds absolutely fantastic. In such systems there are different relays with different attenuation levels, which all sound the same and there is no difference between the left and right channels. I'm not a big fan of potentiometer-based controllers - before using something like that, I would work without a monitor controller and prefer to attenuate the signal digitally via the interface.
This is a great and informative comment. It gave me something to do research on. Thanks
Yeah, but if you use a good potentiometer it's not that much of a problem as you seldom go that low in volume
@@mirkomarkovic3438 Actually, I do ☺️ I mix at very low volumes.
@@andiziller yeah me too! But it's starting around 45/40db, i doubt that's the level you mix at....
10 years ago I bought my TC BMC-2, the thing is a little gem, it values so much more than it costs, transparent as air. I just take it anywhere I go.
Right now I'm mixing in a bedroom through the onboard spdif out of my computer.
I'm using an Audient Nero monitor controller, 4yrs now. My 24 track recording console is all analog as is all my recording gear and the Nero is also analogue and that's the reason I got it, but it is so neutral, and designed to be that way. It has all the ins and outs you could ever need for most situations. It was $500 I believe, anybody looking for a monitor controller, should check out the specs on a Nero.
The avocet changed my life. I can mix at low volume without any problems finally.
Was your first monitor controller a Mackie big knob mk1? What are your thoughts on the first mackie big knob
He's definitely talking about the Mackie Big Knob in the beginning.
Thanks, Colt. Currently, I'm using a Coleman Audio M3. I'll be moving to the ProTools MTRX Studio DADMon system after the first of the year.
I switched to barefoot monitors that have the ability to simulate ns10 & cubes and totally pulled my controller out of the process... the only thing that I miss is the mono button but honestly not that big a deal and I have 1000% confidence my monitors are not being colored by a controller since they just get direct outs from my interface.
I have had one for years because I’m old enough to remember the concept of the MIDI panic button!
I have a simple passive controller to switch between 2 sets of monitors. It was very inexpensive and does the Job. I also checked if there would be a sound difference verse interface and monitor control and nothing. No loss in sound, no change in detail. I never heard of a warm monitor controller. Did it have tubes or a transformer in it?
I can't understand how a monitor controller could ruin your mixes unless it was defective or specifically designed for sonic coloration. It should be easy to check it with a scope and a spectrum analyzer and also do a null test.
May be some digital conversion somewhere, or load to ground bypass issues or buffers involved, also mismatched levels
I agree.
It’s all about objective measurements. Not subjective interpretations.
This was a Grace review. Period.
Great machine, installed a few at my customer’s studios.
A measurement with a spectrum analyzer and/or scope with a cancellation test would have shown the design flaws if there were any.
I have measured many wireless mic systems. Very interesting. But that’s RF radios, compression, etc.
Monitor controller must have a simple and straightforward audio path and be transparent by definition. Unlike RF gear.
Basics should be a good potentiometer or gain reduction resistance ladder design.
And thats’s were things go wrong electronically with a lot of flawed and cheap designs.
A potentiometer is audio transparant by design, but can degrade level wise due to deterioration of the resistance tracks. And crackle after time.
That’s all.
Active units can use different Opamp designs and might alter the sound. Same with VCA designs as we knew from the old analog consoles.
Not to forget DC decoupling (can become filters) and balanced circuit design.
And of course D/A converters.
So yeah: measure and you know.
Side line: in the ‘90 I sold DJ mixers with resistor ladders under the faders. Each resistor had a reedrelais controller by a small magnet which was attached tintje mechanical fader on a metal rod track. Great design.
I had a presonus central station that totally degraded the signal. Great features but unplugged it immediately. I stick with my Apollo x now with minimal features but decent sound quality.
Do you still have the Presonus central station, and if so are you trying to sell it? I'm an aspiring audio engineer trying to build my small studio setup.
@@emekaokoli3079 Sorry, I gave my unit to a friend doing the same thing as you. I really believe in recycling stuff when it make sense. It’s a great unit for what it does. Many professionals use it daily with great results.. I just struggled, until I changed. I guess everyone is wired differently. Good luck though. I’m sure you’ll get there. Sounds like your already on the right path.
For a budget controller, the best I’ve ever used was the Kush Audio (UBK) Gain Train, the most transparent you can get.
The SSL12 and Big Six and Audient iD44 mk II all have provisions for two sets of monitors, two headphone outputs with separate mixes, loopback and many other functions.
Awesome video! I recently upgraded from an Apollo Twin to a Lynx Aurora with a Trinnov D-MON and I was shocked how big of a difference it made it the way my speakers sound. In comparison, the Apollo sounded flat, dull and just objectively worse. The Aurora feels like a blanket was lifted off my speakers and I'm really hearing things properly now!
Twin sounds compressed, I sold mine eventually...
What did u get instead
@@dabangerfactory987 prism lyra
So with the new studio being built, are you still going to be using the Grace when you're doing atmos? Or is there something else you plan on getting?
Great video!
How would you compare your Grace controller to your previous Drawner MC?
Im curious ablut this as well since I have that same Drawmer which is completely colorless.
I‘m using the SPL Marc One and I was surprised what a difference a good controller makes. I especially like the crossfeed function and that you can change from drummers perspective to audience perspective and the mono function is gold for fast checking on possible phase issues. Great video, Colt!
On the budget side, for mixing I use a Tascam US 16x 8 all programmed with a Elgato Streamdeck in the daw. 3 stereo outputs for my Tannoy/Yamaha/Focal sets, mono out for the sub. Dedicated headphone output. Mono with one click and even volume control on the streamdeck. Leveling the different monitor outputs is done in the daw hardware outputs. Just takes a lot of programming the streamdeck (wich does do midi programming). No budget monitor controller that effects the sound and less DA/AD conversion.
For now I'm happy with my presonus monitor station v2 😁
@ColtCapperrune what monitor controller are you going to use for dolby atmos?
Currently, that’s undecided… Certainly open to suggestions at this point!
Nice video, I like my Dangerous Music D Box
I just bought a Avid Carbon, I'll let you guys know how it sounds soon, im gonna use the onboard controls over my Mackie big knob
Congrats!! It will be better than the big knob, hands down.
Great timing on this topic for me 😂
Hope it helps!
Another great video Mr Colt !!! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience !
Through out the years I have used a few various monitor controllers, Mackie Big, Central Station and for the last 5-6 years it has been the Drawmer MC 3.1. A blanket was lifted. However, I am still not 100% satisfied, occasionally when mixing at very low volume, the right side will be quieter than the left. I twist the main volume knob several times and it fixes it. Petty and small issue, but annoying. I’m not sure if this is a norm for most controllers, or if mine is “special” Lol
Have you ever used the Trinnov controllers? I’m going back and forth between the Grace and the trinnov nova
I haven’t, but a lot of people like their stuff. I’m sure it doesn’t suck!
@@ColtCapperrune thanks Colt! I’m going to do my research and report back
@@Chaz_rI have the la remote with my ST2 Pro. It’s amazing and I love it.
@@charlienelson2395 I’ve been hearing the same sentiments everywhere and I think I’m going to take the plunge! Thank you
Just ordered The new Heritage Audio Ram 1000. Upgrading from a JBL monitor controller. That thing was making my audio sound phasey. Research but one must never skimp on their monitoring system. If you get expensive monitors and a high quality monitoring system to go along with it.
New drinking game. Every time Colt says ‘monitor controller’ drink a shot of tequila 🎉
Great…. Now I’m F’ing hammered…. 😂😂😂
@@ColtCapperrune 😂
R.I.P. dude. You would be f'ing dead quick lol
I understand the premise behind this video. However, if your monitors are calibrated to your room and RTA, then it should sound the same correct? If you aren’t calibrated, then sure it would sound different based on the controller (and the speakers for that matter).
awesome video Colt, never really considered the controller being something to pay attention to other than the "creature comforts" I need in the studio. It makes perfect sense that the circuitry would play a part in the audio but it's something I have definitely overlooked.
Things your setup doesn't need at all, but you've convinced yourself you absolutely have to have.
Explain please
I think he means that you don’t need one at all, you can control monitors from daw
Wouldn't using well-known (to you) ref tracks alert you to a "soft" monitor controller?
Nowadays, yes… Back when I’m in the market for a budget controller though, not so much. Great question though!
@@ColtCapperrune copy that. Keep up the good work! 🙏
have noticed your desk top on this small room rig. curious where you got that desktop. looks really nice.
Ive been using the SPL 2control for a few years now.. Was going to upgrade to the SPL Phonitor 2 or 3... But I have no reason to, does everything I want..
Its table top, but I got the room as I don't have anything on my 6 foot desk besides an Avid Dock and a Rolls Talkback Mic mute... (Keyboard and mouse are on a keyboard pull out stand)
If I build a proper studio, and not just this remote VO recording setup (ok I do promo mixes, and some 3-10 minute sports docs but 95% of my work is VO records and 15 second news promos for radio) Id go with something like the Grace or Trinnov.. Mainly for routing and speaker management for 5.1/Atmos.. as id be getting a desk which would be my main Stereo monitor control.
So you don't need an audio interface if you have this monitor controller right? Am I missing out on anything if I just have a nice monitor controller without any dedicated audio interface?
Seems like a massive missed opportunity they didn't include a frequency analyser given that massive screen. Also is there no phase invert button?
I use a SPL MTC Mk2 (for my Focal's Trio 11 and Dynaudio' s Core 47). Of course it isn't a Grace, but it works quite well, but honestly I miss digital I/O as well as Bluetooth.
Thank you Colt. Awesome video. I'm sorry. I am new to this. Do you really need the Grace Design m908 for ATMOS or will the Grace Design m905 suffice? Because the Grace m908 is very expensive and is well out of my budget.
the m905 is for stereo only, while the m908 can control up to a 24 ch speaker system. It also can do all your room correction eq and a whole bunch of other things. Yes it is expensive, but much less compared to a comparably spec'd mtrx system.
The Grace looks amazing, but I'm super happy with my Metric Halo ULN8 interface (and monitor controller).
I run a crane song Solaris DA and a laptop. Best mixes I’ve done ever. 15 years on consoles, hybrid setups, and different summing mixers and they are all waste of time for mixing now a days.
This Grace controller looks nice Colt. Have you tried the Crane Song Avocet IIA? I’ve been looking at that one also.
Big fan of the classic avocet, nowadays I’m using the Neumann mt48 as my controller, and sounds so good… everything I need at the moment
My Soundtracs Topaz 48/24/8/2 Desk is an excellent monitor controller ... before that, my DENON PMA 2x65 watt Hi-Fi amp has a pretty transparent record out / monitor selector circuit :)
Absolutely love your videos. I live in Nashville and would love to meet you sometime. I am exploring and researching Atmos like a madman possessed right now. The monitor controller for Atmos is so crucial because it needs to do so many things. And because of the cost of so many of these units is so high, it plays a large role in the barrier to entrance into Atmos. Yesterday I found (thru another Atmos engineer) a software monitor controller. Have you heard of Ground Control Sphere? If so, do you have an opinion of it, either based on experience or even just what you're read and heard from others vs. the obvious hardware choices?
Hey Colt, maybe it was covered in the video, but what is your take passive vs active ?
Interesting. My Audient iD 44 mkII and SSL 12 have good monitor controls. For more demanding situations I use my Big Six or my Audient 4816 SE mixing console.
Opinions about the Lake People MC100?
That is a super flexible monitor setup for sure. I use the PreSonus Monitor Station V2 (extremely affordable) with my Genelec's (with Sub) & Auratone's and it's been excellent with no color to the sound that I have personally noticed (maybe I am just so used to mixing with it I just know what needs to be where freq wise to be fair) but I'm also only using 2 monitor setup to A/B. I'd be scared to try that Grace system to know my setup is actually NOT good. Uuugh
Great functional controller...but it sounds horrible. Revive audio upgrades those and then they sound good.
@@gullcreekstudio1391 I've honestly never noticed anything (maybe I am just used to it / oblivious... heh)but it's good to know as I have several Revive pieces. ART PRO VLA II and DBX 560A. Does great work. Thanks for the info.
For sure! Honestly the lay out and functionality of the monitor station is probably the best on the market. I really really like that part about it
@@gullcreekstudio1391 I need to thank you! So I decided to buy a brand new Monitor Station V2 .... had it shipped directly to Revive to do the mod (didn't know they did until you told me) and got it back pretty recently. Immediately I noticed a punchy midrange and the high end is far smoother with more headroom. It 100% sounds better. I kept my original to A/B and the difference is actual profound, again especially in the mid / high end. It just flat out sounds so much better. Thanks! It really made a big difference.
For sure! It really is a pretty amazing difference for only a couple hundred dollars. It puts it right up there with the heritage system2000 for almost half the cost. I personally think that the V2 when modified...is one of the best controllers next to the dangerous st, grace and avocet
I have the Burl mothership so you think the grace has a better da ??
Cool brother I have a question though what kind of controller will you need for atmos mixing or will the grace controller work
great vid as always
Thanks!
Do you know the pan law for that Grace unit? I'm using my Apollo twin - which I'm quite happy with - BUT... the big minus is that the mono doesn't have any attenuation, so mono always sounds louder which makes it difficult to do comparisons. Thanks for all you do Colt!
That I’m not positive on… but I haven’t noticed anything like that on mine. Sorry that’s not much help!
Hey Reed, the m905 inserts 6dB of attenuation at the speaker output to compensate for the sum level increase when the mono switch in engaged.
@@gracedesignprofessionalaudio Thanks so much my friends! That's a great help!!
@@ReedRobins absolutely! BTW our m908 sourround / immersive controller allows you manually level calibrate mono and L-R
@@gracedesignprofessionalaudio Fabulous! Keep up the good work friends!
I have the presonus monitor station, whats better than this 1???? Im trying to upgrade little by little seeing what next step i should take ...
Love the versatility and being able to set up cue mixes right from the monitor controller! One central location that allows you to disperse audio across the room instead of rigging up a headphone amp setup externally - keeps things super clean!
Did you shift your video workspace to a 2:1 ratio? The widescreen look is awesome in this space!
Unless I am wrong, the Grace does not handle Dolby Atmos. Do you think that it should for that price?
They’re bigger model, the M908 is a dedicated Dolby Atmos converter. It’s very pricey, but has all the room tuning and delay built-in as well. For a $3000 monitor controller, I do not think it is overpriced without having Dolby Atmos built into it, as there are a handful of high-end monitor controllers in that same price range that only do stereo. Hope that helps!
get the dangerous dbox+, thats what i use. plus it is a summing mixer, thats what uve explained
and its excatly what you are explaining
Colt, how do you reach the secondary functions? Like on the mono button it says L-R, which I suppose would be the "side check" (or L side phase flit) feature, for M/S check like on the Avocet. Is it possible to check the sides, too with this controller? (that's the only thing I think of the Avocet as being superior than this)
how does it connect to your interface? adat?
Tc leveler pilot mess the sound, palmer monicon too...i prefer now using rme total mix without any controller and can be midi controlled
Dope! Question: Can this potentially replace your audio interface if you wanted it to or would this be used in conjunction with your audio interface? How do you have it set up? Thanks
It could replace your audio interface, if you never needed, headphone, monitoring, and never planned to record anything, or mix with any hardware. If everything you did, was ITB, then it would work. But if you do ever plan on recording, anything, mixing with hardware, or needing, a separate headphone mix, all of that comes from your interface. Hope that helps!
Got it. Thanks!
what happened to your ns10s ?
I have a presonus central station and 2 pairs of monitors (8 inch and 5 inch) plus an avantone mono monitor… Getting a subwoofer but don’t think i have enough outputs. should I get another one or how can i work around it
No disrespect to UAD, they’re fantastic interfaces but one needs better converters, happy to hear your D/A isn’t uad.
two questions
1. have you compared apogee symphony to the grace? any thoughts
2. why is none of your work on spotify?
I have not compared the conversion in the symphony to the Grace, but I know the symphony has incredible conversion. Sorry that that’s not any help.
Every song I’ve ever worked on, is on Spotify, but I hate Spotify. They are still trying to overturn the music modernization act, and in doing so they’re actively trying to screw artists. So I will never promote Spotify for anything. That said, there is an Apple Music playlist in the description of this video, you can find everyone of those songs on Spotify.
Audient Nero for stereo mix for now. Great gear
It is now true that many new moderately priced audio interfaces have better quality converters than high end audio interfaces that were designed more than six years ago.
If you're looking for the best active one, buy the 2400 imperium
What about the api mc531 ?
I have a hard time thinking it’s better than this or the dangerous, but I’m sure it doesn’t suck!
Thanks!! you doing an amazing job
Loved this and not just for @ChrisKerryAudox 's comment! Thanks Colt!
What do you think about the Arturia Audiofuse Studio?
Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with that one at all. Sorry!
@@ColtCapperrune no problem Colt. Thanks for the quick reply 👍🏼
how does a good monitor controller convert the signal to a better signal from your interface? is that even possible? and if you have cheap monitors it prob wont help anyway ?
Anyone has any thoughts on the Heritage Audio Baby RAM 2-channel Monitoring System? Does it colour? Does it affect the audio in anyway?
Yes it colours
I have one and haven’t noticed any coloration. I’m not saying it doesn’t. But it is subtle at the very worst. The best part is that it uses a stepped attenuation. So it attenuates both channels exactly the same. Some of the less expensive ones will lower one channel slightly more or less at certain points, and that moves the center image.
The Potentiometer makes the most difference. Fletcher Munchen curve.
I have a Grace Designs M905 Digital too! It’s amazing, I switched from a Mackie bigknob to a Presonus studio then to the M905, as I grew. Wow, I must say the Presonus is muddy and lacks mid and hi end clarity compared the the M905. I get better depth and width definition from my monitors. I felt like I bought new monitors the day I got it. I’d never go back. Plus, I can monitor the sides under one button. No more plugins on my mix buss.. The Digital conversion is top quality, I use the Digital output from my interface and will never use the direct outs now. Believe me there is a difference, and I’m using the Apollo X16 which has stellar conversion stats.. I really wish Grace had a 2 channel mastering ADC I’d probably buy that too.. you have to remember the Grace M905 is not the new controller in town it is aged quality, that you can invest in. And never regret it.. My opinion, even if you mix in the box, your controller speakers and sound management is still massively important.. even if you mix on headphones, try the Grace headphone DAC.. it’s crazy.. I’ve bigged it up enough, what’s bad? The USB interface sometimes drops out or incorrectly syncs but that could be down to me using an M2 Mac.. problem happens mostly after boot.. I’ve learned not to use it and let my intercase do all the work. Is just sometimes it’s nice to monitor with out turning the whole studio on, especially if I’m just watching Colt’s videos.. Correction top notch Colt videos! 🎉🎉🎉
Keep it SIMPLE. Mackie Big Knob all the way
If that monitor controller had a track out with the same character and you recorded that, it would have worked lol
$3k Grace to the $799 drawmer, It better be a lot better. I'm just happy with my $500 Central Station Plus. It pretty much ahs everything one would want at a fraction of the cost. (Maybe also a fraction of the sound quality but I can't tell). If this was my bread and butter job i would have the grace but damn thats a lot of dough. always like watching your videos though. Lets see some with more on your CAPI H2's and Serpent SB4001. I own these thanks to you. ;)
Heritage Audio R A M System 2000 Love the True Sound it gives at around 1100$ 24K Gold Relays BurrBrown Coverters SUB Drop in Level matching Left Right Mutes Spdif in Made in Madrid Spain .
Would be interesting to take the scientific approach and do a comparison between a low budget/mid budget/high budget controller. For example running the same signal through the 3 and null test them, to hear how the device affects or not the sound.
Almost 4000$ for a controller is not quite in the budget for the majority of us I think.
And without a scientific experiment, we can easily be biased.
I feel that high-end converts in the monitor controller is confusing. I want everything to be of the same quality. Monitoring and what I am sending out to my hardware. Clearly people use this monitor converters i just feel why not just buy a highend interface. I have danger music monitor controller and it’s extremely flexible.
Does anyone use/has used the Benchmark LA4/HPA4 as a monitor controller? I was wondering getting that or an Avocet or Grace probably.
Cranesong Avocet is a great monitor solution
That’s why I don’t take advice from UA-cam let alone from Companies who made the product you praise it today we Buy it and tomorrow you change and what about our decision
Why an active monitor controller as budget option??? You can build/buy a passive one for under 100 bucks!!
I love my Dangerous DBOX plus
I hope its amazing. I t costs over 3 grand for a monitor control. ridiculous!
time for a monitor controller shootout
That monitor controller is beautiful
Heritage RAM 2000 👍🏻 😊