Focusrite ISA428 Four Classic Microphone Pre-Amps and High-Quality A/D Conversion Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Very versatile preamps! I've had them for 3 years and wouldn't dream of getting rid of them! Very clean, but colorful (in a good way). I've used them on everything from drums to voice to symphony to bass & keyboards (direct). No complaints. I've done shootouts with preamps that were much more expensive and I won't say the ISA428 blew them away, but it came closer than it should have considering the price difference!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite ISA428 Four Classic Microphone Pre-Amps and High-Quality A/D Conversion

The ISA 428 features four classic, transformer-based microphone pre amps with switchable impedance and direct Instrument Inputs are combined with an optional eight channel 192kHz ADC. An all-new, Soft Limiter circuit precedes the A/D, providing the perfect path into any DAW, Digital Console or direct to Hard Disc Recorder. The input stage provides enhanced control and creativity allowing you to switch between four carefully selected input impedance settings. The original ISA 110 setting is supplemented by three further impedance settings to either perfectly match the pre-amp with any microphone and maximise level, or to use different settings creatively to shape the sound of the microphone being used. Should the need arise to place extra processing between pre-amp and conversion, insert points are also featured on every channel. Protecting the ADC, Focusrite's Soft Limiter is a new optical circuit design, entirely preventing any digital overs, whilst reducing to an absolute minimum the undesirable distortion artefacts that common limiter circuits typically generate. This limiter requires the optional ADC to be fitted in order for it to operate.The ADC embodies cutting-edge conversion technology, encompassed within Focusrite circuitry, providing eight high quality conversion channels, at sampling frequency rates of 44.1, 48, 96 and 192kHz. Running at 96kHz allows for up to 16 (2 x 8, parallel) digital outputs. Digital output formats are dual 9-pin D-sub (AES/EBU, SPDIF) and dual ADAT light-pipe. Full digital metering is provided for every channel, alongside moving coil peak meters, designed to catch even the fastest transients. A second ISA428 analogue unit can be connected utilising the four extra ADC input channels on the rear of the unit containing the optional ADC. This makes full use of the eight channels provided and expands front-end capacity from four pre amps and eight digital outputs to eight Pre amps and eight digital outputs.

Click here for more information about Focusrite ISA428 Four Classic Microphone Pre-Amps and High-Quality A/D Conversion

Read More...

Focusrite TwinTrak Pro Dual Mono/Stereo Tracking Solution and True Stereo Compressor Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)"Warning: Made in China" might have been a better label. I've got nothing against stuff that's made in China. In fact, most of what I use on a daily basis was made there. But when it comes to Pro equipment, I worry when I see that.
Well, I was right. The first preamp I received was DOA. OK, not truly DEAD, but channel 1 wasn't usable do to a lose connection inside the unit.
One RMA latter, and I have a usable unit. Almost.Noise:
It says "-128dB EIN @ 60dB of gain with 150 ohm source" Well, if that's actually true, it's a great marketing ploy.
What I actually got, when the signal entered the digital realm, was a noise floor between -65db and -70db @ 60db of gain with 150 ohm source.
Usability:
The headphone monitoring circuitry adds a lot more noise to the monitor signal. Not a problem, but it confused me when I first tested the unit.
The "AIR" function on the preamp isn't usable. Turning it on causes 60Hz Hum in the signal. Disconnecting the preamp from ground did nothing. I'm not sure if this is my unit, my house's wiring, or a design flaw. I don't want to RMA this thing again, but I might ask the support people about it. "AIR" isn't an option I'd ever use. (there's no control over the affect, just on/off)
I also get 60Hz Hum in the line and instrument inputs. More so in Channel 1 then 2. As I'll never use the line inputs, and probably always use a DI box with guitars and the like, this isn't a problem.
The Compressor and EQ modules work as expected.
Everything else seems to work as expected.
So, to sum up, It seems like a nice design, but with quality control issues.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite TwinTrak Pro Dual Mono/Stereo Tracking Solution and True Stereo Compressor

Designed principally as an affordable, high-specification dual mono/stereo tracking device, TwinTrak Pro also boasts comprehensive latency-free monitoring, unmatched digital connectivity, and all within a sturdy 2U 19-inch rack-mount chassis. Each channel features Focusrite's award-winning Platinum pre amp, embellished with the option of instant 'air' and variable input impedance for improved microphone performance and extended creativity. A mid-scoop EQ follows, and provides variable frequency and depth of cut for vocal problem solving and miked-up cabinet ambience. In pride of place is TT Pro's powerful dual mono/stereo optical compressor. This optical compressor features Focusrite's custom fast-acting optos, alongside side-chain inputs and the ability to operate as a true 'twinned' stereo pair. These circuit design innovations are complemented by a comprehensive set of focused controls. TT Pro is the first Platinum to feature a D/A converter as standard, alongside its optional analogue to digital converter. The D/A converter enables the user to feed mono or stereo digital signals into TT Pro. These signals can be fed either into the stereo latency-free monitoring section, or via line inputs (post- the pre amp stage) for further processing. The signal can then return to the digital audio workstation via Focusrite's established stereo A/D converter option. Together, these facilities make TT Pro the perfect analogue interface for any digital audio workstation, and equally the world's first 'hardware plug-in'.

Click here for more information about Focusrite TwinTrak Pro Dual Mono/Stereo Tracking Solution and True Stereo Compressor

Read More...

Joemeek OneQ Studio Channel Strip Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This preamp is pretty killer. Besides looking nice in the rack it delivers a very cool sound on both vocals and bass guitar (haven't tried electric guitar yet). I like the compressor a lot. It is very smooth. The EQ (Meekqualizer) is very functional and delivers a wide range of tones. De-esser works as advertised.
The unit is built like a tank. The knobs have the expensive feel to them, and I really like the central vu Meter.
This is a great all around addition to my studio setup.
The only thing I need now is more free-time to really appreciate everything it can do.
MC

Click Here to see more reviews about: Joemeek OneQ Studio Channel Strip

The Joemeek oneQ is their most full-featured, technologically advanced studio channel ever! A single channel combining Mic Pre (with Burr-Brown IC), four band EQ (the most flexible of any Joemeek ever), their signature optical compressor, De-Esser, and Enhancer, it's a master channel like no other. Housed in a 2u chassis, the elegantly sculpted faceplate is intelligently laid out, with clear, easy to read legends and a large analog VU meter. Joemeek even included 24bit, 96K A/D converters with word clock input and output. The new oneQ raises the bar for all studio master channels! Check out the reviews. Mix Review Dec 2005 Resolution Feb 2006 Digital Interface Joemeek Digital Audio Interface provides high quality digital audio outputs plus the ability to synchronize to an external word clock. The digital audio outputs are compatible with most digital recorders, as well as Digital Audio Workstations and mixers. S/PDIF format is available from the optical and RCA phono connectors, while the transformer coupled XLR connector provides an AES3 compatible output. The Joemeek Digital Interface has highly stable onboard master clocks for low-jitter, hi-fi results. Internal sample rates of 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz or 96kHz are selected by means of rear panel switches. 44.1kHz is the standard used for audio CD's, while 48kHz and 96kHz are widely used in recording studios. In general, the higher the sample rate, the better the audio fidelity, but the more disk space is required for the recording. For example, recording at 96kHz requires twice as much st

Click here for more information about Joemeek OneQ Studio Channel Strip

Read More...

ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This unit was all the rave a few years back in the audio/home recording magazines. And for good reason.
The PRO VLA is a very smooth compressor with good metering. It's easy to get a nice overarching compression ratio for individual channel OR for main mix duties. The stereo link function is nice, but I don't know how useful the panning feature is when it's linked in stereo. I just leave it panned up the middle to keep both channels' output the same.
And kudos to ART for engineering it to be relatively free of pumping and breathing artifacts that plague lesser units.
I've got mine in the main mix insert of my analog front-end/digital back end studio. It's tightened up my mixes and the sound quality has improved greatly, as compared to the other brand name comp that was in the chain previously.
The fact that it's a very sexy looking unit doesn't hurt. The VU's are as sensitive as the ones on my big analog mixer and lend a nice vibe.
I'd put this into the 'why didn't I buy one sooner' pile.
Good stuff!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor

The ART Pro-VLA II is a tube driven Vactrol-based Compressor and Leveling amplifier designed to excel in any professional audio application, including tracking, mixing, mastering, live sound or broadcast situations. By using an opto-electronic design, (as opposed to a more typical VCA driven level detection circuit) the Pro-VLA II allows more compression to be added to an audio source with a more natural, musical sounding output and virtually transparent dynamic leveling. This VCA-less design coupled with a 12AT7 vacuum tube in the gain stage makes the Pro-VLA II the ideal dynamic control device for critical studio and live sound applications. ART Pro-VLA II Features Vactrol Opto-Compression Design (no VCA) Mastering-Quality Audio Signal Path with Tube Gain Stage Enhanced Link Mode - While in stereo link mode, channel 1 level control acts as a master output level and channel 2 becomes a balance control between them, - optimizing the Pro-VLA II for use as a mastering tool Variable Threshold, Ratio & Output Controls LED Backlit VU Input/Output Level Metering LED Metering Indicates Both Average Level And Peak Hold Accurate Ten Segment LED Gain Reduction Metering +4dBu/-10dBV Mode Switch Optimizes Pro-VLA II For Interface With Professional OR Consumer Grade Components Active Balanced XLR And 1/4-Inch Inputs & Outputs Toroidal Transformer Reduces Mechanical & Electrical Hum ART Tube Compression ART Tube Compressors deliver analog leveling/compression designed to work seamlessly with any recording, sound-reinforcement, and electronic instrument application. Our Tube Compressors excel at making tracks sound rich and full for both live audio engineering and studio recording applications. ART's tube compression circuitry is a hybrid design u

Get 21% OFF

Click here for more information about ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor

Read More...

Golden Age Project Pre 73 Microphone Preamp Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Very happy with the Preamp... Doesn't color the signal much and gets the job done. Well built, solid. Would buy again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Golden Age Project Pre 73 Microphone Preamp

Modeled After the Neve 1073, Golden Age Offers Incredible Sound in an Affordable Package! The Pre73 provides a low cost alternative to microphone preamplification featuring a fully discrete signal path by utilizing separate transformers for the balanced mic input, the line input and the output. Similar to the circuit you would find in the Neve 1073 preamp/EQ with a remarkably similar output. The versatile sound of the Pre73 works incredibly with most sound sources and in most genres. The Golden Age Project Pre73 has a maximum gain of 80 dB on the mic input and the gain range on the Line input is -20 to + 10 dB. Golden Age Project Pre73 Features Vintage Style electronics with no integrated circuits in the signal path 80dB Max gain easily handles passive ribbon mics with quiet sound sources -20 to +10dB Gain range on the Line input Switchable 1200 or 300 Ohm impedance on the mic input Switchable phantom power and absolute phase High-impedance instrument input for connecting sound modules, electric guitar or bass A simple but effective 4-step LED output level meter The output level control offers: Fine gain adjustments Overloading the main gain stage(s) for more character Lowering the signal to a suitable level before the output stage Combo XLR/TRS input jacks and separate output XLR and TRS jacks Includes external high power power supply Golden Age Project Pre73 also offers a high-impedance instrument input making it the perfect solution for nearly any signal source whether for mics with a higher or lower sensitivity, synthesizers, sound modules or an electric guitar or bass. The input impedance of the microphone input can be switched between 300 and 1200 ohms, which m

Click here for more information about Golden Age Project Pre 73 Microphone Preamp

Read More...

Avalon VT737SP Class A Tube Channel Strip Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I use this channel strip during nearly every recording session I run. The sound is amazing for vocals (in combination with a good mic), producing a warm and yet extremely clean sound.
I have used the unit on acoustic guitar, kick drum, electric guitar and even bass. I was able to get stunning sound from all sources, with a little tweaking of the settings and mic placement.
This unit is capable of immaculate results. Well worth the money.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Avalon VT737SP Class A Tube Channel Strip

The Avalon VT737SP features a combination of TUBE preamplifiers, opto-compressor, sweep EQ, output level and VU metering. VT737SP's preamp provides a 48V phantom powered input, an Instrument DI and a balanced line input. The Opto-compressor features twin Class A tube triodes for gain matching. Full dynamic control from soft compression to hard-knee limiting can be achieved with threshold, ratio-compression, attack and release controls plus gain reduction selection on the large VU meter. Special spectral control including de-ess is available with the dual sweep mid EQ to side-chain switch. The EQ section can be flipped pre or post-compressor. The high and low EQ bands provide the smooth characteristics of an all passive design, while the dual mid bands include variable frequency and switched Q-width selection. Whether you're recording a solo vocalist or an acoustic instrument, mastering, or recording symphonies, let Avalon take you to the leading edge in analog and experience sonic reality like never before! Avalon VT737SP Features Vacuum tube triode signal path Soft-start tube life extender Stereo link for compressors Sealed silver relays for signal routing Transformer balanced microphone input High-voltage circuits for max headroom and low noise Discrete Class A equalizer with musical passive filter Internal discrete power supply with toroidal transformer Large control knobs with professional conductive plastic potentiometers VU meter for output level monitoring and compressor gain reduction Great Unit. Allows the user to slam into the red! The Avalon VT737SP is a great unit. It has so many strengths that basically you could say that as a MIC Pre/Channel Strip goes, thi

Get 10% OFF

Click here for more information about Avalon VT737SP Class A Tube Channel Strip

Read More...

Aguilar AG 500SC Bass Head Boss Brown Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Aguilar AG500SC is simply a fantastic bass amplifier, hands down. If you are looking for a warm, punchy, deep sound, you can't go wrong with Aguilar. It gets very loud, certainly loud enough for mid-size venues and cuts through a mix very well. The construction is VERY solid. I've never seen a more neatly and carefully wired machine in my life. And I really dig the aesthetics, with the rich brown color and simple, easily readable EQ and knob layout. Ultimately, I would rather have gone with the dual-channel model, but for the moment I just can't afford it. But trust me, there's not a hint of regret in my purchase. I am VERY happy with this amplifier.
Props also goes to Amazon, which has not only the best selection of Aguilar products (pretty much every model in every color combo under the sun), but also the best prices (and FREE shipping to boot). Delivery was quick and professional and I have had no problems with the product after purchase. Highly recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Aguilar AG 500SC Bass Head Boss Brown

The AG 500SC is a high powered, lightweight head that combines an easy to use yet versatile EQ with 500 watts of power to create the perfect amp for the gigging bassist. Four bands of active EQ with bright and deep switches provide a variety of tones that can go from funk to rock to jazz. A flexible FX Loop and pure sounding D.I. are easily accessible on the front of this amp. Great features, tons of power and an affordable price make this amp a classic.This model in "Boss Brown". Looks great with Tweed cabinets. *Optional: Headcase or Carry bag

Get 22% OFF

Click here for more information about Aguilar AG 500SC Bass Head Boss Brown

Read More...

LR Baggs Venue DI Direct Box Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I would have given this product five stars if the tuner stomp function was 100% reliable, which it isn't.
Otherwise, Baggs has created a great update to it's classic Para-Acoustic D.I.
I love the easily accessible knobs, in contrast to the Para's harder to reach (especially the gain control) knobs. However, the Venue does have one out-of-reach knob, and that is the adjuster for the 0-9db boost "stomp" function, which is a great feature on this pedal and one I use frequently during performance. I just wish I could adjust the db setting more easily; it's the one knob that is hard to access. Bummer.
The tuner issue I mentioned is the following: about 15% of the time (which is way too often), when I stomp the mute/tuner switch, the signal indeed mutes, but the tuner does not light up and engage. I have to stomp and re-stomp several times to activate the tuner when this occurs. Lame and annoying onstage.
Overall tone of the Venue is meaty and strong -- as good if not better than what I had with the Para, which I used for years before acquiring the Venue. I am happy with this product, but I really could use a stomp tuner that activates when it's stomped, 100% of the time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: LR Baggs Venue DI Direct Box

The LR Baggs Venue DI Direct Box offers a discrete acoustic guitar preamp. It combines a transformer-coupled DI output for maximum isolation, an EQ specifically tuned for acoustic guitars, a variable-boost control to complement your playing styles, and a chromatic digital tuner to help you stay in tune. Combining features from at least three stompboxes into one pro box, the LR Baggs Venue D.I. brings a new level of fidelity, confidence, and usefulness to performing acoustic musicians. The Venue D.I. is one of the most comprehensive and best-sounding tools ever to tame the surliest stage.

Click here for more information about LR Baggs Venue DI Direct Box

Read More...

Tech 21 BSDR-DLX SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I play in 2 bands and I typically use 2 to 3 Basses on stage depending on the band (and the stage). I have always fought with having to dial in the right tone for each Bass every time I switch Basses. The Tech 21 BSDR-DLX SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe solves that problem. I can preset the 3 main tones I need for 2 Basses and when I switch basses, it just takes a split second to hit the footswitch and I have the exact sound I need. This thing is very easy to setup and has a boatload of other features. Besides the obvious XLR Direct out, it also has a 1/4" Parallel out that is pre-tone controls so you can send your unaltered Bass signal to a Tuner or in my case, another amplifier. It also has an effects loop so you can have your effects setup and just hit one switch and you have the tone you need plus the effects you need. There's a small learning curve and you need some time for trial and error with the tone controls and the drive, level and blend controls if your customizing your own sounds. You can also just use the stock sounds that come pre-programmed and it sounds great. I've had many compliments from band mates as well as fans in the audience about my sound since using the Bass Driver Deluxe. I would definitely recommend the Tech 21 BSDR-DLX SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe for any Bassist. I would also recommend you buy the optional Tech 21 DC2 DC2 Power Supply.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tech 21 BSDR-DLX SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe

6-channel, dual input pre-amp, stomp box and DI all in one. Dial up big vintage tube tones, bright modern slap sounds, gnarly distortions, and all in between.

Get 23% OFF

Click here for more information about Tech 21 BSDR-DLX SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe

Read More...

Fishman Aura Spectrum D.I. Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this on the reccommendation of reviews on line, here and elsewhere. And the reviews were right, this little box does everything I need.
I was looking for a DI that would provide: a tuner, E.Q., feedback suppressor, and a pre-amp. I play a variety of acoustic instruments and needed
a way to change instruments onstage without the noise associated with unplugging a guitar cable from a DI. The Fishman automatically mutes the signal when
the tuner is engaged, cool! Now I can change from my guitar to mandolin or dobro without having to go to the PA to mute the channel. I wanted something that had
all these abilities in one unit, having too many little boxes on-stage is a drag during and after the performance.
Now for the images the unit provides. I don't have any of the guitars imaged, my stage acoustic is a strange cheap Korean guitar that I hotrodded,(tired of dragging expensive guitars to bars), so I just choose the image of the "Concert Guitar" and found a mic image that sounded the best. They all sounded pretty much the same, which all are actually very usable sounds. I knew and expected I wasn't going to make my guitar sound like a vintage Martin, or my cheap but very cool(vintage) Harmony
electric mando sound like a Gibson, but my instruments sounded great and were pre-amped just right, all with just one box!!!
CUSTOMER support, I had a problem with the first unit the vendor sent, it quit working a week after I bought it, just before a gig I was planning and needed it for.
I went to the Fishman website and wrote a letter describing my problem and need (the gig was in one week), they understood my panic, sent me a new unit without requiring me to send the old one in first (Trust and belief in customers is a new experience for me), THIS was WAY cool and the new one came a day before the gig.
In using the Aura Spectrum on the gig, I was pleased to find the feedback suppressor worked miracles, the sound man had me way loud in the monitor, with a loud low frequency making everyone nervous, I just stepped on the feedback button, and POOF!, it was gone. I could tune up various instruments and get levels very easily, all without leaving my chair (I have to sit down to play dobro). This was a new day for me, life was good, I am a happy customer!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Fishman Aura Spectrum D.I.

Aura® Spectrum DI is the complete tone solution for the acoustic musician featuring award-winning Aura Acoustic Imaging technology that restores a studio-miked sound to your undersaddle or soundhole pickup.Housed in a professional quality all-metal case, Aura Spectrum DI features a 3-band EQ, one-knob compressor, automatic feedback suppression with up to 3 notches, chromatic tuner, effects loop, plus a high-quality balanced XLR D.I. The included Aura Image Gallery software provides access to an ever-expanding list of instruments recorded using world-class studio mics and techniques.Aura Spectrum DI is not only incredibly versatile, but it also delivers the most realistic acoustic sound available for stage or studio.Features:
Award-winning Aura® Acoustic Imaging
128 pre-loaded Images for use with the mostpopular acoustic instruments
Instrument Preamp with Balanced XLR D.I. out
Volume, Blend, and Image Select controls
Three band EQ
One-knob compressor
Automatic anti-feedback with up to 3 notches
Built-in chromatic tuner with bypass/mute
16 user-configurable Image locations
USB interface for Image downloading fromAura Image Gallery (software included)
Feedback-fighting Phase switch
Automatic D.I. Ground Lift
9-Volt Battery or optional adaptor operationSpecs:AUDIO I/O:
1/4" mono input & output w/input trim control
Balanced XLR D.I.
1/4" effects loop
24-bit A/D/A conversionPROCESSOR:
32 bit processingMATERIAL:
Durable all-metal constructionDIMENSIONS:
5.6"L x 5.25"W x 2.1"HPOWER:
9-Volt battery or optional adaptor powerBATTERY LIFE:
20 hours

Get 35% OFF

Click here for more information about Fishman Aura Spectrum D.I.

Read More...