As we get more and more into computer music, we find ourselves wanting more and more outboards.
I’m one of those people who can’t help but be curious about them(´◔౪◔)◞
Outboard is the generic term for the analog version of comps and EQs.
The “real thing” of Neve and LA2A that you see in plug-ins every so often.
The plug-ins are awesome! But the real thing is even more amazing!
What’s so great about them?
Let’s write about it!
What is a mix? You will be able to understand with Outboard!
I didn’t have a computer music teacher, nor was I a student at a vocational school, so I had no choice but to study computer music on my own.
Perhaps there are many people who are in a similar situation( ･ὢ･ )
Do you know what the right answer is for mixing?
I’m still not sure.
Especially when I first started with computer music, I felt like I was suddenly thrown into a huge ocean.
- What is a good sound?
- What is a compressor?
Let’s face it, I was at such a low level that I didn’t even know how to mix!
Still, as I manage to keep going, I can see the general direction of the project.
And ,I got a bunch of Waves plug-ins, bought a RODE NT2, and tried to improve the quality of my recordings…
But I had no idea how to make it sound professional!
There was a period of about three years like that.
It wasn’t until I started using analog equipment that I felt like I had finally crawled out of the woodwork.
The moment I learned how to do EQ and what it meant.
I truly feel that my understanding of the mix has increased dramatically since the introduction of outboards.
“This is what EQ is all about…”
strangely enough,
- How to set the comp.
- Points to EQ
Since I started using the outboard I can see why.
Maybe it’s because I’m more confident in my judgment.
After that, it didn’t take much time to determine the effect of using the normal EQ and comps that come with the DAW.
The encounter with the actual SSL and NeveVR channel strips was very significant.
SSL (Solid State Logic) / 500 Series E EQ Module サウンドハウス
For example, it was hard for me to understand the intrinsic quality of SSL’s EQ by just using modeling plug-ins.
It was impossible for me( ･ὢ･ )!
I learned about the awesomeness of SSL by using the real thing, and as a result, I finally understood how to use the plug-in.
It totally changes the way you perceive changes with your ears.
It was an amazing event to see how this can happen.
How to use digital plug-ins
Today, DAWs are so good that they can do just about anything.
Therefore, there is a conflict that arises.
That is, “There are so many correct answers that we don’t know the best one.”
In the end, in order to master digital items, you need to deepen your understanding of analog as well, otherwise it may be difficult to get the hang of it.
Nevertheless, it takes a lot of budget to get all the analog equipment.
If possible, I would like to collect them efficiently.
I have acquired more than 50 outboards so far, and have repeatedly given them away.
No, it’s probably more than that…
It’s not every day that you come across one that says, “This is awesome!”
But if it adds depth to the music, I want to push the limits of what I can do.
Recommended items for your first compressor
If you’re buying an actual compressor for the first time?
I’d recommend KLARK TEKNIK, a manufacturer that offers a good balance of price and quality!
If you’re looking for your first 1176 type compressor, this is a great choice.
KLARK TEKNIK ( クラークテクニック ) / 76-KT サウンドハウス
And that won’t stop you from evolving into a complete equipment enthusiast who can’t get enough of it and is thrilled by even the slightest difference.
UNIVERSAL AUDIO/ 1176LN サウンドハウス
“A small difference” is very important(`･ω･´)
SSL is still recommended for EQ!
If you are new to EQ?
I would recommend SSL, even though it is a bit more expensive.
You’ll learn a lot about EQ.
SSL (Solid State Logic) / X-Rack Channel EQ Module サウンドハウス
With this, you won’t have to take any detours….
I’ve come a long way to get here(-ω- 😉
Cheaper! If you want to touch the hard EQ.
It’s hard to buy an SSL out of the blue!
In that case, KLARK TEKNIK sells a nice PULTEC type EQ at a reasonable price.
KLARK TEKNIK ( クラークテクニック ) / EQP-KT サウンドハウス
You’ll experience the smoothness of a passive EQ and the unique feeling of solidity of an analog one!
summary
Analog is the best! As you can see, analog is the best.
It is highly recommended to use analog as a guideline for using plug-ins.
There are many plug-ins being developed and released one after another, but except for the really cool ones, I think analog sounds better.
UAD plug-ins are also great, but the sound of the actual device is often more impressive.
How much of a difference is there?
Is there that much of a difference?
I’d like to continue to repeat the experiment and find the answer.
Thank you for reading to the end!
