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G'day folks. Up straight - I like Neve and Focusrite stuff (although I haven't tried any of the platinum range).

I was reading through a previous post on the sound of classic compressors,and I thought hmm I have never seen anything on the newer AMEK Neve stuff, not even a query, and I wondered why. Is it that it's too new for any market/user appraisal? For instance the System 9098 Compressor/Limiter. I'd be really interested to have some sort of opinion on this unit for instance. Are they as good as the older stuff I'm familiar with?

Any thoughts anybody? This is for my own interest obviously. I have a fascination/fetish with the differing sonic characteristics of micpre's and compressors. If anybody out there has had any experience with this newer stuff I'd really appreciate any opinion.
Kind regards :cool:

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Comments

anonymous Fri, 03/22/2002 - 02:50

Hey Stedel.....

Thought i better chime in here.. cos its what i luv talkin about most.

Stedel and other Sydney folk....... checkout Velvetsound and thier new Media 51 RN console. Daniel_C (who posts here)works there and should have decent hang on how they sound!

First of all...the newer RN(GOD!!!!!!!!!) Amek stuff is very different sonically to his impecable designs of the past, yet much more funitonality and usability and with far more scope for manipulation and scultping.

The 9098 series are extrmely flexible and good sounding.

The Pre/Eq has pretty powerful EQ for sculpting a sound source and is fantastic for cutting a problems freq, Good at adding but not in the sense of a classic 1073 type of addition EQ. Like it will not give you the bottom end or a godly FAT midrange tone for that electric gtr. What is does is what RN wanted to do.....boost or attenuate the frequncies witout any aditional sonic artifacts like tranformer distortion or class a/b or A crosseover distortions... which IMHO are why they(1073 etc) sound so freakin good, but that is a design issue not a taste issue. And i spose RN did not really want to reinvent the wheel again!

The 9098 CL compressor/limiter is without doubt IMHO one of the best and most flexible units around. Again its does not have the classic signature neve overtones of of the classic 2254,2264 or 33609 compressor/limiters, but rather a more neutral tone. It takes a more cleaner and controlled approach to compression and limiting and it can produce nearly any type of leveling/compression effect imaginable. from smooth gain riding to full and punchy stuff ..its the one.

They all come with little 'special' features like the 'Glow' and 'Sheen' features of the pre/eq and the 'ambience' setting on the CL.

BTW... if you are after the classic neve tones. Do ya self a favour and check out the Shep stuff. I just got a pair of SHEP SN-8's this week and they are DA BOMB!!!!!. They are their reproductions of the classic 1073 with a few extras thrown in for good measure. THey have a switchable hi-q (like 1081) on the mid bands and have 4k,8k,10k & 15K selectable as the HF instead of the 12K shelf on orignals. They have original circuits and mairnaire transformers and sounds as good if not better tha the real thing. I feel like I am being sacraligious? here.. but it was a real eyeopener when i popped them in the 1073 console i usually work on.. TONE, Clarity and HEADROOM.

YMMV

PEACE
Wiggy :D

mixfactory Fri, 03/22/2002 - 10:12

Here is the low down on the Amek/Neve stuff:

1)Amek CIB- A "killer" all in one unit, but expensive. The mic pre is excellent(the pre is the same as the one in the 9098I), the EQ is exceptional, the compressor is unique sounding.

2)Amek 9098EQ- a very "useful EQ". The pre is not the same hence its an either or type(either it works or doesn't). The EQ is what its great for, it can be surgical or for enhanccements. It has its own sound, definitely not clinical.

3)9098 compressor/limiter-a dissapointment, especially for what they were asking for it early on. It is good on somethings, but sucks at others. It does not sound like the Neve counterparts(maybe because Geoff Tanner is responsible for the design of all the "33609" types-2264.32264a,33609 and so on). It is ok, if it was at the right price.

I haven't heard anything out there yet that compares to 2254's(I haven't checked out the shep remakes yet, only their 1073). If you want the "classic"sound of a Neve compressor, than save up. They are some of my favorite comps(I own a pair of 2254E,32264a,and a 33609). Very versatile with warmth and guts.

Guest Fri, 03/22/2002 - 14:22

I found the 9098 compressor/limiter 'underwelming'

The knobs seemed to operate backwards and I recived no joy from it... it was too smooth for me.. the meter balistics pissed me off as well.

But I should give it another chance, I am sure..

:eek:

The 9098 mic pres are very special - jazzy and 'quick' or good for classy hyper reality.. I really dont know why I dont own some (perhaps with the EQ attached)

I haven't tried it but I bet the Pure Path is cool...

The Element 78 range seems interesting I could operate it via my ProControl! (Jesus! Then I would never get out of the chair!)

anonymous Fri, 03/22/2002 - 16:26

Originally posted by wiggy neve freak:
Hey Stedel.....

Thought i better chime in here.. cos its what i luv talkin about most.

PEACE
Wiggy :D

Cool 'cos I'd like to ask some more stuff!!

Thanks also Julian and Thrill Factor. As I said I love the stuff I've been fortunate to use and either Neve stuff itself or Neve influenced gear will be a core coponent of my own small tracking studio I'm establishing this year, so all this is really great for me to hear.
It does seem strange, what with Rupert Neve's pedigree that these items haven't appeared in many "must have" articles, posts etc.
Maybe he's just "moving to the beat of a different drum". The Pure Path range, well yes I've seen some good reports on that, in fact quite interesting maybe down the track (oh God I didn't mean that)
path (no not that either) rode...(****!!)... you know what I mean...that little line module for instance.

Wiggy there are a couple of things I'd like to ask you if I may, so if you want to reply...please. I don't mind enthusiastic length.

But first, the Shep gear you mentioned. I've done a couple of searches on the net and haven't been able to come up with anything. Could you maybe point me in the right direction? :cool:

anonymous Sat, 03/23/2002 - 03:55

Amek CIB is absolutely fantstic on everything. i borrowed a demo unit and after listening back to some vocals a few months later, realised that it was the CIB which lent the magic, I have now bought one as its only in retrospect how good I realised this box had been for my stuff. it also great for PT systems as a front end for snares where you want to get the sound right at source with the EQ. It is a "must have", and frankly smokes my Avalon 737sp for some things, but the Avalon has a better EQ IMHO

James Cullen :D :D

anonymous Sat, 03/23/2002 - 12:22

Wiggy. Thanks for the link. I've just checked out their stuff. Stedel is hungry! Very tasty! I'll give Shep's site a more thorough going over tonight. Have got your phone number. Look forward to talking to you very early on this week...like tomorrow!

We've both mentioned JLMaudio up here. Have you had an opportunity by any chance to check out his VOC-2 Dual Mono Valve Opto Compressor? Impressive looking specs and very very nice looking unit. I love VU meters!

I'm intrigued that Aussie manufacturers with the growing reputation of people like JLMAudio and Peach have based their stuff, or are being raved about in respect to Neve and/or Focusrite high end stuff.

And, it occured to me, when Winton Morrow of Avalon took his first mic pre's into Festival Studio's and ran them by Rick, I wonder was that still the Neve console there that he was able to compare and test his units up against? If so, no wonder Avalon went on to be so highly regarded. Just a thought. Many thanks for taking the time to reply up here. We Neve freaks should stay together!!!!!!

BTW did you like the puns on Neve on the Classic Compressors link? The "Dirty Neves Done Dirt Cheap"
(along with a couple of others) I've nominated for this years RO BADDEST AWARDS. Very funny. Neve should use some of 'em in their advertising....
"Don't Neve Me this Way"......... :) :cool:

MadMoose Sat, 03/23/2002 - 17:09

Originally posted by THETHRILLFACTOR:
[QB]Here is the low down on the Amek/Neve stuff:

2)Amek 9098EQ- a very "useful EQ". The pre is not the same hence its an either or type(either it works or doesn't). The EQ is what its great for, it can be surgical or for enhanccements. It has its own sound, definitely not clinical.
QB]

While not clinical, I've found it to be a little boring. I wouldn't throw it out of the room, but I wouldn't buy a new one either. Maybe if one fell in my lap for a great price. Otherwise there are other things I'd rather own like an Avalon 737 or an ISA110.

anonymous Sun, 03/24/2002 - 16:53

Hi folks. I just got some great news over on Rick Hammings Forum. Rick scourced some information I was after and I feel good! Thanks again Rick! :cool:
Couple of things:

a. This Pure Path range. The "Driver In A Box"...
Pretty Nifty Rupert Neve stuff here. I could definately use this thing.

b. Points taken re the System 9098 Compressor/Limiter. I've been thinking though, (you can leave now if you want). This thing must be pretty darn cool for some applications. One of the things I mused over, and I am probably totally wrong in this, but with all the CraneHedd and Fatso Jnr's out there now, many people are having a much truer and actual experience of analog type sound and conditions but working in digital. Analogue is very different to digital. With some of the stuff that wiggy and I have mentioned, some very nice Neve based micpre's, eq's and compressors etc. for example, many people would be tracking, mostly mono I would imagine, 24 - 32 individual tracks of extremely resolved analog like signals.
Sgt Peppers, Rubber Soul etc. were recorded 4 tracks max. With bouncing etc,. being the de rigour. The summed total of these tracks I would imagine give particular, very subtle, but possibly precise areas where frquency shelving etc. would play an extrenely important role. Transparency, I imagine, would be something you'd be looking for in this situation. With so much use of individual EQ and quality "musical" compression now being applied to each individual track, with all that care you've taken to get "a warm sound" right up front, you'd want something that protects and finely tweaks these tracks when you sub down. Maybe that's what this thing is cool at. Many people, with no or little experience of working analog, after coping with the hell of DAW's for the last few years, would be coming from an inferior binary bit system, which has been necessarily technology intensive, and quirky. Folk would be so used to the over compensation techniques and strategies needed for DAW's till now, and would have built a highly skilled and experienced level of expertise, that they would be able to change...overnight? Right?
Digital to analog, straight away, NOW! No problems adjusting? Don't fink so. Just MHO.

Guest Mon, 03/25/2002 - 04:47

Originally posted by stedel:

But first, the Shep gear you mentioned. I've done a couple of searches on the net and haven't been able to come up with anything. Could you maybe point me in the right direction? :cool:

I would personally recommend you avoid that company like they carried a contagious disease... I have found their equipment to sound underwhelming at best, and their honesty less than what I would consider stellar.

YMMV, but mine doesn't.

miketholen Mon, 03/25/2002 - 05:12

Originally posted by Fletcher:
[/qb]

I would personally recommend you avoid that company like they carried a contagious disease... I have found their equipment to sound underwhelming at best, and their honesty less than what I would consider stellar.

YMMV, but mine doesn't.[/QB]
well if your gonna avoid Shep then yeh may as well avoid ANYTHING Drawmer. ;)

Kev Mon, 03/25/2002 - 09:51

Originally posted by Fletcher:

....Shep gear...
I would personally recommend you avoid that company like they carried a contagious disease... I have found their equipment to sound underwhelming at best, .....

ouch..

I'm tipping that these modules are not on the shelves at Mercenary Audio
;)

and Mike wouldn't like them 'cos Shep doesn't start with the letter 'T'
... just kidding :w:

anonymous Mon, 03/25/2002 - 10:50

Originally posted by Fletcher:

I would personally recommend you avoid that company like they carried a contagious disease... I have found their equipment to sound underwhelming at best, and their honesty less than what I would consider stellar.

YMMV, but mine doesn't.[/QB]

Hi Fletcher. Thanks for posting.

You will probably not find anything from hereon in that gives any indication that people such as myself up here have any ability to form discerning, critical judgement. Be that as it may, it is no use employing some sort of humanitarian trade mission, nor suggesting alternative retail therapy (eg buy this brand instead). I am a self confessed "Neve freak".

To give you an indication. I've only ever owned Jaguar cars. Not interested in owning anything else.
Jaguars rule as far as I'm concerened. Now I know many people think that this is some form of genetic dysfunction on my part. Maybe it is. But I know what to look for in a Jag, know how to check'em out, know which one's to buy, and which ones not to touch with a long pole.
Am I happy if I buy one, after testing it out thoroughly? You bet. Are they perfect? Nope.

Seriously Fletcher, I'm sorry this was your experience. But I've been on RO's and Digis', George Massenburgs Forums etc for about six months now. Wether it's Manley, Digi, Mackie, Fairlight,
Steinberg, Neve, Kurzweil, Rode etc etc etc somebody out there has:
a. Had a bad experience at company/public relations level and is less than impressed (myself included).
b. Will tell you that what you're interested in, and maybe use and enjoy, is a piece of shit that your momma will sweep away if she sees you playing with it.
c. Invoke personal floods, famine, and pestilence to warn you not to proceed.

Then you get others who have had the opposite experience.

Right now for instance. Over on another of RO Forums I recommended to someone that maybe running a Creamware Pulsar 11 card, with outboard converters, with Cubase VST32 would be a good solution for what this person wanted to do, and within their budget. This was, as all opinions up here, just MHO. And it was qualified, as it is not "the way" I would go myself...but then I would spend more money or wait until I had enough to buy what I wanted.
By chance I visited one of Sweetwater's forums (gotta be careful here...they're an RO Sponsor I fink...love ya guys!). Sweetwater think the same way about Creamware as you do about Shep gear. Avoid, plague, desease, we're still in recovery ourselves. But their experience with Creamware was, and has continued to be, the exact opposite of mine. I don't have it in my own Studio, but other Studio's where I occasionally work, and in one case even told them to buy it, have not had these problems. And British mag Computer Music think it's the bee knees - (yeah maybe they need to get out more....). I have absolutely no connection with Creamware, and as I said, maybe wouldn't run it myself (I'm too much of an analog person) and I don't like "Wow! You can do it all with this one box" approaches, whether it's Creamware, Steinberg, Digi, Yamaha, Roland, Sony or any one else.

So, I don't know which way to go here Fletcher.
Ignore what you say...but what if it's true? Cos I'm trying to talk wiggy into letting me test one of these things (er..not that I or anybody else is doing business up here..no sir...we just love each other...don't we wiggy...?)

Maybe we should leave aside questions of their personal honesty. But perhaps you could explain just what was so underwhelming about their stuff?

I'm reading Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus"
at the moment, and thought of doing something really silly last night to get one of these things...particularly their SR12 unit, which apart from their specs and history (which I like), has the same initials as my first amd last name. This could be destiny Fletcher. But will I rise or will I fall?

So here's a tale of caution you tell,
Should you back it up now, for Stedel?

Shit. Fletcher I don't know if you know what Stephen Paul has done to me. Or any of you other people out there know. But if you wanna get him to build you a good microphone go over and give him some support will ya? Poor guys moping cos somebody on some other forums out there said cruel things about him. Serves him right. What was he doing visiting another Forum anyway?

:cool:

anonymous Tue, 03/26/2002 - 09:52

Originally posted by James Cullen:
Amek CIB is absolutely fantstic on everything. i borrowed a demo unit and after listening back to some vocals a few months later, realised that it was the CIB which lent the magic, I have now bought one as its only in retrospect how good I realised this box had been for my stuff. it also great for PT systems as a front end for snares where you want to get the sound right at source with the EQ. It is a "must have", and frankly smokes my Avalon 737sp for some things, but the Avalon has a better EQ IMHO

James Cullen :) How's the surf? Been doin' any lately?

So James, if you don't mind me asking, which unit did you go for?

There's an API "Lunchbox" for sale over here secondhand. The photo of it (on the net) is a little indistinct for me to make out exactly which modules the person went for. If my money comes through in time, and they've still got it, I'll check it out. If you don't mind me asking also, what sort of mics have you been using that match this unit well? I've been using Urei's, Rodes, AKG,
and Shures (who knows...hopefully in the future I'll be using one of those Stephen Paul things), and I've been using Focusrite's Producer Pack unit as my "benchmark" (please no "flames" - I like it OK?)

This post is not for mere idle speculation or whimsy on my part.Yes, as wiggy describes it, I am a "Neve Freak", but I'm setting up my own small (but quality) tracking studio's this year. Stuff posted up here that I don't know about, such as the Shep line of gear (thanks wiggy), or things like the API gear that I haven't checked out for a while, I'll go and have another look.

I also respect the opinions and experience of folk up here. So when somebody says something good, or bad, about something I'm really interested in I'll often ask (nicely) for further info. Check it out y'know. Even if it's likely to put me off. With fletcher for instance, don't mean to be controversial or stir you up, it's just that I approach this stuff the way I record and engineer, or do most things actually, I pay attention to detail. And I don't want to get into law suits or anything re issues of honesty, but if something is "underwhelming", a little bit of detail (such as say Julian gave re the 9098) goes a long way. I file it in me grey stuff, and look for it when I eventually get to test the stuff I'm interested in.
So thanks folks.
About Jaquars......you are still talking to me aren't you? It says it on my RO profile. I hope you all don't drive Chevy's or Vauxhalls (not that there's anything wrong with that!).
Kind regards
:cool:

anonymous Tue, 03/26/2002 - 14:56

So James, if you don't mind me asking, which unit did you go for?

I bought the Channel in a Box otherwise known as Pure Path, its a great box, the compressor is excellent for vocals, and drums. It adds a certain magic and presence particularly on vocals, I only bought one after months of listening tests and realised this was one unit that stood out, when I had used it on certain tracks, it was obvious where it had made a difference. :D

Hope it helps

James

dave-G Wed, 03/27/2002 - 04:04

I had contacted Fletcher about buying an Amek CIB, and was disheartened to learn that the thing is designed with the EQ fixed in place before the compressor. . . which is absolutely absurd. I can only think of a few occasions where I wouldn't want the EQ after the compressor. It just seems like a glaring oversight not to have put a switch in the thing.

On the other hand, anyone who uses vintage Neve modules (or consoles?) faces something similar, since the insert point would be after the equalizer. . .

anyway.. just something to consider along with the sonics of the CIB.

-dg

Guest Wed, 03/27/2002 - 06:37

Originally posted by stedel:

Seriously Fletcher, I'm sorry this was your experience. But I've been on RO's and Digis', George Massenburgs Forums etc for about six months now. Wether it's Manley, Digi, Mackie, Fairlight,
Steinberg, Neve, Kurzweil, Rode etc etc etc somebody out there has:
a. Had a bad experience at company/public relations level and is less than impressed (myself included).
b. Will tell you that what you're interested in, and maybe use and enjoy, is a piece of shit that your momma will sweep away if she sees you playing with it.
c. Invoke personal floods, famine, and pestilence to warn you not to proceed.

Wasn't my experience... I've been around the block a few times, I was warned early. I don't give a shit whether someone does business with Shep or not... but it might be in your best interest to talk to people that have done business with Shep.

Pro Audio Design used to deal the stuff... maybe you might want to ask them why they don't any longer... Manley Labs did a deal with Shep Associates, perhaps you might want to email EveAnna and find out how that went. Tommy Litnik mentioned that he had some dealings with Shep on behalf of Billy Corgan... so Mike, seeing as you and Tommy are both in Chicago, perhaps you should ask Tommy how that deal went... There are so many stories out there of deals done wrong that I would advise "caution"... whether anyone heeds that advice or ignores that advice doesn't really concern me one way or the other.

As for the product... I haven't seen it in a while. Last Shep module I saw used a 5532 IC chip as the amplifier for the "4th band"... I've heard they don't do that anymore... but it seems to me that any firm that would put a 5532 in the amplifier surrounding the equalizer and still have the balls to put the "Lightning bolt N" (licenced logo) on the face isn't being all that honest with their potential customers... as always, YMMV.

anonymous Wed, 03/27/2002 - 10:12

Originally posted by Fletcher:
There are so many stories out there of deals done wrong that I would advise "caution"... whether anyone heeds that advice or ignores that advice doesn't really concern me one way or the other.

[/QB]

I do heed advice Fletcher. :)

The older Jags particularly the Mark 11 and the XJ Series One saloon, basically had a performance engine in them. Overhead cams and twin carbies should have been a bit of a give away, so tuning. regular maintainence, and a bit of familiarity with
what to look out for goes a long way. Checking out the company thoroughly and knowing what to be very cautious of yep I recommend to anybody - Jags, Shep, Manley,Digi, Creamware, etc. etc. even Telfunken based stuff - although they seem pretty
much OK. (see, I listen Mike T!!!)

Once in my Series One XJ saloon, the windscreen wiper motor went. A Jag specialist over here told me that for this particular model this was a BIG job. The whole dash had to be taken out, and it would cost me approximately $1,600 to fix. I scourced a replacement part for $40 and fitted it in 5 minutes. Nope the dash didn't have to come out. Would I touch any Jag made between 1974 and 1988? No way. Even though I'm sympathetic and understand what happened to the company in these years. But that's a long time for any product to......well, smell like mouldy cheese.

I don't know much about Shep...as i said, I'll suss it out further. And as for you not giving a shit?
Don't believe it for one minute! :) :cool:

Gold Wed, 03/27/2002 - 18:06

As for the product... I haven't seen it in a while. Last Shep module I saw used a 5532 IC chip as the amplifier for the "4th band"... I've heard they don't do that anymore... but it seems to me that any firm that would put a 5532 in the amplifier surrounding the equalizer and still have the balls to put the "Lightning bolt N" (licenced logo) on the face isn't being all that honest with their potential customers... as always, YMMV.

Unless it was suposed to be a 52 series. They are chock full of them.

anonymous Sat, 03/30/2002 - 10:11

Thanks all you nice folk who replied. Got lot's of things to think about re Neve based Mic pre's, rack units and side cars. Much appreciated.
Might go over somewhere else now.
I want to find out more about current Neve and/or Neve derived mixers. Like The Rembrandt. I'm seriously into this stuff. If anybody up here has info about these, say how they rate, compare, performance wise and price wise with other systems, links etc. would be greatly appreciated.

mixfactory Sat, 03/30/2002 - 10:57

"I want to find out more about current Neve and/or Neve derived mixers.
Like The Rembrandt."

Huh? I thought the Rembrandt was an Amek board? The only Neve "derived" mixers from Amek are the 9098I and the 9098. He designed input modules for the Media 51, Mozart,Recall, and the Gallileo. Its possible that he did some for the Rembrandt, but I am not sure. Even though Rupert designed input modules for these boards, I wouldn't call them "Neve derived" since the only input he had was on the pre's and Eq's.

anonymous Sun, 03/31/2002 - 11:33

Originally posted by THETHRILLFACTOR:
"I want to find out more about current Neve and/or Neve derived mixers.
Like The Rembrandt."

Huh? I thought the Rembrandt was an Amek board? The only Neve "derived" mixers from Amek are the 9098I and the 9098. He designed input modules for the Media 51, Mozart,Recall, and the Gallileo. Its possible that he did some for the Rembrandt, but I am not sure. Even though Rupert designed input modules for these boards, I wouldn't call them "Neve derived" since the only input he had was on the pre's and Eq's.

"I wouldn't call them "Neve derived" since the only input he had was on the pre's and Eq's."

Yes, that's what I mean. I would call this "Neve derived".All the minutai. Any Neve designed first point of call - the mic pre's and eq. Like how good are the pre's and the EQ's? How do they compare with the "bee knees" stuff that Rupert Neve has designed? Does the product, whatever it is, retain the sonic qualities sought after - or are they lost in the overall design philosophy and functionality of the parent company's technology and approach.
Eg.opinion on the quality of the mic pre's you mentioned. Are they as good or are they considered
an expedient compromise. How is the quality of the summing, mixing, and busing in the analog digital hybrid boards?
That sort of thing.
Neve freak obsessive.
"My obsession" (now what's that from? Which song had that line? I wonder...)
Like some American's feel about Baseball. Apparently.

:) :cool:

anonymous Sun, 03/31/2002 - 15:04

Hi Stedel...

If you are really intrigued by the newer 'Neve' AMEK's. Go and speak to Daniel Clinch @ Velvetsound studios in Sydney. He has just installed and engineers on their brand AMEK media51. He should be able to give you some serious ideas on sonics/features etc.

Other than REAL classic vintage neves..... the 'neve freak' does not have much experience witht hem. There are very few of these Amek types here in Australia. There are a few Angela's which are very nice, a smattering of einstiens and mozarts but no galileo's and definately no 9098's.

I know that Fletcher digs the 9098 hard. And has nothing but heaven sent praise for them. From my listening to stuff done on later amek (save 9098) boards they seemed to be a bit smoother and not as 'Rock' and punchy sounding. From what i gather are also transformerless.

Also i am not sure exactly how much input Rupert had into the designs of some of these boards.. except the 9098. He may have just been a passing engineer that went over the designs etc.

Stedel if you want more info locally call Frank Hinron @ ATT Audio controls here in Melbourne. They are the Australain Amek crew. But dont ask about Angelas cos i have bugged him to death about where i can find one.... heheheh

He can give you the score on all thing AMEK. There are also other alternatives other than AMEK that sound as good or better and will generally be cheaper as well!

Also look at Kletts console forum in his section on prosoundweb.com/recpit

hope it helps

PEACE
Wiggy :D

mixfactory Sun, 03/31/2002 - 19:18

Like how good are the pre's and the EQ's? How do they compare with the "bee knees" stuff that Rupert Neve has designed?

This is one of the things that is hard for people to grasp, even though yes Rupert is the original designer of Neve pre's(I think up to the Germanium based 2252), there were a lot of other hands that contributed to the "Neve Sound". Check out Geoff Tanner website for an explanation. So if everyone had a hand in it, then your answer will be no, because they are no longer working with him. The new Amek stuff is excellent but different than the so called"magical bee's knees stuff". Its a different design,components and such.

Does the product, whatever it is, retain the sonic qualities sought after - or are they lost in the overall design philosophy and functionality of the parent company's technology and approach.
Eg.opinion on the quality of the mic pre's you mentioned. Are they as good or are they considered
an expedient compromise.

I think it depends on which board we are talking about. For the Mozart,Rembrandt,Gallileo and the Recall, the Neve pre's came after, so the design was already in place. They are good and useful(the EQ's are cool). But I can think of better mic pre's I would use sometimes. The 9098 is totally Rupert's design with Ameks implementation of his ideas. So you can't compare it to those other consoles both in functionality and price(you pay for the name you know). The Media 51 pre's and Eq's are actually pretty good(they loosely based on the 9098I pre's and Eq's minus some things).

How is the quality of the summing, mixing, and busing in the analog digital hybrid boards?

Amek boards have a certain sound. Most people like them. They are both warm and clear(with the exception of the Big a piece of garbage). I was dissapointed though on the sound of the Media 51. Don't get me wrong, it is clean and noise free(for an analog board this is a great accomplishment). But even though they increased the dynamic range from the Big(the Media 51 is built into the same frame) it stil sounds kind of small. So to answer your question, yeah Rupert's work suffers some. If you want that "bees knees" sound than by an 8068 with some moving faders. Or better yet how about the new AMS NEVE with all 1081's? Sorry Stedel, if you want to play you got to pay.

anonymous Sun, 03/31/2002 - 19:38

Originally posted by THETHRILLFACTOR:
Or better yet how about the new AMS NEVE with all 1081's? Sorry Stedel, if you want to play you got to pay.

Hey don't be sorry. I charge for mt work too!!! :cool:

Thanks for all the information there The Thrill Factor. That's great stuff!
:cool: :cool:

And your point about people like Geoff Tanner is well made and taken. It's details like this I'm really interested in. It's not Sir Rupert per se, but the continuing legacy that all those people were able to put in motion that fascinates me - as well as the qualities of individual pieces of gear.
If this post continues any further, I hope you call back. Might have a couple of points you may or may not be able to throw some light on.
Again many thanks.
Kind regards

:cool:

anonymous Mon, 04/01/2002 - 10:44

Originally posted by wiggy neve freak:
Hi Stedel...

If you are really intrigued by the newer 'Neve' AMEK's. Go and speak to Daniel Clinch @ Velvetsound studios in Sydney. He has just installed and engineers on their brand AMEK media51. He should be able to give you some serious ideas on sonics/features etc.

Stedel if you want more info locally call Frank Hinron @ ATT Audio controls here in Melbourne. They are the Australain Amek crew. But dont ask about Angelas cos i have bugged him to death about where i can find one.... heheheh

Also look at Kletts console forum in his section on prosoundweb.com/recpit

hope it helps

PEACE
Wiggy :D

Yes thanks for those suggestions and contacts.
Over the next couple of months I will do as you suggest. Velvetsound Studio's being in Sydney -
I'll definately go in and suss them out.

How's the thing with Turtle Rock Studio's going?
Look foreward to hearing the results.Let me know.

The offer re sandwiches was genuine. How does lightly toasted Turkish bread with chicken breast,
mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, with oregano and rosemary sound? I can do vegetarian if you're one of these people into denial. :cool:

BTW I love the name of your shop/business. :cool:
Kind regards