The Mastering versions often got more "hole through" and is of higher fidelity.
I don't know the Crane song, but the VariMu has a Color. If it's the right color is up to you.

Best Regards

It all comes down to the ability to recall settings - With me, it's a must.

And you've hit on my two favorite compressors - I use both - I have the mastering edition Vari-Mu and my STC-8M should be here any day. I'm using a standard STC-8 in the mean time and it's driving me nuts not being able to "click" into and recall a setting. Never realized exactly how important it was to me until I didn't have it, you know?

On the VM input level, if you're using it for tracking and mixing, I don't think you're going to have a problem... There's never a shortage of level control on the way to the unit, right? Most units (including the STC) don't even have an input trim.

It (the input control) does come in handy for "driving" it nicely though...

That's a helluva pair to step into - Way to pick 'em. 8-) The STC has an amazing transparency to it, but has the ability to get a little "gluey" if you want it. Not "Vari-mu gluey" (which I can hardly get enough of) but enough to make a difference when you need it. And the presets (?!?) seem very well implemented and handy (from my limited use of them) if you need to get it in the ballpark quickly.

Don't forget to post pictures! 8)

Hey guys, thanks for the feedback

I was dicussing this elsewhere, and on the Manley, the mastering version isn't as wide on input for more flexability to track and mix,

another arguement , was that with detented pots, you are stuck wit the steps provided vrs, dialing in based on the result you need with other standard pots,,

either way , i'm sure both units will do me fine as 1st pieces of comp gear

prob will go Vari Mu standard , and the Crane STC 8 /H with detended output knobs

I'll keep you posted

thanks again
SI

I've heard that the VariMu Mastering edition should be a whole other beast(sound vice) than the standart version so you might consider trying that version too.

Speaking of VariMu, you might also consider trying out the Gyraf G10
http://www.gyraf.dk

I find it more in the 670 ballpark, but with a little twist.

Best Regards

Thanks for the link Amm looks cool

Hey Massive, can you verify what Amm said about two different sounding units ? have you had the standard Vari Mu comp?

also, if you're reachable thru your site info, mind if I try to call ?

thanks again

SI

(A) It should be the same... If there's a difference, it's just the slightly more "straight-wire" treatment of the switches.

(B) Sure - The 630 number would be best.

Sanity Inn wrote: Thanks for the link Amm looks cool

SI

Ammitsbøl and I probably being a bit biased (both owning the Gyraf Gyratec X Vari Mu), I'd like to say that I tested the Manley Vari-Mu against the Gyratec X, and preferred the Gyratec X (which I then subsequently bought).

It is one sexy piece of gear, and my favourite piece.

Hey lagerfeldt

I took another look at Gyraf,,, specs said only 220 volts,,,

need 120 here in Canada ,

either way, looks like a nice piece,

thanks

SI

Sanity Inn wrote: Hey lagerfeldt

I took another look at Gyraf,,, specs said only 220 volts,,,

need 120 here in Canada ,

either way, looks like a nice piece,

thanks

SI

I'm sure Gyraf also can make them at 120 VAC

I have used the Vari-mu in both versions (detented and regular) and to me they sound exactely the same. I prefer the detented pots but for the sound...the same to me.

Richard