squashteam
New Member
I'm considering moving into some outboard gear (probably 500 series), but don't have the opportunity to try any out in-person or watch another composer/producer/engineer demonstrate what they like - especially during covid when I can't visit studios. I would love any advice on how to best begin this journey - or any other thoughts I should keep in mind.
Here are my reasons for considering outboard gear:
1. I want my mixes to sound richer, more immersive, and airy which it seems outboard EQ and Compression can accomplish. I own many plugins and have tried EQ and Compression techniques - but I feel like there is a threshold I can't overcome.
2. I do some tracking - so preamps are important - but I also do a lot of work with samples, or combine samples with tracked audio - so I'm interested in gear that can bring samples to life - or glue and excite the final mix.
3. I think using outboard gear might come with a bit of inspiration and fun that itb is missing. I love playing real instruments when I can - and obviously there is feedback from playing a real piano that one doesn't get playing a midi controller. Maybe mixing with outboard gear will inspire a new focus and pleasure in locking in the right tones.
4. I have a new desk with lots of empty rack space.
5. I make quirky textural music - sometimes orchestral and sometimes electronic/indie. But texture and sensuality are really inspiring to me. I think outboard gear might give me the feeling of being a painter where I can take some additional pleasure in the brush strokes.
6. I have about $3k to invest. That's probably enough to get started and figure out if anything is helping - if this is a good direction.
Finally - Its worth asking if anyone has skipped the whole 500 series thing and instead invested in only one or two key pieces of gear. Maybe analog summing, a console, or something like Louder than Liftoff Silver Bullet.
Thanks for any thoughts - and Happy New Year!
Here are my reasons for considering outboard gear:
1. I want my mixes to sound richer, more immersive, and airy which it seems outboard EQ and Compression can accomplish. I own many plugins and have tried EQ and Compression techniques - but I feel like there is a threshold I can't overcome.
2. I do some tracking - so preamps are important - but I also do a lot of work with samples, or combine samples with tracked audio - so I'm interested in gear that can bring samples to life - or glue and excite the final mix.
3. I think using outboard gear might come with a bit of inspiration and fun that itb is missing. I love playing real instruments when I can - and obviously there is feedback from playing a real piano that one doesn't get playing a midi controller. Maybe mixing with outboard gear will inspire a new focus and pleasure in locking in the right tones.
4. I have a new desk with lots of empty rack space.
5. I make quirky textural music - sometimes orchestral and sometimes electronic/indie. But texture and sensuality are really inspiring to me. I think outboard gear might give me the feeling of being a painter where I can take some additional pleasure in the brush strokes.
6. I have about $3k to invest. That's probably enough to get started and figure out if anything is helping - if this is a good direction.
Finally - Its worth asking if anyone has skipped the whole 500 series thing and instead invested in only one or two key pieces of gear. Maybe analog summing, a console, or something like Louder than Liftoff Silver Bullet.
Thanks for any thoughts - and Happy New Year!