Ryan O John, an audio engineer, discusses the comparison between 'in the box' mixing and using analog outboard gear. They explore the importance of signal chain functions, the rewarding experience of working on a Danny Elfman show, and the benefits and differences between analog equipment and plugins.
Analog gear provides a different way to achieve desired sound results and offers unique textures and depths in mixes.
Using a summing bus in analog mixes can enhance depth, separation, and richness compared to in-the-box mixes.
There are logistical factors to consider when choosing between analog and in-the-box mixing, such as consistency and potential points of failure, but the creative and experiential benefits of analog gear can inspire and elevate the final product.
Deep dives
Analog vs. In-the-Box: Exploring Sonic Differences
In this podcast episode, the host conducted a test to determine whether analog gear provides a noticeable improvement in sound compared to in-the-box mixing. The test involved creating mixes in the box and then replicating them using analog outboard gear. Feedback from listeners indicated that the differences were subtle, with some unable to distinguish between the mixes. However, there were noticeable variations in texture and depth in the analog mixes, particularly when using a summing bus. The host discusses the benefits of analog gear in terms of creativity and the tactile experience, highlighting that while both approaches have their merits, analog offers a different way to achieve desired results.
The Impact of Summing in Analog Mixing
One aspect of the test involved using a summing bus in the analog mixes. The differences between the summing bus and in-the-box mixes were more pronounced, with listeners noting enhanced depth, separation, and richness. It was observed that the individual line amps in the summing mixer contributed to these differences. The comparison prompted discussions about potential ways to achieve similar effects in the digital realm, such as using different plugins on groups to create variation and width. The conversation highlights the experiential benefits of analog mixing and the ways it can spark creativity and improve the overall mixing process.
Balancing Factors in Analog vs. In-the-Box Mixing
The podcast episode delves into the various considerations when choosing between analog and in-the-box mixing. While analog gear can provide a different sonic experience, there are logistical factors to consider, such as consistency and potential points of failure. It is also acknowledged that modern plugins have reached a level of excellence that can rival analog gear. The host raises the possibility of emulating analog characteristics using digital tools and techniques, citing the importance of the creative process in achieving desired results. Ultimately, the episode explores the nuanced differences and opens up the discussion about what defines a 'better' sound.
Exploring the Creative Potential of Analog Gear
The podcast episode highlights the role of analog gear in inspiring creativity and pushing sonic boundaries. The tactile experience and the unique textures provided by analog equipment can contribute to a sense of excitement and a desire to continuously improve one's skills. While acknowledging the convenience and capabilities of digital plugins, the episode emphasizes the experiential impact of using tangible analog gear. The discussion considers the potential benefits of incorporating analog gear into the mixing process and how it can elevate the overall quality and engagement of the final product.
Breaking Down the Mixing Process
The speaker emphasizes the importance of breaking down the mixing process into smaller steps. The first step is capturing the source sound, considering the choice of microphone and its suitability for the sound. Next is the cleanup stage, where unwanted frequencies are removed using high-pass and low-pass filters. The third step is control, where the dynamic range is managed using tools like compressors and gates. Finally, the creative stage allows for adding artistic effects to achieve the desired sound.
Knowing and Utilizing Your Tools
The speaker suggests that knowing and understanding the capabilities of your tools is essential for achieving the desired sound efficiently. They emphasize the importance of familiarizing oneself with plugins or analog gear and experimenting with them to understand their individual characteristics. By learning how different plugins or gear can address specific issues, such as EQing or dynamic control, the mixer can make informed decisions during a live sound performance. The speaker also highlights the benefits of customizing default plugin settings to match personal preferences and workflow.
Ryan O John returns on episode 216 to talk with the hosts about his experiment comparing "in the box" mixing versus using analog outboard gear, and which one is "better" or which one is more exciting to listen to. They discuss how it's important to know the functions within a signal chain versus what specific gear you use in the chain and more. Ryan also gives a recap of the incredibly difficult but rewarding Danny Elfman show he recently did for a second year in a row. They first talked about this in Episode 181.
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