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Post by dok on Sept 29, 2024 16:05:06 GMT -6
I have two nice preamps, both of which I find really useful for different tasks. One has transformers and a little color but no HPF (API A2D), the other has no transformers but a variable HPF (AEA RPQ2). I generally like to track into light compression, which means I generally like to use a HPF before hitting the compressor. It occurs to me that since the RPQ2 is really transparent, I could patch it into the chain when using the API in order to take advantage of the variable HPF before hitting the compressor. Now, keeping in mind I'd still have to approach gain staging carefully, I'm wondering if it makes a difference in which order I do things, as there are basically two options: API preamp > RPQ2 line input (HPF) > compressor RPQ preamp (HPF) > API line input > compressor I guess what I'm after is the truest representation of the API with minimal signal degradation/coloration from the RPQ2, so for things that I'd normally just track with the API (electric guitars, bass guitar mic and DI), it makes sense to use that first, right? Is there a better way (some other sort of cheap hardware HPF)? It's worth mentioning I really have the 1073 bug at the moment and also no tube preamps, so I'm considering that new Stam 1073T, but am very put off by the lack of HPF and was thinking I could talk myself into it this way.
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Post by Tbone81 on Sept 30, 2024 10:46:49 GMT -6
Nothing wrong at all with chaining two preamps together. Just remember to get the gain staging right, 2nd preamp should be in Line In mode.
It’s worth experimenting with the preamp order…some mics (especially dynamics and ribbons) really react differently to different impedances. So the sound can change depending on the load the mic is seeing. If you like the color of your API pres I’d start by using those first in the chain. Following that with your cleaner pres would be pretty transparent most likely.
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ericn
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Balance Engineer
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Post by ericn on Oct 1, 2024 16:15:07 GMT -6
Done it for years , prefer a line in but this is what pads are for.
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