With inexpensive mics seemingly as common as guitar picks, one must ask, "Does the world need another cheap mic?" But after testing the AT2020, my answer is a resounding, "Yes!" Because the AT2020 is...
I get a lot of letters asking "what should I buy next?" I'm hardly ever in a position to give such advice. But I also get questions like "what's a good starter compressor?"- which is a bit easier to...
A guy I know is migrating to Pro Tools from another application. He asked me if I had any suggestions for a primer. Unfortunately, it seems like everyone and his dog has written a book on Pro Tools...
A microphone bar is a device that allows you to mount two or more mics on it. It usually looks like a metal tongue depressor with threaded mic mounts on each end. Replace a standard mic clip with the...
CharterOak have been quietly making quality tube mics for the past three years. Their first model is the SA538, a squat-looking condenser reminiscent of a short- bodied U 47. The outer shell is...
In general, I'm not impressed by most of the "mastering- grade" EQ plug-ins on the market. I mean, I put reindeer antlers on my dog for Christmas card pictures, but it doesn't mean my dog can fly....
The DD-2 K-Stereo Processor is referred to as an "ambience recovery device" in literature and on the Digital Domain website. The brainchild of mastering engineer Bob Katz, the DD-2 is built using...
Frequent travelers know the challenges of taking music on the road. Headphones can be fatiguing. And with luggage space at a premium, hauling a decent set of speakers is out of the question. Up to...
ATR Services is known around the globe as a leading authority on analog reel-to-reel machines, especially the Ampex ATR-102 series. Given this profile, ATR receives numerous questions about caring for...
The PEQ1 is a Class-A, discrete mic-preamp and equalizer that can be used as a replacement module in vintage Neve 80-series consoles. For those who don't have an 80-series, a 19'' rackmount version of...
In Tape Op #37, I reviewed the ADK A-51 Model A, a modestly-priced large-diaphragm condenser. Although the Model A is a more affordable mic, the company offers a wide range of products including a...
ADK was one of the first companies to offer low-cost condenser microphones. Today they offer a wide range of microphones, including the affordable A-51 Model A. The A-51 is a sturdy, Class-A, cardioid...
