SUMMING MIXERS ROUND DEUX

Last year we tested a few summing mixers to see if the buzz about analogue magic was true. While we did notice some small amount of magic, we weren't blown away. We did, however, decide to keep an eye on this type of gear since more and more companies are entering the market.

Now, we're test driving 2 boxes that have had a lot of great stuff written about them. They are the Neve 8816 and the Tonelux summing mixer which is more of a made to order thing. These products are not new to the market, but over time they have developed a good rep with none of the usual web-gear-flaming we're used to seeing with most anything. Thanks to our way cool peeps at Vintage King, we're able to twist knobs on these boxes for the next two weeks. As usual, we'll report to you after lots of pizza and many sleepless nights.

IT'S A SHILLER!

Can you tell the difference between the 3 band eq from one company and a similar 3band eq from another? A lot of people can't. It's confusing and companies that make audio gear know it. Competition is heavier than ever in the gear universe and that has led to some greasy behavior.

It's not uncommon to see a video on youtube from a respectable, professional producer that mentions specific gear used in a recording. It's an independent producer so, you think this person is being cool and honest by posting this vid about an audio technique. What you don't know is that sometimes, a producer has a relationship with a particular company and pushes their gear in his "instructional" videos almost exclusively. Beware when someone says "we did a mic shootout and picked this one because it sounded best". Could be legit...could be someone shilling in exchange for free gear or cash.

Keep your bull**** detector in good working order when you go to a free event, sponsored by an audio company. Often, the panelists for a seminar happen to agree the sponsor's gear is the best.

Most of us know enough to give the stink eye to paid endorsements. That guy wearing the lab coat in the tv commercial isn't a real doctor and we get it. Today he wants you to eat healthy and exercise while tomorrow he'll be telling you to get down to Taco Explosion for the 12pack meal deal. Of course, he'll be sans lab coat.

The regular guy nature of youtube and other sites is blurring the line between info and advertising in a new way. Old concept sure but, new way to chrome plate it.

When it comes to gear, the best beta test comes from those two chunks of cartilage on the sides of your head. If you don't trust your own ears, don't be too quick to pick up on skanky internet advice.