Finding the weakest link

  • Thread starter Thread starter guitar zero
  • Start date Start date
guitar zero

guitar zero

c = b#
I'm always looking for the weakest link in my signal chain as I consider upgrades for my gear. I respect the opinions of so many people on this board, so I'm wondering what people think is the weakest link now. I currently only record vocals, acoustic guitar, el. guitar cabs, bass DI, small percussion(cajon, djembe, etc.) . I don't record drums.

Current gear:

Mics:
AT3035
Studio Projects B3
Shure Beta 58
Audix i5
(2) Niant X-Q omnis
Senn e609
Nady RSM5
(2) ACM 310 (on order)
ACM 6802 (on order)

Preamps:
FMR RNP
ART MPA Gold
(2) ACMP 81 (on order)

Compression:
FMR RNC
ART Pro VLA

Interface:
Presonus Studio Projects Firewire

DAW: Mac Powerbook into Garageband
(Have Logic 8 new in box, but haven't installed yet. Time constraints keeping us from changing workstations mid-project)

Anyone care to play weakest link? What should I upgrade next? If it helps, here's a link to listen to some rough demos. These are written and performed by my son. We've yet to add bass, el. guit, percussion.
http://www.virb.com/markwademusic
I'm thinking microphones at this point. We don't have a really quality vocal mic as yet, but the B3 works pretty well Any suggestions based on his voice? Thanks in advance.
 
I don't see any monitors...? If you're monitoring on headphones, that's what I'd change next, and don't go cheap. It looks like you've made smart budget decisions with the rest of your gear, so I trust that you'll do your research when monitor shopping too. After that I'd look into another preamp (new flavor), then more mics.

Frank
 
Frank, thanks for the reply. I'm using Yamaha HS80M monitors and love them. Any other suggestions?
 
I don't know...maybe a really good standalone converter? Depending on how many channels you need to record at once that could get pricey. If you want to just upgrade to a better interface with better preamps, conversion, etc., I've heard great things about T.C. Electronic's Studio Konnekt series. That'd set you back about $1,400, but it would be a big step up in terms of conversion.

Room treatment?

Frank
 
Just spent about $500 making bass traps and diffusors. I think the room sounds pretty good now. No way to get rid of the occasional beat box homey driving by. (Why do they always come by just as you're ringing out the last note on a take?)
 
for a home setup, you're doing quite well for yourself. if you're looking at mics (which i think is a good call here), may i suggest the m-audio sputnik.

i'd have one by now if it was the only $800 upgrade i had to make.
 
I think you're in great shape gear-wise and likely the weakest link is you - don't take offense. Learn your way around this stuff and your ears will tell you when it's time to upgrade.

All right, I'll play. More bass traps.

You have bass traps, you say? Well, you just can't have too many, so there.

:)
 
thanks for the replies. Sputnik huh? Never heard of that mic until just now. Anyone have one, or used one?
 
Supercreep, I'm sure you are correct. I take no offense. I wouldn't want anything but honest replies.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top