I can definitely vouch for the twinQcs as a very versatile all around dual channel strip, and the occasional addition of an RNC to the loop makes it even more versatile. It also has nice big analog needle meters. bass cuts, phantom power, and phase reversal switches, with separate input and output level controls on both channels. Aside from that, it has very usable high-Z ins on both channels. I also own the digital upgrade card, which has not impressed me quite as much. It works fine as a digital out, but at least in my experience, it produces audible hum from the *analog outs* when installed, especially when the unit has been on for a while. Frankly, I removed the digital card and never looked back. About 2/3 of the tracks on my first album are going right through that puppy- no complaints at all.
When I get the time, I'll post up some of the stuff I've tracked with my Taylor going DI into Joemeek. Who woulda thunk the green meanie could make a Fishman sound like a mic'd acoustic? One thing I have found is that the (lovely) color added by
the twin Q to the acoustic profits from a tube mic on vocals, in my case, a Rode NTK, also run through the twinQ. It really was a surprise. I resorted to DI one day because I had one of those pesky songs I just could not play without singing, and it worked so well, I'm tracking half an album that way. It's also so nice for tracking alone, because I can sit in the control station with the Taylor in my lap, and have access to all the indicators and controls with almost no bleed.
The condenser mic in the Fishman will pick up loud noises, but I find I can sing very softly just to keep my place, and the bleed is negligible. Best of luck. If you can swing the cost, the twinQ will not disappoint.-Richie
