Analog Plug-ins
Many producers and engineers are using their Avalons during mix down/mastering for equalization and compression rather than plug-ins.
During the mixing or mastering process, send a track out of the computer or hard disk recorder to an Avalon EQ and/or compressor. Take the output from the Avalon and simply record a new track. Some software programs offer an “insert” feature for outboard gear .

Michael James
Producer and Mix Engineer for acts such as Jane’s Addiction, Hole and AJ Croce relies on the Avalon AD2055 for every mix.
“Whether I’m recording to analog tape or direct to hard disk, I usually wind up mixing digitally using Pro Tools. On every song I mix, I use the AD2055 on the main elements that hold a song together - lead vocal, kick drum, snare, and bass. The AD2055 is magical. I can be very economical with the amount of cut or boost and it just seems to do the right thing. The highs are smooth and lows are huge.”

Michael Mangini, two-time Grammy Award winner of Mojo Records does the same thing. “I have three Pro Tools 882 interfaces and use Logic software. I record most everything through my Vt-737sp’s” says Michael, “then I run my most important tracks out of my computer and through my two AD2055’s and four Vt-737sp’s for EQ and compression/EQ. Plug-ins just don’t compare to the Avalon sound and control.”

Avalon Secrets
John Gass, lead engineer at Brandon’s Way (Babyface) has recently purchased his ninth AD2055 equalizer for the studio. He now has 18 channels of Avalon EQ. Brandon’s Way also has five AD2044 compressors.

Sear Sound just purchased a second Sony MXP 3036 console and is loading it with 24 channels of Avalon M3 microphone preamps and E3 equalizer modules.

Rob Jacobs, Mix Engineer for U2’s Rattle and Hum, as well as many hit records is currently recording and mixing Alanis Morrisette’s new album. Rob records vocal tracks with the Avalon AD2022 and uses the AD2055 EQ. Bass guitar is recorded directly through the U5.

Motley Crue just finished recording a new album and used the Vt-737sp for overdubs on nearly every track including Nikki Sixx’s bass guitar.
Christina Aguilara is touring with two Vt-737sp’s and a Vt-747sp.

Sony Adds Five AD2077’s

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Bass Player Digging U5

The U5 circulated through the offices at Bass Player Magazine for a recent review. Five guys on the staff each bought a U5 because once they had to give it back they couldn’t live without it.