Topic: pre w/ compression, line in, and low-z

[bluegrass_brad]

Simply put it's a dynamics processor.  a Finalizer is a multi-band compressor/limiter. But it does so much more.  Tightens Bass, helps to optimize your levels to their fullest, Soft limit, High Quality A/D, D/A converters,   You use it between the source and your 2 track mixdown.  Alot of FOH engineers use them between the board and the PA. A nice finalizer is key to mastering.

[mmmatt]

I often use a plugin called a "puncher" in my final mastering and that sounds like a similar effect.  My understanding is that it adds harmonics.  It certainly makes things sound more punchy.  I'm not sure exactly how it does it so maybe it is a totally diferent animal.  I'm not looking to add more rack gear, are there finalizer plugins?  I have tons of plugins so most likely I have something.   I will look tonight.
     Thanks again Brad, good info!

Matt

[bluegrass_brad]

I often use a plugin called a "puncher" in my final mastering and that sounds like a similar effect.  My understanding is that it adds harmonics.  It certainly makes things sound more punchy.  I'm not sure exactly how it does it so maybe it is a totally diferent animal.  I'm not looking to add more rack gear, are there finalizer plugins?  I have tons of plugins so most likely I have something.   I will look tonight.
     Thanks again Brad, good info!

Matt

That sounds like it is more akin to an Aphex Aural Exciter or one of the BBE Sonic Maixmizer units, which do add harmonics.  A finalizer doesnt add harmonics. Im sure TC has a finalizer plugin, but not sure about which platforms it supports.  One thing Ill bet is that it isnt cheap.  Here are links to a couple of rack models.

http://www.tcelectronic.com/Finalizer96k
http://www.tcelectronic.com/FinalizerExpress

[mmmatt]

I often use a plugin called a "puncher" in my final mastering and that sounds like a similar effect.  My understanding is that it adds harmonics.  It certainly makes things sound more punchy.  I'm not sure exactly how it does it so maybe it is a totally diferent animal.  I'm not looking to add more rack gear, are there finalizer plugins?  I have tons of plugins so most likely I have something.   I will look tonight.
     Thanks again Brad, good info!

Matt

That sounds like it is more akin to an Aphex Aural Exciter or one of the BBE Sonic Maixmizer units, which do add harmonics.  A finalizer doesnt add harmonics. Im sure TC has a finalizer plugin, but not sure about which platforms it supports.  One thing Ill bet is that it isnt cheap.  Here are links to a couple of rack models.

http://www.tcelectronic.com/Finalizer96k
http://www.tcelectronic.com/FinalizerExpress

That looks pretty sweet Brad.  Most likely a simple compresor switch on a pre isn't going to give me what I need.
     Now does anyone want to recoment a portable pre that will do line in, Hi-Z, analog out,  and phantom?

Matt

[bluegrass_brad]

Have you thought about any of the products by FMR audio.  I have heard good things about them, especially the compressor.  They are small (1/3 rack space).  They have a mic pre, a compressor, and a leveling amplifier.  The only problem is they are AC powered.  The pre has insert points as well. Small enough to easily fit in a bag.

http://www.fmraudio.com/productspage.htm

PS - The pre has 1/4 inch inputs as well as XLR and also has a phase switch.

[bluegrass_brad]

Anther one to consider.  A little pricey, but it is a Neve, so you cant really go wrong.  There is also a thread here on how this is powered in the field. Not sure if it has 1/4 capability though.  You could always use a direct box for Hi Z input when needed.

http://www.rupertneve.com/

[cfbarlow]

Hay Matt have you checked out the Edirol UA-25,  I think it has everything you need


"Edirol UA-25 USB Audio and MIDI Interface at a Glance:

    * Stereo audio interface with phantom-powered mic/line preamps and S/PDIF digital I/O
    * Includes +4dBu balanced outputs for pro connections
    * Zero latency direct monitoring
    * Built-in analog compressor for clip-free field recording
    * Completely portable: rugged, USB powered, never needs a wall socket


Premium quality stereo audio interface
The UA-25 uses powerful analog electronics coupled with well-matched A/D & D/A converters for superior audio fidelity. You'll find a wide range of inputs and outputs in a compact case - a pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with phantom power, a Hi-Z port for guitar direct connection and 24-bit/96kHz S/P DIF optical I/O ports. The UA-25 also features a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give you crystal-clear recording.

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/UA25/

[Brian]

focusrite voice master.  notn sure about the price though.  1 channel, compression, tube emulation, harmonics....

the focusrite octopre is 8 channels and all have compression.  all can be used as a line input as well. it's output is DB25pin though. 800 bucks

presonus might have a unit you are looking for but i'm not a big fan of their products.

[Kyle]

good info - thanks for the discussion   +T

[mmmatt]

Thanks guys,
the ua-25 seems like it would work, but I don't know if they can be digi-modded.
I think I'm just going to go kinda backwards.  I'm planning on picking up a digimod ua5 and keeping my v2.  2 chan I'll go v-2 > ua5 > jb3, and 4chan I'll use some attentuaters if the board is too hot.  I REALLY like the v2 with the mbho omni's and also with my c-1 LD's.  A little warmth would suit the mbho cards, but even then it is still a nice combo IMHO... I don't think I could loose the v2.  That will give me everything but the compression and I'm not going to stress about that... This will be a fun rig and if I want to do it right I'll bring my multi rig out.  Then I still have 2 more pre's for the multi rig, and one can be used as a instrument input.

Matt

[mmmatt]

the UA-25 cannot be digi-modded, unfortunately.  Atleast that is what Doug has said.  YMMV

I thought I remembered that being said as well.  Either can't be done or there was another reason that it was pointless.

Matt