TC Finalizer 96k or DBX Quantum or...?
Hello people! I am moving from Austin, TX to the San Francisco Bay Area (staying with family until I find my own place) and look forward to having a home studio where in addition to servicing artists on my record label I want to have a bi-monthly "live" session in my studio catering to free-improvised experimental music (which holds a special place in my heart). I want to make these recordings available to the world as an iTunes podcast. For these sessions it will be impractical to enlist the help of a professional mastering engineer and I have been considering the acquisition of an "all in one" mastering processor such as those made by TC Electronic and DBX. I was wondering if anyone has strong opinions on these and can compare them to software options. I am basically looking for "quick and dirty" mastering. I do not and have never considered myself a mastering engineer and would be using any mastering processor (or software) just for this podcast series, not for anything I would release on a physical medium. I should also add that I own Ozone, which I have used with varying degrees of success.
Best,
Nicholas
I would avoid the hardware, if I were you.
They are loaded and dangerous.
If the idea is to "master" your own tracks then I'd keep it in the box. One good eq plug and if necessary one compressor and you are good, maybe a de-esser if things get wild during your jams.
I'll extend the invitation to come by our studio for coffee.
Best regards, JT
i would also steer clear of hardware. . . there are lots of great affordable plugs out there that would accomplish your goal. experience with the options you have will help you more than buying more stuff. the problem you're facing may not be the tools. . .
good luck in San Francisco, and you're always welcome to come by the studio for coffee if you're back in austin ;-)
- nick
The dbx Quantum is underrated IMO, has some useful tricks and can be picked up quite cheaply - mine was only superseded by the much more expensive TC 6000. That said, I wouldn't use the Quantum as a broadband compressor on program material, there are better plug-ins for that purpose these days if you're on a budget.
In mastering there's no substitute for putting in the hours as a listener/operator and the gear, although significant, is of less importance. I suggest you continue with Ozone for the time being to learn more about the process: Ozone can be a subtle and effective all-in-one tool if used right, and as you progress you may be surprised at how little processing can be needed for a satisfactory outcome.
