REVIEW SHURE SM33 RIBBON MICROPHONE: A Ribbon Mic by Shure?

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The Shure SM33 ribbon microphone stands as a testament to the golden era of ribbon microphone technology, blending vintage charm with practical functionality. Known for its warm, smooth sound and rugged design, the SM33 carved a niche in broadcasting and recording studios during its time. Often referred to as the “Johnny Carson mic” due to its prominent use on The Tonight Show, this microphone remains a collector’s gem and a functional tool for those seeking a classic ribbon sound. 

REVIEW SHURE 55SH SERIES II VOCAL MICROPHONE: A Sonic Titan of Sound

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I remember seeing microphones like these on the school stage when I was in the sixth grade (1964). The Shure 55SH Series II is a microphone that doesn’t just capture sound—it commands attention. With its unmistakable retro aesthetic and modernized performance, this mic is a bridge between the golden age of broadcasting and today’s demanding live and studio environments. Known as the “Elvis mic” for its iconic look and storied history, the 55SH Series II remains a standout choice for vocalists, podcasters, and performers who want to make a visual and sonic statement. In this review, we’ll dive into why it continues to shine as a titan in the microphone world.

REVIEW AKG C414 LDC MICROPHONE: The Legacy and Evolution

My first two C414B-ULS, Click to enlarge

The AKG C414 is a legendary large-diaphragm condenser microphone, renowned for its versatility, clarity, and presence in studios worldwide since its introduction in 1971. With a lineage tracing back to the iconic C12, the C414 series has evolved through numerous iterations, each leaving a distinct mark on recording history. This review covers the microphone’s history, key models (with special focus on pre-414B-ULS and the 414B-ULS), post-B-ULS models, transformer vs. transformerless designs, directional pickup patterns, frequency responses, and reflections on its legacy, including user sentiments and the shift to Chinese manufacturing under Samsung’s ownership of Harman. The 414B-ULS was the first large diaphragm microphone I ever owned, I've still got it along with three others I bought because I liked the first one so much. Let's dig into this and see what makes this mic epic.

REVIEW WARM AUDIO WA-CX12 LDC TUBE MICROPHONE: Modern Tribute to a Classic Mic

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The Warm Audio WA-CX12 is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone designed to capture the essence of the legendary AKG C12, a studio icon from the 1950s. Warm Audio, known for recreating vintage gear at accessible prices, released the WA-CX12 in May 2022, offering a blend of classic sound and modern craftsmanship for recording enthusiasts and professionals alike. Priced around $999, it’s a compelling option for those seeking the C12’s signature tone without the astronomical cost of an original. Here’s a deep dive into the WA-CX12, its specs, its inspiration, and its place in today’s studios.

REVIEW SHURE SM-7B MICROPHONE: A Legacy of Great Sound

Few microphones have achieved the legendary status of the Shure SM7B. Its rich, warm sound and versatile design have made it a staple in radio booths, recording studios, and podcasting setups worldwide. From its origins in broadcasting to its resurgence in the digital age, the SM7B’s journey is one of innovation, adaptability, and enduring appeal. Let’s dive into the story of this iconic microphone, exploring its history, technical prowess, and why it remains a favorite among audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.

REVIEW MXL 2001 LDC MICROPHONE: A Budget Contender with Neumann Roots

The MXL 2001 holds a special place in the world of audio recording as one of the first affordable large-diaphragm condenser (LDC) microphones to challenge the dominance of high-end models. Introduced by Marshall Electronics under its MXL brand, the 2001 brought professional-grade features to home studios and project spaces, offering a compelling blend of quality and value. With its cardioid polar pattern, transformer-coupled output, and a physical design that echoes the form of legendary Neumann models, the MXL 2001 remains a noteworthy option for vocalists, instrumentalists, and podcasters. Let’s dive into its design, specifications, and origins to understand why this microphone continues to resonate with budget-conscious creators.

REVIEW ELECTRO-VOICE RE20 MICROPHONE: A Timeless Icon in Audio Excellence

Since its debut in 1968, the Electro-Voice RE20 has carved out a legendary status in the world of microphones, blending innovative design with unparalleled performance. Its distinctive appearance—robust, cylindrical, and utilitarian—isn’t just for show; it’s a critical component of its audio prowess. This dynamic cardioid microphone has become a staple in broadcasting, music production, and sound engineering, proving that form and function can harmonize beautifully.

REVIEW SENNHEISER MD 421 MICROPHONE: The Mythic Workhorse of Sound

Sennheiser MD 421 Microphone and mount

In the pantheon of microphones, the Sennheiser MD 421 holds a near-mythic status. It’s an icon, a staple in studios and stages worldwide, revered for its ability to capture the soul of drums, guitars, and beyond. With its distinctive clip-on mount—both a studio blessing and a live sound liability—the MD 421 ranges from essential to legendary, depending on who’s wielding it. Compact, durable, affordable, and gifted with a tone that elevates any source, the MD 421 has carved out a legacy that few can rival. Let’s explore its history, technical prowess, and enduring appeal, while unpacking why Sennheiser remains a titan despite fierce competition.

REVIEW SHURE SM-57 MICROPHONE: The indestructible Icon of Sound

SM-57, THE KING!

In the world of microphones, few names carry the weight of the Shure SM-57. It’s a paradox: a humble workhorse revered as royalty, a tool that’s both at the bottom of the gear bag and the top of the industry’s must-have list. Compact, reliable, affordable, and blessed with a tone that flatters nearly everything it captures, the SM-57 has earned its place as a cornerstone of live sound and recording. Let’s dive into its storied history, technical brilliance, and enduring legacy, while addressing its sibling, the SM-58, and why Shure remains unmatched despite a sea of imitators.

REVIEW SHURE SM-58 MICROPHONE: The Undisputed Champion of Live Sound

The Shure SM-58 is more than just a microphone—it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of reliability, and a cornerstone of live audio. Since its introduction, it has become the industry standard for vocal performance, trusted by musicians, engineers, and speakers worldwide. With its distinctive spherical grille and rugged construction, the SM-58 has left an indelible mark on the world of sound reinforcement. Let’s explore its history, technical brilliance, and the reasons it remains a legend.

REVIEW BEYERDYNAMIC M 88 DYNAMIC MICROPHONE: A Timeless Workhorse in Audio Engineering

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Since its debut in 1962, the Beyerdynamic M88 has carved out a legendary status in the world of professional audio. Born in the workshops of Heilbronn, Germany, this dynamic moving-coil microphone was initially designed for recording speech, but its versatility and robust performance quickly made it a favorite across a wide range of applications. From vocals to kick drums, the M88 has been a trusted tool for engineers and artists alike, blending technical precision with a distinctive sonic character that continues to resonate more than six decades later.

VINTAGE MICROPHONE CHARM: Exploring Frequency Response and the Allure of "Warmth"

When it comes to recording, the term "vintage" carries a certain mystique. Vintage microphones, often prized for their "warm" or "smooth" sound, have a reputation that modern budget clones struggle to replicate. A key factor in this sonic character lies in their frequency response—particularly how they handle high frequencies. While modern condenser microphones boast extended ranges reaching up to 20kHz or beyond, vintage models frequently exhibit a "rolled off" high-end that many listeners perceive as more pleasing, natural, or simply "better." This article dives into the interplay between microphone frequency response, the human voice, and the engineering choices that shape our perception of sound quality.

REVIEW WARM AUDIO WA-44 VINTAGE STYLE RIBBON MICROPHONE

A look inside the amazing Warm Audio WA-44

Warm Audio has once again delivered a piece of gear that punches well above its weight class with the WA-44, a ribbon microphone that pays homage to the legendary RCA ribbon mics of yesteryear. You might be able to do better if you spend a whole lot more. Let's see why this studio weapon is so sweet!

REVEIW BEHRINGER SYNCUSSION SYNTH, MODERN SOUND FOR BEATS AND EURORACK

 Behringer Syncussion Review: A Modern Twist on a Vintage Classic

Behringer’s Syncussion is a fascinating piece of gear that draws its inspiration from the past while carving out its own niche in the modern music production landscape. The original spark for this machine comes from the Pearl SY-1 Syncussion, a rare and quirky electronic drum synthesizer from the late 1970s that became a cult favorite for its unique, punchy tones. Behringer has taken that vintage spirit and reimagined it with contemporary flair, delivering a compact, affordable unit that bridges the gap between retro vibes and today’s modular workflows. Does it deliver value and performance? Lets unpack this:

REMEMBERING ROGER NICHOLS, A TRIBUTE TO THE ORIGINAL GEAR SLUT

In the pantheon of audio engineering legends, few shine as brightly—or as irreverently—as Roger Nichols. Before Gearspace, before Gearslutz became the online mecca for equipment obsessives, Nichols was penning his wit and wisdom in the back pages of EQ magazine, a now-defunct publication that once served as a lifeline for studio rats and gearheads. His column, Across the Board, which ran from 1989 to 2002, wasn’t just a technical digest; it was a masterclass in curiosity, humor, and an unapologetic love for the tools of the trade. Nichols didn’t just use gear—he lusted after it, proudly dubbing himself a "gear slut" in an era when the term was still fresh and unbranded. Today, we remember him not just as an engineer for Steely Dan or a producer for John Denver, but as a pioneer whose spirit shaped the way we talk about, and tinker with, the machines that make music.

UNVEILED: HOME RECORDING SECRETS THEY DON'T WANT YOU TO KNOW FOR PRO SOUND

Big studios want you to believe pro sound belongs to them—high-end gear, custom rooms, and an unspoken “you’re not welcome” attitude. They flash thousand-dollar mics and million-dollar booths, hinting your home setup can’t measure up. But here’s the reality: you’ve probably got the tools to match them, right in your own space, and they’ve worked hard to keep that quiet. Whether you’re capturing vocals, laying down drums, tracking guitars, or shaping synths, these “hidden” techniques—mic placement, room tweaks, impulse responses, EQ, compression—are yours to claim. No elite membership required. We’re pulling back the curtain, step-by-step, with the convolution software your DAW already includes—Logic, Reaper, Cubase, Pro Tools—and the stock IRs that deliver standout tone. Ready to take control? Let’s get started.

HOW TO GET KILLER GUITAR TONE WITH IMPULSE RESPONSES, EQ AND EMULATION

Every guitarist knows the struggle: you want that jaw-dropping tone—think Clapton’s creamy Strat or Hetfield’s razor-sharp riffage—but your wallet’s not ready for a vintage amp or a studio full of mics. What if you could nail pro-level guitar tone from your bedroom with just a laptop, some plugins, and a few smart tweaks? Enter impulse responses (IRs), EQ, and emulation—the holy trinity of modern tone crafting. In this guide, we’ll break down how these tools work, why they’re game-changers, and how to use them to get killer guitar tone without selling your soul to the gear gods.

ADVANTAGES OF HAVING A PERSONAL RECORDING STUDIO AT HOME

For artists—whether singers, musicians, or songwriters—having a personal recording studio at home can be a game-changer. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about taking control of your creative process and shaping your sound on your terms. Here are five compelling advantages to setting up your own space and why it’s worth the effort

EXPENSIVE VS BOUTIQUE VS BUDGET PRICED: NAVIGATING THE AUDIO GEAR LANDSCAPE

How much do you have to spend?

The recording studio world is a gear lover’s playground, but it’s also a financial minefield. At the budget end, brands like Warm Audio, PreSonus, and Behringer—along with its extended family of Midas, Klark Teknik, and TC Electronic—promise pro-level performance without the pro-level price. At the top, icons like Neve, Manley, and Apogee set the gold standard for sonic excellence. Somewhere in between, mid-tier giants like Universal Audio and boutique upstarts like AudioScape carve out their own niches. Can lower-priced gear truly rival the elite? How do mid-tier and boutique options fit in? And where should you splurge in your personal studio? Let’s unpack it all, including whether your DAW choice affects the sound.

HIGH-END VS. BARGAIN CABLES IN RECORDING STUDIOS: A SONIC SHOWDOWN

Are expensive cables better than inexpensive versions that do the same thing?

When setting up a recording studio, whether it’s a personal project space or a professional facility, the debate over cable quality inevitably arises. On one side, you have high-end, expensive wire and cable brands like Mogami and Monster, touted for their superior construction and supposed sonic clarity. On the other, there are the more affordable, widely available “music store” options like Hosa and ProCo, which promise functionality at a fraction of the cost. This article dives into the comparison between these two camps, explores A-B user comparisons of their sonic qualities, examines the lack of published studies or hit records tied to premium cables, and considers whether investing in high-end wire will truly elevate your personal recording studio—or if you’ll even notice the difference in a fully produced song.

MIXING MUSIC: INSIDE THE BOX, OUTSIDE THE BOX, AND THE HYBRID APPROACH

The art of mixing music has evolved dramatically over the decades, shaped by technological advancements and the creative demands of artists and producers. From the analog glory days of the 1970s to the digital dominance of the 21st century, two primary approaches have emerged: mixing "inside the box" (ITB) using a computer and plugin software signal processing, and mixing "outside the box" (OTB) with external summing and hardware signal processors. Today, a hybrid approach that blends the best of both worlds has become increasingly popular, offering flexibility, character, and precision. Let’s dive into these methods, comparing their workflows, sonic qualities, and practical applications.

HOW TO MAKE BETTER RECORDINGS: A GUIDE TO REFINING YOUR CRAFT

Recording audio is both an art and a science, requiring technical skill, creativity, and a keen sense of sound. Whether you're capturing music, podcasts, or field recordings, the quality of your work hinges on one often-overlooked tool: your hearing. To make better recordings, you need to protect your ears, train them to listen critically, refine your mixes through persistence, and test your creations with others. Here’s how to elevate your recording game step by step.

REVIEW WARM AUDIO WA-251 VS FLEA M-251, BEDROOM SHOWDOWN

Aight, yo, let’s dive into this mic showdown—Warm Audio WA-251 vs. Flea M-251. These joints are tryna flex that classic Telefunken ELA M 251 vibe, but one’s a budget banger and the other’s a high-roller flex. I’m breakin’ it down for the bedroom producers out there—quality, performance, specs, and how deep they hit your wallet from Sweetwater and Vintage King. Let’s get it poppin’, fam!

REVIEW BEHRINGER LM DRUM

IT'S FINALLY HERE!

LM DRUM on the kitchen table

Like all the gear reviewed here on HoT I purchased this machine and paid the full retail price ($399+ Florida sales tax) for the privilege of being an early adopter. But does it live up to the originals best feature?

REVIEW BEHRINGER SYSTEM 15 EURORACK MODULAR SYNTHESIZER

Early Moog™ Modular Prototype, click to enlarge

Bob Moog was one of my heroes, he was a little bit disheveled, definitely quirky and a man on his own mission. Not many inventors get to leave such a HUGE mark on music history but Dr. Moog’s creations changed everything. When I first saw those modular synthesizers on the cover of “Switched On Bach” I wanted them; I wanted to patch things in strange ways and make weird sounds. Alas, back then all I could afford was a cheap used synthesizer kit; I had to repair it before I could play it. In the late 70’s the music store I ran took on a lot of Moog™ products and I got to meet Dr. Moog at two different NAMM trade shows. 

Fast forwarding to our modern era: Love them or hate them, Behringer has done the impossible, they created scaled down Eurorack copies of the classic Moog modular analog synthesizer systems. As part of my descent into Eurorack technology I bought the least complex Behringer System 15 replica to experiment with. Is it good?

REVIEW 52 HP EURORACK BEHRINGER RS-9 RHYTHM SEQUENCER DRUM BRAIN

Getting Ready To Install My New RS-9 Rhythm Sequencer

Sequencers for Eurorack are very popular and one of the largest European players has flexed their manufacturing muscle to create a programmable percussion powerhouse for a stunning low price, but is it good?

OUR TOP 20 RECORDING, SOUND AND GEAR REVIEWS FOR 2024

FIRST EVER H.o.T. TOP 20

These are the most popular, most read articles and reviews, ranked according to their total number of views in 2024 on High on Technology. Let the surprises begin:

INTRODUCTION TO EURORACK, TOP STUFF YOU NEED TO KNOW

 INTRODUCTION TO EURORACK

I’ve been attracted to analog synthesizers since the 1960’s when Bob Moog began shaking the world with voltage controlled oscillators, filters and amplifiers. I saw Keith Emerson in concert five times in the 70’s and was always mesmerized by his talent, showmanship and walls of Moog mahogany boxes filled with custom modules and patch cables. So it is with great reverence for all this technological history that I present the HoT introduction to Eurorack modular synthesizers.

THE DEATH OF THUNDERBOLT-2

Left: Thunderbolt-2 Cable (tiny Thunderbolt on plug), Right: Mini Display Port 

Have you tried to order a Thunderbolt-2 cable?

I've been in the technology game for a long time but I've rarely witnessed the rapid demise of a connection-standard like what seems to have happened with Thunderbolt-2 and the cables that make it work.

If you picked up a MacPro Cylinder computer for a bargain price you're in for a shock when you go to buy Thunderbolt-2 cables to connect it. 

REVIEW AUDIOSCAPE V-COMP+ 6386 DELUXE EDITION, WHAT IS GATES STA-LEVEL?

Original 1950s Gates Sta-Level

The Gates Sta-Level was a vacuum tube compressor/limiter designed in the early 1950’s (like me :-). It used a variable-mu tube to achieve gain reduction (the same remote-cutoff tube type as used in the famous Fairchild compressors).

Now AudioScape in Daytona, Florida has brought the original circuits back to life, complete with “Sonic Truth”, vacuum tube power supply and the all important, “6386”, remote cutoff, variable-mu tube that does all the gain control. I started on this review over a year ago, there were some BIG surprises along the way.

REVIEW WARM AUDIO PEDAL76 ANALOG FET COMPRESSOR PEDAL FOR GUITAR

IT'S BIG, IT'S HEAVY AND

IT'S AWESOME! 

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I've owned a lot of compressor-pedals and a lot of studio-compressors in my 60+ years of playing guitar and recording. I'm really not a fan of most pedal compressors because they usually result in smaller sound (I like a nice tube amp, doing some work, moving some air with a naturally compressed "tube" sound). Has Warm Audio finally delivered a compressor pedal that I like? 

REVIEW: BEHRINGER 1273 COMPARED TO NEVE 1073SPX AND WARM AUDIO WA-73

Are you ready for the Behringer 1273-KT clone of the classic Neve 1073 in a smackdown comparison to a real Neve 1073SPX? Just for good measure we’ll also compare the Behringer to the Warm Audio clone of the classic Neve 1073. Along the way I hope to answer that question which is burning a hole in your brain; Is the Behringer 1273 good? You may think you know but there are some big surprises awaiting. Let's dig in!

The Behringer 1273 features two full channel strips of 73-style preamps

GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE, DEAD, LONG LIVE THE INTERNET-ONLY VERSION Sept 27, 2024

 I just received the news, after 50 years of looking at Guitar Player Magazine, they notified me they are ceasing their print version. They're going to send me a couple of issues of Guitar World Magazine instead to fulfill my subscription. After that Guitar Player will be an online only publication. Tell me how many of those you've seen that don't suck? For anyone who's been subscribed for the last year the handwriting was on the wall, the magazine is down to a mere pamphlet. 

Good bye Guitar Player, I won't follow you to your new online home. Good luck....me, waiving goodbye.

Randall Smith, the father of Mesa Boogie has left the company

MIXED EMOTIONS - Randall Smith has left Mesa/Boogie

I have been a fan of Randall Smith since the late 1970's. He sold out his company (Mesa Boogie) to the Gibson Family of Brands back in 2021and today, 8/20/24 it was confirmed that he has left the company. 

REVIEW LINE 6 POD EXPRESS MINIATURE GUITAR AMP WORKSTATION, IS IT GOOD?

POD EXPRESS GUITAR WORKSTATION

For the last few weeks I've been noodling around with the Pod Express, a newer pedal release by Line 6. It runs on batteries or power supply, it's got a stereo headphone/line output with analog master volume, it has  lots of core effects like Reverb, Chorus and Distortion plus it has seven amp models. Priced at under $200, all this power is packed into a compact space age-plastic stomp box little bigger than an old MXR Phase 100, but is it good?

REVEIW, BARGAIN, AFFORDABLE APPLE MAC DAW, BUT HURRY, WON'T LAST LONG AT THESE PRICES

APPLE MAC PRO

Apple Computers declared the small shiny wastebasket Mac Pro (often referred to as 'Late 2013'), End-Of-Life back in 2017. These computers were still being manufactured as late as 2017 and the year of manufacture can be determined by the serial number. 

These Mac Pro models were powered by Intel multi-core processors which came in four, six, eight and 12-core models. The computers were built in an assembly facility in Texas with the four core model selling for around $3100 in 2016; I know because I bought a new one in April of 2016 and it has been my main DAW up until April of 2023 when I replaced it with a Mac Studio.

Since these Mac Pro models are powered by Intel processors there will be very limited software for them in the future because Apple has shifted all their design focus to their Native, in-house processor designs. While the new Apple Silicon models offer a great deal of power they don't come cheap. Musicians are notoriously tight with their money which makes these older, discontinued Mac Pro models a veritable bargain. 

WHY AN OLD MAC PRO?

The answer is, LOW total purchase cost for a powerful, stable DAW that will provide several years of use. We'll examine complete system purchase price later in this review. 

REVIEW SSL 2+ DIGITAL AUDIO INTERFACE, IT'S COMPACT, IT'S BUDGET PRICED, IS IT GOOD?

There are lots of two-channel digital audio interfaces to choose from for your personal studio needs. UK based SSL (Solid State Logic) is one of the oldest pro-recording brand names with roots stretching back to 1969; they are best known for their big, mega-expensive, studio mixing consoles which dominated pop music throughout the 1980's. Several of those big, heat producing beasts are still making hit records by producers like Chris Lord-Alge and Vance Powell. 

So when a company like SSL decides to release a comparatively inexpensive 2-channel digital audio interface, we've got to know, is it any good?

KEEPING OLD MAC COMPUTERS ALIVE, LEGACY PATCHER

This post is for a piece of software that purports to keep older Mac computers running, even after Apple drops support for them. Use it and explore it at your own risk.

Legacy-Patcher

I have read good things about this software and may set up an old Mac to test it out. I'll report if I get around to it. Check it out if you've got an old Mac you want to keep alive using newer OS versions.

Good Music and Happy Computing To You!

REVIEW OWC THUNDERBOLT-3 DOCK, EXPAND OR ADD NEW LIFE TO YOUR MAC

THUNDERBOLT AND THE DOCK ON MAC

These days laptop computers come with very few hardware ports on them. Manufacturer's and designers think wireless connections are better but sometimes you've got gadgets that must connect with wired hardware connections; things like multiport audio interfaces, legacy midi hardware, drum machines and keyboards all depend on hardware connections with physical connectors and wire. The Doc to the rescue!

REVIEW MAC OS, THUNDERBOLT-2 AND THUNDERBOLT-3 CONNECTIONS

KEEP YOUR DAW AND OLD COMPUTER WORKING

 GET YOUR CABLE CONNECTIONS CORRECT

2013 Apple MacPro features six Thunderbolt-2 Ports click to enlarge

The Mac Pro (Late 2013) cylinder shaped computer, in spite of its compact, “waste basket” form factor, is still a surprisingly capable computer in 2024. This older computer design was still actively manufactured in 2019. If you've got one you might wish to connect with a newer USB C shaped Thunderbolt-3 audio interface or SSD storage: Or you may have a Thunderbolt-2 audio interface like  the Apogee Thunderbolt-2 Symphony model, and wish to connect to a newer Apple Silicon based computer which has USB-C-shaped Thunderbolt-3 (or Thunderbolt-4) ports. 

In this article we'll explore some of the connection options that can keep your gear recording as the technology universe evolves around us. 

REVIEW LOCOMOTIVE AUDIO 14B VARI-MU VACUUM TUBE COMPRESSOR, MODERN VINTAGE DESIGN WITH HUGE TONE

Locomotive Audio is a boutique audio equipment builder in St Louis, Missouri (my old home town :-). Their products are hand made in very small numbers so they can deliver old-school quality, beauty and ultra-high performance.

The 14B Vari-Mu by Locomotive Audio

The 14B is a 2U, vacuum tube powered vari-mu compressor which incorporates original design features with vintage design elements. If you mix outside the box, you'd better put seat belts on your ears because this compressor inserted on the lead vocal track will blow your mind. 

FINDING BOWIE AKA CHRISTIAN WHITMORE AKA PRO AUDIO TUBES

The Legend, the Man and the Tubes. The TUBES? What?

REVIEW WARM AUDIO WA-MPX TUBE PREAMPLIFIER, IS IT GOOD?

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

I was dead wrong about this piece of gear. When I first saw pictures of the Warm Audio WA-MPX preamplifier I was put off by some of the obvious marketing moves. In this review we'll be looking at the single channel model of this vacuum tube powered microphone and instrument preamplifier.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

The big VU meter on the front is actually the same budget meter they use in the WA-76 compressor with a black plastic shroud to make it look like an ancient Ampex component. It has a switch controlled function called “Tape Saturation” but no recording tape is involved (so why call it tape?). 

If these things bothered you at all, the only thing I have to say after buying and trying the WA-MPX is put any preconceived ideas away because this piece of hardware rocks!

QUANTASYLUM QA403 MAKING CONNECTIONS WITH ADAPTORS AND CABLES

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The QuantAsylum QA403 Audio Analyzer features eight female BNC panel mount connectors which provide excellent shielding out to 4GHz (plenty high enough for even the highest frequency digital audio recording). The generator outputs are on the left and the analyzer inputs are on the right. 

The BNC connector is not typically used for audio connections in recording studios so how do you connect this box for testing your audio components which might have RCA-Phono, TRS male or female or XLR audio inputs and outputs?

REVIEW QUANTASYLUM RACK MOUNT KIT

Racking Up QuantAsylum Test Equipment

New QuantAsylum rack shelf on SKB 19" rack

I wanted to pull my QuantAsylum test pieces together into a solid kit that I can transport, plug-in and use conveniently. It took me three tries but I finally got it put together in a nice test kit configuration that sets up fast, has all the connections accessible and protects the equipment during transport. The new QuantAsylum rack mount accessory brought two QA test gear components together to form a sturdy package. 

The assembled system - Click to enlarge

When the system is deployed the laptop sits on top of the rack and all the cables connect easily. One (white) extension cord connects the rack to AC wall power. 

REVIEW QUANTASYLUM QA472 ULTRA LOW NOISE PREAMP FOR PRECISION EQUIPMENT TESTING

Click to Enlarge

The recently released QA472 low noise preamplifier provides a reliable way to increase small signals for testing purposes. You can learn more about QuantAsylum by reading the HoT review for the QA403 audio analyzer here. 

What's new in this latest version of the preamp?

REVIEW QUANTASYLUM QA403 AUDIO ANALYZER

Click To Enlarge

What is going on inside your audio equipment? We talk about frequency response, noise floor and dynamic range but where do these numbers come from? They come from the manufacturers of the equipment; but how do you know if these things are true?

QuantAsylum manufactures a range of affordable test equipment. The products are designed and built in the USA. 

The following comes directly from the QuantAsylum website:

“QuantAsylum is a portmanteau of the words quantify (to measure) and asylum (protection, shelter, refuge). Since 2010, QuantAsylum has been developing and offering unique products for embedded hardware and software developers.”

I became aware of QA in the final quarter of 2023. I was looking into buying a much more expensive Audio Precision test system to do advanced performance analysis on audio equipment for High on Technology. Is the QA403 a replacement for a modern AudioPrecision system?

REVIEW NUX MOD CORE, IS IT GOOD?

 IT'S NU-X (like "New X")

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The Mod Core from Nu>X is a powerhouse of good sounding modulation effects and features.

REVIEW CRY BABY JUNIOR WAH PEDAL BY DUNLOP

NOTHING JUNIOR ABOUT THE SOUND

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Dunlop makes a Cry Baby Wah-Wah pedal for every player and style of music. The Cry Baby Junior is a slightly smaller version of the classic Cry Baby wah pedal. Designed in collaboration with Pedal Train, is this the best wah pedal Dunlop has ever built?