On Fri, 28 Apr 2006 13:22:15 -0400, soundhaspriority wrote
(in article ):


"Ty Ford" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 27 Apr 2006 12:13:04 -0400, soundhaspriority wrote
(in article ):

I am interested in flattering the human voice with some recording
equipment.
Possibilities include a "tube mic" with a "vintage romantic sound", a
tube
preamp, or a Behringer Ultravoice Digital VX2496,
http://www.behringer.com/VX2496/index.cfm?lang=ENG, which is alleged to
do
what the first two alternatives do, and would give me two extra channels.
It
also does a lot of worrisome things. A simple tube in the recording chain
limits the damage.

I'm soliciting recommendations, for vocal use, in the area of inexpensive
1. tube mics
2. tube preamps
3. processor?
4. Pros and cons of the above three approaches



Good solid state is better than bad tubes. Good tubes are better than bad
solid state.

Period.

That is true only if accuracy is the criteria. Personally, I have always
sensed that tube equipment adds something to the signal that may or may not
be desirable. When equipment adds, there can be no universal agreement on
what's good or bad.

Well personally, equipment always "adds" or subtracts. Once you connect a mic
to a preamp, accuracy is out the window. Therefore, your complaint with my
comment is unsubstantiated or based on a misunderstanding.

To make the point again, regardless or accuracy, and specifically as regards
objectivity, good solid state is better than bad tubes. Good tubes are better
than bad solid state.

If by suggesting, as you do, that you prefer tubes because they are
inaccurate, then you have left the grid and are on your own to discover what
combinations of this and that may please you. There are an equal number of
solid state devices that aren't particularly accurate.

Four days ago, at the most recent NAB in Vegas, I was shown a new Neumann TLM
49 that's a solid state, cardioid, condenser mic with a special sauce that
imparts tube-like qualities to the audio. I held it in my hands, and no it
wasn't plugged in. One will be here sooner than later.

Do have a nice trip and do send us postcards from time to time to let us know
how that's working for you. Perhaps the grail you seek will be a tube design.
most of us who have been here a while are certain that you could make that
happen. We also know that solid state solutions are equally viable should you
decide to go for it.

Regards,

Ty Ford



-- Ty Ford's equipment reviews, audio samples, rates and other audiocentric
stuff are at www.tyford.com