🚀 go-pugleaf

In article <Jan22.152314.69860@yuma.ACNS.ColoState.EDU> gw214790@LANCE.ColoState.Edu (Galen Watts) writes:
>In article <116@bbx.basis.com> scott@bbx.basis.com (Scott Amspoker) writes:
>>I recently bought the Aphex C2.  This was my first aural exciter purchase.
>>I immediately dug up my DAT mixes and ran them through the C2 to see how
>>they might have been improved by it.  There is no question about the
>>high end.  The *prudent* use of the high end exciter absolutely improved
>>clarity, sparkle, and stereo separation.  In fact, just when I thought
>
>dbx used to make a sub-harmonic synthesizer that sounded good if used 
>****prudently****.  I would never use such a device on the entire mix,
>some instruments/voices don't need that much bottom end.

The Aphex C2 does not add sub-harmonics.  As usual, Aphex is rather
secretive about their methods and only hint at how things work.  Big
Bottom apparently works with phase relationships.

>As for aural exciters (read harmonic distortion generators), I have tried them
>on single channels and on entire mixes, and I have come to the conclusion
>that if you try a different mic placement or use a mixing console with a
>good design, you don't need one.

Then you tried one for the wrong reason.

It's not a question of necessity.  You either like the sound of the Aphex
or you don't.  You're not going to get that sound by other means.
Spending thousands of dollars for a better mixing console might give
you better mixes but if you like what the Aphex does, you need to buy
an Aphex.  If you don't like the sound of the Aphex, don't use one.

>Their use should be limited to punching
>up a poorly designed system.

No, their use should be limited to situations where their effect is
desired.  What part of this do you have trouble understanding?  Many
of us create sound in the studio.  We use devices that we subjectively
believe will make the sound pleasing to the ears and intellect based on 
whatever criteria we choose.  Repoducing an acoustical experience is
fine and well if that's what you want to do.

>I'd use one to hold the door open, but not for much else.

Well good for you.


-- 
Scott Amspoker                       |    
Basis International, Albuquerque, NM |  Too bad ignorance isn't really
                                     |  bliss.  Then it could be outlawed.
scott@bbx.basis.com                  |