Michael Hahn

AEA is one of the most respected manufacturers of ribbon microphones for studio recording. The California-based company is known for resurrecting the legacy of a pivotal series of microphones from the earliest era of sound reproduction. But there’s more to AEA than spot-on vintage recreations. In this buyer’s guide, you’ll get an intro to the company, an overview of its offerings, and the details of its key products. Continue reading →

SPL is one of the premier designers of studio equipment, mastering hardware, and hi-fi audio gear. In this buyer’s guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the storied gear manufacturer, including an intro to the company, an overview of its catalog, and the details of its key products.  With such a broad range of offerings, we’ve separated this buyer’s guide by product category for easier navigation, including sections covering SPL’s mic pres, channel strips, mixing processors, monitor controllers, mastering equipment, and home hi-fi gear. Let’s get started.  Continue reading →

Guitar pedals have exploded in popularity among musicians of all kinds over the past two decades. But stompbox effects have also become a creative secret weapon for engineers and producers. Continue reading →

Acoustic treatment is one of the most important factors in a professional recording environment. But it’s also one of the most complex and frequently misunderstood.  If you’re struggling to achieve balanced mixes or compelling ambience, acoustic treatment may be the missing ingredient in your setup.  In this article, we’ll break down the basics of acoustic treatment for pro studios and suggest some of the best products available to help you control your room’s acoustics. Continue reading →

Vintage microphones are many studio owners’ most prized possessions. Their rich history, glorious sound and vintage cachet make them the crown jewels of any studio gear list. But what exactly makes vintage mics so special? In this article, we’ll break down some of the most iconic vintage microphones and the best alternatives to hold you over until you’re able to complete your collection. Continue reading →