MattyAmendola

I stopped using Pro Tools as my main DAW at version 9 and made the leap to Logic. I think it runs better on all Apple computers. I feel the interface and workflow is more catered to creatives who are constantly creating while recording, editing, or mixing. Last but certainly not least, Logic's i/o plugin lets me use any piece of outboard gear like a plugin in a matter of seconds.

My LA-610 is my favorite channel strip to record vocals and bass. It's transparent LA-2A styled compressor makes it comfortable for me to track with a fair amount of compression and even though it's EQ is limited, it's just enough (and musical) to get what you need when you hit record. The input gain staging is also very flexible on this unit, allowing me to use microphones such as an SM7B without a cloud lifter, or super delicate condensers on very soft sources.

The Tweaker is an unbelievable compressor that not only has some of that classic Gregory Scott magic, but it can also be used as a transparent swiss army knife compressor. It can go after sounds of an 1176, or an LA-2A, or mangle things to all holy hell in really creative ways with a handful of detection functions and killer gain with blend options. I use my Tweaker very often with my Coles 4038. I can squash a mono overhead mic with this compressor like no other and get some really modern sounds for drum loops.

We have 2 Distressors at 825 Records and I don't think a lead vocal I've mixed has not run through it since I've had them. I also use them on bass, room mics and piano. My favorite feature about the Distressors aside from a magic they possess is the detection and saturation selections.

We have 2 SSL X-Racks at 825 Records. One contains 3 silver compressors, 3 E-Series compressors, and the SSL stereo bus compressor. Our other X-Rack contains 4 silver EQs and 4 E-Series EQs. This is the best route to create an SSL signal flow within a modular design. Their on-board memory recall functions are also incredibly useful with 30+ banks for storage.