Turtlerock Forum

Hi all,
I'm dipping in for opinions on a small format desk for the front end of my DAW. I generally mix ITB so will be using the desk for tracking and monitoring duties. Preferences are; usable eq, individual phantom on each channel, direct outs, +4dB, monitor control.
I'm really keen on hearing views on this including alternatives.

Peace in the midrange peeps

What's the budget Nic?

Senad wrote:What's the budget Nic?

Hi Senad,

Thanks for the reply.
I'm happy to be guided but I was hoping I would be able to find something usable in the $500 - $1000 bracket (if possible)

Not sure how much of a good front end you can get for 1K. You'd want decent pres + D/outs... I struggle to think of many options, but the usual suspects in Mackie,souncraft, A&H are always there..

stretch a bit and keep your eye out for one of the little midas boards.
not groundbreaking - but very solid, nice pres, good enough eq and do everything you need

gigpiglet wrote:stretch a bit and keep your eye out for one of the little midas boards.
not groundbreaking - but very solid, nice pres, good enough eq and do everything you need

Yep. Solid advice.

If you can't, next would be a A & H, at least for my money.

This is kind of a little outside of your box, but have you looked at what the Yamaha n8/n12 series have to offer. It is a digi board with firewire, but its a really nice integrated solution with digi eq. The n12 has Phantom switchable in 2 groups, switchable audio outs, monitor levels, aux to headphone send, MIDI, transport controls and direct monitoring options. Ins and outs all map to your DAW, so no need for separate interface. Don't know if they are still in production...

i would do all in my power to stay away from yamaha digital…
but. thats just me.

hunt around for older broadcast desks and 16 channel studio desks. These are getting hard to come by but when they are out there they will be around your upper price range. there was a yamaha m1516 console the other day on ebay that would have fit the bill if that was small enough.

Thanks for the advice guys!

Midas seems to be a recurring suggestion.
Any specific suggestions? The Venice 240 seems like a good solution.

Where can I source ex broadcast equipment?

Hi Nic

I'd suggest a Soundcraft Delta 8, if you can find one.

Preferences are; usable eq, individual phantom on each channel, direct outs, +4dB, monitor control.

Yes to all the above.

It's modular console, can be easily upgraded.

Should be able to get one for under grand.

Hope this helps