API 312 vs SSL VHD Pre

[daxliniere]

Hey guys,
Just a quick post.

About a month ago, I started searching for some info on the SSL VHD Pre, which is a 1ru, 4 channel preamp.

To be brief, I did a mini-shootout against an API 3124 on kick, snare and 2 toms (Pendulum MDP-1 on overheads) and the SSL was the winner for me.

They both had about the same mojo, but the API was noticably woollier (=fluffier = distorted) in the low end.

I must admit, I was surprised that this less expensive piece won over the API, infact, I went into the shootout thinking the API was going to win, because I've heard so much about how people love them on drums.

The API "looks" more rock, but the SSL sounds more rock.


Hope that helps someone who is in the position I've just been in for a month.

All the best,
Dax.

[ChrisW]

Some people might say 'distortion' = colour and it's the colour of API that people love on drums.
It is all a matter of personal taste. I'm just saying the best drum sounds I've ever achieved were via an EMI TGI console. When other people heard the sounds some said they were distorted and wooly in a bad way.

[Chinagraf]

Agreed, the place I began as an assistant was all SSL except for a Harrison in one room. I wasn't in love with the SSL pres (preferred the Harrison), and as a youngster was hangin for some Neve gear,but the owners all hated Neve gear. One mans meat etc...