At the heart of our operation sits our SSL 6032E, one of the consoles that shaped and defined the sound of some of the greatest records of all time. It continues to track and mix with efficiency and control, and it is still the best way we know to deliver records our clients are proud of.
The Avenue’s console was originally built in the early 80s and has delivered a pristine sound for tracking and mixing ever since. The board was refurbished in the early 2000s, and we run a strict maintenance schedule to make sure it keeps operating at one hundred percent long into the future.
Six months, channel by channel
For the last six months we have been working through each channel and the master section, replacing capacitors and components with modern parts and integrating new technology as it becomes available. That includes new power supplies, LED lighting, and newly designed plasma meters to replace the old style that is becoming hard to source and maintain.
To be honest, owning a large-format console has been cheaper and less of a headache than we were led to believe, mainly because of the horror stories about upkeep you find online. Like anything, it comes down to how you look after it. A genuine interest in the equipment helps, as does catching issues early while you learn the ins and outs of how the desk operates and how it is built.
Analogue, digital, or both
There is plenty of debate about whether digital or analogue is the way forward. My view is that it depends on your workflow and what you are most comfortable driving. For me, the speed, the efficiency and the confidence I have working on the SSL keep me coming back, and I will not be changing my methods any time soon.
If you are interested in taking her for a drive, Studio A is available for dry hire from $149 an hour — and the full equipment list comes with the room.
Luke
The Avenue Recording Studio, Melbourne