Sydney’s A Sharp Studios installs SSL AWS
Published: ASIA
AUSTRALIA: Sydney’s oldest independent recording studio, A Sharp Studios, has installed a 48-input Solid State Logic AWS 948 mixing console as a replacement to its aging desk. Many aspects of the studio have been redesigned and upgraded as part of owner Richard Lake’s vision of turning the space into an environment where artists can achieve the best possible results.
‘We hired some of the best people in the Australian industry to redesign the studio's architectural, acoustic and technical aspects,’ explained Mr Lake. ‘With a sophisticated, ergonomic workflow in mind, we chose the AWS 948. Because of the console's reliability, reputation and ease-of-use, we knew it was the only way forward within our chosen workflow.’
The new desk is primarily being used in tandem with Mr Lake’s Pro Tools HDX system, providing him access to a plethora of digital tools in addition to his substantial amounts of analogue outboard.
‘We particularly like the integration of Pro Tools via the dual-layer notion of controlling the analogue source and Pro Tools source via simple selection,’ Mr Lake continued. ‘This saves quite a bit of time, especially when writing automation into Pro Tools on the fly, or navigating and editing complicated mixes consisting of many audio stems. It is also useful to be able to instantiate and control plug-ins via the console centre section, allowing a more natural and precise approach.’
The familiarity of the desk’s surface is also something that has proven useful for the studio’s many visitors. ‘Having this desk has proven to be a bonus to us in terms of guest producers and engineers who can immediately sit and use it, whether because of the console's user-friendly simplicity or previous experience with SSL consoles.
‘Reputation, and therefore success, is built on results, so the console is all-important as the controlling factor in the studio. Sound quality is something you expect with an SSL. It's something the clients observe straightaway; they love hearing their music through the console,’ Mr Lake concluded. ‘We have been extremely busy with new and existing clients since the upgrade; everyone is impressed with the sound of the AWS. You can hear the quality: clear and crisp, with loads of headroom. We are delighted with our choice.’