500 Series - What's Your Strategy?

[@user-th6rh8zp3t]

Bought my api 6 slot chassis and a 512c in 2018, ended up selling the 512c and adding a SH mono gama, empress audio comp, and kush electra. amazing, versatile vocal chain. I'm going to add the RND 542. was considering duplicating the entire chain for stereo, but I'll probably do that much later down the line and just invest in a good stereo comp like the dual vandergraph for now. You're so right about taking your time, so many great (and not so great) units out there it's easy to forget that the most important piece of gear is the one that is going to make the most difference in whatever current set up you have, and that piece of gear might not be "sexy"

[@johnkaplun9619]

I buy the ones with the coolest knobs, meters, and blinky lights.

[@moverofobjects]

that little photo of a studio at 3:11 was that GCR in Buffalo, NY?!

[@stevesrecordingtips7247]

Funny how many of us went from analog to digital, and now we're looking to return to the old ways, lol. Another great video, maestro!

[@BarryJohns]

So right, oh so right!

[@stevesrecordingtips7247]

@@BarryJohns I'm curious, though. For all your videos bashing Protools (bashing may be a strong term), why are you still using it? You certainly call them out for all kinds of weird business practices.

[@BarryJohns]

@@stevesrecordingtips7247 I never bash Protools, ever, I love Protools, I bash Avid on a regular basis, which I hate Avid as they exist today as a company. That said, I'm, lets say land locked to a degree. My studio is centered around a 24 Channel D-Command as my control surface that can only be used with not only Protools, but Protools ultimate. I plan to move away, but not likely until I'm ready to move away from the D-Command. Make sense?

[@stevesrecordingtips7247]

@@BarryJohns Yes, and thanks for clarifying that for me. Shame about Avid. I get the feeling they're so iffy with support because of this land-lock you're talking about. It's like a trap. Once you get into them, it will really cost you to get out. If you could cash out the D-Command and the software and start over, any likely candidates for a new Daw that you'd like? Or, would you stay the course?

[@lightafluident.9950]

@@stevesrecordingtips7247 Avid sucks as a company, but Pro Tools is a must have!!!!!

[@deetgeluid]

Yep, great video. It’s, IMHO, all about strategy.

[@jon4739]

As an old session drummer from another life I love my 500 series units ( I have two API rack units ) and I am always recording in stereo so gotta match my comps and EQs. That aspect has been one of the most fun aspects of my studio over the years.

[@BarryJohns]

Good to hear you are having fun! You know you can still be a session drummer, just an online one for home studios.

[@jon4739]

@@BarryJohns So true Barry. Actually I do a little bit of that for my brother who is a prolific musician and recording engineer. Do it for fun now. Again thank you for putting up fun content. I always get a smile on my face when you post up a new video.

[@kayakbandits9894]

Dude you’re reading my mind! I’ve been watching so many videos on 500 series stuff in the last week. About to make a big purchase for the chassis and maybe 2 modules to get started. Can’t wait to watch this video! Cheers

[@BarryJohns]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@BobbyGeneric145]

Kayak, how did your rack turn out? Im about to make the jump myself.

[@kayakbandits9894]

@@BobbyGeneric145 I changed my mind. Ended up going with a Neve 1073😂 I absolutely love it though. Changed everything.

[@jamesangusmusic]

1073 SPX?

[@TheMelodyGod]

@@BarryJohnshey Barry your the best would love to pick you Brain one day. Question what do you think about the black lion Bluey 500 series ?

[@natashanyxx9486]

Great topic. I’m looking forward to learning more.

[@bingybeats189]

I wanted to get a MBP and a silverbullet(both 19in) and a vocal compressor. Well instead of that I combined the feature set and more of these 19in alternatives in a 10 slot chassis for 1/3 the price. I set out to chose pieces that create a "big" sound. Bought mostly used to save money. Happy.

[@bingybeats189]

For mix bus and stem processing**

[@deetgeluid]

I bought my luchbox because I wanted/needed preamps. AMS 1073’s, SSL 9k clones, and my next purchase will probably be API’s. Might buy a couple of Neve EQ’s in the near future. Not a bog fan of compression before going into the box, but one unit would be handy. Probably an opto.

[@StarpointMusicOfficial]

cranebourne is the company who allows adat thru the 500series rack.....fredenstein is another company who has a really interesting line of 500s interface..the bento series from fredenstein allows u to change the order of your modules digitallly no matter the order u have installed them in which i think is really cool

[@thomasnussbaum4711]

I got one WES Audio Supercarrier with 11 slots. Most important for me is the inside kick, it consists of a CAPI 21 mic pre, a API 560 graphic EQ and that goes to a DBX 560 compressor. For the snare it‘s a Burl mic pre, a API 550 EQ and again a DBX 560. My secret weapon for drum overheads EQ is 2 units Phoenix Audio Gyrator EQ. The Rack filled up with 3 Heritage Audio 1073 EQs. The API EQs are insane expensive but they are worth it. BTW, I‘m only recording drums. ;-)

[@nntblst]

Im really tempted to build one of these racks for my Eurorack studio... Cool video!!!

[@auctor11]

Please tell us more mate! Looking forward to learning more about 500 Series! Have a fantastic weekend!

[@HazeAnderson]

I love cheap gear but if I ever get into 500 series ... AMEN! Thank you for the advice. :)

[@nicholasbohannan1673]

I want to get into the 500 series so bad.. I would LOVE more videos on this and even comparisons to plugin versions

[@BarryJohns]

I have plans for that, stay tuned.....

[@TheStudeo74]

Don’t compare 500 modules with plug-ins. Compare 500 modules with 500 modules.

[@judclark7376]

I bought an api 512v so I have something nice to use as a reference when evaluating the cheaper modules. And buy used

[@JimCaputoMusic]

I made the leap a couple of years back after spending years in the "interested but hesitant" closet. I bought an 11 space CAPI db25 chassis and my first units were a pair of Neve 542 Tape Emulators. I added to that a pair of Kush Electras and an elysia x-filter. I also grabbed a single Aphex Exciter and the last thing I grabbed was a pair of API 312 pres. I still have two open bays but I'm not sure what I want to put in there.

[@BarryJohns]

Sounds like you could use a all round compressor and eq. I assume you are using the Elysia on your stereo buss, drum buss, and other stereo sources. From memory, I don't think you can use that as dual mono?

[@JimCaputoMusic]

@@BarryJohns The 500 rack is only part of my pile of gear. I have the Audioscape Buss Comp, a pair of Audioscape Opto comps, a pair of Audioscape 76A comps, and one of their V-Comps (highly, highly recommend that comp). I'd like to grab a pair of their EQP-1 equalizers one of these days but I have't yet. I also have a Kush Clariphonic MS (another piece of gear I can't praise highly enough). I bought the elysia thinking it might take over mastering eq duties from the UAD CurveBender plugin. It hasn't. The CurveBender just works for me. I've developed a really good workflow with that plugin. I'd love to have a hardware mastering eq but my love affair with the CB plugin means I'm, going to have to be very careful about picking one out. The Clariphonic is also mostly used for mastering. It let's me perfectly place a bit of top end sheen or lift where needed. I know it's an eq but it doesn't work like any other eq I've ever used. There's magic in that box and I don't know how they do it. The plugin is pretty good too. Not quite as much sonic juju as the hardware but very useable and will make your ears smile.

[@BarryJohns]

@@JimCaputoMusic I love AudioScspe gear too! I did a review on my channel on their V3A Compressor, good to hear you like it as well!

[@cdauterive1]

Barry what is your opinion on the Fredinstien 500 gear?

[@zxsw85]

Respect for your content

[@AndyKingCo]

I just got into the 500 series with a pair of Neves 542’s and wow! Weight, dimension and analog saturation you can’t really achieve with plugins.

[@-P.V]

WesAudio ng500 series 🔥

[@armandodiaz3485]

Although I like the obvious idea of its space saving design and portability if that’s what you need, I like the sound of certain analog pieces. Being able to find them in an affordable “500” style version would be great! Just not sure when you’re talking Neve, Pultec, SSL, etc your getting the same value for your $$. And then there’s the brands who have yet to release any 500 based pieces we’d love to see. I’d love to see this happen…

[@jasperplankbadger]

@2:22 I think that is the Cranborne Audio 500 series rack.

[@1eidji652]

I don’t understand the db25 how its work ? How many imput and output can I have ? For exemple between an apollo x8 and x8p which do you prefers ? ( because one have db25 and the others simple line imput )

[@BarryJohns]

There are 25 pins on a DB25 connector, but only 24 are used. An XLR cable uses 3 wires. So you get 8 balanced channels on one connector.

[@aarongreen3802]

being a drummer, I am very interested in this topic. spot micing everything for me is a wopping 12 channels and that's at minimum. so, learning work flows that will help get me that analog sound ,while purchasing gear over time ,to eventually have a complete analog signal chain going in ,would be extremely satisfying. please continue on with this subject matter ,it's like a Godsend to me. you are one of the very few voices that have earned my respect through communicating respectfully with common sense. thanks for your time & effort

[@BarryJohns]

I'm glad I'm able to help you, have fun!

[@senorsalmo1003]

I was about to turn down your video at the end, when you said "But wait, wait, wait... Don't forget to click the like button.." Man you made me laugh!! I came back to your video and hit the button. Thanks!!

[@BarryJohns]

😜👍👍👍

[@recordman555]

Here's a question, Barry. First - thanks, as always, for another great tutorial! So - I'm running Logic through a 2021 iMac 27". My interface is the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20. I own ZERO 3rd party plugins. I do NOT have any type of "mixer'/control surface (hardware, I mean) Literally, the only 2 units in my rack are the Furman power conditioner and the Scarlett. I would endeavour to track/mix/produce across several genres: Folk, Contemporary Christian, Gospel, Country, Rock/Pop, and Metal. If you were me, what would be the first piece of outboard gear you'd add to this rack? I believe, honestly, I know your response, but I'd like to hear it from you!

[@BarryJohns]

Room treatment if you don’t have it would be first. Next up, focus on skill set before new gear. Now if we on to hardware, first would be a solid mic preamp, next an 1176 style compressor, then another of the same mic preamp, then an LA2A style compressor, and so on.

[@vigneshkarthikeyan9702]

I'd strongly recommend using pricing as a gauge. Just a recommendation, I know you're using it to steer new users away from buying junk, but mention that it's a blanket disclaimer if you can please.

[@ytb917]

great advice. here's the best use of 8 spaces i could think of: SSL bus compressor, SSL ultraviolet EQ, RND 535 diode bridge compressor, neve 1073 preamp, millennia media preamp, SSL SiX channel strip. that gets you a stereo compressor, stereo eq, two mono compressors, a simple mono eq, two hi-z instrument inputs, and three preamps. all with a-list companies.

[@oig40203]

So is the only advantage to 500, space considerations? I want to get a couple of good 1073s but that is all. Am I better off just getting full rack size?

[@BarryJohns]

If space is not an issue, and the rack version is cheaper, then go with that. There is a big advantage to having controls within reaching distance from the sweet spot.

[@HankStoneMusic]

Looking forward to the next video about incorporating the 500 gear into workflow! I've been interested in analog outboard for awhile. The adat option is intriguing bc my I/O is limited with the Apollo twin, but I hadn't considered the converter aspect.

[@BarryJohns]

Its planned

[@africanrevolution3551]

@@BarryJohns can't wait for that one!!!! I'm really looking at 500

[@JoaquinGonzalez2014]

Even when you talk about things I am not particularly interested in, I watch you, because you are very entertaining, and make a lot of sense...thanks!

[@BarryJohns]

Thanks

[@elbiso2004]

Would love to get some 500 series in the studio. Videos on the subject would be awesome.

[@BarryJohns]

coming soon

[@PearlLaneTV]

Is the Fredenstein Bento 8 Pro good to start with?

[@TheStudeo74]

Agree 100%

[@colbygallaher2700]

could you perhaps do a video on gainstaging a mix for beginners? thanks!

[@BarryJohns]

It’s on my list.

[@lal936]

Is the junk the midas and Frankenstein chasis

[@NIP28]

Ok.. 2 eqs.. 2 compresors... 2 .. preamps... but how about a D ESSER??? For live singing and rapping

[@zanem9022]

Do u think 500 series compressors are as good as 19inch.. For preamps i do prefer the 19inch.. My ocd kicks in with 500 empty slots. I wana just fill it in. Good advice btw

[@JohnnyMule8141]

What’s your thoughts on the Brute by Inward Connections?

[@BarryJohns]

I have to check that out. I’m not familiar with that.

[@1eidji652]

People tell in the internet serie 500 have less headroom than rack version, what do you thinks about that to be clear ? Thanks for alls your amazing work, amazing videos it’s very informative.

[@CharLessMajor7Music]

There are some manufacturers that has same amount of headrooms on their 500 series to rack versions..

[@suriyadunya9994]

newbie question, in 500 series rack, if you go from one mic pre (hypothetically clean pre) into the next adjacent pre (color) engaging its line input. would that add coloration from the transformers in the circuit it may have or its not supposed to work that way?

[@BarryJohns]

You don’t want to stack mic preamps.

[@pdmcrew80]

DIY 500 series is the way.

[@BarryJohns]

Capi and Hairball are my favs

[@pdmcrew80]

@@BarryJohns Sound Skulptor and AML are also great.

[@natashanyxx9486]

Barry, Is there a way to get a consultation from you? I’m willing to pay you for an hour of your time.

[@BarryJohns]

Send me an email. [e-mail]

[@1KMPLX]

My tax return is getting me a WesAudio supercarrier II (It holds 11 500 series modules). I will only have three pieces of gear in it for a while, but in the long run it does allow for one to get great gear at a lower price than regular 19” rack gear (both in terms of cash and space used). Two Kush Audio 500 series Clariphonics would only run you $1,100 while a stereo 19” rack version costs $2,000. Not having to pay for a larger chassis, and power supply helps each unit cost at least a little less than its full sized counterpart.

[@BarryJohns]

Don't rush to fill it, take your time and buy gear that will move your forward....It's a great format, enjoy!

[@user-th6rh8zp3t]

ok but the full size clariphonic is a hard one to knock, well worth the money imo

[@tobysteele1028]

Cranborne is ADAT 500 formatted

[@BarryJohns]

I referenced that one in the video.

[@ReynaldoIvanPena]

Lindell Channel X, you’re welcome

[@industryandaudio]

I have a Vintage King 500 series rack with power issues. I’m only using two slots, my BAE 1073 and Acme Audio XLA compressor. Both of these units were manufacture tested and I’m still having power issues. I’m assuming it’s the actually VK Lunchbox not being able to power the two units? What should I do?

[@BarryJohns]

Earlier units lesser expensive units are known to have power issues, but I’d be surprised if the VK sponsored ones fell onto that category. Have you called Vintage King?

[@industryandaudio]

@@BarryJohns Yeah I'm currently speaking with one of their specialists. They mentioned that my power conditioner may have something to do with it so I'm testing it without it at the moment.

[@BarryJohns]

@@industryandaudio sounds right. They are good people.

[@industryandaudio]

@@BarryJohns Hey Barry just wanted to come back to this thread and let you know this issues isn’t there anymore. Turns out I was right about my mic (Sony c100). I think the cap was having issues and was cutting in and out of power during recording. I got a new one through the manufacturing warranty. Thanks again for all the help!

[@basstools]

Hey Barry, Do you have any favorite 500 series stereo compressors?

[@BarryJohns]

The only 500 Series Stereo Compressor I have is the Stam Audio SSL unit.

[@hbrookes]

Hello Barry, In your opinion..Very nice vocal channel or series 500? Currently using a Presonus 192 which is very clean but looking for THAT vocal tone..LOL. Best, love uour channel.

[@alejandroguzman6038]

Greetings Barry, in what I am doing I only have the following in the 500 series. 6Api 512c 6Api 512v 4 RND 551 14 RND 542 3 RND R10 and I want the boxes with Db25, how about those 500.

[@BarryJohns]

That's a solid arsinel!

[@smitty80]

What do you think of all in 1 units like "Louder than Liftoffs Silver Bullet MkII?"

[@BarryJohns]

I’ve looked at it and not looks cool that’s all I got at this point.

[@babaorumstudio6280]

At least you'll keep your Carbon interface or change it to the RME/Pulse ... ?

[@BarryJohns]

Already changed to the RME/Pulse combo.

[@whistlemusic8572]

Surface mount will never sound like through hole ;)

[@electronicbox6990]

Just a quick note, I have friends that have API box, and they are noisy. And also other youtubers report that. API invent this 500, but this not means that they had the best launchbox.

[@Hirokee_]

New intro music is banging

[@BarryJohns]

A fan of the show played and recorded that and sent it to me.

[@JimJWalker]

I just got into 500 series. I bought a Bento 8 chassis, with a Warm Audio TB12, and a dbx 560A, 530, and a 520. I am still experimenting with what the chain does best with. But, so far I have used it on DI bass and it sounds great. I haven't used the dbx 520 De-esser yet. We will see how it goes.

[@BarryJohns]

Have Fun, those Bento Boxes look interesting

[@FransvandenBergeMuziekschuur]

Prices are dropping below 100 euro/dollar range... With the Fredenstein pre SE.

[@sickmessiah]

Been thinking about getting Wes audio stuff. Any thoughts?

[@sergiomonreal7405]

That Mimas compressor is 🔥🔥🔥 ! The pre has a sketchy saturation to it but the comp.. 💪🏽

[@TheStudeo74]

I use to sell dj equipment in the 90’s. Kids with their parents or adults with limited budget would come to the store to buy a set of decks and a mixer. I would do my best to try to convince them to buy only one 1200 Mk2 instead of the whole set in a budget brand like BST/Gemini… I knew they wouldn’t be able to scratch property. There would be rumble because of weak insulation. The whole set would rapidly deteriorate. It would be difficult to resell. Anyway, only a minority would follow my advice. I felt sad for parents who didn’t have the money and would just help their kids to reach their dreams. I didn’t feel bad for the adults with low budget who didn’t do the research properly and were just in a hurry to break the dj market with cheap intentions, and cheap results and developed cheap expectations from customers and the public in general. The positive aspect of 500 world is that some modules like filters are easier and cheaper to produce but others and chassis need to be build seriously and will cost a minimum.

[@Vibekilla]

This dude is the cool version of Bill Nye for music nerds. :)

[@BarryJohns]

I am not that smart, but I try😁

[@Vibekilla]

@@BarryJohns oh believe me you are! Subbed! God bless you!

[@EddieJarnowski]

My strategy is to not buy them because the economy is ruined.

[@OutspokenRap]

😒

[@AnodyneHipsterInfluencer]

Facts on the economy.

[@francoisberkinjr5088]

Cranborne Audio

[@BenLukemusic]

Dubyah😂

[@PurpleMusicProductions]

Great topic Barry! I have just a few pieces of 500 series gear and your advise is spot on. All of the slots are not full, but your approach is the one I am doing, except the mic pres as I already have that covered in rack units. I would say stick with the known manufacturers of quality like Neve, BAE, API and etc. I have heard mixed reviews about the Lindell and Midas product lines. As always check out the used market for quality gear although it takes patience.

[@BarryJohns]

Lindell can be spotty.....Check out Capi vs API, I think you'll be surprised......Also AudioScape V3 for compressor.

[@PurpleMusicProductions]

@@BarryJohns I have heard great things about Capi and Audioscape. I will give them a look for sure. Thanks Barry!!!

[@lightafluident.9950]

Midas sucks. Don't buy cheap if you want quality sound.

[@PurpleMusicProductions]

@@lightafluident.9950 Yeah I have definitely heard that to stay away from them.

[@yaadiiboy9429]

anyone got a used fredenstein bento 2 or any lunchbox selling or want to trade?

[@DarkTrapStudio]

"You get what you pay for" Exept Stam you get more I guess

[@dannydaniel8975]

Would have been really helpful and time-saving if you told us what some of the junk was...

[@noelgallard1128]

But like all the consoles were 500series 🤔 and I know how much power a guitar pedal can have. So I don’t think 500 series are worse than the big racks.

[@BarryJohns]

Has both in f to do with power, it’s space.

[@gabet3754]

Stay away from HRK. It’s junk and poor customer service

[@johnwalter6410]

This guy would make a stellar used car salesman

[@BarryJohns]

I did that back in the 80’s!

[@gabrielevion7055]

is your audio heavily clipping or am I trippin?

[@BarryJohns]

I don’t know, did you eat some God awful tasting dried mushrooms?

[@johnwalter6410]

Some guy was trying to tell me one time that 500 series units make your mix sound small ha ha ha.