Ergonomics of Classic Recording Studio Gear

onhwy61

Getting warmer - yes, the Studer stuff is what I had in mind - a variety of big buttons for the transport and other functions, with some of them back lit and labeled with tiny letters.

I am not sure what you guys mean by "primitive", but the older I get, the more I am less convinced of "progress" in the audio world in the last 30 years or so, other than just a few exceptions here and there, and once in a blue moon, some decent sounding digital gear.

There is no doubt that the musicians and engineers for the records we mentioned were highly skilled, but I would also argue that the equipment had to also be amazing or those recordings would not still sound so good in 2006.

If DSOTM, from 1973, can still challenge the best audio equipment we have today in terms of complexity, low frequencies, detail, imaging, dynamic range and contrasts, spooky realism etc. then how could it be possible that it was recorded on "primitive" equipment?

One of the reasons that inspired me to write this thread was the wish that new equipment might perform, look and feel as good as the "primitive" pieces in the link you provided.

Thank you for your posts.

Viridian

Having reviewed a few of your threads, I have great respect for your experience, opinions and in particular, your choice of "all time greatest" speakers.

So perhaps you should have your ears checked?

Im not saying that DSOTM is the holy grail of recordings for the rest of time, but let's face it, it ain't bad and it is still used as a "reference" recording by many audiophiles.

Please do give us some suggestions for some recently recorded material that blows it away for clarity, dynamics and detail. Extra credit if the music is any good.

And it would be really interesting to know what type of equipment this newly recorded music was made on.

Good answer! And thanks for the Triumph reference.

I understand more now, but still think the looks and the spirit of a lot of the old gear was very cool compared to what is made today. Which is why I post all these weird look, feel and ergonomic questions.

With the growing popularity of PC based audio, I think this situation will get worse before it gets better, which is another reason I am preoccupied with the topic.