Vocal front end

[ianmiller]

I would be grateful for advice from experienced engineers/Pro Tools users. I have a Neumann TLM103 into an Avalon M5 into PT HD 7.3.1. I find the vocals flat and lifeless and always add processing (mainly compression and "air" EQ) to liven things up. I would like to capture a more pleasing sound at source. In addition, I work with a loud singer which also means a little compression at the front end would be good.

So the question is - would you add a channel strip (like an Avalon 737 or a UA device) at the front end, or add the SSL4000 plug-ins and put everything in through an Aux in with the SSL plugs inserted? Eventually, I am probably going to purchase both items but would be glad of any advice as to which to buy first (budgets not being massive).

Many thanks for your help........

[TVPostSound]

You need to add "air" EQ to a TLM103???
I would consider a different mic choice, rather than a pre for that particular singer!!
The 103 has a 5dB shelf from 6K to 16K.

Seriously look at a different mic.

[strider07]

You might try another mic. The right mic for the right singer is hard to beat.

If you're going into ProTools, you might want to consider not applying compression while you record. You shouldn't pick up any noise by recording even a loud singer at a safe level... then adjust the performance after you get it printed.

I like the MP2-NV pre for vox... but there are so many great mics and pres, it really has more to do with what sort of sound the singer is making. If you like the sound the singer is making and don't like the sound you are getting to PT, I don't think EQ and Compression are going to get you there as well as trying a different mic and/or pre.

Everyone's milage varies and the basepath belongs to the runner! (Sorry, listening to a Ty Cobb story on the radio at the same time here....) ;-) Good luck

[stanonbass]

I dont mind the TLM103. Its not the best mic out there but its good for the money.

I honestly am not a fan of avalon stuff. I had a 737sp and didnt care for it. Compressor didnt even seem like it worked. EQ is ok in it though. To pretty sounding for my taste. I like the grit of neves. TLM into a neve sounds great in my opinion. Especially in combination with a distressor.

[Barry Johns]

I think it may be a combination. I would start with a better Mic Pre:

UA LA-610
Great River ME-1NV
Pacifica (Yum Yum)
UA Solo 610 (I've got 1 for sale)

I would suggest getting a Pearlman TM1

[ianmiller]

Many thanks for the input. I had never heard of the Pearlman but that looks very interesting.....

Is the UA LA610 something you have used? Your views?

Thanks again......

[Barry Johns]

Yes, I own all of the above. Do a search over at gearslutz.com on the Pearlman TM1. I have one and it is an awesome mic. Yes the LA610 is a very good piece. I love it on Vox and Acoustic Guitar.

[banana boy]

I have a Rode Classic II into a UA6176 - the UA changed my life when I got it! The pre is great and adding just a little 1176 style compression on the way in has made vocals and voice overs (male and female) so much more present and rich. Try it ... I'm sure you'll like it.

[banana boy]

... and the UA6176 sounds fabulous with DI'd bass guitar!