Distressors or HEDD's... Preferences anyone?

[vtone]

I'd like add something in the signal path when mixing down between PT24 and 2-track 1/2" tape. I'm torn between a pair of Distressors (I currently don't have any outboard compression) and a pair of CraneSong HEDD's. If anyone has any experience with both of these please advise which might be better in my situation. Thanks

[Kevin Nettleingham]

The HEDD is amazing. I use it everyday. You probably only need one of them since it is a stereo box. As an added bonus you get great Ad/DA converters!

[vtone]

Thanks Kevin

The convertors are better than the 888/24? Do you use them on entire mixes or individual instruments? Can you describe how it colors the sound?

Sorry for all the questions, I'm just looking for some advice from someone who isn't a salesman!

[Jules]

Sheesh! Thats a tough one!
Although I would grab the Hedd first in a fire, (and use the distressor to smash my way out of there with it!)
You ARE getting a tape sound if you mix to tape aren't you?!
The distressor happens to be a 'wonder product' , you might be better off using it for RECORDING than getting a Hedd just for mixdown.. How can you not have outboard compression and PT & a 1/2 inch machine?!!!
I own both Hedd & Distressor but haven't had time to audition the converters against my Apogee's or 888/24, I have a sinking feeling the Hedd will be better than both...
Anyone else?

P.S. the new Hedd has 182k on it! Sheesh!

Jules

[vtone]

Jules, the image of someone slashing at the flames with a Distressor clutching their HEDD like an infant is one I won't soon forget! Wow that Distressor is good for more applications than I thought!

I know it seems a little over the top to run a mix through HEDD on the way to 1/2" but I'm a little crazy like that.

If you get a chance to A/B the convertors on the Apogee against the HEDD be sure and let us all know.

Thanks

[Sortasonic]

Distressor + HEDD + tape sounds like it might be a saturated mess.

[CCash]

Hey Sorta, checked your site and sure enough... very small world here. So, you have the market cornered at Gullifty's! I have yet to see this incarnation, and hope to soon. Not sure which member you are. I've shared the stage with Cole, the Pollins, and my favorite from way back - The Leaving Time. They blew my mind when I was 18, loved that stuff. Maybe you know Chris at Menchy Music in York? He's my brutha. Congrats to Jason on the Nashville gig, he's smokin. OK, enough personal chit-chat, Good luck...

[vtone]

I agree with sortasonic about saturation overload. I definitely don't want to put the whole mix through distressors. but I think going through the HEDD first and then to tape is a good idea. the DA conversion will be better than the the 888/24 and I can 'smooth out the edges' a little.

[Jules]

Sell that 1/2 inch to get more digital gear
Jules

[Jules]

Sell that 1/2 inch to get more digital gear
Jules