top of page
  • Writer's pictureTapetown

Any Outboard Gear Favourites?




Outboard gear is an essential component of any recording studio. It is used to process and shape the sound before it is recorded into a digital format. High-end outboard gear can make all the difference in achieving a professional sound, and choosing the right gear can be a bit of a challenge, given the sheer number of options available. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the best high-end outboard gear brands for recording studios.

  1. Universal Audio: Universal Audio is a well-known brand in the recording industry, and for good reason. They offer a range of high-end outboard gear, including preamps, equalizers, compressors, and more. What sets Universal Audio apart is their focus on analog emulation. Their gear is designed to replicate the sound of classic analog gear, while incorporating modern features and technology.

  2. API: API (Automated Processes Inc.) is another well-respected brand in the recording industry. They are known for their high-quality preamps, equalizers, and compressors, and their gear is used in many professional recording studios around the world. API gear is known for its clear, punchy sound, and it is a popular choice for recording engineers and producers.

  3. Neve: Neve is a British company that is best known for their analog mixing consoles, but they also offer a range of high-end outboard gear, including preamps, equalizers, and compressors. Neve gear is known for its warm, rich sound, and it is a popular choice for recording engineers who want to achieve a classic analog sound.

  4. Chandler Limited: Chandler Limited is an American company that specializes in high-end outboard gear. They offer a range of products, including preamps, equalizers, compressors, and more. Chandler Limited gear is designed to emulate classic analog gear, but with modern features and technology. Their gear is known for its warm, rich sound, and it is a popular choice for recording engineers and producers who want to achieve a classic analog sound.

  5. SSL: SSL (Solid State Logic) is a British company that is best known for their analog mixing consoles. They also offer a range of high-end outboard gear, including preamps, equalizers, compressors, and more. SSL gear is known for its clear, punchy sound, and it is a popular choice for recording engineers and producers who want to achieve a professional sound.

When choosing high-end outboard gear, it's important to consider your needs and budget. Do you need a preamp, an equalizer, or a compressor? How much gain do you need? What is your budget? These are all important questions to consider when choosing your gear.

It's also important to consider the type of gear you want. For example, do you want analog gear or digital gear? Analog gear is known for its warm, rich sound, but it can be more expensive and more difficult to use than digital gear. Digital gear, on the other hand, is easier to use and typically more affordable, but it may not offer the same warm, rich sound as analog gear.

Finally, it's important to consider the brand and the quality of the gear. High-end outboard gear is expensive, so it's important to choose a brand that is reputable and has a proven track record of producing high-quality gear. You should also look for gear that is built to last and has a warranty, so you can be sure you're getting the best possible value for your money.

In conclusion, high-end outboard gear is an essential component of any recording studio. Whether you're a recording engineer, producer


Tapetown is a recording & mix studio specialising in alternative genres and Live Sessions Recording And Mix Studio | Live Sessions | Tapetown |

bottom of page