The brand new Audient Studio has been unveiled to coincide with the start of the
new term at the SSR headquarters in Manchester, where a 36 channel ASP8024
console with integrated patchbay and producer’s desk now stands proudly at its
heart.
SSR’s Technical Director, Tom Aston tells us: “Students have been overwhelmingly
positive about the Audient ASP8024. They find it well laid out, spacious and logical.’
This year alone, some 120 students – including those studying for Music Production
and Sound Engineering degrees – will get their hands on the console, giving it ample
opportunity to prove its reputation for reliability and longevity.
The SSR teaching staff all appreciate different things about the desk. Audio
Engineering Tutor, Alan Wrench uses the console on a daily basis. “I personally like
the insert bypass and the clear indication of the channel signal present.’
Replacing a 20 year-old Amek Einstein Super-E, Aston acknowledges it was time for
something “more modern and reliable.’ The decision to go for the British desk was
pretty straight forward, it turns out. “There really aren’t any other new consoles
that provide these features and options at this price point.’
So how does the ASP8024 fit in at SSR? “The Audient Studio is one of three of our
intermediate level studios. The other studios comprise of a digital console and a
control surface, so the Audient helps us to provide a great balance of console
formats to students at this level.’
Wrench adds, “Teaching the analogue signal path is very important and helps
students understand other formats, such as digital. We use the desk to demonstrate
all aspects of a typical recording project.’ It’s not just about the formal lectures
though, as Wrench explains: “Not only is it used in lessons but it is available for
students to use in their own sessions and projects, where they put their knowledge
into practice.’
SSR started life in Manchester some 31 years ago as the School of Sound Recording
and has since expanded its offering to provide all manner of courses in creative
exploits, and according to its website is “creating music, film & games professionals
all over the world.’ Events and Marketing Manager, Matt Talbot is keen to tell us
more. “SSR never stands still, and that is one of the great strengths of our
institution. We are constantly evolving in many different ways; updating our
facilities and software, forging new partnerships and links within the creative
industries, organising student and public events and exploring new course areas.
With three further campuses in London, Jakarta, and Singapore, the future of SSR is
exactly as Talbot describes it: “In one word – exciting!’ Audient is pleased to be a
part of that.
