Essential Tool for Music Production: the Channel Strip

Hello!
Kaoru the composer here!

This time, I would like to talk about a super useful tool that’s indispensable for music production called the “channel strip”.
For those who are wondering, “what exactly is a channel strip?”, I’ll explain that as well.

■ What is a Channel Strip

A channel strip refers to a channel of a mixer (mixing console) that includes:

• Microphone preamps
• Equalizers
• Compressors
• Noise gates

and so on. It is equipment that has the functions of one channel of a mixer.

By the way, “strip” also means “long, narrow band,” so compared to a large mixer, channel strips are generally long and compact.

■ Advantages of a Channel Strip

Let’s go over some of the benefits of a channel strip packed with these various functions!

○ Reduces PC Load

When you launch plugins like equalizers, compressors, and noise gates individually, it puts a heavy load on your PC.
However, with a channel strip, you only need one plugin, making it easier on your computer.

○ Good Visibility and Usability

Most of the time, all the plugins fit on a single screen, making it easier to grasp each parameter.
Eliminating the hassle of switching between plugins also saves time, allowing for smoother music production.

How about it?
Are you starting to get interested in channel strips?

Now, let’s introduce some carefully selected channel strips that you can purchase from Sound House.

WAVES / SSL 4000 Collection – Download Delivery

The Waves SSL 4000 Collection includes a total of four plugins:

• SSL E-Channel
• SSL G-Master buss Compressor
• SSL G-Equalizer
• SSL G-Channel

Among these, the SSL E-Channel and SSL G-Channel serve as channel strips.

The G-Channel has very sensitive knob responses, making it suitable for detailed sound shaping.
In other words, it may not be ideal for fine adjustments.

The G-Channel produces quite dramatic effects, especially adding punch to the midrange, making it great for processing guitars, vocals, and similar tracks.

Both are fun to use and are great plugins.

If you purchase them during a sale period, they can be acquired at a better price, so be sure to check them out!

SLATE DIGITAL / VMR Virtual Mix Rack

This software plugin replicates classic analog gear in a rack module format.
It gives the feeling of operating the actual hardware.

Each module is housed in a virtual API 500 rack.

This product includes the following effects:

• FG-N BRIT"N" EQ
• FG-S BRIT"4K" EQ
• FG-401 "VINTAGE COMPRESSOR"
• FG-116 "MODERN COMPRESSOR"

Since these modules can be freely combined, you can create your own unique channel strip.
On the official site, you can also purchase additional modules to expand your setup.

This allows you to select and install only what suits your environment, and it’s friendly to your wallet!

SSL (Solid State Logic) / SiX Analog Mixer

A channel strip that is a bit different from the products introduced so far.
It is a single unit that packs many functions into an analog mixer.

Being a desktop type, its operability when placed on a desk is excellent!
Although the number of channels is small, the mixer functions are outstanding, so you can complete recording, mixing, and mastering all by yourself.

It’s perfect for those who want to handle everything on their own.
A Japanese manual is also available for download, so you shouldn’t have any trouble operating it.

The price is 190,000 yen, which is a bit high, but considering the cost of purchasing each processor individually, it’s actually a good deal!
I highly recommend it for those who are seriously active in music production!

That concludes our introduction to “Channel Strips”.
Each has quite distinctive features, so choose the one that best suits you!

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