http://theoutboardrack.com/You are looking at the pre-phase one website of a new Silicon Valley company that has not yet been fully exposed to the public. We are still doing a lot of test marketing.
For those finding the site, the greatest misconception appears to be that the spacecraft isn't manned. It is, by myself as well as by two other seasoned and very talented audio engineers.
The second misconception is that processing is being done with a blindfold on. It isn’t. We communicate with each client until we understand exactly what they want. Frequently, equipment isn't discussed until we understand the goal. Before tracks are printed, the client receives an MP3 to approve. The per track price includes use of the equipment as well as the processing performed by someone who has significant experience using that component.
The idea for this company was conceived in recognition of three market conditions within the music industry that we view as long term.
1. Mastering is a growing market segment among home recording enthusiasts. We are projecting that the need for a hybrid type of audio facility that can either assist in or perform full mastering services will be strong over the next decade, providing the quality exceeds that which is considered typical in the industry.
2. Hi quality recording and mastering equipment is here to stay despite advances in computer software programs. The desirability of world class equipment will continue to exceed its affordability and 95% of musicians will never have equipment of the highest caliber due to cost. We view the ability to put processing normally considered unaffordable, into the hands of everyone as a niche that hasn’t been filled
3. It isn't possible for the majority of us to get a demonstration of high end equipment, particularly that which is backordered or in strong demand. So is sending a track to us to hear the effect of say, a Weiss DS1-Mk2 the best way to get a demonstration? Probably not. But it is one of the fastest and most affordable ways bar none and in many cases it's the ONLY way.
From a recent client in Australia:
The compressor is very hi fi sounding and its great to actually hear one. As I will be buying blind as no one has one that I know in Australia. Like a lot of things . A pretty cool idea to upload and process files for things you are looking at big $’s for and cannot try first. Yes I would rather play with the knobs myself although great ot hear my tracks processed.Only posting my responses for some clarification. I don’t expect the audio professionals who peruse this forum to be our market but the contempt prior to investigation seems to be getting pretty weighty. I don’t view this venture as the deterioration of audio as we know it, quite the contrary. Our standards are remarkably high. I view this as an opportunity to let those who have a thirst for audiophile grade sound quality to experience it at a cost they can afford.
As to the original question,
does this make sense? You never fully know until you try it, so we're trying it. Then again, we're in Silicon Valley and we do things differently here. Ever hear of the pet rock or a thing called the Apple computer?
Duane Adam
http://theoutboardrack.com/Silicon Valley CA