I'm brand new and I've got a question.
I am specifically looking for reccommendations on a stereo compressor/line pre/EQ box that I can use for cutting keyboards, samplers, etc into my DAW and running my stereo mix through to approximate mastering. I want to spend around $2000. It doesn't need phantom power. Also, EQ is not critical (I have an old TLA EQ-1 that is okay) but would be nice.
Some of the boxes I have been looking at are:
Avalon VT-747SP
API 2500
Alan Smart C2 or C2M (SSL stereo bus comp)
Vintech 1272 plus a stereo compressor like the Joe Meek SC2.2 or 2 FMR RNC's
DBX 162SL
Drawmer 1968
Manley Electro Optical
2 Summit Audio TLA-50s
I already own a 6176 and another option would be for me to buy a second 6176 and stereo link them (bypassing the 610s during mastering if I used them to cut).
I could go as low as a Focusrite "Twin Track Pro". On the high end would a Manley "Variable MU" work for my application as well?