Frequently asked questions
Q. Why
would someone want to insert a transformer in the channel insert of a mixer?
A.
Transformers have been used for decades in professional audio equipment. They
are credited with imparting some of the signature sound of which many sought
after vintage processors are noted for. The TI-600 has characteristics that
“sweeten” the sound of the audio passing through it, especially inputs with
transients or artifacts from digital-to-analog converters. Ultrasonic content
is rolled-off smoothly or filtered out completely, eliminating intermodulation
distortion. Electric guitars are silkier. Vocals and percussive content can
also benefit from the presence of a high quality audio transformer when
tracking to digital media.
Q.
Why
is there a channel insert on my mixing board?
A.
The simple
answer is that “you can plug an effects box into the thing and make things
sound different.” As good as your mixer is the preamps are probably not as
colorful as those in some type of outboard unit, whether vintage or something
that is currently available. Also, using a channel chain with a slightly
different sound helps to separate the instruments within the mix.
Q
How does a channel insert work?
A.
Somewhere between the
input and routing section of the mixer’s channel strip the signal is presented
to a jack that sends and recovers an unbalanced audio signal to an outboard
device. This allows the introduction of an outboard piece of equipment in the
record or mixing chain.
Q
Why do I need a TI-600 instead
of a more expensive outboard processor?
A
There are many wonderful outboard processors on the market that provide a wide
palette of sound processing coloration and control. High-end processors and
hard to find vintage units can sometimes be more expensive than your mixer.
The TI-600 was developed as an inexpensive alternative to an outboard
processor and can be used in much the same way to produce a unique sound when
desired. The TI-600 has the added benefit of providing inter-stage transformer
coupling which tends to filter out ultrasonic content and artifacts from
digital converters.
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