BBE Sonic Maximizer 882i: Why and How I Use It
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2024
- The 882i restores the original audio integrity of a performance, giving you clean sound unhampered by deviations that occur when music is played through a sound system. Watch all of this presentation now to see why the BBE 882i Sonic Maximizer is so important, and why you should use it too. #BBEsonicMaximizer #SonicMaximizer #BBE
For years, like many others, I ignored how my system was actually altering my sound. Instead of fixing the problem at the source, I used other effects to compensate for the differences between the source and the final output of the audio signal chain. In the back of my mind I knew I needed help. I was familiar with the BBE line of sonic maximizers, but I didn’t know exactly how they worked. When I found out, I thought it would fix the issues. When I implemented the unit in my studio, I knew I was right. I wanted to share this information with you in hopes that it will help make your productions even better like it did mine.
Thanks for the video. Bought one of these 882i units a couple years ago. Initially, I added it to my signal path into my DAW interface and would use it when tracking things like vocals and guitars. Definitely helped "liven up" those tracks. Now I'm figuring out that it works very well as a mastering effect as well. It very much helps with the clarity and definition of my final product.
You're most welcome. As you already know, the applications for this device are numerous and the impact can be significant. Hopefully others will discover this as well. The 882i can be an important factor between sounding good and soudning great.
100% I had it in my old analogue studio.. Got it out and put it in my pc chain..sound card out ...into BBE into amp.
It's amazing.
Thanks for the clear and concise explanation. I've had a BBE 482i in my bass rig for years and added an 882i to my home studio setup. I use the controls modestly and their contribution is positive and enjoyable.
You’re most welcome. Thanks so much for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
I absolutely love this bbe maximizer!! It was recommended to me from a relative who used to dj, I had no knowledge of this and went ahead and trusted his opinion and my goodness it was the best decision I’ve ever made adding this to my rack, I use it with my passive system and it absolutely shines! I’m also going to order the smaller version of this maximizer (bbe 282ix) for my powered system!
A wise decision to add one to your active system. I also agree that if the right amount of Maximizer is used where needed, it can take your mix to the next level. Thanks for watching, and wishing you the very best. 👍🏿
@@PowercoatMusic thanks for your honest insights and thanks for replying!
first guy to explain this brilliant unit properly ... I have it in my bass rig, and it's almost indispensable when playing at low volume and in poorly treated rooms.. i.e. my bedroom for practice.
Thanks for watching, it' s appreciated. 👍🏿
I liked your video and also your accent, it's quite easy to understand for non native speakers. Kind regards from Mexico City.
Thanks so much for watching. It is appreciated. 👍🏿
An old engineer "friend" of mine stole my 882i back 2013... I've got a 482i finally coming in the mail Tuesday. You may have just convinced me to get another 882i, I forgot how magical they were when my older brother showed one to me.
I have always considered the “Theft” of studio gear to be a capital offense. Just Kidding! 😊 But seriously, purchasing another one is a wise move. These units do make a significant sonic difference when properly applied. It was the missing link in my chain that I needed. Thanks so much for watching and sharing! 👍
I always learn a ton from these videos, and now will be purchasing the BBE. Excellent presentation as always!
Thanks for watching, we appreciate it. Wishing you all the very best.
learn what? he just reads off of google where did he show samples? where did he hook the item up?? this channel is al click bait you can learn more reading yourself off google that is all he is doing .
Great video man, Very Helpful indeed. As someone that uses a lot of hardware, I will have to pick up a few of these units :)
I'm glad it was useful, thanks so much for watching. 👍
Your video is enlightening, interesting, informative n precise. I'm learning of this equipment for the time and I'm thinking l may need it. How to connect it to Powered Speakers?
One way is to connect the unit into the processor loop of a pre-amp or mixer. The pre-amp or mixer would then be connected to your speakers. Thanks for watching.
This device can make your mix sound unique.I used it and does the job.
Thanks for the video..
You're most welcome. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
Thank you for the video, do I connect this unit before or after my dbx DriveRack PA2? I have two power amp running my speakers.
It's suggested to place the sonic maximizer right before the power amp. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
I know you probably covered this. As you covered a lot. Thanks for this video. Very helpful. One question. I have a sure sm7b. And a Yamaha 88 key grand piano. Can I put the mic and piano into this unit and then into my tascam 24sd to enhance my mixes. I record live. So I would like to use this unit in the recording chain. Going from my mic and keyboard straight into the tascam. I hope I can. Lol.
Yes you can and there are many ways to do it. However, in a live mixing situation you should be able to add the device to your mixer’s aux sends and returns and use it for any instruments in your mix that you chose. You can also do the same with the DP to get that result as well. Check out my video called “Tascam DP24/DP32 Digital Portastudio: Using External Effects” on this channel. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
@@PowercoatMusic ok thank you very much. I will check out that video as well. I appreciate it. Awesome
I want to use the small 282 bbe for my home stereo in garage. I have a Yamaha home receiver bluetooth and I just want to plug my android but how do connect a bbe in from my phone. The bbe has to hook in before my receiver ? IDK
If I'm understanding your setup correctly, I would say "Yes". You would want the BBE in the signal chain before the receiver so that audio is processed prior to the Bluetooth connection. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
From the manual:
The BBE Sonic Maximizer is connected into the chain in series with the signal path the same way a graphic equalizer or limiter would be connected. The output of a mixer, pre-amp, or other sound source feeds the input of the Sonic Maximizer. Setting up the Sonic Maximizer as an echo send device like a digital reverb is not recommended as the processed effect is not fully realized when summed with the original source audio. In order to reduce the risk of damage to any equipment, properly connect all cables and power cables before turning on any components in the system.
When comparing, it is very important to match levels as close as possible (when done right, even within a 10th of a dB). Bypassing the unit with the eq open results in a (big) loudness difference, so listeners will almost always tend to like the enabled effect most. There is no compensation gain at the hardware unit, so for a fair a/b comparison the eq buttons should be set to 0. This is the only way to really hear the effect of the BBE effect only.
Thanks for your comments. Your advice and insight is very appreciated.
More than welcome, appreciate your reply as well as the effort you put in your video's. Seems to me that you put a lot of time in it! Just a suggestion: maybe some concrete audio examples would be a good suggestion for a future video too. Anyway, keep it up! :)
Thank you for your feedback. I will keep that in mind. Best Regards and thanks again for watching!
'is very important to match levels'. Not really. There's no such thing as a fair a/b comparison. When testing a unit that changes sound, there would be no point in setting it to where it doesn't do anything, that's just audiophile mumbo. It's designed to maximize levels not match levels.
"There's no such thing as a fair a/b comparison." There certainly is, and this is known for quite a while in science. To human ears louder sounds almost always better. Level matching makes the comparison fair. It is really important to do this, to avoid the "louder is better" perception.
"When testing a unit that changes sound, there would be no point in setting it to where it doesn't do anything". Of course not. I don't think anyone claimed that. You describe a situation where 2 sources are the same. The contour and process knobs on the BBE are just a very simple eq really. They have nothing to do with the amount of processing. The BBE processing is active when "BBE Process" is enabled. This is what should be compared with the source. And yes, of course it should be level matched, so with contour and process on zero position.
where is the proper spot within the signal chain for this product when using it as a DJ in live PA applications..? I'm think after my tube preamp but before the Driverack PA2, or would you put it BEFORE the tube preamp..?
I never thought of using this in the effects loop. I've always encountered these things in the main mix bus of systems. This seems like one more thing that would have to get adjusted or could get bump;and nobody would realize it. And all those systems that I've used with them the newer ones the red ones it always seemed like I was fighting the entire system to get it to sound good well also not feeling like I dare touch the knobs on it.
Hello from Ohio! I have a BBE and it works great with my passive Peavey tops when DJing. Now I'm thinking about getting some powered tops. Can I still use a BBE with those? Or should I ask "is it safe to use with powered speakers?"
That should be fine. I use mine with both active and passive speakers. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
@@PowercoatMusic awesome! I know some powered speakers have DSP built in. So I think that helps without a need for a BBE but I'll have to try it out if I decide to get some powered speakers with or without that option. Thank you for your quick reply! Take care.
When use the "BBE Harmonic Maximazer" instead?
i have a plan to buy bbe 882i this month is it worth is what is improvement in audio quality?
I think it is, but some may disagree for whatever reasons. For more information, watch my presentation "BBE Sonic Maximizer 882i - Definition, Applications & Sound Demo", on this channel. I hope that helps.
@@PowercoatMusic which is better on sound system mono or stereo?
Can you use this while recording to a daw? Thank you for the video!
Yes you can. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
Hi I have preamp connected to usb interface ... Can I simply connect maximiser to preamp ??? Thanks for answer 🎧🎧🎧
Yes. You can connect this device directly to your pre-amp. That should work well. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
Thanks for your video. I’m trying to wrap my mind around +4db and -10db. From what I gather, for home studios -10db is the norm. I’m putting together a mastering rack, currently only the dbx 231 eq, but will be getting a compressor/gate and possibly a bbe. Will the i882 work well if my other units are set to -10db? Or should I use +4 on all units? I’m running the rack loop through the inserts on a Tascam Model 24 btw. Thanks!!
I go with +4 on all my units, whenever possible. Unleash the beast and control it. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
@@PowercoatMusic Ok, gotcha. I'll play around with it. Thanks!
Hello, nice video !, question, I am a DJ for the connection, I connect the BBE before or after equalizer ? Thank you
It is suggested that you connect it after the equalizer. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
Thank you
Do you find 5 & 6 setting the best/nice? Guessing my 18” sub will sound tighter again will this make it limit bit better due to the input
Settings 5 & 6 are pretty good usually, though it really depends on the recording. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
whats the difference between a fourth generation and a regular bbe and how much difference is there, db wise or sonically? there is some difference I hear in them.
You may want to contact BBE support on this one. They should be able to give you the details you’re looking for in this area. Otherwise if anyone else knows for sure, please chime in? Thanks for watching and sharing.
Hello. I plan on using this with a dbx driverack pa2. Should this be connected before the driverack or after. Thanks.
Great question. Usually with DSPs I would say after. However because of what this one does, before might work well too. Please experiment to see which works best for you and let everyone know? Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
Will this be a good with my Akai MPC ONE??
Yes, I think it could help if applied in moderation. Thanks for watching.
So, this unit does not have a potentiometer, it’s a phase corrector and because of this, volume increases
When you use it for mastering what part of the chain you insert it
In my external mastering chain, the 882i is after the equalizer and before the compressor.
@@PowercoatMusic thank you man
You're most welcome. Thanks for watching. 👍
Powercoat Music does the manual suggest or do you have any evidence of why it shouldn’t be placed after both ie. you have 2 track into a summing mixer for mastering and that said summing mixer has fabulous bus compressor which then output to bbe and into daw or should it come out from daw to bbe to said mixer then back into daw. Sorry if this is confusing. I can grab one really cheap round the way and found your video. Peace king.
@MMOBBIIN Your ears are always the best judge for what sound you are ultimately trying to achieve. However, BBE does not recommend setting up the SM as an echo send type device like a reverb. This is because the processed effect is not fully realized when summed with the original source audio. This is also a matter of logic and best practice based on how the unit was designed. I use it for mastering so hence my suggested setup. Lastly creativity is invoked when you think outside the box. Although with that, the unit may not yield the desired results (or any at all). I hope this information helps. Thanks for watching and sharing, and please let us know what you ultimately do?
So are you talking about an active crossover I have a 3 way cross over not installed yet can it be used as a two way?
We know that 3 way crossovers have frequencies for 3 drivers, not 2. So if you choose to use a 3 way crossover for a 2 way system, you would need to give up either bass, midrange or treble because you physically can’t have all 3 in a 2 way system. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
Follow up question as you are literally the only guy who seems to know what he's talking about doing a review of this.... How well does this work as a stand alone with a single instrument for live performance? Such as in a bass players rack? Does it "cut thru the mix:" properly in a live setting? OR more useful for studio / solo playing? Thank you.
The unit is designed and tested for various instrument racks systems such as guitar and bass as well as recording systems. For instance, a bassist should be able to get more bottom end punch without producing a muddy midrange. I've spoken to bass players who have agreed with this, and love the unit in their setups. I hope this information helps. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
@@PowercoatMusic thanks .. best channel.. your review of the TASCAM Model 12 caused me to buy it... no regrets!
All he does is read off of google never does he show how to hook anything up or give samples this channel is a wash clickbait
can the same results be achieved with just an EQ?
How would I use this with a Apollo Twin X Quad?
In this case, I would suggest using the BBE Sonic Sweet Plug-in Bundle with the Apollo Twin X Quad. You can purchase and download it from Sweetwater.com. Thanks for watching.
Can i use the channel A on my tops then channel B on my Sub? Or only 1 channel in maximizer>active xover> then tops and sub? Thanks
what if you are using a line 6 helix for live applications, would this be the go?
When used properly, it could be a good addition to your rack. Thanks for watching. 👍🏿
I hear alot about this unit want to know if the bbe maximizer can use as a subharmonic synthesizer effect
I use a BBE Sonic Stomp on my pedal board. No amount of EQ will give you the results the Stomp will give. I’ve got a Bogner Ecstasy Blue with EQ and a Unit 67 with EQ: as essential as these pedals are to my sound, their EQ simply cannot provide the results the Stomp will give, because although it sounds like it’s a 2 band EQ, actually it is doing much more.
We love to hear about different setups folks are using. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
A demo would have been nice so we can hear it. Otherwise, very informative video.
I demoed the unit in another video, check that out. Thanks for watching.
Well said
? Could I use my compressor to feed the bbe then out to my eqs, then to amps.
It is suggested that in your signal chain that the 882i be placed before a compressor and after a EQ. I hope this information helps. Thanks for watching.
Hello sir.. I have this unit how you hook it up on efx unit? Sonic M will be the last chain or before? Thank in advance.
It is recommended that the compressor be the last in your mastering chain, and it’s suggested that Sonic Maximer be right before that. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching.
Thank you so much for your effort to reply.. God bless you 🙏👍
@@imzaazmi You're most welcome.
Any info on how to process a full mix with this in fl studio?
Yes sir it's true bbe is best in it's class clean treble bass it controls distorted volume controls improve base and treble
It made the difference for me. Especially when it came to Mastering. It’s a cornerstone of my Mastering rack. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍
awesome vid subbed
Does anyone know know how the 882i would sound with a Synergy SYN-2 Pre amp dock & combo amp? I imagine that the sonic maximizer could shape up the sound of the pre-amp synergy modules very well for guitar. I just don't know if it would even work.
Nice...
I have the desktop version the 282iq and wow it hurts my ears very badly, as soon as I turn the knobs to a level where I can actually hear a difference, there is a piercing quality in the highs that instantly hurts my ears in weird and specific ways. I had to stop using this unit, wondering if anyone else has a similar experience.
Isn't this the same as a parametric equalizer with high and low gain adjustments? Which is better?
No. This unit's primary focus is Phase Correction. It's not a matter of which is better, it depends on what you need it for and or if the unit needed at all for your specific setup. Knowing your requirements is important in this regard. Thanks for watching and sharing. 👍🏿
Great video! Question....I’m a mobile Dj and I came across the 482i Sonic Maximizer. I want to add it to my amp rack with my crossover.
In doing so, with cables coming from my mixer...do I connect to the maximizer them crossover or crossover first...?
Thanks!
Thanks for watching and sharing. I would suggest connecting the 482i just after the crossover, and before the amplifier. That should work for your setup. I hope this information helps.
If you don't have a #PULTEC get a BBE #SONICMAXIMIZER!
This description of the device's function is totally non-technical.
I would like to know in signal processing terms what it is doing.
I just analyzed the vst version with Plugindoctor (have an 882 hardware model as well, but they should sound very similar). Turns out its frequency behavior is very dependent on the input signal.
For instance playing a test tone +7dB in Plugindoctor skews the frequency response. A slight and broad bump around 700Hz and a roll-off from 2kHz.
When I set the test tone at -3dB I see a bell around 700Hz, 4.5dB boost, broad.
So for this reason only I would not recommend putting this on your masterbus. It is not transparent at all.
Phase response also changes with input volume, as the frequency response changes with that as well.
THD is well over 150dB below the test tone, so that would be really transparent. I do see however a clear aliasing peak though that one is still like 100dB below the test tone.
Al impulsetest with only 1 positive sample results in a more symmetrical impulse with almost the same energy on both sides.
Dynamics test doesn't reveal any change in dynamics.
The lo contour/process buttons are in practice just a very cheap eq so I didn't bother testing those, I left them at 0.
Again this is the software version so the results might be somewhat different than the hardware unit.
I did use it a lot in the past but nowadays hardly anymore. It is not a wonder tool, learning how to create great mixes will be far more beneficial for a producer tbh.
Anyway, would be nice to hear some concrete with/without examples in this vid, listening is of course the proof of the pudding :)
@@bubbelchampagne really appreciate this information.
You're welcome! Maybe I re-run this test again some day with the hardware model. I won't say the 882 is useless btw, but their claim is a bit disputable. Yes, it is true that in 2-way (or 3-way) speakers the cross-overs cause phase shift, but every speaker is different and has different cross-over frequencies. So unless the BBE 'knows' these specs, it's just a wild guess at which frequencies the phase distortion occurs.
TDR slick eq has a similar function in the low frequencies they call phi (φ). It delays low frequencies which can give a good result or not. It is really a manner of trial and error.
BBE are boss just for a master out.
They have other applications
It sure does. I haven't used it outside of mastering yet, but would love to hear from others that have.
@@PowercoatMusic I'm running Ableton.
I went through my old gear and thought.. "Hmm no tape hiss higher s/n ratio...but I Wonder if It makes the mix better. "
It did and now my mix sounds muddy with it off.
Great machines.
Hifi audio for ham radio
So would this go before or after the EQ ?????
After. Thanks for watching.