Mastering Processors Battle : SSL Fusion vs Neve Portico Master Bus Processor
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ก.ค. 2024
- This battle is going to be EPIC!
00:00 - Intro
02:48 - SSL Fusion Overview
04:52 - FUSION: Synthwave Mix
07:33 - FUSION: Insert Mode With Ssl Comp
09:26 - FUSION: POP MIX
11:22 - FUSION: ROCK MIX
12:45 - FUSION : LISTEN MIC COMP (LMC mode)
14:24 - FUSION: ORCHESTRAL MIX
17:39 - Portico II Master Bus Processor Overview
21:15 - MPB: Synthwave MIX
26:28 - MBP : LIMITER- what a LIMITER!
27:40 - Portico II Master Bus Processor: Pop Mix
28:36 - Neve Master Bus Processor: Stereo Field Editor
30:23 - MBP : ROCK MIX (Parallel Compression)
32:58 - MBP : Stereo Field Editor to Comp
36:53 - MBP : ORCHESTRAL MIX
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Dom, probably the best “comparison” of these two on TH-cam.
And you Almost made the point that everyone else gets completely wrong.
Because the RND MBP and the SSL Fusion came out around the same time, they are being compared directly. This is wrong.
The RND MBP is primarily a Stereo (dual mono) Bus Compressor. With a lot of goodies.
The correct comparison is with the SSL G-Bus Compressor. (Which you rightly showed as an Insert. Stay tuned...)
Historically, the comparison was between the SSL G-Bus Comp, the NEVE 33609 Stereo Bus Compressor/Limiter, and the API 2500.
(And obviously a ...few others!)
They each were the last stop of an Analog mixing session, just before printing to 2-track.
And, engineers realized early on that they each added vastly different Character and Glue to the mix.
What Rupert Neve the man did with his ‘new’ company, Rupert Neve Designs, is ‘update’ and modernize and expand upon all of his earlier work (with his original NEVE company now AMS, Focusrite, AMEK, and all of his decades off accumulated knowledge.)
His ‘new’ Mic Pres, EQs, Compressors, Limiters were all ‘better’ than his old.
He also learned, and perfected some new tricks along the way.
Ironically to him, he spent his career trying to get the purest analog achievable with the current electronics of whichever decade. Then people decided they liked the “color” of his oldest designs. So he created the Silk circuits, where you could add color as a seasoning, rather than a marinade.
And.....he pretty much perfected the Mastering art of Mid-Side processing, and produced simple yet powerful and effective tools to do that.
So whatcha get is 2-channels of Rupert Neve’s ‘last word’ on Compressor/Limiters.
Plus Red/Blue Silk “color” at your disposal.
And....you get a MS Encoder & Decoder with Level controls and broad EQ filters over each.
Then.... with the push of a button, you can swap the A/B Compressors from L/R before the MS circuits, to Inserted in between the M/S Encoder and Decoder.
So TONS of control over a Stereo Bus, including but not exclusively the Master Bus.
(I have yet to see a video that properly compares the Character of straight Bus Compression between the comps in the RND MBP and the AMS NEVE 33609, the most obvious new vs old comparison. But then between the SSL G-Bus, the API 2500, Fairchild, etc. They all move differently.)
Okay, so the SSL Fusion, I think should be thought of as Additional Processing controls in addition to the SSL G-Bus Comp, not an alternative to it. (Which is how Many seem to be understanding it.)
For one, the SSL G-Bus Comp was originally built right into the Master Bus of the 4000 then 9000 series Consoles, and ever more.
They THEN made a 19-inch rack version, because of how popular it was.
And then-THEN made both an X-Rack version and a 500-Series version, so anybody could get one.
(And then there’s dozens of hardware ‘clones’ and hundreds of software ‘emulations’, plus convolutions.)
So as Rupert Neve was updating his former 33609, SSL was updating their G-Bus Comp with Added Features.
SSL’s current flagship six-figure console, the Duality is now called Solid State Logic Duality Fusion, and not only includes the built-in G-Bus Compressor in the center section, but also the entire Fusion circuits right in the desk.
The way Dom inserted the G-Bus Comp into the Fusion is as intended.
And you can obviously use any of the components however you like.
But the way to think of the combination is as One Master Bus Processor.
It’s really a system, and an extension of the Comp itself.
When patched together, you can disengage or bypass Every processor section from the the Fusion’s controls, and hear exactly what each component section is adding to the mix, 1-by-1. Including the Compressor.
None of the videos I’ve seen seem to go through just how much flexibility and routing possibly you have with these two joined as intended.
If you read the manual (or RTFM), you’ll really get what’s going on, but IMHO, even inserted into the Fusion, you start with the Bus Compression and then Add additional component before or after it in circuit as desired.
Also, people keep comparing the price of the RND MBP to the SSL Fusion, without the SSL Bus Comp included in the price.
I think Dom has the right combination of tools to compare, and did a great video, but not quite as an apples to apples, head to head, features and workflow comparison. The One box vs the Two boxes as One.
In the end though, I still agree with his conclusion, that if you can afford it, it’s not really an either or but a Both Please!
(Let me add though, that the Fusion doesn’t just add to SSL’s G-Bus Compressor giving it super powers. Those powers are added to Any Stereo Bus Compressor you insert into it. So what about a 33609? How about a 2500? Why not try a super-transparent, super-clean, super-cheap, super-nice FMR RNC, get pristine glue from there and more SSL Color from the Fusion? Or....maybe you insert into the Solid State Logic Fusion, a Rupert Neve Designs Master Bus Processor! Play with everything, See what happens.)
This is spot on! Well said G!
This is so useful and informative, I can only honour your response sir by pinning it so more people can read it. THANK you for this,
I owe you a beer, sir.
@@ndavies8No, You owe the universe Sound.
All ok for the main comment here but they were not released as the same time. Neve MBP was in 2011 and SSL years in 2018.
-
Also I wanted to point out that I had the two units in my studio for nearly 2 years. I turned selling my Neve MBP and keeping the SSL.
I enjoyed watching this battle. Thank you Dom!
Brilliant stuff. Very helpful. Thanks Dom.
Thank you very much Dom! Amazing comparison and lesson.
Excellent content sir. I was looking for a very comprehensive review of both products and you nailed them both. Bravo!
I have both of these as well. Perfect compliment on the 2buss for mixing and mastering. I could never find a good tutorial on the MBP so thank you. I learned so much!! I can’t wait to try the mid-side compression.
Bro this was such a great shootout thank you for doing
this is the video i was looking for my life!!!!! thank you so much
A year ago I almost bought the fusion and my friend talked me into the mbp my favorite piece of hardware by far. This video really showed me how to tap into it beyond what I'm already doing! Thank you!
Pls share your ideas. I just installed the MBP and still learning all it can do.
Perhaps the best equipment review I have yet seen, thanks.
I have literally never seen any creator make a video about gear in so much detail. Love it❤️✨
???
Great review! The black MBP is definitely on my list.
You Rock! My friend!!! Thank you for this Jewel of video!
sir, you are having way too much fun!
great video.👍
You went over the top. Awesome video.
great video, dude. totally wonderful presentation. thank you so much!
Thank you for making this video man!
A Neve MBP user here. This is one of the best demo’s I have seen. Thanks for sharing some cool ideas and show how you use it.
This was super helpful! Thank you!
Thank you so much Dom!
Great vid. Had both of these units for a year now, it’s been great to see how another engineer uses them. The portico MBP is superb, I can highly recommend adding the new Master Buss Converter as the final processor before going back into your DAW, seriously powerful processing!
Which is the master bus converter u use bro?
great useful video thank you for the content Dom!
You have such a great voice for voice over. Made a fan out of me, please more like this!! Love hearing the examples with soft synth pads and singing. Really got my eyes on that SSL Fusion.👏👏🤘🧐
Thank you Lawrence! ❤️
Thanks for helping with my purchasing decision Dom. Took me a while to pull trigger because of the crazy proces in Australia but watching this video 10+ times confirmed. RND owe you.
Bro thanks for this vid, and the shirt rocks
You rock dude! Best channel EVER
Thank you my friend!
The best tutorial on these gears !!! Thanks
Absolutely great!.
great video!! thanks for sharing the goods. both pieces worth musically speaking ! right tools on the right hands, cheers
You have a new follower from Italy 💪🏻😉👍🏻 Awesome comparison, Dom!
Dom that was fun......Thank you!
Great review, I too have been wanting the Portico MBP. Like you, i think both are awesome, and now i would like to see/hear a video of both units chained together👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great VideoDom!!! This was great. Lots of Fun!! Great Job Keep it up. !! Neve all the way for me, because of it’s depth and warmth and it’s versatility is pretty amazing. 🙏
Been researchin the MBP for a few months now, I bought it today, can't wait to try it out! 😃 great video, I can all see all the possibilities on that piece.
Congratulations you won’t regret it
Make sure you try Mid/Side after a couple days
Hi Dom, just wanted to say that your channel is amazing and I love your videos. You're very well presented and sound like a nice and positive person. Keep up the great work 🤘
Thanks for this video. Absolutely help me for my next purchase.
Just installed the RN MBP today. This video sold me on the unit. Its a high quality sound sculpting piece. Love it.
Awesome video ! Greetings from Greece !
Sick, man. Amazing units. I love that Neve sound, but the SSL sounds great too!
nice - thanks for your demonstration !
Thanks you, nice demonstration.
Thanks for this bro 👊🏿
That first song you play there is catchy as hell. Love the video, very informative.
I need the name of the track lol
Nice examples. Both sound great. Loving the Synthwave song :)
class video, subbed
thanx man.... very good info
This was a super good video comparison
Very nice and informative. THank you sir
Hi Dom! I have just found your channel and it is really nice! I have installed my Portico yesterday and your video is really a good start for it! I already love my unit! Thanks for all, I follow. :)
Welcome my friend! And enjoy the Portico !
Excellent video! Ordering the portico!
Have fun! ☺️☺️☺️
Excellent demo Boy !! Bravo because you have demonstrated in a very comprehensive way the fonctionalities of the two machines. I agree with some one's opinion : the best comparison on the market !
My SSL Fusion is on it's way, I am gonna enjoy this video! Thanks Dom!
Have fun, it's an awesome unit!
The MBP Portico II is just amazing.
Amazing video, thanks Dom, would love to see a Dangerous 2bus or AD+ review from YOU, I love how detailed you are !
It's on my list- my Lynx Hilo serves me well for now!
Great video. I bought them both. As you said they do different things. I am amazed by the Neve.
I love that these "studio geek out sessions" that you think are going to be showing some tiny nuance that only the true studio geeks will appreciate...actually end up having valuable techniques that make a huge difference in the sound!
Thank you Scott! I really appreciate it- these videos take ages to make so I am glad you enjoy them!
@@DomSigalas Hi there. So ssl fusion is doesn't work as a limiter? Its only like a colour unit? So what's analog gear we can use like a final limiter, maximizer?
Thanks, Don. I have gotten the Portico II before thru raised the price. I’m still in the learning curve and I love it. It’s so versatile.
That song you were mixing is really really dope
As a film composer - you've convinced me to totally purchase the MBP. Should be here within two weeks, should work wonderfully with my Tegeler Gear! Thank you so much for this Dom!
where did you order the MBP? It seems backordered almost everywhere!
@@humusiclab8974 a local reseller for high end gear had one left :)
How you like it thus far?
I think you should do a mix..the same one with both units and see what's the difference between the two mixes it will really give and idea for those interested in these wonderful units..
Great in depth video.
I’d love to hear and see the Neve portico vs ssl The Buss+ comparison.
My god that hi frequency compressor section❤️❤️ your face says it all :)
I own an MBP and love it. Never fully utilized the SFE TO COMP button but you’ve explained it perfectly. Thx!
How do your output levels looked linked when using the SFE TO COMP even though your processing the signals totally different?
The output level shows left right channels always, not MS :) only the gain reduction shows M/S reduction :)
@@DomSigalas but you’re compressing each side differently, unliked with the MS TO SFE button pressed right?
@@DomSigalas ahh are you matching the makeup gain for each comp? I though you had them set differently and still had an output that looked linked
damn, the MBP blew me away, I like how smooth it is.
When you ran fusion through the bus comp it sounded amazing
Good mixes.
I will put you Sir on the list of my favorite TH-cam content creator in music and audio production.
Thank you Mic!
I use Fusion on my mixbuss and MBP on my mastering chain..Love em both
amazing
"No one is going to die" best comment so far! Love the videos my dude
hahahaha I know right? So many people get offended when you push gear !
@@DomSigalas Made me smile for sure! I am really considering getting this unit after watching this and some other reviews, mainly for mastering purposes. Also been looking at the silver bullet as an option, any opinions on that unit if you have experience with it?
This is why composers and producers have racks of modules in their studios. I am still building my recording studio and it is so much fun! Thinking of paring the SSL the BUS+ with the SSL FUSION. HMMM might purchase the NEVE MASTER PORTICO too!
This will be fun😀
Yes, it's gonna be fun :)
@@DomSigalas You should try the Rupert NEVE MBC, it is a great ADC with even more flexible analog limiter.
that depth knob on the MBP sounds pretty easy to abuse the hell out of. gonna pick one up. great review of both units.
This is fantastic! But now you’ve convinced me I also need the Neve!
Love the MBP; it takes a while to get the hang of it. It’s a bit trickier to mix *into* as the gain reduction indicators don’t exactly correspond to how much signal is being reduced. More often than not -2/-3dB at peak is plenty. Thankful for that blend knob : )
Cool video!
Yeah, 2-4 dBs at the peaks is plenty. Very transparent. Do you use the limiter at all?
@@ernestbuckley8671 true. Maybe even -2dB is enough @ 100% blend. I don’t usually use the limiter; it is incredibly grabby - not bad - just flattens peaks a little too much. That said, My MBP is on a mult so it moves around some times.
I got a Fushion today and what I love is that it took me like 5 - 10 minutes of tweaking to find a tone I loved. Didnt need to go into the manual either. Just watch a couple of videos like yours before hand and I already knew what each module did. Amazing piece of gear.
Have fun Jorg!
@@Pkutsko Same answer I'm looking for lol. I wanna get the Fusion but I feel I'll need that final limiter/maximizer afterwards... but having said that, when compare the price for the two mightaswell get the Neve...😅
When you did the M/S parallel compression section of this video....that just cost me 5k ;-). Sounds amazing! Thanks for this video Dom!
Yeh I use the Neve 542’s into an Elysia compressor into a tonelux eq into the SsL fusion for a killer Master Bus Processor! I like things being modular as I can change out pieces to suit my needs, great vid!
Thank's Master...may be one day or some magical night I'll catch the dream .....
Hope you liked my Proline brother! This is the dream!
I just purchased the portico. I have to say from just a couple of tracks I’ve put through it, it brings out everything in your track. Is like a color box for your master chain. I call it the magic box :)
Have fun!!!
I just did a pro subscription with access analog....got access to two of them...unlimited.....and a $5000 Manley as well....yep....my first single with Portico....and using Acustica Audio....whole new level.....
Tha face says it all, well done Dom
Sir please make a detailed video on sound selection and balancing the frequencies while producing the track
Excellent comparison.... I own the Neve and use it with a silver bullet.... it has made a big difference for final mixes....
I am looking for a compressor of this caliber for synthpop music. From your experience, do you think that this equipment would measure up to my expectations?
thank so much this the best video i have seen on the MBP - please can you do a video on just the SFE mode thanks
Big fan of your intro theme song!
Thank you Larry!
Thanks for the great work must have taken hours ...days
It did Joel, you’re right! Thanks for noticing !
The fusion really shined on that rock track
nice video....greeting from berlin...
Thanks for a great video! I've had the MBP for about six months now and it's the MVP! It makes everything sound good, I don't know how else to say it. I use it on individual tracks and instruments and it works for adding smoothness or heavily pushed driven sounds. I use it on the mix bus and it just puts everything in its right place. My worry, from other videos, was that it might be too subtle or transparent but that is not the case at all. It can completely change the color of your song in ways that make it soar with richness and power, all while sounding tight and smooth. The MBP is the magic wand that everyone wants but no one thinks exists. Shhh. Don't tell anyone. 🤫
thanks, Ya that was my concern as well. I will be using in the same way. Saving to buy this in the next month. Can't wait!
Completely agreed! Its gorgeous. I had a the same worry with the tegeler creme tbh, in that it would be too subtle, and they definitely can be.. but definitely not necessarily. Both devices have their way of just giving beautiful life to a bus or 2 bus. It genuinely moves me to bits.
I'm curious, how are you using it on individual tracks? Using a hardware insert as an effect? Or on the way in before it hits the DAW? From what I can gleam from the back of the unit, it only takes line level inputs so with a mic or hi-z instrument you would have to pair it with a pre or use it after recording as a hardware effect.
@@NOLASkaGuitarist Sending individual tracks or busses through it and back into the DAW is easiest as a hardware insert. Really adds a lot and makes mixing easier with the stereo field editing.
The MBP, wow!
Great video. Glad you clarified upfront that they're so different. Longtime Neve Master Buss Processor user and I couldn't live without it. When my SSL Ultraviolet (the EQ from the fusion in an 500 rack) comes in, I'll have way more range and options. Can't wait.
Dale North- Violet eq was disappointing and anyone who brings up anything 500 series needs to stay in college you’re not ready for the big leagues.
@@stargoldbar7890noob
Dom, I’m hoping you can put out a video just covering all the ways you use the MBP. 🤞🤞
Sounds good man.. I do like the fusion, but with the Portico it def sounds like a secret weapon 😮.. and that song 🎶 sounds great 👍
Your course on Udemy is going to be legendary!
what a great presentation, great sounding units. I will go for the Fusion, not being a fan boy of any brand.
I wish each section had its own output trim knob on the fusion. It would allow you to level match on/off for better a/b comparisons
Dan Worral will tell you that it is nonsense, as he said in his hating SSL Fusion review :D
well I need a portico now haha that sfe to comp I had no idea about just makes it even more versatile
Put them in serial and see how it sounds. I think they would compliment each other nicely. The compressor on the Neve blow the SSL one out the water but you have mroe controll of the harmonics and EQ on the SSL. It would be really interesting to see how the width/depth controlls work with/against each other when in serial.
Aaaah I had done this test but the video was getting tooooo long so I cut it :) in series they sound absolutely superb- I go in the Fusion first and following with the MBP :)
@@DomSigalas I bet! Videos can never been to long for Hardware junkies! Just put it under multiple videos. Great video, Best on YT!
How is it when you insert the Neve into the fusion then?
Such an amazing in depth analysis, thank you for sharing, also what are the titles of the tracks you are mixing, especially the disco 80s type of track?
this is my best combo for mastering