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.)
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 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..
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 :)
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.....
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. 🤫
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.
BTW, on your older Portico II Channel Strip video, you showed the use as an Input device to shape a signal "On The Way In". Then you showed how to use it on Mono Sources as a Hardware Insert. But you mentioned that 'You can't use it for Stereo, because you only have One". Well, I imagine you know given the video you just did, but using Single processors to effect Stereo sources is another great use of Mid-Side Matrixes and Processing. If in the DAW, prior to your Stereo Hardware Insert send, you insert a MS Encoder, it'll send the Mid information down the Left side, and the Side information down the Right. (Just like in this RND MBP. Calling the comps A&B rather than L&R for that reason.) Then if you patch either L/A/1(Mid) or R/B/2(Sides) into a Single Channel processor, you will be effecting either the Mid information or the Sides information in a perfectly balanced manner. The other Channel can either be processed with another Single Channel processor, or simply patched back in with a cable. When you get back into the DAW, you insert another MS Decoder (Which is the same thing) AFTER the Hardware Insert. So effectively your making an insert sandwich: MS Encoder-->>Hardware Insert-->>MS Decoder. So for example, with the Portico II Channel, say you sent the Stereo Drum Bus through it, and process just the Mid Information. You'd patch your Interface Output-1 into the Channel Strip's Line Input, then the Channel Strip's Line Output into you Interface's Line Input-1. Then you'd patch Interface Output-2, directly into Interface Line Input-2. Now with Just the Mid information through the Portico II, process your heart out, make the beat as compressed as you like, WITHOUT losing the width that happens sometimes when you process everything in LR. MS was originally a Mastering trick, because they didn't have the Original Multitracks. But it's also useful at the Bus level of the Mix, just as Bus Compressors aren't just for the Master Bus. Thinking in LR and MS allows for different dimensions at various stages throughout the Mix. And, if you work Hybrid at all, and have Mono processors in your rack that you love but were only using for mono sources, this technique breathes new life and usability into gear you may have left sitting in the corner feeling neglected. (I think I'll post this over there as well.)
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 !
Few days ago I've tried the limiter with matched settings on the left and right channels instead of the stereo link. I think it sounds more transparent now, and gives off less artifacts. Try it if you haven't 😉
That's right! In my opinion it get's more dimensional on the source you run through. It's an amazing unit and I think about to get a Fusion to run it into the MBP... this seems to be a ultimate 2Bus weapon 🤩
@@nomenneskio_official I wanted to add the Fusion into my 2bus with Portico... actually they don't complement each other that well. Check out the Audio Animals' video about that combo: th-cam.com/video/az-psDKsqdA/w-d-xo.html In my opinion, its better to get some good EQ instead of the Fusion, because Stereo Imager and Vintage Drive become obsolete. Let me know if you decide to buy it anyway and what are your thoughts on this combination 😀
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!
@@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 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!
@@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?
SSL is not famous for their eq- I had it violet eq was borderline boring. Vintage drive , stereo widening and the Hf compressor and tape saturation was the best but more I used it it makes the song sound a bit on the cheap side especially the vocals. Anytime I read a comment where someone likes something between because it’s cheaper that’s all I need to know on your taste. MBP all the way. You get what you pay for.
I have the ssl fusion, i really tried to hard to not to watch this video for the portico reason, now one of my eyes on the thomann 🤦🏽😂, thank you for the examples 💪🏽🤞🏽🧿
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.
Thank you somm uch for the review Dom. I am looking to get some processor extra at this time. My Studio gear is good. I have an Heritage Successor compressor, a Manley Massive Passive Eq, A couple of magnetec Pultec clones. I am quite happy with the gear I have but I was looking to find some more for the ending. I was looking to a Crane Song HEDD Quantum which is a converter with some nice triode, pentode and tape or even a Manley Vari Mu but for this last and I am not convinced about it. I am not sure about any of the ones you have reviewed. Probably the Portico can fit more in my expectations. What do you think?
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!
@@sideast what a stupid comment.....none of this matters with these semi/home studio boxes...You just prefer the Never sound. Then 8 out of 10 people will say they want the SSL sound - and that's that. 3 people work at Rupert Neve, so even if they build pocket calculators it'll be 5 time step price of one made in chine, and probably half as good.
@@levondarratt787 Read through the comments and you will see most people like the sound of the MBP better... Who's ass did you pull that "8/10 people prefer the SSL" from LMAO?
@@entity9588 well you are reading comments from bedroom DJs and nerds with reverse hats such as yourself nodding to their own Ableton beats. I'm talking from the professional audio community. This topic has been settled and ssl won. And what you call arse is what everybody else calls facts. Now go count your 3 pimples shrivel boy!!!!
The fusion seems to have more perceived loudness, the neve though... it's way more precise and clear. I guess that extra $1500 makes a difference lol but all in all they both sounded great
Great explaining..I think we should get both fusion and portico..😁😁. Both adds different color and dynamics, especially the vintage drive on fusion is so tasty and which I believe we cant achieve with any other plugin..(İncluding the Decapitator)💯💯👍👍✌✌
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?
The Fusion opens the sound so much in a clean way, i really love it and its also easy to use. The Neve iverlay is imo to hectic, to much knobs in a small place.
I have a hard time hearing any difference on the SFE width. Is it supposed to be subtle? Thanks for this wonderful video…it convinced me to purchase my own unit and so far, I’m loving it!
Thanks a lot for this huge review! That's absolutely no-brainer. I have subscribed to your channel but can you please give me the title of this awesome Synthwave mix? 😲 I have had the sound in my head for several days and I really want to find it! Did you participate in its composition? Thanks in advance, Take care, Peace Up! 😉✌
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!
Im about to use that tonight on my Aucustica Audio / Own Analog Rack master through Access Analog with the SSL Fusion Plugins....Im gona see if I can re create that mastering method in a more affrodable way.....
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!
I'Ve had the neve for 3 months.....ITS SERIOUS!!!! For mastering Hip Hop, POP, EMD, Rock, Country, Classical, etc (on everything) GET IT You won't be sorry
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👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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 :)
@Dom Sigalas Hi Dom! I need little help from you. I ordered SSL Fusion but I don't have SSL BUS Compressor as hardware (yet! :D ), so I have plan to use SSL bus compressor plugin. What you can suggest, should I put SSL BUS compressor plugin BEFORE or AFTER SSL Fusion in signal chain on master bus?
Hey Dom! When I engage the SFE button on the portico would there be any reason why it's bypassing the A and B compressors? I can't adjust the Mid or Side compression when it's engaged. Weird. Thanks!
Oh my word. You rule! Thanks for such informative video. I’m a fusion owner myself but I have a dilemma. I am totally convinced that MBP plugged into fusion’s insert bus will do wonders but... what would it be to have 2 x Portico Channel II INSTEAD? When plug 2 x portico channel II into fusion you can do mid-side compressing, eq and still do SFE via fusion’s stereo image knobs. In fact with what portico channel II offers, you can do MORE with EQing your mid-side in a more precision/control way don’t you think?And the comp is kinda similar to me minus the limiter which portico channel doesn’t have. Another thing that’s drawing me to this instead of MBP is the fact I can track with it as it is channel strip itself. Hmmm. Is there anything I am missing here? What should I save up for in this case? MBP or the two portico channel II ?
Hey Andrew, I actually just bought the SSL fusion for this reason. I have a pair of Portico II channels that I wanted to use in Mid/Side. I also own the MBP. I can say, the combination of the Fusion and PII Channels is really amazing, and can do pretty much any task. Id take all that over the MBP any day. Though, Fusion and 2 Portico channels does cost far more than an MBP...If you already own the fusion, and are just looking for something to put on the insert, get the pair of Portico Channels.
Hello Joel. Please help me with this... I have a pair of Vintech x73i, another pair of Audioscape 1176F and axr4t interface that comes with blue and red sliks by R.Neve....all this summing to a SSL Delta sigma 2... this is my dude: which is better? a) buy a portico II MBP, b)buy a pair of Portico Channels... them to connect to SSL Fusion. Please give me your honest opinion. I wanna know if buy two Porticos channels is more better that buy the MBP. If you consider that can do the same extra works the mids side with the EQs... Thanks Bro!
What’s up Dom. Your videos are great. When engaging (powering up) the NEVE MBP I can hear the relays click. When disengaging the unit ( powering off) I can hear a slight buzz. Does your unit do the same? I’m routing the Neve from the insert/return of the Fusion. Thank you.
Great , informative review ! Thank you. Decided to buy a companion for my Neve Master Bus. I loved singer’s voice and 80’s dance vibe of the song overall from the first example. Very hypnotic voice! Does anyone knows who is singing or the name of the project ?
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!
I don’t know if I have it in me …….. to let somebody in again….! That’s my shit man ! But since y’all don’t want to tell me the name of the song that’s been driving me crazy for a year imma just steal it!!!!! The remix will be up on my SoundCloud lol and
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?
Hello! Should I put Steven Slate's Virtual Tape Machine on the DAW master channel before SSL FUSION with VINTAGE DRIVE enabled? Won't it be oil anointed with another extra oil and create unnecessary distortion?
Hi Dom, there's some interesting comments on here about perhaps putting the MBP on the inserts of the Fusion. Currently I have a Maag EQ4M on the inserts with the Fusion set to M/S mode. The Fusion then goes out to the MBP. This is all good but I wondered if you'd ever gotten around to trying the MBP on the Fusions inserts? My mind is blown by trying to work out what happens with the limiter and the stereo field controls, do you switch the MBP to be pre or post stereo width on the Fusion? What happens when you engage M/S on the Fusion and then again on the MBP? So many questions about various ways of configuring this and then where does the Maag go? If there's any advice you have on this it would be greatly appreciated as I just can't get my head around it!!!
Dom, thanks for the video. I have watched it at least three times. Do you think the new Neve Master Bus Transformer would be a better buy than the MBP? If you had to choose one or the other, which one would you buy? The MBT or the MBP?
Fantastic video I own both as well and I never saw anyone explain how the mid side works with the two compressors You're the first person. That was extremely helpful and now I understand. I do have one question however I know that compressor A handles the mid and compressor B handles the sides but does that also include the EQ or does it only include the depth and width functions alone or does it send both the mid and side with the EQ adjustments too?
You know...the portico sounds Thicker...but the Fussion just sounds more "Radio Ready...." I think that worth sacrificing the extra Body from the Portico....Ive got a WA G comp...I think Im going to use this with My G Comp and a Drawmer Parametric EQ......thats 4000 instead of 4800 and you have a full Mastering Chain.....I hate the say this but the Fussion jsut sounds "More Attractvie SSL Ready Ready Sound" but...if you dont already have a Bus comp...then the Portico...might be more useful for you
Wow this is a great video. I think I’m going to buy a SSL Fusion & a warm audio stereo bus compressor (SSL remake) ❤️ which I could afford an SSL comp. What was the name of the synth wave track? That sounds great
They are all excellent processors! The track is an unreleased track which is work in progress so I can use it for examples on TH-cam without any copyright issues :)
Hi Dom, I have an Audient ID14 audio Interface But I'm looking into getting more inputs so That I dont need to plug in and out things every single time I want to record a different synth or a mic… what would you suggest? purchasing a Audient ASP 800 and connect it via AD/AT or getting a mixer?
I have the exact setup... I love it. I actually tried the M/S function on the Fusion by inserting my Massive Passive. It was pretty interesting. I might try and experiment again with that.
Well, THAT was certainly weird... I only listened to the synthwave and the rock mix on the Fusion. I wasn't a fan of either song but they certainly weren't bad... By the end of Dom getting all of the magic out of the fusion, both were extremely listenable. It was very surprised how my attitude changed from it being "meh" to actually something I wanted to listen to in both. (Interesting revelation.)
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.
I think there are little minions in these boxes that are nitpicking notes and pulling them up with their tiny hands. I don't have another explanation for this magic.
Definitely not comparable. The SSL feels like a collection of toys that are easy to abuse (but super useful when used properly). The Neve feels like as close to a magic box that subtly makes everything sound better no matter what you do as I've come across (despite being more complicated to use in many ways).
My guy, Dom, I REALLY need you to tell me where I can find the first record that you were mixing (Synthwave Mix). I'm so in love with this song, brother!
![ลองสั่งของจากแอพ temu ถูกจริงหรอ?? [โกงไหมครับ ep.88 ] | DOM](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RTcZSQTiDZw/mqdefault.jpg)
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 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..
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.....
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.
Bro this was such a great shootout thank you for doing
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.
BTW, on your older Portico II Channel Strip video, you showed the use as an Input device to shape a signal "On The Way In".
Then you showed how to use it on Mono Sources as a Hardware Insert.
But you mentioned that 'You can't use it for Stereo, because you only have One".
Well, I imagine you know given the video you just did, but using Single processors to effect Stereo sources is another great use of Mid-Side Matrixes and Processing.
If in the DAW, prior to your Stereo Hardware Insert send, you insert a MS Encoder, it'll send the Mid information down the Left side, and the Side information down the Right. (Just like in this RND MBP. Calling the comps A&B rather than L&R for that reason.)
Then if you patch either L/A/1(Mid) or R/B/2(Sides) into a Single Channel processor, you will be effecting either the Mid information or the Sides information in a perfectly balanced manner.
The other Channel can either be processed with another Single Channel processor, or simply patched back in with a cable.
When you get back into the DAW, you insert another MS Decoder (Which is the same thing) AFTER the Hardware Insert. So effectively your making an insert sandwich: MS Encoder-->>Hardware Insert-->>MS Decoder.
So for example, with the Portico II Channel, say you sent the Stereo Drum Bus through it, and process just the Mid Information.
You'd patch your Interface Output-1 into the Channel Strip's Line Input, then the Channel Strip's Line Output into you Interface's Line Input-1.
Then you'd patch Interface Output-2, directly into Interface Line Input-2.
Now with Just the Mid information through the Portico II, process your heart out, make the beat as compressed as you like, WITHOUT losing the width that happens sometimes when you process everything in LR.
MS was originally a Mastering trick, because they didn't have the Original Multitracks.
But it's also useful at the Bus level of the Mix, just as Bus Compressors aren't just for the Master Bus.
Thinking in LR and MS allows for different dimensions at various stages throughout the Mix.
And, if you work Hybrid at all, and have Mono processors in your rack that you love but were only using for mono sources, this technique breathes new life and usability into gear you may have left sitting in the corner feeling neglected.
(I think I'll post this over there as well.)
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 !
Bro thanks for this vid, and the shirt rocks
Perhaps the best equipment review I have yet seen, thanks.
I enjoyed watching this battle. Thank you Dom!
great video, dude. totally wonderful presentation. thank you so much!
That first song you play there is catchy as hell. Love the video, very informative.
I need the name of the track lol
This was a super good video comparison
The fusion really shined on that rock track
Few days ago I've tried the limiter with matched settings on the left and right channels instead of the stereo link. I think it sounds more transparent now, and gives off less artifacts. Try it if you haven't 😉
That's right! In my opinion it get's more dimensional on the source you run through. It's an amazing unit and I think about to get a Fusion to run it into the MBP... this seems to be a ultimate 2Bus weapon 🤩
@@nomenneskio_official I wanted to add the Fusion into my 2bus with Portico... actually they don't complement each other that well. Check out the Audio Animals' video about that combo: th-cam.com/video/az-psDKsqdA/w-d-xo.html
In my opinion, its better to get some good EQ instead of the Fusion, because Stereo Imager and Vintage Drive become obsolete. Let me know if you decide to buy it anyway and what are your thoughts on this combination 😀
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.
SSL FUSION Team
Only one of the 2 that I’ve actually used but im sold
Great video. I bought them both. As you said they do different things. I am amazed by the Neve.
Ah forget it! I'm buying both! But I will say that Rupert Neve is 🔥. But yeah, I'm just gonna get them both. Great video!
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
I've a SSL FUSION and MAAG EQ4M, it's a magic combination :) .... next Hardware coming: Dangerous AD+ for definitive audio Clipping ! :D
...hi..my..dear..am from india..will u plz guide me for my studio gears..
That M/S mode 😮
The MBP Portico II is just amazing.
Both are Diamonds" however Neve has more weight! Suggestion box" an alternative plugin to these..like accustica audio celestial etc
I have it an love it! Well said!
weight..translate - subtle
low end...but we don't wanna call it that.
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?
SSL Fusion. Yes, please.
SSL is not famous for their eq- I had it violet eq was borderline boring. Vintage drive , stereo widening and the Hf compressor and tape saturation was the best but more I used it it makes the song sound a bit on the cheap side especially the vocals.
Anytime I read a comment where someone likes something between because it’s cheaper that’s all I need to know on your taste. MBP all the way. You get what you pay for.
I have the ssl fusion, i really tried to hard to not to watch this video for the portico reason, now one of my eyes on the thomann 🤦🏽😂, thank you for the examples 💪🏽🤞🏽🧿
thanx man.... very good info
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.
Thank you somm uch for the review Dom. I am looking to get some processor extra at this time. My Studio gear is good. I have an Heritage Successor compressor, a Manley Massive Passive Eq, A couple of magnetec Pultec clones. I am quite happy with the gear I have but I was looking to find some more for the ending. I was looking to a Crane Song HEDD Quantum which is a converter with some nice triode, pentode and tape or even a Manley Vari Mu but for this last and I am not convinced about it. I am not sure about any of the ones you have reviewed. Probably the Portico can fit more in my expectations. What do you think?
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!
I thought I was gonna prefer the SSL, but I think the Neve has a better sound and punch!
thats because its twice the price and roll in the factor that with SSL you are very much paying for the SSL Hype
@@sideast what a stupid comment.....none of this matters with these semi/home studio boxes...You just prefer the Never sound. Then 8 out of 10 people will say they want the SSL sound - and that's that. 3 people work at Rupert Neve, so even if they build pocket calculators it'll be 5 time step price of one made in chine, and probably half as good.
@@sideast What?! So you’re not paying for the mega overpriced Neve tag? 😆✌🏽
@@levondarratt787 Read through the comments and you will see most people like the sound of the MBP better... Who's ass did you pull that "8/10 people prefer the SSL" from LMAO?
@@entity9588 well you are reading comments from bedroom DJs and nerds with reverse hats such as yourself nodding to their own Ableton beats. I'm talking from the professional audio community. This topic has been settled and ssl won. And what you call arse is what everybody else calls facts. Now go count your 3 pimples shrivel boy!!!!
The fusion seems to have more perceived loudness, the neve though... it's way more precise and clear. I guess that extra $1500 makes a difference lol but all in all they both sounded great
“Going over the top,” with the SSL sounds great!
one sounds like streaming music, the other sounds like tv/movie music
That song with the female vocalist is great!
Great explaining..I think we should get both fusion and portico..😁😁. Both adds different color and dynamics, especially the vintage drive on fusion is so tasty and which I believe we cant achieve with any other plugin..(İncluding the Decapitator)💯💯👍👍✌✌
I have the portico channel strip do you think i should grab the ssl fusion are the mbp for mastering and mixing purposes?
Neve takes the Price easy on this one.
I would love to be your student
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?
what a great presentation, great sounding units. I will go for the Fusion, not being a fan boy of any brand.
The Fusion opens the sound so much in a clean way, i really love it and its also easy to use.
The Neve iverlay is imo to hectic, to much knobs in a small place.
damn, the MBP blew me away, I like how smooth it is.
Excellent content sir. I was looking for a very comprehensive review of both products and you nailed them both. Bravo!
i got them both, both r great devices, both is very different
I have a hard time hearing any difference on the SFE width. Is it supposed to be subtle? Thanks for this wonderful video…it convinced me to purchase my own unit and so far, I’m loving it!
Thanks a lot for this huge review! That's absolutely no-brainer. I have subscribed to your channel but can you please give me the title of this awesome Synthwave mix? 😲 I have had the sound in my head for several days and I really want to find it! Did you participate in its composition?
Thanks in advance,
Take care,
Peace Up! 😉✌
Yea same. Share a link to this song in the synthwave mix!
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.
Im about to use that tonight on my Aucustica Audio / Own Analog Rack master through Access Analog with the SSL Fusion Plugins....Im gona see if I can re create that mastering method in a more affrodable way.....
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?
Good stuff man! If you ever need anything from Vintage King, feel free to reach out! Always happy to hook it up with some discounts 👍
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.
NEVE=Thickness SSL=Clarity API-Mid Range Melody
I have literally never seen any creator make a video about gear in so much detail. Love it❤️✨
???
Am I wrong for coming here to jam to the Synth wave joint every day 😂😂 🎶🎼🎵
:) :) :)
I'Ve had the neve for 3 months.....ITS SERIOUS!!!!
For mastering Hip Hop, POP, EMD, Rock, Country, Classical, etc (on everything)
GET IT You won't be sorry
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👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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?
@Dom Sigalas Hi Dom! I need little help from you. I ordered SSL Fusion but I don't have SSL BUS Compressor as hardware (yet! :D ), so I have plan to use SSL bus compressor plugin. What you can suggest, should I put SSL BUS compressor plugin BEFORE or AFTER SSL Fusion in signal chain on master bus?
Hey Dom! When I engage the SFE button on the portico would there be any reason why it's bypassing the A and B compressors? I can't adjust the Mid or Side compression when it's engaged. Weird. Thanks!
👍😍👍TOP👍😍👍
Oh my word. You rule! Thanks for such informative video. I’m a fusion owner myself but I have a dilemma. I am totally convinced that MBP plugged into fusion’s insert bus will do wonders but... what would it be to have 2 x Portico Channel II INSTEAD?
When plug 2 x portico channel II into fusion you can do mid-side compressing, eq and still do SFE via fusion’s stereo image knobs. In fact with what portico channel II offers, you can do MORE with EQing your mid-side in a more precision/control way don’t you think?And the comp is kinda similar to me minus the limiter which portico channel doesn’t have.
Another thing that’s drawing me to this instead of MBP is the fact I can track with it as it is channel strip itself. Hmmm.
Is there anything I am missing here?
What should I save up for in this case? MBP or the two portico channel II ?
Hey Andrew, I actually just bought the SSL fusion for this reason. I have a pair of Portico II channels that I wanted to use in Mid/Side. I also own the MBP. I can say, the combination of the Fusion and PII Channels is really amazing, and can do pretty much any task. Id take all that over the MBP any day. Though, Fusion and 2 Portico channels does cost far more than an MBP...If you already own the fusion, and are just looking for something to put on the insert, get the pair of Portico Channels.
Hello Joel. Please help me with this... I have a pair of Vintech x73i, another pair of Audioscape 1176F and axr4t interface that comes with blue and red sliks by R.Neve....all this summing to a SSL Delta sigma 2... this is my dude:
which is better? a) buy a portico II MBP, b)buy a pair of Portico Channels... them to connect to SSL Fusion.
Please give me your honest opinion. I wanna know if buy two Porticos channels is more better that buy the MBP. If you consider that can do the same extra works the mids side with the EQs...
Thanks Bro!
Great in depth video.
I’d love to hear and see the Neve portico vs ssl The Buss+ comparison.
What’s up Dom. Your videos are great. When engaging (powering up) the NEVE MBP I can hear the relays click. When disengaging the unit ( powering off) I can hear a slight buzz. Does your unit do the same? I’m routing the Neve from the insert/return of the Fusion. Thank you.
Hi Dom, may i know where i can get these demo tracks Synthwave and pop MIX ? Very nice.
Great , informative review ! Thank you.
Decided to buy a companion for my Neve Master Bus.
I loved singer’s voice and 80’s dance vibe of the song overall from the first example. Very hypnotic voice!
Does anyone knows who is singing or the name of the project ?
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?
Dear Dom, Thank you for yours Videos! Can you tell me please do you have a strange noise when you turn on vintage drive on SSL Fusion!?
Hi Dom, What you think about DOCtron IMC?
Sir please make a detailed video on sound selection and balancing the frequencies while producing the track
I don’t know if I have it in me …….. to let somebody in again….! That’s my shit man ! But since y’all don’t want to tell me the name of the song that’s been driving me crazy for a year imma just steal it!!!!! The remix will be up on my SoundCloud lol and
When you ran fusion through the bus comp it sounded amazing
Thank you for video! The same question)) Do it need a audio converter for normal or high result?
do you ever use it for tracking? specifically vocals?
I need that synth wave song 😮💨😮💨
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?
Hello! Should I put Steven Slate's Virtual Tape Machine on the DAW master channel before SSL FUSION with VINTAGE DRIVE enabled? Won't it be oil anointed with another extra oil and create unnecessary distortion?
Hi Dom, there's some interesting comments on here about perhaps putting the MBP on the inserts of the Fusion. Currently I have a Maag EQ4M on the inserts with the Fusion set to M/S mode. The Fusion then goes out to the MBP. This is all good but I wondered if you'd ever gotten around to trying the MBP on the Fusions inserts? My mind is blown by trying to work out what happens with the limiter and the stereo field controls, do you switch the MBP to be pre or post stereo width on the Fusion? What happens when you engage M/S on the Fusion and then again on the MBP? So many questions about various ways of configuring this and then where does the Maag go? If there's any advice you have on this it would be greatly appreciated as I just can't get my head around it!!!
You have a new follower from Italy 💪🏻😉👍🏻 Awesome comparison, Dom!
Dom, thanks for the video. I have watched it at least three times. Do you think the new Neve Master Bus Transformer would be a better buy than the MBP? If you had to choose one or the other, which one would you buy? The MBT or the MBP?
Fantastic video I own both as well and I never saw anyone explain how the mid side works with the two compressors You're the first person. That was extremely helpful and now I understand. I do have one question however I know that compressor A handles the mid and compressor B handles the sides but does that also include the EQ or does it only include the depth and width functions alone or does it send both the mid and side with the EQ adjustments too?
nice! jow did oyu connected the ssl into the portico?
Beautiful stuff homie DOM....can i grab one 🤣🤣????!!!
How do you like your Adam SV2s? I'm thinking of getting a pair with a sub or getting the SV3s. Do you have a sub with yours? If so, which one? Thanks.
Dom, I’m hoping you can put out a video just covering all the ways you use the MBP. 🤞🤞
You know...the portico sounds Thicker...but the Fussion just sounds more "Radio Ready...." I think that worth sacrificing the extra Body from the Portico....Ive got a WA G comp...I think Im going to use this with My G Comp and a Drawmer Parametric EQ......thats 4000 instead of 4800 and you have a full Mastering Chain.....I hate the say this but the Fussion jsut sounds "More Attractvie SSL Ready Ready Sound" but...if you dont already have a Bus comp...then the Portico...might be more useful for you
Wow this is a great video. I think I’m going to buy a SSL Fusion & a warm audio stereo bus compressor (SSL remake) ❤️ which I could afford an SSL comp.
What was the name of the synth wave track? That sounds great
They are all excellent processors! The track is an unreleased track which is work in progress so I can use it for examples on TH-cam without any copyright issues :)
Hi Dom, I have an Audient ID14 audio Interface But I'm looking into getting more inputs so That I dont need to plug in and out things every single time I want to record a different synth or a mic…
what would you suggest? purchasing a Audient ASP 800 and connect it via AD/AT or getting a mixer?
Amazing video thanks! Did you compare the M/S Fusion Insert mode to the Stereo Field Editor mode of the Neve ? :)
I have the exact setup... I love it. I actually tried the M/S function on the Fusion by inserting my Massive Passive. It was pretty interesting. I might try and experiment again with that.
Well, THAT was certainly weird...
I only listened to the synthwave and the rock mix on the Fusion.
I wasn't a fan of either song but they certainly weren't bad...
By the end of Dom getting all of the magic out of the fusion, both were extremely listenable.
It was very surprised how my attitude changed from it being "meh" to actually something I wanted to listen to in both.
(Interesting revelation.)
Gosh I truly love the synthwave track. Who is the vocalist and who is the producer please ?
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.
I think there are little minions in these boxes that are nitpicking notes and pulling them up with their tiny hands. I don't have another explanation for this magic.
Please the name of the synth wave track????? Its Haunting my soul
Definitely not comparable. The SSL feels like a collection of toys that are easy to abuse (but super useful when used properly). The Neve feels like as close to a magic box that subtly makes everything sound better no matter what you do as I've come across (despite being more complicated to use in many ways).
Btw the song you first master as a synthwave, is the one you master again with the different device as a pop song...
Wrong label :) Fixed now
My guy, Dom, I REALLY need you to tell me where I can find the first record that you were mixing (Synthwave Mix). I'm so in love with this song, brother!