Elliot Kim
Harrison Mixbus is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that was introduced in 2009. It is based on Harrison's large-format mixing consoles, aiming to provide the same recording, mixing, and analogue sound experience at a much lower price point. The DAW incorporates digital signal processing (DSP) with the mix engine and offers features such as VCA faders, tempo mapping, and an upgraded compressor on each channel. While some users praise the analogue sound and unique workflow of Mixbus, others argue that its analogue character is due to a single saturation plug-in that can be turned off. Despite this debate, most users agree that Mixbus produces a great sound, offering an attractive alternative to other DAWs in the market.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sound | "Analogue-like" or "analog vibe" |
| Workflow | Console-style approach to mixing |
| Price | $79 for the standard edition |
| User Experience | "Look and feel" of a large-format mixing console |
| Features | VCA faders, tempo mapping, and plug-in support |
| Comparison with other DAWs | Sounds "better" or different |
| Performance | "Clunky", "immature", "crash/freeze fest" |
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What You'll Learn
Harrison Mixbus's built-in analog modelling
Harrison Mixbus is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that was released in 2009. It is compatible with Microsoft Windows, macOS X, and Linux. Mixbus has the features of Ardour, with additional functionality from proprietary DSP, replicating the workflow, signal path, and sound of a Harrison console.
The "Mixbus" feature allows for easy grouping and processing of tracks, enabling users to mix in context and achieve a cohesive sound, similar to a traditional analog recording console. Harrison Mixbus includes features such as analog-modeled EQ, compression, summing on channel strips, and a master bus with a limiter and loudness monitoring tools. The EQ includes a high-pass filter, and there are three compressor types available.
Some users have noted that the "analog sound" of Harrison Mixbus is due to a built-in saturation plug-in that defaults to "on" but can be turned off. This plug-in provides more versatility than the DAW equivalent. However, others have argued that the 32c channel strip plugin does not impart any "analog character" as claimed by Harrison, as modelling all components in an analog circuit should also introduce harmonic content.
The latest update to Mixbus32C includes a re-engineered 32C EQ that more accurately recreates the original 1975 analog circuit, with updated EQ curves and improved text representation of frequency and gain. This update also includes an upgraded compressor, a new "Emphasis" knob for accessing more vintage character, and a "Drive" button to add harmonic complexity to bass and vocal tracks.
Overall, Harrison Mixbus offers a unique set of features and tools that provide a digital workstation with an analog-style workflow and sound.
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Mixbus 32c's compressor and tape saturation
The Mixbus 32c is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that has been designed to bring the classic analogue console layout and sound to studios worldwide. The 32c has been developed by Harrison, a company with a long history in the music industry, dating back to the 1970s.
The Mixbus 32c has a built-in compressor and tape saturation processor, which are essential tools for music producers and audio engineers. The compressor is used to control the dynamic range of an audio signal, making the loud parts quieter and the quiet parts louder, thus creating a more consistent volume level. This is achieved through downward and upward compression, which work in tandem to reduce the distance between the loudest and quietest parts of a track. The compressor in the 32c has three modes: Leveler, Compressor, and Limiter, each with its own unique functionality. The Limiter, for example, has an infinite ratio and very fast attack and release, ensuring that any audio above -1dbFS is stopped.
The tape saturation processor in the 32c adds harmonic complexity to bass and vocal tracks, helping them stand out in a busy mix. It achieves this by adding odd harmonic content to parts of the signal below 200Hz and the 3rd harmonic to parts of the signal above 200Hz. Tape saturation can be overwhelming and difficult to control, so it is important to run your sessions at 96khz or higher when using this feature.
The compressor and tape saturation processor in the Mixbus 32c are well-regarded by users, with some claiming that it sounds better than other DAWs and provides an "analogue" sounding system at a low price. The 32c's compressor and tape saturation processor are versatile and effective tools that contribute to its popularity among music producers and audio engineers.
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The 'analog sound' marketing
The Analog Sound Marketing
Harrison's Mixbus has been marketed as a digital audio workstation (DAW) that offers the 'look and feel' as well as the 'analogue' sound of a large-format mixing console. The product promises to deliver the sound and user experience of a high-end mixing console at a significantly lower price point. This unique selling proposition has attracted many music producers and audio engineers who are seeking to achieve an analogue sound in their productions.
The analogue sound of Mixbus is attributed to its built-in "analog modelling", which includes features such as saturation plug-ins, tape saturation, and emulated workflow of a large-format console. Some users have praised Mixbus for its ability to produce a warmer and softer sound that is often associated with analogue equipment. They claim that Mixbus provides "more separation" and makes it "easier to get a good mix". The latest updates to Mixbus have further improved the analogue vibe with enhancements such as a re-engineered 32C EQ, an upgraded compressor, and a new "Drive" button that adds harmonic complexity.
However, there are also critics who argue that the analogue sound of Mixbus is exaggerated or even non-existent. Some users have claimed that the analogue character of Mixbus can be attributed to a single saturation plug-in that is turned on by default but can be turned off. Others have conducted tests that suggest the Mixbus does not impart any unique "analog character" as claimed by Harrison. These critics believe that the analogue sound is more of a marketing strategy than a reality.
Despite the differing opinions, it is undeniable that Mixbus has gained a following among music producers and audio engineers. Many users appreciate the alternative workflow and the fresh perspective it brings to the mixing process. The product's affordability and accessibility, being available for Linux, Mac OS, and Windows, have also contributed to its popularity. Ultimately, whether or not Mixbus truly captures the analogue sound, its impact on the music production community and the tools it offers for creating music cannot be overlooked.
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The emulated workflow of a large-format console
The Harrison Mixbus is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that models Harrison's analog consoles within its interface. The "analog modelling" is due to a saturation plug-in that is turned on by default but can be turned off. The plug-in is more versatile than the DAW equivalent, offering stronger saturation settings.
The Mixbus 32c features an upgraded compressor on every channel and mix bus, providing the sound and control expected from a standalone compressor. The "Emphasis" knob allows users to access a more vintage character by forcing the compressor to react more quickly to harsh sounds, resulting in smoother mixes. It also includes a "Drive" button on every input channel strip that adds harmonic complexity to bass and vocal tracks, helping them stand out in a busy mix.
The Mixbus provides an alternative workflow for those who may be overwhelmed by the complexity of other DAWs. It offers a fresh perspective and a simplified approach to music production, allowing users to focus on creating great sound with the tools at hand. The Mixbus's ability to model analog consoles and provide an alternative workflow makes it a unique tool for those into computer mixing, especially those seeking an "analog sound" without the need for expensive hardware.
While the Mixbus provides an emulated workflow of a large-format console, it is important to note that it does not fully replicate the experience of working on a large-format analog console. The sound and functionality of analog circuitry, with its discrete analog signal path and premium components, are unique to analog consoles. However, the Mixbus's emulation and built-in analog modelling provide a more accessible option for those seeking an analog-style workflow without the high cost of traditional analog gear.
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The analogue console experience
Harrison MixBus is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that aims to replicate the sound and user experience of a large-format analogue mixing console. It was developed by Harrison, a company known for constructing high-end, large-format mixing consoles used in top studios worldwide. The fundamental design elements of console workflow and analogue sound are at the heart of MixBus.
The software has been designed to provide the same recording and mixing experience as Harrison's hardware consoles, while also incorporating digital technology. This combination of analogue sound and digital convenience has attracted many admirers, including those who record in other DAWs but use MixBus for its unique workflow and sonic qualities.
One of the key features of MixBus that contributes to its analogue-like sound is its built-in "analog modelling". This is achieved through a saturation plug-in that defaults to "on" but can be turned off. The plug-in adds a certain warmth and softness to the sound, reminiscent of analogue recordings. Additionally, MixBus offers an array of new features such as VCA faders, better plug-in support, tempo mapping, and an upgraded compressor, which further enhance the analogue console experience.
While there are differing opinions on whether MixBus truly captures the sound of an analogue console, it is undeniable that it offers a unique and attractive alternative to other DAWs. Its emulated workflow, efficient console-style approach to mixing, and pleasant sound have made it a popular choice for musicians and producers seeking the analogue console experience at a more accessible price point.
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Frequently asked questions
Harrison Mixbus was intended to provide the same recording and mixing experience as large-format analogue consoles, along with their sound. While some users claim that it does sound analog, others claim that it does not.
Harrison Mixbus is based on the workflow and sonics of a large-format console. It has a specific workflow optimised to copy a fast audio console operation environment. It also has a saturation plugin that gives it its analogue sound.
People have mixed opinions about Harrison Mixbus. Some people claim that it sounds great and has an analogue vibe to it. Others claim that it is clunky and immature as a product. Some users have also complained about frequent crashes and freezes.
