Top 5: Garth Richardson

When I was first introduced to PMC speakers by Dave Schiffman, I had no idea how dramatically they would change my life in the studio. I’ve worked with different speakers over the years, but nothing compared to what these speakers offered. They’ve completely transformed how I hear, create, and mix music.

One of the most significant changes I’ve noticed since switching to PMC is the clarity in the detail. It was like opening up a whole new dimension in sound. For example, while revisiting some of my older projects, I could hear the guitar movement on the first Rage Against The Machine album in a way I’d never noticed before. Every subtle nuance, every little shift in tone, every movement I made during the recording was suddenly laid bare. It was a surreal experience, like rediscovering the album all over again.

Overall, PMC speakers have truly transformed my work. They’ve brought a new level of depth and clarity that allows me to create with greater precision. Working in the studio feels like a whole new experience, and I can’t imagine going back. If you’re serious about your craft and looking to take your mixes to the next level, I can’t recommend PMC speakers enough.

When it comes to professional audio production, few tools have revolutionised my workflow like Focusrite RedNet. This digital audio networking system not only provides pristine sound quality but offers the kind of flexibility that allows me to explore new creative spaces within my studio. One of the most exciting possibilities has been converting my steam room into a natural echo chamber, and RedNet’s seamless integration has made that a reality.

At the heart of RedNet is its ability to transmit high-quality audio over long distances without a hitch. My steam room is 400 feet away from the main recording space, which could pose a challenge for many systems. However, RedNet’s use of the Dante protocol for audio networking means I can place microphones and monitors in the steam room without worrying about signal degradation or latency. The audio fidelity remains immaculate, even at such distances.

With RedNet, I can position mics at various points inside the steam room to capture the complex, rich reflections that occur naturally within its tiled, steamy environment. This would have been nearly impossible with traditional analogue systems due to the signal loss that typically comes with long cable runs. RedNet ensures that the signal maintains its integrity, giving me ultimate creative freedom.

Another aspect I love about RedNet is the ease of integration. The system works flawlessly with my DAW, and its modular nature means I can expand or reconfigure my setup as needed. RedNet’s software control allows me to manage everything from mic preamps to routing and monitoring from one central interface. This makes it easy to experiment with different mic placements in the steam room and tweak settings on the fly without having to physically be in the room.

RedNet has become an indispensable tool at The Farm Studios, providing the perfect balance of performance, flexibility, and creativity. Whether I’m using it for traditional recording or pushing boundaries with unconventional setups, RedNet continues to impress. For anyone serious about audio production, especially in larger or more complex studio environments, RedNet is a gamechanger.

The Telefunken 251 mic has become one of the most essential tools in my recording arsenal. As a producer, I’m always looking for gear that allows me to capture the purest and most expressive performances from artists, and the 251 consistently delivers just that. This microphone is more than just a piece of equipment; it’s the foundation of how I approach recording vocals and acoustic guitars and any other acoustic instruments. The warmth and clarity it provides is unparalleled, giving each performance a sense of depth and presence that other mics just can’t match. Whether I’m working with a vocalist pushing emotional boundaries or an acoustic guitarist bringing out intricate melodies, the 251 picks up every subtlety and breathes life into the recording.

What really sets the Telefunken 251 apart for me is how it complements the artist’s performance without imposing its own character. It brings out the natural qualities of the voice or instrument, capturing them in a way that feels both honest and enhanced. It’s become my go-to because I know that, with this mic, I’m getting exactly what I need to take a track from good to extraordinary. The Telefunken 251 has played a significant role in defining the sound that comes out of my studio. It’s a microphone that I can always trust to deliver – no matter the project, no matter the artist. It’s not just about technical excellence; it’s about creating recordings that feel timeless, full of emotion, and true to the music.