Our State-of-the-Art Equipment
At Aurora Sound Studio, we believe that exceptional sound quality starts with exceptional equipment. That's why we've invested in a comprehensive collection of industry-leading microphones, consoles, and software to ensure that your recordings sound their absolute best. Located in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, we provide a professional and inspiring environment for musicians, voice-over artists, and audio professionals.
Neumann U87 Ai Condenser Microphone
The Neumann U87 Ai is a legendary large-diaphragm condenser microphone, renowned for its smooth, natural sound and versatility. It's a staple in recording studios worldwide, perfect for vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.
Key Specifications:
- Acoustic Operating Principle: Pressure gradient transducer
- Directional Pattern: Omni, cardioid, figure-8
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Rated Impedance: 200 ohms
- Rated Load Impedance: 1000 ohms
- Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm: 20/28/22 mV/Pa
Used extensively for its balanced sound, the U87 Ai ensures clarity and warmth in every recording. Its selectable polar patterns offer flexibility for various recording scenarios.
API 1608 Analog Recording Console
The API 1608 is a classic analog recording console known for its warm, punchy sound and intuitive workflow. With its discrete circuitry and legendary API transformers, the 1608 delivers the iconic API sound that has shaped countless hit records.
Key Specifications:
- Channels: 16
- EQ: 550A 3-Band EQ on each channel
- Aux Sends: 4
- Busses: 8
- Metering: Comprehensive LED metering
- Construction: Hand-wired and modular
The API 1608 provides unparalleled control and sonic character, making it a centerpiece of Aurora Sound Studio's analog workflow. The console’s EQ section adds a distinct color and depth to recordings.
Avid Pro Tools Ultimate Digital Audio Workstation
Avid Pro Tools Ultimate is the industry-standard digital audio workstation (DAW) for recording, editing, mixing, and mastering. With its comprehensive feature set and powerful processing capabilities, Pro Tools Ultimate provides the tools you need to create professional-quality audio productions.
Key Specifications:
- Tracks: Unlimited audio and MIDI tracks
- Plugins: Extensive library of Avid and third-party plugins
- Mixing: Advanced mixing and routing capabilities
- Automation: Comprehensive automation features
- Surround Sound: Support for immersive audio formats
Pro Tools Ultimate allows for detailed manipulation and precision, vital for crafting complex audio arrangements. Its integration with a vast array of plugins makes it the ultimate creative tool.
Focal SM9 Studio Monitors
The Focal SM9 are high-end studio monitors renowned for their accuracy, detail, and transparency. These monitors provide a neutral and revealing listening experience, allowing you to make critical mixing and mastering decisions with confidence.
Key Specifications:
- Type: 3-way active monitor
- Frequency Response: 30Hz - 40kHz
- Drivers: 1" beryllium tweeter, 6.5" midrange, 8" woofer
- Amplification: 400W total
- SPL: 116dB
Focal SM9 monitors ensure a clear and precise soundstage, allowing engineers to hear every nuance of the recording. The monitors’ exceptional frequency response makes them ideal for critical listening.
AKG C414 XLII Condenser Microphone
The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile multi-pattern condenser microphone known for its exceptional clarity and detail. It's a favorite among engineers for its ability to capture a wide range of sound sources with accuracy and warmth.
Key Specifications:
- Polar Patterns: Omni, cardioid, figure-8, hypercardioid, wide cardioid
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Max SPL: 140 dB
- Dynamic Range: 134 dB
- Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa
With its multiple polar patterns, the C414 XLII offers unparalleled flexibility for various recording techniques. It’s particularly prized for its performance on vocals, drums, and acoustic instruments.
Universal Audio Apollo x8p Interface
The Universal Audio Apollo x8p is a Thunderbolt audio interface that combines pristine audio conversion with powerful UAD processing. It features eight Unison-enabled mic preamps, allowing you to emulate the sound of classic analog preamps with stunning accuracy.
Key Specifications:
- Inputs: 8 x Unison mic preamps, 2 x instrument inputs, 8 x line inputs
- Outputs: 10 x line outputs, 2 x monitor outputs, 2 x headphone outputs
- Digital I/O: ADAT, S/PDIF
- UAD Processing: Real-time UAD plugin processing
- Sample Rate: Up to 192 kHz
The Apollo x8p’s UAD processing provides access to a wide range of high-quality plugins, allowing engineers to sculpt and refine their sound in real time. The interface’s exceptional conversion ensures detailed and transparent audio capture.
Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor
The Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor is a highly sought-after analog compressor known for its unique sonic signature and versatile control. It’s a favorite among mastering engineers for its ability to add warmth, punch, and polish to finished tracks.
Key Specifications:
- Type: Analog mastering compressor
- Compression: Discrete and optical compression stages
- Transformers: Switchable output transformers (Nickel, Iron, Steel)
- Sidechain: External sidechain input
- Metering: Precise gain reduction and output metering
The Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor offers unparalleled control over dynamics and tone. Its switchable transformers allow engineers to tailor the compressor’s sound to suit a wide range of genres and styles.
Eventide H9000 Multi-Effects Processor
The Eventide H9000 is a state-of-the-art multi-effects processor that combines legendary Eventide effects with powerful signal processing capabilities. It’s a versatile tool for adding depth, texture, and creativity to your audio productions.
Key Specifications:
- Algorithms: Hundreds of Eventide algorithms
- Processing: Quad core ARM processor
- I/O: Comprehensive analog and digital I/O
- Connectivity: Ethernet, USB
- Control: Intuitive front panel controls and software editor
The H9000 offers a vast palette of effects, from classic reverbs and delays to cutting-edge modulation and pitch-shifting. Its powerful processing engine allows for complex and creative effects chains.