Long on Specs but...

[rockum]

The descriptions for the modules and op amps have detailed information regarding the technical specs, but I wish they had more information on how the API, Neve, Millennia, Jensen Twin, have been historically used.

I understand it's difficult to express the subjective side of how these pres sound. I am probably not the only one that has wondered what "caramel coated", "buttery", "golden", "brittle", "focused", and "through a diamond" sound like.

What would help a newbie like me would be listings of well-known songs recorded on each of the originals SCA has sought to recreate. I know that the mic pres are only a one stage in the chain, but I still think that such a list such would be more helpful to me than Ohm loads.

What bands have an API sound? What singers have a Neve sound? What pre would you start with to get the Motown sound? 80's punk rock? The sound of the RCA Studio B recordings? A traditional symphonic recording? A jazz drum set?

This is the kind of info I wish I could find in great detail linked to each pre and op amp model.

[tpryan]

People ask about this often, but the reality is that descriptions and even test recordings are virtually useless when trying to determine which preamp is most appropriate for your application. If you're not already intimately familiar with Neve, API, Millennia, etc., the best thing to do is simply order assembled modules and try them out for yourself. Keep the ones you like, or exchange assembled modules for kits.

[rockum]

Yeah, I am not asking for descriptions. I was hoping for listings of hallmark performances recorded on Neve, API, etc. gear? It wouldn't be subjective and it would give novices like myself a starting point. Thanks.