New Zealand institute takes hybrid approach
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Brad explains that the original studio centred around an analogue console. “Its age and maintenance downtime was becoming an issue and in 2003/2004 the decision was made to go to Pro Tools HD with a Control|24. The workflow was simple and the ease of an ‘in-the-box’ solution was convenient for staff and students.
“Fast forward 13 years and the decision to create a hybrid system taking in the best of both analogue and digital workflows was something that was welcomed with open arms. External gates/dynamics and effects racks that had been in storage for many years would now be reinstated,” he continues.
“Students had experienced some level of tactile control with the previous system, but I knew that this system and workflow would not only sound better, but also be of great benefit to their learning i.e. signal flow, bussing, external inserts, I/O routing from DAW, patchbay usage, analogue mixing as opposed to in-the-box.”
Having guest lectured on a couple of lessons to get everybody up and running, Brad is happy to report that 25-30 students have already learnt the system since its install and that feedback has been “really positive. Like any piece of equipment, you have to spend time learning it correctly in order to get the most out of it. After a baptism of fire and encouraging some quality ‘alone’ time, our staff and students are away laughing”.
Looking to the future, Brad concludes, “We are in the processes of transitioning to a new Bachelor of Music and Performing Arts qualification with endorsements in audio production, composition, performance and theatre. More information isn't available at this time, but the future of Music and Performing Arts at Wintec is alive and marvellous. Exciting times ahead.”
(Jim Evans)
