Should you use analog hardware or digital plugins when mastering? This is a hotly debated topic.
Purists insist that analog gear imparts unparalleled warmth and depth. But supporters of digital processing point to the precision, flexibility, and convenience of plugins.
So which approach is right for your project?
In this post, we’ll compare the key pros and cons of analog vs digital mastering. Let’s weigh the evidence so you can make an informed decision.
The Benefits of Analog Hardware
Why might you want to utilize analog processors when mastering? Here are some of the touted benefits:
- Richness – Analog gear like tube equalizers and tape saturation add pleasing harmonic distortions for a full, smooth sound.
- Musicality – The natural circuit behaviors in analog units sound more fluid and organic.
- Workflow – The hands-on control of hardware can help dial in the perfect settings faster.
- Prestige – Some engineers feel using high-end analog gear brings greater credibility.
As Bob Ludwig emphasizes:
“If we’re in the analog domain, I use six channels of Manley Massive Passive and six channels of GML mastering equalizers.”
For those seeking the ultimate in analog warmth and detail, hardware may be preferable.
The Case for Digital Plugins
However, digital processing has some compelling advantages:
- Precision – EQ plugins allow extremely precise, surgical tonal shaping.
- Flexibility – With plugins, it’s easy to quickly compare different processors in different orderings.
- Automation – Saving and recalling plugin settings enables consistency and experimentation.
- Cost – Top mastering plugins cost far less than analog hardware units. Great for budget studios.
As Glenn Meadows notes:
“For me, 98 percent of what I do now is working all in the box. I find that the quality of in-the-box processing has really improved.”
For many, plugins provide all the control they need.
When Does Analog Make Sense?
Given the tradeoffs, when should you consider using analog gear for mastering? Here are two cases:
Vintage and Niche Projects – For older recordings or genres like jazz and classical, analog gear may get closer to the warm vintage sound.
Top-Tier Productions – For critical projects where budget isn’t a constraint, analog hardware may provide that final 5-10% of magic.
Of course, with quality converters and engineering, plugins can often achieve excellent results on these types of projects as well.
Combining Analog and Digital
Many engineers take a hybrid approach by:
- Tracking into Analog Gear – Running the mix through analog compressors and EQs.
- Dialing In Digitally – Using plugins for precision and automation.
- Printing Through Analog – Outputting the master through analog gear for character.
This provides both precision and richness for the best of both worlds.
You can combine the musicality of analog hardware with the efficiency of digital plugins.
In Conclusion
So which is better, analog or digital for mastering? The truth is, neither is inherently superior.
The important thing is choosing the right tools for your specific music and workflow. With high-quality software and hardware options, rely on your ears to determine what sounds best.
Experiment with both analog and digital processing to find the ideal balance for your productions.
What’s your experience with analog vs digital mastering? Which do you prefer for different types of projects? Share your perspective below!