Review of Harrison 32 Classic Console: A Blend of Traditional and Modern Gaming
The Harrison 32Classic console, a modern marvel in the realm of medium-sized in-line consoles, stands out for its unique blend of iconic Harrison analog tone and flexible workflows. Designed for the owner of a smaller-to mid-sized DAW-based recording studio, this console is a testament to the company's commitment to creating high-quality, adaptable equipment for modern studio environments.
Premium Components and Flexible Workflows
At its core, the 32Classic features a premium Jensen JT-MB-CPCA transformer-coupled microphone preamp, renowned for its excellent sonic quality and warmth. This signature component, coupled with characterful low-pass (LP) and high-pass (HP) filters, provides versatile frequency shaping options right on the channel strip. The four-band parametric EQ is described as ultra-smooth and musical, offering precise tonal shaping with a distinctive Harrison character.
Modern Integration and Vintage-Inspired Tonal Qualities
Compared to other medium-sized consoles, the 32Classic's blend of vintage-inspired tonal qualities and modern hybrid workflow integration are key distinguishing factors. Its reputation for classic yet versatile sound and the availability of flagship features in both full console and compact strip formats make it unique in its class.
Streamlined Connectivity and Functionality
The 32Classic boasts a streamlined connectivity setup. A single Ethernet connection to the computer is all that's needed to plug in, load up the DAW and Dante Virtual Soundcard, and start making music on the 32Classic. The converters and Dante interface are located within the console, resulting in very short signal paths.
The console's in-line design, where both the Record path and the Monitor path are on the same channel and the same circuit board, ensures a seamless workflow. The 32Classic also features three stereo cue/matrixes that can be used for multiple purposes, most likely for headphone, cue mixes.
Additional Features and Conveniences
The 32Classic is equipped with gold-plated switches, long-life conductive plastic potentiometers, and Jensen transformers in the mic preamps and on the mix output. It also includes a two-tiered front bolster shelf at the mix position, providing ample space for a computer keyboard, laptop, mouse, music keyboard or drum pad, phone, iPad, lunch, computer monitor(s), and near-field speakers.
The console's matrix includes 5 aux, the "return mix," 8 sub buses, 2 external inputs, a stereo Dante input, the main mix, a talkback and solo button, overall level and mute. The second Dante interface uses 20 channels IN and 16 channels OUT, leaving room for future expansion.
The master mix fader is now placed above the monitor fader and mute on the master module to avoid inadvertent bumping. The 1/4-inch/XLR Mic/DI input is placed near the top of the master module for last-minute overdub convenience. It is electronically balanced and prewired to every input channel. Every channel has a direct out wired within the console to the input of the A/D. The same is true for the D/A going back in.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Harrison 32Classic continues a legacy of excellence, with industry-renowned engineers like Bruce Swedien, Roger Nichols, Reinhold Mack, and others having worked on Harrison consoles. Iconic artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, ABBA, Queen, Frank Zappa, and Steely Dan have all used Harrison consoles in their recordings.
In conclusion, the Harrison 32Classic console is a modern marvel that seamlessly combines the best of vintage analog sound with the flexibility and integration required for modern studio environments. Its unique features, premium components, and streamlined connectivity make it an excellent choice for any recording studio.
[1] Harrison Consoles. (n.d.). Harrison 32Classic. Retrieved from https://www.harrisonconsoles.com/products/32classic/ [2] Sound On Sound. (2021, February 15). Harrison 32-Series Mixing Console. Retrieved from https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/harrison-32-series-mixing-console [3] Pro Sound News Europe. (2021, February 15). Harrison 32Classic Compact Mix Strip. Retrieved from https://www.prosoundnews.eu/equipment/32classic-compact-mix-strip/ [4] Mix Online. (2021, February 15). Harrison 32Classic Compact Mix Strip. Retrieved from https://mixonline.com/news/harrison-32classic-compact-mix-strip [5] Pro Sound News. (2021, February 15). API Vision Console. Retrieved from https://www.prosoundnews.com/equipment/api-vision-console/
- The Harrison 32Classic console, standing out for its iconic Harrison analog tone and flexible workflows, is equipped with a premium Jensen JT-MB-CPCA transformer-coupled microphone preamp, known for its excellent sonic quality and warmth.
- With its reputation for classic yet versatile sound and the availability of flagship features in both full console and compact strip formats, the 32Classic's blend of vintage-inspired tonal qualities and modern hybrid workflow integration sets it apart from other medium-sized consoles.
- The 32Classic boasts a streamlined connectivity setup, requiring only a single Ethernet connection to the computer, and features three stereo cue/matrixes for headphone, cue mixes, and provides ample space for various gadgets and technology like laptops and near-field speakers on its two-tiered front bolster shelf.
- The 32Classic console, a testament to the company's commitment to creating high-quality, adaptable equipment for modern studio environments, includes a two-tiered front bolster shelf, a matrix with 5 aux, 8 sub buses, 2 external inputs, a stereo Dante input, and a master mix fader above the monitor fader and mute on the master module for easier use.
- Known for its unique features and premium components, the Harrison 32Classic continues a legacy of excellence, with industry-renowned engineers and iconic artists like Bruce Swedien, Roger Nichols, Reinhold Mack, Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, ABBA, Queen, Frank Zappa, and Steely Dan having worked on or used Harrison consoles in their recordings.
