AES Convention
On Saturday, October 10th, 2009 I attended the AES (Audio Engineering Society) Convention at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan. It was my first time attending and it certainly will not be the last. Many of my favorite audio vendors were there at the exhibit, including API, SSL, Neve, Focal, Mogami, AKG, Dangerous, etc. All of the gear is beautifully displayed and can be demo’ed right there at the booth.
I remember listening to the distinct tones of about 6 different, very expensive Neumann microphones. There are not too many places where one can really feel, hear and experience the gear like AES. I also remember learning about a new 500 series Obsidian 2-Buss Compressor. I have used the rackmount version of this stereo compressor many times on drums, guitar busses and of course, the stereo buss.
Being a huge fan of 500 series modules, I thought this would be the coolest thing to fill in the last 2 spots of my API Lunchbox. I found it so amazing to be able to approach the people who actually designed and built the equipment that I use in my studio. Everyone was very friendly and willing to discuss their products and their competitive advantages.
AES was a great networking event and I handed out many business cards and let people know of the near opening of my studio. I left with a ton of literature, brochures and magazines. It was definitely an educational and inspiring event that made me feel part of an incredible community of very talented people.