All is Zen for MPG Award-Winning Producer

After winning his prestigious MPG award for Best Breakthrough Producer last year, Paul Savage took the decision to invest in an Audient Zen console for Chem19 Studios. Comprising two custom-built recording studios, Zen was chosen specifically for use in conjunction with Studio 2's existing Pro Tools HD set up.

“This desk affords us hugely increased flexibility in Studio 2 with both recording and mixing, and what with its moving fader automation and all round high quality build, we're really delighted with how Zen improves how much the space has to offer,” enthuses Chem19 recording studio engineer and producer, Savage.

Run by Scottish record label Chemikal Underground, Chem19's two studios each boast an artist's lounge, benefit from natural daylight and use the Pro Tools HD2 system, as well as the option of 24 track 2" analogue tape recording.

Emma Pollock, Chem19 co-owner explains, "It was important for us to have both studios operating at the same time and to be be on a par with each other equipment wise. The Zen enabled us to get a brand new, high quality desk that puts us at the top end of the market, whilst still being able to offer highly competitive rates."

The Zen mixing console is already working hard on current projects with Found (Chemikal Underground Records artist), Kathleen MacInnes (highly acclaimed Gaelic singer), Luke Ritchie (London singer songwriter) and Deacon Blue. Many stars have passed through the doors of Chem19, with Savage himself earning his MPG award-winning status recording and producing Franz Ferdinand, King Creosote and Brakes in the bright, welcoming studios.

Studio Engineer, Davey McAulay really appreciates the arrival of the Audient desk. “The Zen makes me look good! It means I can do a better job in less time, which always pleases the client. The preamps are great too, they just seem to grab every part of the sound, but they don't sound hyped.”

Zen is a thoroughly modern, yet classic analogue mixing console combining DAW I/O integration with moving fader automation and transport control. Designed for today’s studio environments and in a compact frame, Zen features 2 inputs per channel, DAW record output on each channel, L/R mix bus, 2 stereo buses, 2 mono buses, 4 auxiliaries and 2 cue sends, plus a stereo compressor.

Zen was supplied by Glasgow-based Audient dealer, Mediaspec. For full details about Chem19 have a look around at www.chem19.co.uk.