“My background is in the studio so I can appreciate good workmanship,” says Suffolk New College Music Technology Course Leader, Craig Shimmon, who’s very pleased with the arrival of the new Audient ASP4816 desk. “The other lecturers have commented on the superior build quality and the clean preamps; the layout is a dream to teach with,” he adds.
“Teaching with the Audient console just makes it a whole lot easier”
Installed as part of an upgrade to the studio at the college, the analogue mixing console forms an integral part of the Music Technology course, teaching Level 2 and two years of Level 3 Diploma students. Shimmon explains, “Our department consists of industry professional engineers, composers, producers and DJs teaching a range of different Music Technology specialisms, with industry-standard equipment and facilities.
“All in all approximately 60 Music Technology students will have hands-on access to the studio, with a further 60 music performance students benefiting from being recorded,” he adds.
With all the key features of a large console in a compact and ergonomic form, the ASP4816 also features in-line architecture, ideal for teaching signal flow, which fits perfectly at Suffolk New College. “I love the in-line faders,” enthuses Shimmon. “With previous desks we have had to use Mix B pots or split the desk which can be confusing. Teaching with the Audient console just makes it a whole lot easier. This coupled with the ability to route different channels to different tape outs makes this a very powerful machine!” Which is exactly how New Suffolk College meets its strategic aim, “to provide high quality learning and teaching, and gain recognition as an excellent and innovative provider.”
Audient has every faith that with the new, improved set up and under Craig Shimmon’s instruction, New Suffolk College music technology students will go far.
