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In the fast-paced world of studio technology, where software updates and digital interfaces cycle through every few years, there is something profoundly reassuring about a piece of hardware that simply refuses to quit. This month, we caught up with Bjarte Hoff Ludvigsen, the driving force behind Bergen’s renowned Tune Park studio, to talk about his long-term relationship with a true industry workhorse: the Audient ASP8024 Classic.
For over two decades, Bjarte has been at the centre of the Norwegian music scene. At the heart of his workflow is an analogue console that has seen it all. While many studios are constantly chasing the “next big thing,” Bjarte’s setup is anchored by a 36-channel ASP8024 that has proven itself to be practically indestructible.
Choosing the Right Path
When Bjarte was first looking to invest in a large-format desk, he wasn’t just looking at Audient. In fact, he was weighing up some of the heaviest hitters in the industry.
“I was looking at several consoles,” Bjarte reveals. “I considered going ‘all-in’ on an SSL 4000 or a Neve, but after testing the Audient, I immediately fell in love with the inline workflow, the sound and how intuitive it was.” It’s a crossroads many studio owners face: do you go for the vintage maintenance-heavy prestige or modern reliability? Ultimately, this ASP8024 Classic (with producer section) won out. Years later, it’s a choice he has never had cause to regret.
Built to Last (The Great Coffee Catastrophe)
The true test of a console isn’t just how it sounds on day one, but how it handles the “real world” of a busy studio environment. For Bjarte, the ASP8024 survived an accident that would usually result in a very expensive insurance claim.
“We did once spill coffee into the master section,” Bjarte recalls. While most desks would have suffered permanent failure, the ASP8024’s robust design meant it wasn’t the end of the road. “Lights started flashing and I immediately powered it down. After three days of careful cleaning with isopropanol and letting it dry, it came back to life without needing a single replacement part – quite astonishing! It’s an incredible and solid design by David Dearden.”
Everyone Understands It “Within Minutes”
One of the standout features of the ASP8024 is how it facilitates a smooth workflow, not just for Bjarte, but for everyone who walks through the studio doors. In a professional environment, you can’t afford to spend hours teaching a guest engineer how to use the desk. “We’ve had many engineers and producers from both Norway and abroad working here and everyone seems to grasp the workflow within minutes,” Bjarte explains. Whether it’s the “fast and easy” setup for tracking or the intuitive layout, the console allows the focus to stay on the music rather than the manual.
ASP8024 Analogue Console “has stood the test of time”
“The inline architecture is incredibly powerful. Being able to switch signals between short and long faders at the push of a button is a huge advantage. The master section is also very well designed, with support for four speaker sets, talkback to multiple zones and playback in the live rooms. The built-in compressor is another highlight – we use it frequently, especially for quickly checking how a mix responds to additional compression. I would definitely say that the console has stood the test of time. It’s an incredible piece of machinery.”
Moving House: The Console That Came Along
When Tune Park recently moved to a stunning new 130-square-metre facility in Bergen, there was never any question about whether the ASP8024 would make the trip. Despite the logistical challenge of moving a large-format console, Bjarte knew it was an essential part of the new space.
“We recently moved to a new, larger location and it’s still the heart of the studio,” he notes. Together with studio co-owner Mads Vathne Lervik, they work in the control room composing, producing and mixing whilst five freelance producers also use the space regularly. Having that familiar, reliable sound of the Audient preamps and the bus compressor meant they could hit the ground running in the new rooms.
The Analogue Workflow in a Digital Age
So, what is it about the ASP8024 that keeps Bjarte coming back to the faders? For him, it’s about the marriage of ergonomics and sonic character.
“One of the things I truly appreciate about this console is the workflow,” says Bjarte. “It allows me to keep everything connected and ready to go, without constantly repatching cables. While we still use an external patchbay, the setup is incredibly efficient. We do a lot of songwriting and fast-paced production, so being able to quickly access synths and outboard gear is essential. The left side of the console (24 channels) is connected to our studio rooms and DAW and is always ready for microphones and outboard mixing, while the right side (12 channels) is permanently routed to keyboards and music-making-gear. All we need to do is raise the faders, set the input and record.”
Looking To The Future
Tune Park proudly supports new talent. “We regularly sponsor a local band competition in Bergen and enjoy giving up-and-coming artists a platform,” says Bjarte.
“We’ve also been developing a board game centred around the music industry, which is due to be released this autumn,” he continues. “It lets players build a band, rehearse, record, get bookings and navigate the industry. It includes over 500 cards and a companion app featuring more than 1300 audio clips (recorded with the Audient console, naturally) that form part of your band’s music.”
As Tune Park continues to expand – now encompassing a record label, management company and now this gaming division – the ASP8024 remains the steady pulse at the centre of it all. It’s a reminder that in an industry defined by change, quality engineering and a bit of British design go a long way.
Find out more about Bjarte at The Tune Park, on the brand new game at Tune Park Games and explore the current generation of Audient consoles here.