How to build a project studio with reference class sound

Client

Erkan Altinok is a well-known sound editor, sounddesigner, re-recording mixer and film mixing engineer. He runs his own studio and has been involved in many of the top film productions for the Turkish cinema in his 20 years in the business. An overview of his film work is listed in the Internet Movie Database (www.IMDb.com). Especially famous andcritically acclaimed are “G.O.R.A.” (2004), “Organize Isler” (2005) and “Eyyvah Eyvah 3” (2014). Another important part of his work are commercials.

Target

Erkan Altinok approached BL Muzik, RME distributor in Turkey, to help him build a recording and mixing studio that meets his demands. Naturally, the top requirement is sound quality. Erkan was also specific about the integrationof his analog mixing console and a Pro Tools-based DAW into a flexible and expandable setup.

Solution

BL Muzik suggested a MADI-based solution with RME converters at all critical points. From his visits and work in other studios in Turkey, Erkan was already familiar with the sound quality, reliability and ease of use of RME’s MADI products, so he embraced this proposal. In his new setup three RME converters handle all AD/DA and format conversion and ensure uncoloured, precise sound reproduction: An RME M-32 DA converter feeds the 24 channel SPLNeo console from the MADI output of the Pro Tools-equipped DAW.

Main tracking relies on the AD section of an ADI-8 QS (with i64 MADI card), while the QS’s DA section supplies the 5.1 monitor speakers. Additional digital equipment with AES/EBU connections, like reverbs, is connected to an ADI-642 that handles the integration of these signals into the MADI backbone. 

Benefits

The choice of a MADI-based layout allows easy expansion of his studio with more equipment, while offering a more than sufficient channel count and flexible routing options at the same time.

Conclusion

As ‘time‘ means ‘money‘ - especially in the professional audio business - Erkan said he could not be happier with this solution. He took great care to make his studio an inviting and aesthetic place for his guests and customers. The almost silent operation of his studio gear, without distracting noise from cooling fans, adds to the comfortable and productive atmosphere in Erkan Altinok’s studio.