For decades, professional audio has revolved around two dominant sonic signatures. Neve and API have become so ubiquitous that they’ve essentially defined what “professional” sounds like. Both companies have earned their legendary status through exceptional engineering, with musical lineages that span decades. These sounds are popular for good reason. But their dominance raises an interesting question: what if the path to a distinctive sound doesn’t require inventing something new, but rather rediscovering what’s been forgotten?
In our latest video comparison at The Nest Recorder with Grammy-winning engineer Chris Sorem, we explore two British console designs that shaped iconic recordings but have largely disappeared from modern conversations: Helios and Sound Techniques.
These are legends of audio equipment that you’ve heard countless times, but have faded into obscurity. However, they’re back in the hands of loving shepherds and have been revived for the modern recording studio.
In this video, we are going to show you sound examples and comparisons of the sounds that changed the music industry in the 1960s and are available today to elevate your productions.
To put these legends to the test, we went to The Nest Recorder in East Los Angeles with Grammy-winning engineer Chris Sorem. We were joined by Farmer Dave and the Wizards of the West to shoot out the gear on their song “How Could I Forget You”. Let’s hear some of the tracks soloed out and all together through both the Helios by H2 and Sound Techniques.
Sound Techniques: The Original British Console
Sound Techniques is regarded as the original British console. It was the first A-Range console installed at Trident Studios, where artists like David Bowie, T Rex, Elton John and countless others crafted their masterpieces. Another Sound Techniques console was installed at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, where The Doors, The Rolling Stones, and a revolving door of hit makers crafted music that defined a generation.
The Historic Helios Console
Olympic Studios in London could not let Trident steal the show, so they commissioned the first Helios console. This console could be seen in the Godard film Sympathy for the Devil, documenting The Rolling Stones’ production of that song. And Island Records loved the sound of the Helios console at Olympic so much that they commissioned a handful of Helios consoles to be used for Bob Marley on almost all the records in the 1970s. The Helios has a very eclectic pedigree, from Led Zeppelin’s Levee Breaks, to Black Sabbath, Joy Division, and Roxy Music.
Classic Sound For The Modern Studio
Both Helios and Sound Techniques are available in rack form to elevate your productions with classic, unique sound.
H2 Audio recreate the Helios sound exactly as it was in its prime – not “inspired by,” but circuit-for-circuit accurate, built with the same quality parts and precision.
Sound Techniques continues their legacy of sonic excellence with their 7064CS Mic Pre/EQ. The circuit topology is identical to the Sound Techniques ZR7064 console input module including the revered “Z Match” impedance selector.
Listen and Compare: Helios vs. Sound Techniques
Download the full session with additional samples and compare in real time:
Our Favorites From Sound Techniques
Our Favorites From Helios by H2 Audio
Want to hear them in your studio?
We know that your sound is unique to you, so we welcome you to demo Sound Techniques, Helios, or both in your studio on your next session.
Fill out the form below, and we’ll reach out to you to set up a demo at your studio.
We’re here to help you sound your best.
