Trident VFM

Analog console:
- 16 inputs, with each entry: line (jack) / microphone (XLR) - gain - pad - insert (pre fader) - fixed 4-band EQ (Bass - 2 Mid - acute) - Pan - bus - pfl
- 8 bus, with 2-band eq and return magnetos
- To 2 - a pre fader and post fader
- Monitor, with separate headphone and talkback
Console = comprehensive level connections and routing

Cons:
Integrated power supply
Given meter (LED) on the master bus (but no banner)
Unbalanced connectors (which is not a problem in a small studio)

Simple construction and high quality (edge ​​modular production UK) = easy maintenance (without diagrams)

UTILIZATION

In use, it's perfect with a DAW: 8 bus to the digital inputs, 8 digital outputs to inputs - 8 are other inputs for microphones, synths ...
Inserts everywhere, with a talkback ... We have everything at hand and easily accessible.

I would not use it for the live, because a little heavy and bulky and not symmetrized connection.

SOUNDS

This is the real plus: a REAL analog console "vintage" with
- Real preamp, musical, low level as in pushing,
- And especially the Trident eq (65/80): 4-band fixed to a simplicity and a formidable musicianship.

In addition to a DAW, as recording console or summons, it's ideal: the preamp rajoutent of life and warmth to any source, without distorting it - the eq can shape the sound and make it more musical.

To the mix, it seems to me imprecise and too strong.

OVERALL OPINION

Analog console of the mid-80's, the VFM was sold as the alternative "accessible" in size and price of the big consoles (80/65) of the famous English brand Trident (VFM = Value For Money) - meeting the needs of home studios ... 20 years too early.

In terms of sound quality is key to the magic of Trident: it's live = any source to add the bottom without vulgarity to kick, to highlight the medium without a bass pan, just add more grain to a folk or a voice ... Personally, I spend it.

I work on projects and electronic rock: for comparison, I find much more "punchy" a Studer 169 or 961 (but less beautiful "rock'n roll").

The value for money is excellent, Trident is not (yet) like other premium brands (Studer, Api, Amek).