I just bought a Mackie Big Knob from Thomann about a month ago, because right now I always control the listening levels via the virtual STM2448 controlroom level knob. Not very reliable to adjust the volume with the mouse and this also means you have to get the mixer on top in order to contol it (if you have a single screen), oh well you guys know what I mean
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Normally, I read a lot of reviews and user experiences before I consider buying certain gear. Unfortunately I haven't done it that much with the Big Knob. By the way, I haven't used it yet. It's still sitting in it's box, as I'm moving in 4 weeks, and right now there isn't any desktop space to place it. I was planning to use it when my new "studio" in my new home is up and running.
Anyway, I read some experiences from people saying that the Big Knob colors the sound (somewhat). If that's really true, I'm not happy of course, one wouldn't want that, especially not when critically mixing (mastering) your tracks...
Is it really that noticable/bad? Of course I also read quite some positive experiences with the Big Knob..
The point is, Besides controlling the volume of my active monitors (Tannoy Precision 8D), I like the fact to switch inputs (scope mixer outputs, external cd player, and other aux sources), and possible future 2nd pair of speakers/monitors as switchable outputs.
But I believe the soundquality of the SPL Volume 2/8 is way better because of the passive components, so less alteration of the original signal, but then you can't switch between inputs. The SPL Volume 2 would have been great if I only had the mix outputs of my DAW to monitor, and nothing else.
I'm not sure if the SPL Volume 8 has switchable inputs. I guess the 8 inputs will be controlled simultaneously by the volume knob, but I'm not sure if it will suit my needs as it doesn't seem switchable (my wishes: multiple soundsources controllable by one volumeknob for my active monitors)
Oh yeah, I already heard some people who noticed that the M-Patch 2 has some phase issues when listened at low volume levels, so I don't think I'll consider that one..
Bottom line, should I not worry too much with the Big Knob as it is just fine, or would a SPL Volume 8 have been a better choice?
Any advice?
Thank you!
Cheers,
Darcy