Hardware: Analogue

Section: Analogue Recording Devices

Analogue recording relies on devices such as magnetic tape machines, reel-to-reel tapes, and vinyl disk recorders.
Magnetic tape machines convert electrical signals from microphones into magnetic energy on tape.
Reel-to-reel tapes record sound through a series of magnetic polarities on a plastic strip.
Vinyl disk recorders cut sound grooves into a disk, creating a master record.

Section: Mixing Desks

Mixing desks, or mixing consoles, are crucial to analogue music production.
Consoles have multiple input channels, each with its own volume slider or knob.
Each input channel typically includes a preamp, EQ section, and several auxiliary sends.
The master section includes the master fader and controls for master effects.

Section: Analogue Audio Processors

Analogue audio processors include devices like equalisers, compressors, noise gates, and reverb units.
Equalisers adjust the tonal balance of sound.
Compressors modify the dynamic range of audio signals.
Noise gates auto-mute signals below a certain threshold to reduce unwanted noise.
Reverb units simulate acoustic settings, adding space and character to sound.

Section: Analogue Microphones and Amplifiers

Analogue microphones turn acoustic energy into electrical signals, with types including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones.
Dynamic mics are robust, handle high sound pressure levels well, and are ideal for live sound.
Condenser mics are more sensitive and accurate, with their active electronics requiring phantom power.
Ribbon mics offer a vintage sound character, being fragile and most suitable for controlled studio environments.
Analogue amplifiers increase the amplitude of audio signals, with tube amps offering a warm, characterful sound often desired in the recording and production.