Plugin Alliance AAX Bundle 2019 FSA-V.R

My music that's been on (massive US) TV shows begs to differ, it makes not one bit of difference if you use 'limits' or if you use pick n mix, I didn't say I go crazy with 1000 plugs, I have my go-tos, fuse eq, arouser, relab, townhouse, true iron, black rooster pultecs/comps etc. I 'restrict' myself to these as I know them and 'mix big'.

It makes no difference if I do it my way or use an SSL C-strip on every channel, they are all just comps and eqs after all. But whatever works for you, I did my 'c-strip workflow' a few years back and got fed up of the 'one size fits all' thing which is not how actual top ITB (not CLA) mixers work (go check Tchad Blake and Scheps as 2 prominent ITB mixers of great worth - neither use a console like ITB workflow - both have their go-tos and mix and match based ENTIRELY on the track in question - I mean the vox track, snare track, drum bus or w/e not the song).

If C-strip workflow works best for you then great, it doesn't matter either way, whatever gets you through to finish the mix and encourages you get it sounding good.

FTR I don't use a ton of plugs in anyway, some tracks have nothing (maybe a hp filter if that), but I also record through expensive hardware on the way int (Neve etc) and can bounce out through that for world-class compression/eq/saturation (shelford channel etc). So for me ITB is then a case of what further needs doing on a mix basis, not 'get my entire big console sound from one plug in over all tracks'. My Mix bus consists of eqs, comps and saturators (just like Tchad and Scheps) and I also enable HEAT in PT HD 12.5 (if you're still on 10 you should upgrde asap!) and the big sound comes from there more than anything (then work backwards - top down mixing - fast results big sound).

Have fun!

BTW there's nothing at all 'limited' about CLA's studio, he may have the big SSL but nearly every channel is routed to some outboard or other (as his mix vids show). He gets it down to 48? tracks for his console, and sends out at least half of them through great gear not just the SSL. It's not going overboard, and ITB nor do I go overboard, as I said I probably have less plugs in my mix in total than CLA has on his outboard sends.

Not sure why you read my post as going mad with loads of plug-ins, it's just like your idea restricting to SSL C-Strip but in my case I choose 3 flavours of eq/comp and mix n match as some sources suit. I think c-strip workflow (ITB) appeals to those who are struggling with mixing (as I did once) as it simplifies the thinking, BUT ultimately when you are 'good enough' it ceases to be relevant, you'll use whatever you have to, or leave completely alone, as you see fit... with confidence and reason. There is no 'best way' or 'one way'. We all get the results our own way. If you're not actually on an SSL console there's very little point emulating that ITB as A. SSL isn't the greatest sound anyway - esp if you're already on cold digital tracks recorded clean through a mid level interface with built in pres and B. You don't have the hands on faders/pots etc which is part of the reason big mixers 'got lazy' (not cos it sounded better).

I have an Icon D-Command which puts all my eqs/comps at my fingers with dedicated eq/comp control knobs, and the best ITB mix workflow on earth (these controllers were the best selling for pro mixers because they were that good but they cost ~£20k new!). Combine that with an eq or comp that works with it and you can't beat it! I don't need 'c strip' to get that with mysetup, i have that feel even with arouser and Axis eq or w/e. Though note, the PA SSL console strips do work great with this controller anyway. :)

cheers