Mark Studio 1 operates as either a standalone
amp emulator or as an AU, RTAS, or
VST plug-in compatible with every popular
digital audio workstation (DAW) program.
The interface is slick as can be, with
a beautifully rendered display of each modeled
amps’ front panel and the selected cabinet.
Most front-panel parameters on the
virtual hardware are functional, and adjustment
is as simple as moving the pointer
over a knob and turning it like a finger. Control
over the COMPRESSOR, presets, rig/mic
model, and MIX parameters are available
via knobs, sliders, and buttons on the
bottom of the interface.
DAW-wise, I mostly run Digital Performer
5.12 in my home studio. The Studio
1 loaded up without hiccups as an AU plugin.
I imported some tracks I did for an overdub
on a House-music session, which I
recorded direct with a Millenia TD-1. I
grabbed a section and looped it, adjusting
parameters on the Studio 1. The plug-in’s
smooth response and intuitive interface was
immediately appealing. Each head on offer—
the crisp and versatile TA501, no-frills R500,
and the plush all-tube Classic 300—had a
substantively different flavor. Selecting
among the myriad cabinets on offer, from
the barky 151 HR 1x15 to the big and bossy
sealed 108 CL 8x10, was enlightening and
sonically rewarding. The compressor
sounded warm and natural, although I
would have appreciated numbers for the
GAIN, RATIO, ATTACK, and RELEASE and a gainreduction
display. Experimenting with mics
added even more dimension and personality
to the tone, with everything from a
punchy small-diaphragm dynamic (think
SM57) to a high-output ribbon mic like a
Royer 122 available. Cycling through the
64 presets is a quick way to explore the
Mark Studio 1’s potential. Saving a custom
patch is a simple matter, too.
The Mark Studio 1 is a versatile tool
for home and studio recordists. In general,
plug-in quality can vary substantially, so
the Studio 1’s stability and slick interface
were appreciated. It’s a quick means of
wringing even more power from a digital
recording rig.
MARKBASS MARK STUDIO 1
Street $199
Pros Sweet and natural sounding amp
emulation with slick interface
Cons Compressor could offer a little more
information
Warranty Full support with registration
Contact www.markbass.it