Chilli Studio in Dublin has recently taken delivery of Audient’s ASP8024; the finishing touch to the studio which has been 18 months in the making. The brainchild of record producer Mark Hadfield, Dublin-based music manager Christopher Hehir and Westlife singer turned solo star Brian McFadden, the studio is already attracting artists such as Sisqo, The Corrs and Samantha Mumba as well as being used by McFadden and Delta Goodrem. McFadden’s new album is also being recorded there later on this year.
Co-owner Hadfield specified the equipment. His 14 years’ experience of working in various studios in the UK and US helped decide what was needed. 'When it came to choosing the console, I took the digital revolution into account,' he explains. 'I had a certain budget in mind and after thoroughly researching the options available to us - testing the desk and talking to other owners - I chose the Audient console as it fitted most of the criteria and fell easily within budget.'
With over 50 Dance Chart No 1s and over 30 Top 40 Hits to date, Hadfield is no stranger to the studio setting. 'The ASP8024 makes you feel like you are working in a 'professional' environment, unlike a lot of the digital desks on the market.' He continues, 'I was impressed with the simple layout of the desk, with the stereo compressor situated in the master section of the console. The EQ talks to you but is smooth & transient.'
The 36-channel console was configured to Hadfield’s exacting standards. 'There is a producer desk at the centre of the console to the right of the master section. The main plate was then removed so that we could slot a Digidesign Command|8 into the frame. This meant that as well as having full control over the analogue channels, we could also control the digital session (ride faders, EQ etc) whilst sitting in a central position at the desk – well, as long as you are right handed!'
Hadfield is the brains behind The Lovefreekz, who entered the charts at number 6 in January with their debut single 'Shine'. The Lovefreekz have been completing remixes for EMI and are currently recording their follow up single in Chilli Studios.
For further information about Chilli Studios please visit www.chillistudio.com.