Radar Sounds has installed an AMS Neve Genesys G32 console from AMS Neve. Radar Sounds was established eight years ago when studio owner “Fuzz” Barthram-Keet took over the recording studio, which was formerly used by record label 4AD.
Located on Platts Eyot, a small island in the River Thames, Radar Sound Services places a strong emphasis on live recording and using analogue facilities to capture the best sound.
“The desk’s fabulous analog design and Neve preamp circuitry allows us to keep the mix analog from start to finish without sacrificing modern features such as hands-on DAW control and connectivity, said Barthram-Keet.”
As well as tracking, Fuzz says he also offers mixing and mastering services and describes the business as a “one stop shop” for musicians, media companies and voice over artists. “I started out as a guitarist in a band but moved into the Engineering/Production side of the business because I was fascinated by the technology and the challenge of capturing great sound,” he said.
“I eventually acquired enough equipment to start my own studio and was told about the facility on Platts Eyot by my former sound Engineering teacher. Although we offer a full range of services, we tend to attract artists who prefer an analogue sound and want to record all their instruments live. I’ve always been interested in capturing the true essence and vibe of a band and I do feel live recording to 24 track analogue tape enables you to do that better. But obviously, as a commercial business, we cater for all types of projects and are equally at home with digital, which we record using our *IZ ADA system.”
Fuzz adds that the studio’s new Neve Genesys has made it faster and easier to switch between sessions, improving the facility’s productivity.
“The desk does give us a commercial advantage and I’m really thrilled with it,” he says. “It perfectly complements the way we like to work and by using its preamps, EQ and dynamics, we can now offer our customers that classic Neve sound.”
Like so many commercial facilities, Radar Sounds had to close its doors during the Covid-19 lockdown but was able to stay busy with online mixing/mastering projects.
“The pandemic has made the situation difficult for people who want to record live, but we are confident about the future because we are adaptable and have the experience to provide a professional package at a great price,” Fuzz says. “We have mastering and mix projects scheduled for the summer and we hope it won’t be too long before we can get bands back into the live room to record.”