Kramer HLS Channel

Channel strip from the renowned Helios console
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The Classic Console Color from Bowie, Zeppelin, Hendrix Recordings

features

The Helios console at London’s Olympic Studios was famous for fat bass, sweet saturation, and high-end presence. Working in close collaboration with legendary producer Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Rolling Stones), HLS Channel models the Helios down to the last detail.

Whether used on individual tracks, buses, or masters, HLS Channel captures the sparkling quality of the Helios’ world-class EQ, and the behavior, coloration, and drive of its unique preamps.

  • Captures the console used by Zep, Bowie, Hendrix, Marley
  • Meticulously models the Helios’ EQ and mic/line preamp drive
  • Developed with legendary producer Eddie Kramer
  • The 3-band EQ’s design assists in dialing up the right sound quickly
  • Optionally adds historically accurate noise and hum
  • Preamp modeling provides variable harmonic distortion

Add the Original Console’s Uniquely Fat Bass and Sweet Saturation

  • Modeled from an Authentic Original

    So many of the original Helios channel strips have been modified over the years, so we went to the source: Eddie Kramer’s extensive research led us to the console that best characterized the sound he obtained on classic rock recordings—most recently used in the legendary Rolling Stones Mobile Studio.

    Features: Glue Mixes without “Squashing”

  • Enchanting Helios Equalization

    Helios Channel’s EQ has the uncanny ability to seemingly make anything that goes through it sound better. This wasn’t just because of the circuitry, but the intelligent choices made regarding frequencies and boost/cut options.

    Features:

  • Sweet Analog Preamp Color

    Reproduce the authentic color and harmonic distortion of the original preamps. Plus, as an option, add analog noise and 50/60 Hz hum to get the full original analog character—or turn them off to bring Helios Channel into a pristine new world.

    Features: Fast and Efficient Operation

  • Marvelous Midrange

    The midrange is the most crucial part of the Helios EQ. With 8 carefully chosen center frequencies, gain adjustment control, and choice of boost or cut, HLS Channel delivers true, tonal tailoring for individual instruments.

    Features: From Vocals to “The Ringo Drum Sound”

  • Detailed Bass Control

    The clever bass parameter design makes it easy to control the low end. Boost at 4 critical frequencies (60, 120, 250, 400 Hz), or cut 50 Hz by 3 to 15 dB—essential when mastering for vinyl.

    Features: Multiple Modes Fit Different Material

  • A Breath of Fresh Air

    The secret weapon for many engineers is adding a boost at 10 kHz to give air, definition, and brightness. The Helios Channel’s 10 kHz boost (up to 12 dB) is unusually sweet—or, cut highs for sounds that are overly bright.

    Features: Precision Modeled Transformers
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