To Ina Nikolow and Benedikt David, partners and co-founders of Headstart Records in Vienna, capturing the utmost natural sound is all that matters when they set out to record the best classical musicians perform in the most legendary halls.

“In total, we have 24 channels of AD and 8 channels of DA installed in our DAD AX32,” Ina Nikolow explains.“Typically, we use about 8-16 channels for sizes up to a chamber ensemble and 24-32 channels when recording bigger ensembles like a symphony orchestra or an opera. It also depends on the requested audio format – whether the production is due for delivery in stereo or multichannel surround formats.”

“Yes, and the preamps deliver great transparency and clarity in a depth you really rarely experience,” adds Benedikt David. “Also, there’s no noticeable coloration, the preamp sounds very natural.

In fact, we’ve tested the DAD AX32 along with some of the competing products in this field and unanimously preferred AX32 over all other products.”

A Wide Selection of Microphones

For any audio engineer, microphones are a critical part of the setup, and while some swear to a single brand, Ina and Benedikt like to keep their options open and have a large and versatile selection of mics at hand. 

“We use a carefully chosen selection of high-quality condenser microphones from Sennheiser, DPA, Schoeps, Neumann, AKG and Microtech Gefell. Each recording situation is unique and requires different types of microphones, but of course we have found a collection of premium microphones that we rely on. However, always remember that the ear is the final judge!"

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In a strategic and focused effort to support broadcast audio sales in the US, we are now teaming up with industry veteran Kurt Howell. He joins us as Sales Director for North America and will work in close co-operation with our current distribution.

"I am very pleased to be advancing into this new position working for NTP Technology and its Penta products," Kurt Howell adds. "NTP Technology with its DAD brand is globally recognised both for its pristine audio conversion quality and the MTRX audio interface developed for Avid. My key priority will be to build on the success of the DAD brand and the Penta audio conversion and routing product line to assist North American broadcasters in their move towards IP audio.

We will be promoting the modular flexibility and proven reliability of the NTP Penta conversion and audio-routing platform. Integrating Dante with existing formats such as SDI, AES and MADI is the key to a successful transition to AoIP. The Penta platform is the perfect vehicle for making this happen smoothly and efficiently."