FLASHBACK
1981 AMS RMX-16 Digital Reverb
Craft a perfect room sound without the room
BACKGROUND
Started in 1976, Mark Crabtree and Stuart Nevison were aerospace engineers moving into pro studio design who designed a tape phase product that ELO and Wings used to great success. Later, they merged with Neve.
WHY IT WAS USED
Digital reverb was way easier than finding a million different rooms to get the sound you wanted!
PROMINENT USAGE
Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight.” Think of the iconic drum fill in that song. This machine helped create that.
MODERN EQUIVALENT
There is a plug-in, of course, as there is for most old school gear. I still have two AMS machines but the plug-in is pretty great alternative, honestly. If maintenance is an issue, get the plug-in. Mine seem to have problems from time to time but I still love them.
LESSONS LEARNED
How to manipulate reverb in unique ways. You don’t have to settle for the norm.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Don Miggs is a singer/songwriter/producer and fronts the band miggs (Elm City/Capitol Records). His love affair with vintage instruments and gear only presents a problem when he’s awake. Find out more at miggsmusic.com, lalamansion.com, or his radio show, @thefringeAM820 (Saturdays 5-7PM EST).