Motion State Studio

WHO…
Anthony Franco was best known as the keyboard player and sometimes frontman of Rhode Island band The Shake. The Shake was a dominant force in the exciting Rhode Island music scene of the 1980s. With three writers and an abundance of talent, The Shake created a body of work that was critically acclaimed both locally and nationally. It is within the context of The Shake that Anthony was able to hone skills as a performer and arranger. Anthony’s knowledge of classical music and music theory further contributes to his skill as an arranger and producer.

WHAT…
From the non-linear drum room to the acoustically treated control room, Motion State studio was designed from the ground up for comfort, creativity, and accurate sound reproduction. Focusrite and Neve transformer based preamps were chosen for their warmth, accuracy and gentle saturation. Tube microphones and analog gear impart a sense of realism and depth not otherwise obtainable in a digitally based recording studio.

The outboard gear used at Motion State was chosen with one goal in mind; to recreate in the digital era, the warmth and saturation of analog transistors, transformers, and tubes. To that end, the finest analog gear is converted to and from the digital domain through the Antelope Audio Orion 32+ mastering grade AD/DA converter.

The philosophy extends to the choice of keyboards. The sounds of the venerable Minimoog and prophet 6 synthesizers cannot be duplicated in software. Even guitar based productions benefit from true analog synths as a means of adding substance and creativity to a production, and nothing does that better than the real thing. The Korg SV-1 -88 contains some of the best sample pianos available today.

VOCALS

Because every voice is unique, no one microphone or recording chain is best for all singers. Motion State has a range of options for recording vocals including the SE Electronics dual tube and the classic Neumann TLM-67 microphones. For those who feel most comfortable with a handheld mic, or who seek a low-fi vibe, dynamic options such as the Shure SM57 or Beyerdynamic M88 are also available. Likewise, a combination of mic pres, EQs and compressors is available in order to capture that special sound or feel.

MORE…

Motion State Studio can accommodate live-in-the-studio recordings of bands and virtually unlimited overdubs. When recording guitars, we typically recommend using a mic or two on the guitar cab and a separate direct line straight to the interface. This allows for greater control and creativity at mixdown. Most bands will bring their own amps and guitars, but many have opted to use the studio’s Vox AC15 amp and the versatile Vox SSD55 guitar. We also have a 1990’s era Japanese Fender Strat and Martin acoustic. Our Hofner Beatle bass is great for a 60s vibe or alternative rock. It’s hard to overstate the coolness of our Minimoog, DSI Prophet 6 and Korg MS20 analog synths.

Digital recording and mixing has immense benefits compared to what was possible in the analog tape days. However, many artists find that mixing in the box (all digital in the computer), can be a bit cold and uninspiring. Motion State Studio mitigates this by utilizing hybrid mixing techniques. This involves sending the digital signal out to analog processors on the stereo bus. Currently we mix into a Louder Than Liftoff Silver Bullet tone box, a TK Audio BC501 bus compressor, and an Elysia Xfilter stereo eq. Individual tracks may also be processed through various pieces of tube and transformer based units. The result, is a warmer, more three-dimensional mix, which many find more pleasing and familiar.

Virtually every record you ever heard had a producer overseeing the project. Generally speaking, the producer is responsible for helping to bring the artist’s vision into reality. The role of the producer can range from helping to craft songs, developing harmonies, arranging instruments, engineering sessions, adding additional instruments, and mixing. I have been involved in all of those aspects of making records for my clients. I am also happy to just sit back and hit record. It is entirely up to the artist as to how involved the producer should be. My ability as a producer was honed by years of experience as a gigging rock musician, and further enhanced by classical training. Motion State Studio is a perfect choice for singer/songwriters who may not have the resources or experience to bring their songs to life.