It took Chris da Graça just a few years to build up JavaJam studio, which today he
describes proudly as “…a well-run, popular professional music recording studio and
theatre space.’ Eight years after first opening its doors, the studio takes delivery of
an Audient ASP8024 Heritage Edition – the first of the new, enhanced, large format
consoles from Audient to be installed in Benelux.

Based in the small Burgundian town of Oudewater, da Graça was already an Audient
fan, having previously owned the more compact ASP4816 mixing desk. “We were
very happy with the ASP4816, but we needed the extra channels,’ says da Graça,
who was ably assisted by Audient’s Benelux distributor, Pro Media Connect to
upgrade the cabling to accommodate those extra input channels and direct outputs.

Adding the Dual Layer Control (DLC) option, ensures da Graça has a range of DAW
control features at his fingertips “I used to use the ASP4816 with MC Mix from Avid,
but with the Heritage DLC, all the control is completely integrated in the desk, and I
really like that,’ he explains. “One click on the DLC and you can switch between
Logic & ProTools.’

The RETRO IRON output card on the new Heritage console has also made an
impression, providing subtle LOW BUMP and HIGH LIFT Mix EQ’s and allowing for
wider, more spacious mix bus tones. “The tonal shaping options and John Hardy Co.
990C Mix Bus amplifiers allow many possible routes whilst mixing,’ adds da Graça.

“I love the whole concept of Audient,’ he continues. “Great sounding, beautiful
products that are still affordable. There is no real competition in this price range at
this quality. The desk itself looks great, it’s well finished and has a clear and simple
layout. The walnut finish gives an extra special touch, and even the vintage VU
meter is very useful, as well as looking the part. Furthermore the great-sounding
pre-amps, functional EQ and speed of working on the desk make it a pleasure to
work with.’

JavaJam clients include local bands, solo musicians, choirs and other creative
musical projects. “We do lots of pre-production recording work and some full album
projects where the Audient mic pres come in very handy indeed.’ Together with the
world-class Audient mic pres and a comprehensive array of outboard gear, da
Graça draws on his own broad musical background to help him connect with and
understand his customers.

The coming months see JavaJam continuing to be busy. “The talented Amsterdam
band The Loot will be here, plus Aemstelbeat and Seyl & Treyl. We also have
sessions planned with a jazz trio, and a solo bass guitar,’ So it seems da Graça has
found his balance; working in a relaxed and professional environment with others,
he’s happy. “I can serve both my own creativity and those of my customers,’ he
says. Indeed, everybody’s happy.