When I came across a few references to the Sonic Maximizer, I thought it might be just what I needed. After purchasing a JBL10G2, I was disappointed in the overall lack of high fidelity. Altho a very good sounding speaker for bass, volumne, and vocal presence, the upper end lacks the crispness and clarity that I feel is needed when playing SMFs, mp3s, or arranger styles. I soon discovered that's true with most PA speakers.

The "fix" provided by the Sonic Maximizer was as much, if not more, than what I had hoped for! The SM can bring out a brilliance in either the highs or lows that weren't there to begin with. It has an effect on/off button that makes it easy to A/B with or without.

After my initial disappointment with the 10G2 (before I had the SM), I went out and purchased the "forum famous" SxA100... a very good sounding speaker, but better with the BBE SM. I'll probably keep both speakers... and definitely keep the BBE. How it works, don't know, don't care... but it works great... like taking the muffler off.

Again, the sound I'm looking for is one that comes as close as possible to my home stereo, and the BBE helps to achieve that.

Next, I'll be comparing microphones. After that, I'll have no excuse to not start gigging (I mean working) again!

Glenn

Another device that works well with live and recorded tracks is the new Aphex model 204 with optical "big bottom" whatever that means. It can do wonders for a mix.

Glenn,
Jow about posting a link to the toy?


------------------
jam on,
Terry
http://imjazzed.homestead.com/Index.html

I agree with Glenn.
Works excellent.
Saves a lot of time editing/equalising.
Allthough you need to watch that you are not enhancing too much, but overall a very valuable utility , 200% worth the costs.

Fred


here's the link;
http://www.cakewalk.com/Products/BBESonicMaximizer/default.asp

Mine is the 482 rack-mount version. Here's a link for more info:
http://www.crmav.com/mastering/gear/70/482_sonic_maximizer.shtml

Also, look at the Peavey Kosmos. It's the BBE PLUS more. (like a dedicated subwoofer output) Works better on 15" speakers becasue it really PUNCHES up the bass, but the overall "sizzle" factor is there even with smaller speakers !

Doesn't appear to run with Windows XP though, from the requirements.

------------------
jam on,
Terry
http://imjazzed.homestead.com/Index.html

I think you guys are confusing the hardware BBE maximizer (mentioned in GlennT's posts) and the plug-in software version of the BBE that works with things like Sonar and Sound Forge (metioned in freddynl's post). I use the software plug-in BBE for my recordings and it does reduce the muddy mids and adds crispness to the highs. On stage with my full PA rig I use the Behringer Ultrafex
Pro 3200, which is a combination sonic maximizer/bass enhauncer/stereo seperation enhauncer:
http://www.behringer.com/02_products/prodindex.cfm?id=EX3200&lang=eng

Pro, The price is certainly right for the Behringer. $99. US! I have heard all the others, and in my opinion the Peavey Kosmos is best. I have a DBX Aural Enhancer that is pretty good, but not in the same league as the Kosmos. I previously had a BBE, but it was several years ago. I've gotten away from using them because "lighter is better", but I might check out the Behringer.
DonM

The Behringer Ultrapro EX3200 is only $79.99 at http://www.americanmusical.com/. I think it's great. You'll have to spend some time tweaking to get what you want because there are so many controls to it but the results are excellent. I know others that use it and like it too.