What place do Analog Hardware EQs and Compressors have in modern studio environments?

Over the past few decades, audio has been rapidly transferring from the analog domain to digital. The digital domain brings with it new technologies and workflows that vastly expand mix engineers' possibilities. Despite this, some engineers still insist on holding onto analog tools for their desired sonic capabilities and creative advantages. With the advancement of software technology, the question remains whether plug-in emulations are at a standard that the trained ear can hear the difference. If not, is there still a need for hardware processors used in modern studios as they downsize, with artists and engineers deciding to mix in reduced studio home setups?

This study aims to investigate these questions through three main subcategories: Technical, Commercial and Creative analysis. The chosen equipment will be put through a series of tests measuring multiple parameters. These results will coincide with results gathered from a blended quantitative and qualitative questionnaire, providing clarity on the subject. Research questions from this questionnaire include: can engineers hear the sonic differences between hardware and software, does affordability factor into engineers' preferred mix method, and are there any creative arguments that can made for mixing in analog?

The conclusion drawn from this study is that the mix of engineers interviewed could not hear the sonic differences between the hardware and software processing units. Valid arguments were made in relation to the creative advantages. However, the affordability of plug-ins outweighed the hardware’s creative advantages, with 100% of participants stating they mainly used plug-ins for mixing. In addition to this, the majority of participants agreed that plug-in workflow is much more efficient. The results concluded that plug-in emulations are at a high enough standard to replace their hardware counterparts sonically, especially in conjunction with their financial advantages.