Hey folks, New to this forum. I’ve had an older GL4 for about 15 years now. I used it as my front end for recording drums. It still runs great without any issues. I recently bought an SSL 18 and took the GL4 out of the loop as I want to take advantage of the SSL pres. I’ve always wondered if there are any mods I could do to the GL4 that would step it up sonically and if it’s even worth doing. I recently saw a post in a group I’m in on the Book of Faces where someone suggested Burr brown chips….Thanks in advance, Sean O
In my experience I’d say is not worth the effort and money. The A&H GL series of consoles has been really successful because of its quality, easy of use, and reliability. Even if you completely recap your GL4 with high quality audio grade nichicon and replace all op amps with burr brown (TI) you will “maybe hear” a very marginal difference, if any, in your tracks. Your oscilloscope might show you nicer waves though. This after spending money, time, and effort to complete the task.
I’m not aware of any specific circuit design mods that can improve the overall sound of the GL4 drastically, It is after all not that old of a design.
I’ve serviced and upgraded various old and vintage mixing boards, and the only time that I was able to appreciate a relevant improvement, repairs aside, was when I’ve added direct outs to a Yam 1202, but that was a functional upgrade, not sound quality.
So I’d say is really up to you if you want to embark onto this project, but don’t expect a new board out of it.
Thanks so much for your comprehensive reply. It’s been a great mixer for a long time. I’ll leave it as is.
Best,