T.C. Electronic M-One and D-Two
Dual effects processor and multi-tap delay bring pro-level sound to a semi-pro price.
by Markkus Rovito
August 30, 2000
Summing it Up
Another manufacturer normally associated with high-end signal processing takes its technology to a lower income level, and the results are stunning. Both the M-One (reverb/multi-effects) and D-Two (multi-tap delay), deliver superb sounding effects and a high degree of user programmability. Though both offer such professional features as 24-bit processing, digital S/PDIF I/O, and full MIDI implementation, operation remains intuitive enough for intermediate users to grasp quickly. A few presets on each unit introduced noise to the monitors, particularly the M-One's phaser. However, the D-Two is highly recommended as a dedicated delay unit, and the M-One would make a choice dedicated reverb for the project studio owner whose pockets aren't so deep.
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The T.C. Electronic M-One (top) and D-Two (bottom).
(click for a close-up)
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You know we live in a marvelous age when Lexicon effects can be had for a couple of C-notes. When Lexicon introduced the MPX100 just two years back, it was as if Lamborghini came out with a hatchback. Later, they released the classier but still affordable MPX500, and it seemed a trend was born. Now T.C. Electronic, another maker of some of the most sought-after and costly signal and effects processors, has released the M-One dual effects processor and the D-Two delay unit, which -- listing at US $699 each -- cost a fraction of some of their T.C. brethren. Who's next, Eventide? We'll see.
The asking price for the M-One and D-Two still isn't chump change, but if you’ve got the dough to step up from the entry-level effects, you are about to be enlightened. Ever wonder why producers such as Teddy Riley can use a Roland MC-505 on a hit song, but you can't get a polished track out of it? The secret is in the processing. It's amazing how the truly lush reverbs or fat delays of these T.C. machines can add so much depth and realism to the sound of the average sample playback synth. With each preset I dialed up, merely passable synthesized pianos, organs, drums, guitars, and basses were given new life as inspiring instruments. And you know how you always sound 100 times better singing in the bathroom than anywhere else? Some of the preset reverbs in the M-One could be titled "Shower Stall."
Not that I believe it takes the top gear to make great music, but the M-One and D-Two inspired new ideas for songs over and over again, and their relatively simple, intuitive user interfaces let me dive right into creating sounds while the creative spark was burning.
Next Page: M-One Dual Effects Processor; Going Inside....
Markkus Rovito is an assistant editor for Harmony Central. He was formerly assistant editor at Keyboard.
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