Trident A-Range Console
An in-house designed console that became sought-after for its distinct and pleasant sound.
The Trident A Range consoles were originally designed and built as an in house project by Malcolm Toft, who was chief recording engineer at Trident, and Barry Porter, who was in charge of studio maintenance. Other studios heard about it and placed orders for consoles, and Trident Audio Developments was formed with Malcolm Toft as managing director. Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles was one of the early recipients of one of the first production models, and ultimately purchased three new from Trident and one from a broker at a later time. David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Frank Sinatra are among the early artists who first recorded hit records on Cherokee's first 'A' Range console.
Quick Facts
- Manufacturer
- Trident Audio Developments
- Key feature
- Very distinct and pleasant sound with a very 'musical' EQ section
Lore & Background
The Trident A Range console was born from the expertise of Trident Studios' own chief recording engineer, Malcolm Toft, and maintenance engineer Barry Porter. They designed and built it as an in-house project, and its reputation quickly spread. Other studios began placing orders, leading to the formation of Trident Audio Developments with Toft as managing director. Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles became an early adopter, purchasing three new consoles from Trident and later acquiring a fourth from a broker. Early hit records by David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Frank Sinatra were recorded on Cherokee's first 'A' Range console. Though it had a very limited run, the console gained a reputation for its very distinct and pleasant sound with a very 'musical' EQ section. Original Trident A Range modules have kept a healthy resale value and are much sought after by engineers who like to combine old-school analogue gear with cutting-edge digital recording technology.
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