Steve Rutter, one half of UK Techno / IDM producers B12, spoke to us about using the Ultrasone Signature Pro headphones for mixing and pre-mastering.
If you’re a fan of the now iconic sounds released by Warp Records in the early nineties, then chances are you’re familiar with the work of Steve Rutter. Making up one half of electronic duo B12 (the other member being Mike Golding), the group was responsible for some of the best known UK techno and ambient techno/IDM tracks of the early nineties.
This included a track on the seminal Warp Records release Artificial Intelligence Volume I compilation (under the moniker Musicology), which also featured early productions from the likes of Aphex Twin, Autechre, The Black Dog and Richie Hawtin. Inhabiting the space between dance and headphone music, these genre-defining tracks were some of the first of the period produced primarily for listening rather than dancing. They also spawned a host of imitators, and continue to influence a wide range of artists to this day.
For B12, a series of EPs and albums followed, with the pair becoming recognised as one of the most respected underground techno artists from the UK. In 1996 however, the band decided to take a long and unexpected hiatus until 2005, when the guys reappeared with new material which they released on their own imprint B12 Records.
“For each genre I listened to, I was hearing things that I didn’t even register before.
The detail is astonishing, and the comfort level second to none.”
After deciding to upgrade his studio setup, Steve chose the Ultrasone Signature Pro for creating, mixing and pre-mastering the new B12 tracks. As someone who has been producing electronic music for over two decades, Steve knows exactly what to look for in a set of high-end headphones, and he’s found the Signature Pro to be the perfect pair for professional audio duties. Having used the Signature Pros for several months now, Steve was kind enough to give us his thoughts on these reference-class cans;
“I was very excited when I received my Ultrasone Signature Pro headphones in the post. I was also somewhat intrigued as to how they will stack up against my usual headphones. As a producer of electronic music since 1989 I have used many different sets of speakers and headphones, and currently own 5 quality sets of headphones and two sets of speakers. I tend to write and do my mixing and premastering solely in headphones; I don’t know why exactly, it’s just the way that suits me best.
Anyway, the first thing I noticed was how light they were, and I immediately got to work with them, exploring my collection of Jazz and Punk and Ska, as well as my vast collection of electronic music.
For each genre I listened to, I was hearing things that I didn’t even register before. It was quite a surreal experience to be honest. The detail is astonishing, and the comfort level second to none.
I’m used to working in headphones for hours and hours, yet I didn’t seem to suffer from as much ear fatigue as I would normally experience. Working on my own productions did not need me to adapt very much at all, and I found myself working at lower volumes, along with enjoying a great deal of detail in the mix.
“I was looking for a Flat set of headphones without colouration, and these really are the real deal.”
I was looking for a Flat set of headphones without colouration, and these really are the real deal. My other ‘Flat’ headphones suddenly sounded quite coloured in comparison.
Initially the price did scare me; but they are well worth the money and B12 are happy to endorse these stunning headphones. The only issue I have is I’ve looked at some of the other more consumer audiophile headphones on offer from Ultrasone and now my curiosity has been aroused!”
Steve – B12
Our thanks to Steve and B12. Their latest release ‘Brokenunbroken’ is available to buy now via their own Firescope sub-label (www.firescope.co.uk/) on Juno Records. You can also keep up with B12 on Facebook.
To find out more about the Ultrasone Signature Pro click here, or give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team, who will be happy to answer any questions you have.