I think all audio nerds should carry their 500 series modules on their shoulders around town to let everyone know what’s up. Just like with the boomboxes in the 80’s but infinitely more niche. I’ll start tomorrow.
The nice part about it is the modularity of it. You can swap things in and out if you want. You can wire up a processing chain in a single box with some really nice stuff. CAPI, AML and Hairball are some faves of mine. Serpent was making really top notch stuff as well. Not sure if theyre still kickin or not. But their bus compressor was easily one of the best out there.
I think the gate would suffice on the software side. I don't see a benefit of having a hardware part there? In Europe the AMS Neve modules are a lot cheaper than in the USA - but no matter the cost, I'd prefer a Neve 88RLB or the 1073LB over the 511. The differences are miniscule though.
I'll be honest, gates just aren't as smexy as compressors. My TL Audio Ivory channel strip has an expander, but I don't use it, I find gates and expanders tend to be quite distracting on spoken word.
Buy any 500 series module you like, but AVOID buying 500 series tube modules, no top quality tube sound in the 500 series no matter what brand you use. If you want tubes, buy rack mounted gear only.
