Michael Cretu (ENIGMA) MERLIN and ALCHEMIST Studios

Here is the equipment with which does Michael Cretu create his music. His state of art A.R.T. Studios on Ibiza (to see follow the link: http://www.zoolook.nl/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3876 )was unfortunately demolished after a long case and now he uses these 2 mobile studio concepts.
Just in case you don't remember who he is - creator and mastermind of the Enigma project and has sold over 100 million records including about 55 as Enigma.

so I will start with his new design MERLIN which was used to record only one song so far. Info about Alchemist, which I personally prefer will be added soon.





videos of MC in studio:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM2QHX3heu8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfEEYjOK3Yo

While the "Alchemist" is still a design study finally an even more compact version of Michael Cretu's "all in one computed mobile studio" vision can be presented: MERLIN - the new recording studio of Enigma's mastermind. "Merlin is not only a mobile studio, it fits perfectly to the way I am usually working. It can be seen at the intersection between playing, recording and mixing." Michael Cretu says.

Similar to the Alchemist, Merlin combines the four key parameters of recording in one box: a computed recording environment, a modular hardware concept, a control surface and a surround monitoring system.


Computed Recording Environment

Merlin is a high-quality computer-based environment. Standard features include the latest versions of the sequencers Logic Pro and Native Instruments Bundles. It is, of course, possible to create customized solutions or to install additional recording software and hardware.

Modular Hardware Concept

The standard configuration of Merlin includes basic hardware components that can be expanded and upgraded to meet the requirements of the user.

Based on a state-of-the-art Mac computer which delivers optimal processing power, all signals from synthesizers and interfaces are fed into Friend-Ship Digitalmatrix, where they are processed and then supplied to a RTW Surround Module. A Basemanagement system then translates the signals for the surround monitoring system.

Control Surface

The control surface is based on Euphonix MC Control (middle) and MC Mix (right) enhanced with a custom-designed panel on the left.

This section features a program changer that facilitate access to and processing of certain parameters. It complements a modified surround control unit (supporting 7.1 surround) combined with a high-quality realtime-analyzer. Merlin comes with a master keyboard with 88 half weighted keys.

Surround Monitoring Sytem

Merlin features one monitoring control unit which offers broad range of production possibilities from stereo production up to surround sound formats (5.1, 6.1 und 7.1).

The central control unit for sound monitoring is the Basemanagement device that controls the customized monitors ADAM 6.5 AMC. Based on this system we can also supply small-scale and compact solutions.


The key parameters of Merlin’s technical components are listed below.

Measurements

Length: 135 cm
Width: 85 cm
Height: 93 cm
Weight: ca. 100 kg

Configuration and Finishes/ Rack/ Special Features

Leather finish, piano lacquer and chrome finish
88 half-weighted keys
Illuminated control surface

Main Components

Modified, adapted and in part re-designed:
32 x 32 digital matrix
RTW surround control
Midi program changer
Brauner VM1 mic
Apple Mac Pro 8-core incl. 30" Cinema display
Rosendahl Nanosync
APC USV up to 10 min without power
Headzone (Beyer Dynamics) surround headphone
Bose nearfield speaker system
Surround panning joystick
Customized monitors ADAM 6.5 AMC

One more thank you for the post, it led me finding out a lot about how this MMx Social Song was created by Michael Cretu, very, very cool.
Here is the official final mix:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…F6629A85F6

ALCHEMIST – All In One Computed Mobile Studio




Designing and developing the mobile recording studio “Alchemist” has been an ongoing priority for creative mastermind Michael Cretu. The project which is nearing the end of its beta-phase is aimed at finding a comprehensive technical solution for a modern recording studio – an “all in one computed mobile studio”.

The mobile recording studio Alchemist combines the four key parameters of recording: computed recording environment, modular hardware concept, control surface and surround monitoring system.




Computed Recording Environment

Alchemist is a high-quality computer-based environment. Standard features include the latest versions of the sequencers Logic Pro and Native Instruments Bundles. It is, of course, possible to create customized solutions or to install additional recording software and hardware.

Modular Hardware Concept

The standard configuration of Alchemist includes basic hardware components that can be expanded and upgraded to meet the requirements of the user.

Based on a state-of-the-art Mac computer which delivers optimal processing power, all signals from synthesizers and interfaces are fed into Friend-Ship Digitalmatrix, where they are processed and then supplied to a RTW Surround Module. A Basemanagement system then translates the signals for the surround monitoring system.

Control Surface

The flexible control surface is designed to ensure maximum functionality and virtually unlimited creative freedom.

Among several channels, a central section features a program changer and plug-in control panel that facilitate access to and processing of certain parameters. The central monitoring section complements a modified surround monitor unit (supports 7.1 surround) combined with a high-quality realtime-analyzer. The standard version features a master keyboard with 88 half weighted keys.

Surround Monitoring Sytem

Alchemist features one monitoring control unit which offers broad range of production possibilities from stereo production up to surround sound formats (5.1, 6.1 und 7.1).

The central control unit for sound monitoring is the Basemanagement device that controls the customized monitors ADAM 6.5 AMC. Based on this system we can also supply small-scale and compact solutions.



Alchemist reinvents the art of recording and the main components of this innovative approach can be summed up as exclusiveness, individuality, mobility and complexity (Compass-Model).




Please consider the Alchemist project is still in the development process.

exclusiveness

Exclusiveness refers to the overall excellent workmanship regarding design and functionality. High quality materials and equipment combined create a futuristic look while simultaneously providing a functional and effective working environment.

individuality

Alchemist is based on the standard configurations described above which can be altered and expanded depending on the requirements of the user. This refers to a host of features like software, configuration and finishes of the rack, special requirements regarding the monitoring system as well as installing further hardware components. Each Alchemist unit will be given its own serial number.

mobility

Alchemist is a “mobile studio” in the true sense of the word as all of the units of this compact version can be fitted into flight cases. All necessary steps to guarantee safe transport and to provide a vibration-free work environment have been taken.

complexity

Alchemist is a sophisticated piece of recording equipment for creative minds. Alchemist is ideal for dark environments and guarantees a functional and ergonomic control surface. Alchemist is a digital and customized control system, which can be up-dated any time to keep pace with the changing trends.




Technical Specifications of Alchemist
The key parameters of Alchemist’s technical components are listed below. The information provided is based on theoretical assumptions of the planning phase and is subject to confirmation.

Measurements

The final measurement cannot be published yet.
Weight ca. 200 kg

Configuration and Finishes/ Rack/ Special Features

Leather finish, piano lacquer and chrome finish

88 half-weighted keys

Illuminated control surface

Main Components

Modified, adapted and in part re-designed:
32 x 32 digital matrix
RTW surround control (8Ch. surround analyzer / monitor controller)
Midi program changer
NI KORE2
Brauner VM1 mic
MIDI plug-in controller (8 encoders, 8 buttons)
Apple Mac Pro 8-core incl. 30" display
RME HDSPe RayDAT
Rosendahl Nanosync
APC USV up to 10 min without power
Headzone (Beyer Dynamics) surround headphone
Bose nearfield speaker system
Oled keyboard: Lebedev Optimus Maximus Keyboard
Surround panning joystick

interesting comparison to the Vangelis setup although Vangelis' one needs additional equipment.

a bit strange for me is that he has not hammer action keys and that his pitch and mod wheels are above and not to the left, well it is quite usual design too but I find it less spontaneous.

if you would like to see his old A.R.T. studio pictures I can post them too. It was absolutely fantastic, believe it was one of the best in the world 10 years ago.