In addition to his work as a sound designer, Grant Goddard operates Bikini Atoll Sound where, having recently installed a 16-channel API 1608 mixing desk, he is already looking forward to expanding it. ‘The 1608 allows for better recordings, warmer sound, bigger, fuller mixes, and smoother workflow,’ he says. ‘I’m planning on more modules, another 16-channel chassis, and plan to add automation in the near future.’

The 1608 was chosen help from API dealer Robb Zenn at Alto Music in New York: ‘My goal was to start with a very high-quality professional console that offers the ability to expand as my studio, workload and budget increase,’ Goddard explains. ‘I was impressed with the API reputation for longevity and service, and needed a centrepiece for a studio that wouldn’t be outgrown any time soon.’

The studio is located in Brentwood, Tennessee, so the 1608 has cut its teeth on ‘a handful of up-and-coming local Nashville bands such as Sky Temple Blues, Chris Firebaugh y Los Diablos en Fuegos, and Dane & the Aquatic.’

While Goddard describes himself as a ‘lover of all types of music’, he says that the studio tends to record rock and blues the most. In the past, he has worked with major artists across all genres, including Mos Def, Fergie, Slash, Smashing Pumpkins, and Kid Cudi, although he is ‘confident the 1608 would be instrumental in helping to elevate the overall quality of the productions at Bikini Atoll,’ no matter who they have in the studio. Goddard identifies ease-of-use, reliability, clarity and ‘headroom, headroom, headroom!’ as priorities, but says that the console has brought ‘a new energy, which has greatly inspired and enhanced our creativity at the studio’.

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