Dear colleagues,

I think another highlight awaits us in March. The Dierks Studios in Stommeln are opening their doors to the “hallowed halls” for us. Music history was and is being written here, top hits were created in these iconic rooms. As far as I know, a premiere for the VDT and, I admit, a long-cherished dream of mine.

Dieter Dierks, the grand master, THE legendary producer of the German and international rock scene, welcomes us with his employees Guido Leidheuser and Dennis Flüchter for an extensive tour of his realm. We experience the finest analog audio technology, from a sensational collection of fantastic microphones (Michael sang into one of them at the time) to classic in- and outboards, the large SSL 4000G with 64 channels and various tape machines from Otari to Studer. Of course, there is also digital technology, which is a matter of course today.

We will not only be able to look at the wonderful analog treasures, but of course also listen to them. Perhaps we'll notice differences between the real Fairchild 670 and a digital plug-in? A blind test would be something. Or we could listen to a Motörhead recording from the original tape and a current restoration for comparison? Anyone who still has the old recordings in their ears will be amazed.

Then it would be very exciting to compare some of the well-kept vintage microphones M50, M49, U89, U87, TLM170, Brauner Phantom etc. with modeling mics (Antelope)

can. Perhaps we can detect differences between the real Fairchild 670 and a digital plug-in? A blind test would be something. Or we could listen to a Motörhead recording from the original tape and a current restoration for comparison? Anyone who still has the old recordings in their ears will be amazed.

Then some of the well-kept vintage microphones M50, M49, U89, U87, TLM170, Brauner Phantom etc. in comparison to modeling mics (Antelope edge modeling). And the Mellotron, and, and, and. And a look inside an EMT reverb plate. I'm going into raptures...

Snacks and drinks will also be provided so that we can round off the day at Dieter Dierks.

Even if it is indeed a large space, the number of visitors is limited. So, as always, it's first come, first served. I will notify everyone who has a place in good time before the event.

We will meet on Friday 28.3.2025 from 15:00 in the Dierks Studios, Hauptstrasse 33 in Stommeln near Pulheim. Those who arrive later will of course be admitted.

Please register at .

I look forward to seeing you and to an exciting afternoon in a legendary setting.

Best regards

Christoph Hilser

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)