Hello, I've lurked a while and have some questions about channel strips.
All my work is done in the box, and with the exception of a little house sound, that's where it stays. I've been using bootsy's VCS lately and just want to "get" it.

DO you use this kind of plug over the master or in each sub grouping channel? (can they stack w/o problem?"

What is the advantage of one plug like this as opposed to using some of the compressors and EQ that I already have. Some folks have really tried to sell me on Mix Control, but how does it compare to VCS, and are they a good idea? I haven't had a chance to monitor at loud enough levels lately to hear a lot of difference.

Thanks for the time; sorry for the confusion.

I think it has more to do with the workflow and resultant sound. I tried several channel strips, including bootsy's VCS. But they don't suite my workflow. The closest one was WaveArts TrackPlug and Cakewalk channel strips (from Sonar).

Usually, I prefer to apply EQ, compressors and saturation separately. However, in case if I use a channel strip, I usually put it on a certain tracks/group. I never put any on master channel.

As for the benefits of channel strips over separate compressors, EQ, etc. Using one channel strip on each of your tracks will certainly impart its sound to the track, which would help to glue tracks together.

Origin of the concept is from hardware - so there it saves massive amount of rackspace. Think about it - for 30 tracks it would take 30 channelstrips or 90 individual units.

Working ITB digitally today is more flexible, even since many daws like Reaper let you save and resuse plugin chains making it a breeze with presets if you want that etc.

Or do tracktemplates saved with the usual setup of plugins - ready to go. One for vocals, one for electric guitars or whatever.

But one get's curious when professionals use the Waves SSL E-channel for the very character it gives. I won't use the "W"-word again. So it's a characteristic they know from hardware before and thereby use it ITB as well - that's what I think.

Whatever get's your work done is good for you. If you want professionals gear have a look at interviews at:

http://pensadosplace.tv/

I enjoyed the Bob Horn interview the most. But listening to the other guys also gives you overview how some just go their own way in what they choose. Some use compressors nobody else does, some hardly use compressors etc.

Your ears is your best friend - train them.