MIX Status vs. RECORD Status + VCAs TO MONITOR + CH INPUT FLIP

[marcmozart]

I understand that

MIX Status
and
RECORD Status + VCAs TO MONITOR + CH INPUT FLIP

are essentially the same in that the Large Fader VCAs control whats coming to the Channel Line In. And in RECORD Status, I always have the option, even in the middle of a mix, to record something thats coming from a mic input (via one of the small Faders).

Is that it? How is the signal path different or is it not?

[sintech]

I think the console is in Mix, but when you hit Ready Group, it puts that particular channel into Record+ VCA to monitor.

In the 2" days we called this split mode.

[marcmozart]

Only thing I would have get used to is having to press MON to get the EQ and DYN on the large VCA Fader.

Also, according to the block schematic the Tape Signal on the VCA Fader does not go through the input amplifier (ICs 5/6/7 on the 291 Card), but through the Group Amplifier (IC 5/6/78 on the 294 Card). I wonder which is the longer path for the Tape Signal?

[brewery]

like sintech said, 'triangle mode' leaves the console in mix, unless you press ready group/tape. i wouldn't also hit the master input flip, as that puts the whole console to mic input.
i always use this for overdubs or vocal sessions, where i'm not tracking everything from scratch.
you can have a mix going, and just press the ready group button on the channel you want to record on (plus input flip on that channel if you're using outboard pres).
than you automatically have small fader to tape, and the monitor path on the large fader.

actually using the small faders to mix used to be common practice for some on old SSLs, when the VCAs didn't sound as good. that defeats the purpose of an SSL though imo, as you lose the automation and some of the routing flexibility.