Merlin is the successor model of The Alchemist, an all in one computed mobile studio. “While working on Enigma 7 [Seven Lives Many Faces] I decided to even further reduce my vision of a ‘studio in a box’,” Michael Cretu explains. “With the launch of the Euphonix Artist Control I could get rid of the many physical channels I wasn’t using anyhow. Also, their seamless integration with digital sequencers including Apple’s Logic Pro reduced the need for unnecessary extensive equipment.”



The result was an even lighter version of Cretu’s prior mobile studio concept, The Alchemist. While almost third less in size and weight, the Merlin still combines the four key parameters of recording in a slightly different manner.

Computed Recording Environment

Similar to The Alchemist, Merlin is essentially a high-quality computer-based environment with latest digital technology including Apple’s Logic Pro sequencer and a variety of plug ins and sound data bases.

Modular Hardware Concept

The Merlin is equipped with the latest Mac Pro computer and a 21:9 LG monitor in combination with three 3TB Lacie hard disks, a Motu digital/analog interface as well as a Friend-Ship Matrix for signal processing. The case is a special design created out of top-quality material. Major chromium plating has been done  by Rolls Royce supplier.

Control Surface

The control unit is based upon the Euphonix Artist Series with a main control and an eight-channel mix unit. The left part features a customised and modified control panel of the RTW Surround Module including a high-quality realtime analyser. Merlin also carries a 88-key master keyboard.

Surround Monitoring Sytem

The monitoring unit is identical to the one used within The Alchemist concept, and therefore features two customised ADAM 6.5 AMC speakers as well as a high-end surround system.

“The first recording with the Merlin was the Social Song - and that is 5 years ago. Although we have updated some of the hardware in the meanwhile, I am still very happy with the machine overall. It gives me the freedom to concentrate on just music, and that is currently Enigma 8.” Cretu summarises. “As technology evolves, I will continue adapting though the current concept until my dream of a mobile studio is nothing more than a suitcase.”