News January 16 – 30
McConnon founds MTECH; SignsSteinberg/Pinnacle
Brian McConnon, former marketing manager for Steinberg MediaTechnologies, recently announced the founding of mtech marketingcommunications, a public relations and marketing firm for MI, pro audioand consumer technology companies.
At the 2004 NAMM convention, McConnon is representing his inauguralclient, Steinberg, which was recently acquired by Pinnacle SystemsInc.
For more information, visit www.mtechmarketing.com.
Sound Physics Labs Inc./ServoDrive Announces Licensing Agreementwith Yorkville Sound
Sound Physics Labs Inc./ServoDrive (Glenview, Ill.) recently announceda licensing agreement with Yorkville Sound (Toronto). The agreementallows Yorkville the use of Sound Physics Labs’ patented UnitySummation Aperture Horn Technology and the name Unity in conjunctionwith Yorkville’s new Unity family of products.
Yorkville recently debuted the U15, a full-range enclosure designthat combines Unity Summation Aperture Horn Technology with anext-generation 15-inch neodymium woofer. The U15 provideshigh/mid-frequency distribution from the 60-degree by 60-degree; hornassembly that produces frequencies from 300 Hz to 20 kHz. Unity horntechnology combines a single 1.75-inch diaphragm compression driverwith three 5-inch ceramic magnet midrange drivers on a single highlyefficient conical horn. All four-component drivers are mounted in aUnity horn measure and act like a single point source.
For more information, visit Sound Physics Labs/ServoDrive at www.servodrive.comor www.soundphysics.com or Yorkville Sound at www.yorkville.com.
PowerFX Announces Miracle Beats Sample CD/VST
PowerFX recently announced Miracle Beats, a sample CD and VSTinstrument (VSTi) combination that includes LoopMorph technology andcontains more than 500 beats and a unique VST instrument interface.
The Miracle Beats VST Instrument can rearrange, split, morph andturn the 500 loops into an infinite number of possibilities within anyVST host application. Other features include the ability to autostretchloops to any bpm, preview loops in synch with host software, work withmore than 5,000 individual samples and change tempo without alteringpitch. There is real-time pitch control on every drum element,real-time envelope control and real-time reverse on every drum elementand “RMS Level” features to match loops’ dynamic level.
Sound processing includes 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz and 192 kHz andinternal 32-bit resolution.
Miracle Beats is available for $99/U.S. at the PowerFX Website, www.powerfx.com.
Apple Introduces Logic Pro 6, Express 6, New SynthSoftware
Apple introduced Logic Pro 6 for professional musicians, Logic Express6 for students and educators and a variety of software instruments tobe included in future versions of Logic Pro.
Logic Pro 6 includes Logic Platinum and the entire line of 53 audioDSP plug-ins and software instruments. The “recording studio in a box”also includes the ability to create 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound, supportfor up to 128 audio tracks, virtually unlimited input channels and asample rate of up to 192k.
Equipped with a basic set of production tools, Logic Express 6includes over 28 effect plug-ins and sample-based software instruments,support for up to 48 audio tracks, 12 input channels and a sample rateof up to 96k. Everything learned in Logic Express 6 is directlytransferable to Logic Pro 6.
In conjunction with the new Logic products, Apple also introducedSculpture, a new component-modeling based synthesizer, and UltraBeat, apercussion synthesizer that provides multiple synthesis techniques forgenerating a wide variety of electronic or acoustic drum sounds. Applealso demonstrated Guitar Amp, a full-featured guitar amplifiersimulator, and support for enhanced Apple Loops, the powerfulopen-standard file format for real-time matching of audio loops andsound effects.
Logic Pro 6 and Logic Express 6 will be available in March throughAuthorized Apple Resellers for a suggested retail price of $999 (U.S.)and $299 (U.S.), respectively. Logic Pro 6 requires Mac OS X, version10.2 or higher, Mac OS 9.1 or higher, a Macintosh computer with a 300MHz or faster PowerPC G3, G4 or G5 processor, 256MB of RAM and 350MB ofavailable disk space for installation. Logic Express 6 requires Mac OSX, version 10.2 or higher, Mac OS 9.1 or higher, a Macintosh computerwith a 250 MHz or faster PowerPC G3, G4 or G5 processor, 128MB of RAMand 100MB of available disk space for installation. More information onLogic Pro 6 and Logic Express 6 can be found at www.apple.com/software/pro/logic.
Digidesign Acquires Bomb Factory Digital’s Assets
Digidesign, a division of Avid Technology Inc., announced that it hasacquired the assets of Bomb Factory Digital Inc., a manufacturer ofreal-time audio DSP effects for the Digidesign Pro Tools platform.Terms of the deal were not disclosed. In the near future, Digidesignexpects to announce its plans for deploying the Bomb Factory assetsacross the Pro Tools product line.
“Our acquisition of Bomb Factory underscores Digidesign’s commitmentto deliver the most powerful creative options available to Pro Toolscustomers,” said David Lebolt, Avid VP and Digidesign general manager.”By providing these classic processing plug-ins, as well as continuingto work closely with our thriving third-party community, we will offerour users tremendous variety and unrivaled audio processing quality.Pro Tools customers will benefit from the continued availability andsupport of these high-quality plug-ins as our platform grows andevolves.”
Bomb Factory co-founder and president Erik Gavriluk commented, “Mypartner, Dave Amels, and I are proud of the great digital audioprocessing products we’ve created for the Pro Tools community, andwe’re especially pleased that these products will now be even moreclosely linked with the world’s preeminent provider of digital audioequipment to audio engineers everywhere, from high-end professionals tohome studio buffs.”
Visit www.digidesign.com for more information, includingthe complete list of the Bomb Factory plug-ins and their compatibilitywith Pro Tools systems.
Cakewalk Releases Free 3.1 Update for SONAR Producer, StudioEditions
Cakewalk released the 3.1 update for SONAR 3, which providesenhancements including multiprocessor optimization, support for allsample rates, high-quality file import/export audio conversion usingWindowed Sinc resampler, adjustable EQ plot resolutions, missingplug-in protection, StudioMix control surface plug-in and a revisedPlay List view. The update also addresses a number of minor bugsdiscovered after SONAR 3 began shipping.
Other features include increased tempo range (maximum tempo has beenincreased to 1,000 bpm); a Reset All Meters command that clears meterclips and resets numeric peak values in all views simultaneously forall meters; a “Fit Tracks to Window” and “Fit Project to Window”commands that now work in the Bus pane when it is the active view; alltoolbars can now be shown/hidden via key bindings; and control surfacescan now be assigned to control channel EQs (Producer Edition only).
The SONAR 3.1 update is available now. Registered SONAR 3 users candownload the update for free at www.cakewalk.com. SONAR 3 Producer Edition has aMSRP of $719 and SONAR Studio Edition is $479.
In other company news, Cakewalk announced the free 1.5 update forthe Project5 soft synth workstation. Project5 offers a complete suiteof synthesizers, samplers, sequencers, audio and MIDI effects, andaudio looping tools in an integrated studio environment.
Project5 1.5 highlights include P-SEQ updated with CentralizedStep-Sequencer mode, which expands on features that were previouslyexclusive to the SYNCHRON32 MFX plug-in bundled with Project5. Thisenhancement features global step resolution; new note attributesincluding tie, legato, flam and gate; fast and intuitive mouse-drivencontrol; transparent overlay of automation over note data; and LoopRecord modes.
Also new to the update is Track Patches, in which users can save atrack’s instrument, effects chain and plug-ins’ respective settings asa single preset. Users can then load all settings by clicking on thepatch name. These files appear as additional insert options in theplug-in insertion menu in Project5. Users can create and organize theirpatch menus based on instrument type rather than manufacturer, such asby basses, leads, pads, kits, etc. Additionally, because the patch fileis portable, users can easily share files via e-mail or through theProject5 online community (www.Project5.com).
The Resource Browser provides a custom tree view that accessesProject5 patterns and .WAV files existing anywhere on the user’ssystem. The Resource Browser can also be conveniently docked to theside of the application, allowing users to expand or hide it as needed.Features include multiple shortcuts, providing quick access to filesthat exist on other hard drives or a network; dedicated start/stoppreview control to audition each media file and/or multiple filessimultaneously from multiple directories before import into a project;preview all files in sync with project tempo; and preview patterns withpatched synth of your choice.
Also new is extended track control functionality, which allows usersto easily bypass unused synth outputs in a project, significantlyreducing CPU load.
The Project5 1.5 update will be available free for download toregistered Project5 users January 30, 2004, at www.cakewalk.com.Project5 has a MSRP of $429.
Propellerhead Software Opens Up REX2 File Format
Propellerhead Software announced that it has opened the REX2 sampledata format to allow file playback by any third-party applications.REX2 is a flexible file format for sampled grooves that is created byPropellerheads’ ReCycle application.
To create REX2 files, ReCycle 2.1 slices up samples into rhythmicsegments, making the loop tempo-independent. A user can edit itscomponents freely to rebuild the loop, and the timing information inthe recording can be applied to other sequenced elements of themusic.
In the past, developers such as Steinberg and Emagic applied for andobtained a license to support REX playback in their applications. Nowas an open format, any manufacturer can support REX playback in theirapplications. Third-party manufacturers are encouraged to download REX2developer documentation. Implementing the Propellerheads REX2 fileformat in other applications or hardware is free of charge. Furtherinformation about the REX2 file format is available at www.propellerheads.se/developer/.
Winter NAMM: TL Audio Ivory 5060 Preset ValveCompressor
TL Audio showed its new 5060 Preset Valve Compressor, the latestaddition to the Ivory 2 Series, at Winter NAMM 2004. The 5060 couples adual-channel compressor with a high-quality discrete mic preamp, plusstereo line and instrument inputs. The compressor stage features aselection of 15 vocal, instrument and mix presets, plus a Manual modethat provides access to fully variable control of threshold, ratio,attack/release, gain makeup and soft/hard-knee modes.
The 5060 can be operated in mono or linked stereo modes. The preampstage offers a total gain range of 100 dB, with 48-volt phantom powerand a 90Hz low-cut filter. A single illuminated VU meter monitors theoutput level or the compressor gain reduction for both channels, withdrive and peak LEDs providing a visual indication of valve drive andclipping, respectively. Both balanced and unbalanced line outputs areprovided, which can be used simultaneously.
A “Fat EQ” contour switch is provided in the output stage, whichprovides a subtle lift to the low- and high-frequency response of the5060, while dipping the midrange. This adds extra weight and presenceto the signal without affecting the overall output level. The optionalDO-2 digital output card allows 24-bit A/D conversion via a coaxialS/PDIF output, with selectable 44.1- or 48kHz sample rates and anexternal word clock connection.
The gain control element of the 5060 compressor stage is basedaround a special transconductance amplifier, which avoids the use ofVCAs and helps contribute to the smooth, open sound of the unit, alongwith the dual triode 12AX7 valve stage that lies at the heart of eachchannel signal path.
For more information, visit www.tlaudio.co.uk/tlaudio/docs/products/5060.htm.
Gefen Offers New HDTV Cables for Hi-Def Systems
New convergent cabling from Gefen supports long- and short-distanceHDTV (high-definition television) resolutions by combining fiber opticsand DDC signals into a single cable with DVI connectors. Because videoand control signals are combined, the cabling enables extension ofhigh-definition signals for televisions, projectors and evenDVI-equipped computers. Fiber-optic components ensure the integrity ofthe visual data throughout transmission, guaranteeing high-definitionresolutions up to 1,920×1,200. HDTV Extreme Cables are currentlyavailable in precut lengths of 33, 66, 100, 166 and 300 feet. Theyrequire a 1.5-inch clearance in conduit, and range in price from $609to $2,349. Custom lengths are also available.
For those working with the new HDMI (high-definition multimediainterface), Gefen provides a 6-foot DVI-to-HDMI cable to connect a DVIdisplay to a HDMI source or vice versa. More information is availableonline at www.gefen.com.
“Charlie” Introduced at Winter NAMM
Ultimate Sound Bank introduced “Charlie,” an all-organ virtualinstrument designed to bring the sounds of the classic electric organsto the composer’s desktop. Powered by USB’s UVI-Engine, Charlie’s 3GBsample library delivers authentic organ sounds and CPU efficiency.Charlie will be distributed in North America by ILIO Entertainments andwas unveiled at Winter NAMM 2004.
Charlie’s 3 GB of samples were recorded using premium gear at aworld-class studio. All of the samples are available with and without arotating speaker effect, allowing the user flexibility without the needfor a sampler. Hundreds of drawbar combinations are provided along withreal-time crossfade control between presets and speaker effects.Charlie offers extended parameters, including percussion, classic synthcontrols and reverb, to allow each preset to be adapted to any user’sindividual needs. The product’s full MachFive compatibility providesusers of MOTU’s virtual sampler with direct access to the library. Alluser-edited parameters can be saved with each project for creativityand efficiency.
Charlie retails for $299, and is available for the PC (VSTi), Mac OS9 (MAS, RTAS and VST) and Mac OS X (MAS, RTAS, AudioUnits and VST).
For more information, visit distributor ILIO at www.ilio.com.
Deadman Comes In First at 2004 IMWS Showcase
Deadman was one of six finalists competing before a panel of 12 judges,including representatives from Billboard Magazine, MTV,Universal, ASCAP and TAXI. More than 1,700 unsigned bands andindependent artists submitted entries for the Southwest region of theIMWS. The other finalists included 40-Watt Hype (Fresno, Calif.), BethWaters (Albany, Calif.), the Amanda Poets Band (Oakland, Calif.), Fono(San Diego, Calif.) and the Mos Generator (Port Orchard, Wash.).
Produced by Disc Makers, a CD manufacturer for independentmusicians, the IMWS is a live music showcase series that givesmusicians the opportunity to make valuable industry contacts andcompete for more than $35,000 in recording gear, instruments, CDmanufacturing services, DJ equipment and more. Judged by music industryexecutives, media and celebrities, and features live performances fromthe six finalists, the showcases are held in each of four regionsthroughout the country (Southwest, Midwest, Southeast and Northeast).The competition is open to musicians of all genres not currently signedto a major record label. Professional music screeners from TAXIselected 100 semi-finalists from the entries and the editors ofBillboard Magazine chose the six finalists.
For more information on the Independent Music World Series, pleasevisit www.discmakers.com/imws or call 888/800-5796.
National Mobile Television Hires President Shaw
Venue Services Group (VSG), a national systems integration firm thatprovides engineering, design and installation of television facilities,has introduced sports television executive Dave Shaw as the company’snew president. Shaw brings an industry-wide reputation fortechnological innovation and operational excellence includingdevelopment of HDTV to VSG’s integration firm, a subsidiary of NationalMobile Television.
Prior to joining VSG, Shaw spent 23 years at the Madison SquareGarden Network (MSG). He worked his way through company ranks,culminating in his most recent position as the network’s senior VP oftechnical operations. While at MSG, Shaw oversaw the televisionintegration of the recently renovated Radio City Music Hall, providinga modernized HDTV-ready cabling facility to the landmark. He also wasresponsible for the HD cabling integration of MSG, Yankee Stadium, SheaStadium, Continental Arena and Nassau Coliseum. Shaw was the televisionliaison for many events at Madison Square Garden, including the NBAFinals, NHL Stanley Cup Finals, NBA All-Star Game, WNBA All-Star Game,The Grammy Awards and World Cup Hockey.
For more information on NMT, visit www.nmtv.com or call 800/242-0642.
MSPE Announces Golden Reel Nominees
The Motion Pictures Sound Editors organization announced nominees forthe 51st Annual MSPE Golden Reel Awards, to be held February 28, 2004,at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.
The nominees include:
“Sound Effects Editing in a Feature Film (Domestic)”
The Italian Job
Kill Bill, Vol. 1
The Last Samurai
Master & Commander: The Far Side of the World
The Matrix Reloaded
Open Range
Pirates of the Caribbean
Seabiscuit
Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines
“Music Editing in a Feature Film”
Cold Mountain
Gods and Generals
Jeepers Creepers II
Kill Bill, Vol. 1
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Pirates of the Caribbean
Something’s Gotta Give
Underworld
“Dialog Editing in a Feature Film”
2 Fast 2 Furious
Dreamcatcher
The Last Samurai
Master & Commander: The Far Side of the World
Mystic River
Pirates of the Caribbean
Seabiscuit
X2
“Music Editing in a Musical Feature”
The Company
The Fighting Temptations
A Mighty Wind
School of Rock
“Sound Editing in an Animated Feature”
Brother Bear
Finding Nemo
Jungle Book 2
Millennium Actress
Rugrats Go Wild
Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas
The Triplets of Belleville
“Sound Effects Editing In Episodic TV”
“Alias”
“Carnivale”
“CSI: Crime Scene Investigations”
“CSI: Miami”
“ER”
“Smallville”
“Third Watch”
“Without a Trace”
“Music Editing in Episodic TV”
“American Dreams”
“Queer as Folk”
“Scrubs”
“Sex and the City”
“Watching Ellie”
For a full list of nominees, visit www.mspe.org.
Daking Offers New 4-Channel Mic Pre
The new Daking Mic-Pre IV offers four channels of Class-A preamplifiersin a single-rackspace unit with outboard power supply. The unit isconfigured for four microphone inputs or four line inputs from XLR/TRSNeutrik combo jacks on the back, plus four line inputs (+10 to -50) or1/4-inch Hi-z instrument inputs on the front.
Used stand-alone or in conjunction with a console, each input offerscontinuously variable gain control using Daking’s signature aluminumknobs, a 20-segment LED level meter with +24dB peak indicator,switchable mic/line or Hi-z instrument, switchable +48V phantom power,switchable input phase and switchable 20dB pad.
The Daking Mic-Pre IV is housed in an all stainless-steel enclosurewith an outboard DC power supply in a separate housing. The internalcomponents include gold bifurcated contacts on all relay switching, andthe universal power supply can operate at any voltage for useworldwide.
The Daking Mic-Pre IV has a MSRP of $2,895 and can be ordereddirectly from www.transaudioelite.com.
NARAS Gets “Up Close and Personal With Jimmy Jam”
Grammy” Award-winning producer Jimmy Jam spoke to a sold-out audiencerecently during an event held by the Recording Academy’s San FranciscoChapter.
Interviewed by KBLX 102.9 program director Kevin Brown, Jam talkedopenly about everything from his musical childhood, his tenure askeyboardist for funk/R&B band The Time and his 30-year friendshipand 20-plus-year music and business partnership with Terry Lewis. Healso discussed the opening of Flyte Tyme West, the duo’s new LosAngeles-based production facility and their gradual shift from 2-inchanalog tape to Pro Tools|HD. In regards to hard disk recording, Jamchampioned NARAS’ Producers and Engineers Wing for establishingguidelines for Pro Tools session interchange and standards for digitalmaster delivery.
For more information, visit www.grammy.com or www.flytetyme.com.
PreSonus Announces the Release of FIREPOD
At Winter NAMM 2004, PreSonus Audio Electronics Inc. displayed the newFIREPOD!”, a complete 24-bit/96kHz recording studio that sells forunder $700. The system includes eight Class-A PreSonus mic pre’s,S/PDIF and MIDI inputs and outputs, and Cubase SE recording software.The system is compatible with Windows XP and Mac OS X, and with bothASIO- and WDM-based applications, including Cubase SX, Nuendo, Deck,Peak and Logic software. An additional FireWire allows users todaisy-chain multiple FIREPODs together to create additional 24-bit/96kaudio channels.
The interface features a headphone output on the front panel, aswell as a mix knob to balance monitoring levels between mixed input andmain output signals. A level potentiometer on the front panel controlsthe input level of each preamplifier. Inputs 1 and 2 of the FIREPOD canswitch between microphone and instrument level, while inputs 3 through8 can switch between microphone and line input. Phantom power (+48V) isavailable on every channel (in groups of four), and dual-input Neutrikconnectors are used for all eight inputs.
The FIREPOD is also equipped with eight balanced TRS line outputsand two balanced TRS main outputs.
For more information, visit www.presonus.com.
1394 Trade Association Completes Wireless Spec
The 1394 Trade Association’s Wireless Working Group announced that thespecification for wireless 1394 applications is functionally completeand ready for a ballot. Formal approval of the new Protocol AdaptationLayer (PAL) standard will move consumers one significant step closer tocontrolling home networks, HDTVs and other advanced electronics systemswirelessly.
The Wireless Working Group, chaired by Peter Johansson of CongruentSoftware Inc., has developed the PAL between the IEEE 802.15.3 MAC andapplications developed for wired IEEE 1394. The PAL also adapts theIEEE P1394.1 bridging specification to wireless use. The result is a”wireless FireWire” capability that can be implemented with anystandard or nonstandard physical layer, including as yetnonstandardized Ultra Wideband PHYs.
“Wireless FireWire is going to be ready to go in 2004, and early,”said James Snider, executive director of the 1394 Trade Association.”The new wireless 1394 specification is an excellent product developedby a very dedicated group of Trade Association leaders in a remarkablyshort period of time. The group adapted the 1394 and P1394.1 bridgingstandards to the high-bandwidth wireless network connectivity enabledby 802.15.3, and assured the quality of service required for excitingnew products that will let consumers wirelessly manage digitaltelevisions, audio/visual equipment and home networks.”
According to Johansson, the Working Group determined that the IEEE1394 infrastructure can be easily adapted to IEEE 802.15.3,incorporating the significant amount of existing middleware required toenable multimedia applications such as audio and video streaming. Animportant section in the PAL specification describes how to constructIEEE P1394.1 bridges that incorporate a wired IEEE 1394 node on oneside and a wireless IEEE 802.15.3 device on the other. “This means thewireless devices are now ‘bridge-aware,’ so they can be integratedeasily and quickly into home networks, allowing users to add wirelesscontrols just as they now use remote controls with their televisionsand other consumer electronics equipment,” he said.
The IEEE 802.15.3 Wireless Personal Area Network standard isdesigned to connect more than 200 wireless devices. Although theexisting standard 2.4GHz PHY is limited to a maximum data rate of 55Mbits/second, work is underway to standardize a UWB PHY with a range ofdata rates between 110 and 480M bits/second. These higher UWB PHY datarates will allow multiple wireless devices to exchange multimediacontent such as video, audio and digital images.
For more information, visit the 1394 Trade Association at www.1394ta.org.
Digidesign Distributing Wave Diamond Bundle Abroad
Digidesign is now the exclusive distributor of Waves’ Diamond Bundle inAsia, parts of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America.
The Diamond Bundle, comprising Waves’ Platinum, Restoration andTransform bundles, offers 35 processors, including a multifaceted arrayof tools for tracking, mixing, mastering, creative sound design andaudio restoration.
The Waves Diamond Bundle is available for Pro Tools TDM systemsrunning on Windows XP, or Mac OS X or 9.x. For more information onWaves plug-ins, visit www.waves.com. For more information on Digidesign,visit www.digidesign.com.
Transamerica Broken Into
On Christmas Eve (December 24, 2003), thieves broke into the facilitiesat Transamerica Audio Group in Las Vegas and stole a number of itemsfrom the company’s audio inventory. Worse yet, the criminals also tookthe wrapped Christmas presents that company owner Brad Lunde had boughtfor his children and kept hidden at the warehouse.
Anyone with any knowledge of the stolen items should call702/365-5155 or e-mail [email protected].The missing items and serial numbers are included below.
One APEX PE 133 lx30-band very high-precision graphic EQ with threeindividual parametric EQs variable from 18 Hz to 20 kHz. Serial Number:509501240
Two APEX PE 232 2×30-band very high-precision graphic EQ with fourindividual on/off parametric EQs (two per channel) variable from 18 Hzto 20 kHz. Serial Numbers: 209601519,160201685
One pair of ATC 10 ASL 5-inch active two-way studio monitors. SerialNumbers: 401-402
One pair of ATC SCM 12 Pro Studio Monitors. Serial Numbers: 5-6
One pair of ATC TI6 pair 6.5-inch active dance two-way studiomonitors. Serial Numbers: 3174-3175
One pair of ATC 20ASL pair 6.5-inch active two-way studio monitors.Serial Numbers: 560-561
Two Brauner Phantom-C Condenser Microphones. Serial Numbers:195-196
One Brauner Valvet System with PSV power supply, SMV shock-mount.Serial Number: 72
One Brauner CI-7.5M mic cable and FCV carry case
One Daking FET Compressor Daking superfast compressor in one 19-inchrackmount unit (91579A). Serial Number: 1487
One Daking PS-4 power supply 48-volt power supply outlets for fourmodules. Serial Number: 442
hree SoundField SPS451 B Format input 5.1 decoder for use with MarkV and ST250. Supplied with 1 S451CC and 1 S45ICH surround mic patterncard. 1U, variable L/R angle and SR/LR angle. Serial Numbers: 108, 136,154
One SoundField SPS422 Stereo Output SoundField Mic with 1UController with MSA-245, stand adaptor, NN2884 20m cable. SerialNumber: C600/718
Two SoundField MK V B Format SoundField Reference Mic with 2Ucontroller, with HW2909 shockmount, 490-090 leather case, 762-001windshield and NN2884 20m cable. Serial Numbers: C976-173, 1011W106
One SoundField ST250 Portable SoundField Mic with DC powercontroller, MSA-245 stand adaptor, 762-001 windshield, NN2884 5m cableand aluminum carry case. Serial Number: w91-ST1005
Three Drawmer DC2476 24/96k Digital Stereo Mastering Processors.Serial Numbers: 217, 443, 346
Four Drawmer DL241 1/4-inch compressor/limiter/gates. SerialNumbers: 7808, 7809,7810, 7811
Two Drawmer DL241 XLR-XLR compressor/limiter/gates. Serial Numbers:5318, 5319
Four Drawmer DS201 2-channel gates. Serial Numbers: 24327, 24328,24329, 24356
One Soundelux U99 Studio Tube Microphone; variable pattern, on powersupply. Includes cable, shock-mount and carry case. Serial Number:1607
Two Soundelux ELUX251 Studio Tube Microphone; cardioid, omni,figure-8 capabilities. Includes cable, shock-mount and carry case.Serial Numbers: 263, 260
One Soundelux E47 new large-diaphragm tube microphone. SerialNumber: 228
One Soundelux U195 studio FET microphone; cardioid-only. Includesshock-mount and wood storage box. Serial Number: 1685
One pair of Klein and Hummel 0104 active two-way studio monitor.Serial number unknown
Three Klein and Hummel 0198 three-way active mastering monitors.Pair Serial Numbers: 12120-12121; 1 Serial Number: unknown
One GML 2032 prototype. No serial number
PMC Upgrades BB5 Monitor Series, XB3 Sub
PMC has upgraded its flagship BB5 Series monitor series and XB3 subwith a new version of its 15-inch radial driver.
Rear venting of the magnet now complements the cooling effects ofthe radial fins, while power compression effects are furtherameliorated by the circulation of air throughout the core via aperturesat the rear of the magnet assembly. Improved venting provides forreductions in overall distortion and greater linearity. Theconstruction of the driver has been improved with a new alloycasting.
In other company news, Gosh! Studios in Vienna has upgraded itsStudio A monitoring by installing PMC BB5 monitors and Bryston 7Bmonobloc amplification, which were supplied by PMC Austrian distributorAviTech.
“We heard the product in another studio and were very impressed andexcited by them,” said studio co-owner Stephan Kolber; HaraldSulzbacher is the other co-owner. “We subsequently tested themalongside almost all the currently available main monitoring systems inStudio A and came to the conclusion that the PMC system was the bestone for our usage.”
Founded in 1996, Gosh! relocated to new spacious facilities in 2001,with three production/control rooms, including Studio A, the45-square-meter main mix room, tied to a 60-square-meter live recordingroom. The studio services commercial clients and provides in-housewriting and production facilities for Gosh!’s own commercials and musicproduction company. Recording media and production platforms includeStuder analog multitrack, Pro Tools 24, MOTU, Digital Performer andDigidesign systems.
For more information about PMC, visit www.pmcloudspeaker.com.
A Closer Look at Closer Look Recording
Tyler Owen opened Closer Look Recording in Cleveland 15 years ago withthe goal to make it a world-class recording facility that would attractnationally known artists. He also wanted to make the same facilityavailable to local bands and musicians at reasonable rates. Now, afterfive years at the studio’s current location, Owen has taken the nextstep toward those goals by adding an SSL console that is—at 72channels and 19 feet long—the largest of its kind in theMidwest.
Owen opened Closer Look’s “B” room shortly after the “A” room wascompleted in the new location. He has a SSL console in one room and aNeve console in the other, reflecting the industry standard to recordonto a Neve board and mix onto an SSL. In addition to recording andproduction, the studio also offers studio musicians the ability tomaster and duplicate CDs.
Owen wants to help the rich pool of musical talent in Clevelandcompete on a national level, and so keeps his rate as low as possible.He’s worked with such acts as The O-Jay’s, Eightball, Pully, BoneThugs-N-Harmony and the James Gang, which has helped Owen attract localstandouts such as Michael Stanley, Tony Lang, Joe Rohan, Robin Stone,Will Bowen, Alexis Antes and several Christian artists who are nowcharting on national radio.
For more information, please visit call 216/361-3011. For moreinformation on the SSL board, visit www.solid-state-logic.com.
New Model in Lynx’s AES16 Line
Responding to customer requests for sample rate conversion, Lynx StudioTechnology has added the AES16-SRC to its line of AES16 192kHz AES/EBUinterfaces. The AES16-SRC, with eight channels of sample rateconversion, has a suggested retail price of $995.
The AES16 began shipping in late 2003 and has been widely acceptedas the digital standard for 24-bit/192kHz AES/EBU digital audio. Earlyadopters for the AES16 include name producers and engineers, masteringhouses, major recording studios and major manufacturers of digitalmixers and converters.
The AES16-SRC offers eight channels of mastering-quality sample rateconversion to accommodate facilities running multiple sample rates orsignals not locked to “house sync.” Offering conversion ratios up to8:1, the AES16-SRC’s sample rate converters have a dynamic range of 142dB. The AES16-SRC also has the capability to maintain phase betweenmultiple-rated converted inputs using its matched phase control.
All features of the AES16, including SynchroLock!” jitter reduction,intuitive software control and compatibility with Windows and Macintoshcomputers, are also included with the AES16-SRC. Two model CBL-AES1604cables are also included for ease of interface using the XLR connectorsfor audio and BNC for word clock I/O.
For more information, go to www.lynxstudio.com.
Now Shipping: Aviom’s Euroblock Modules
Aviom Inc. (West Chester, Penn.) announced that Euroblock versions ofthe AN-16/i Input Module and the AN-16/o Output Module are nowavailable and shipping. The Euroblock versions complement the company’sexisting line of digital distributed audio network products. TheEuroblock versions of the AN Series products are fully compatible withtheir TRS-equipped counterparts and the AN-16SB System Bridge. The TRSand Euroblock product variations can be mixed and matched as neededwhen creating and installing a system.
Euroblock connectors are a type of terminal block connector favoredby system installers and integrators for their ease of use. Each of theAN Series products contains 16 Euroblock connectors on the rear panel.The two-part plug-and-socket design of the Euroblock connectorsimplifies wiring and installation. No soldering is necessary; wire isinserted into slots in a Euroblock plug connector and tightened inplace with a screwdriver. The plug snaps into place into one of the 16sockets on the rear panel. Each AN Series Euroblock unit comes witheverything needed to install the product.
Aviom’s AN Series of distributed audio network products are designedto work together to create a powerful digital audio distributionsystem, one that can function as a digital snake and as an infinitelyexpandable audio splitter. The system is capable of transferringhigh-quality 24-bit audio digitally over inexpensive, industry-standardCategory-5 cables. As with all the company’s existing products, Aviom’sproprietary A-Net Protocol ensures that there is less than 1millisecond of latency from analog input to analog output. The A-16SB,AN-16/i and AN-16/o are compatible with Aviom s existing product line,which includes the modular A-16 Personal Monitor Mixing System.
Aviom’s distributed audio network is a flexible modular system thatallows the user to build unidirectional or bi-directionalconfigurations to suit most audio distribution needs. Any combinationof up to four AN-16/i and/or four AN-16/o units (with TRS or Euroblockconnectors) can be used. A maximum of 64 channels of audio can bedistributed. The system is capable of creating digital snakes in thefollowing configurations: 16×0, 32×0, 48×0, 64×0, 16×16, 32×16, 48x16and 32×32. To create a splitter, users must add an additional outputmodule to any existing AN-16/o Output Module installed in the system.An infinite number of signal splits can be achieved by using thismethod.
When coupled to the two-part A-16SB System Bridge, any of theAN-16/i and AN-16/o multichannel configurations can transfer databidirectionally over a single Cat-5 cable. This innovation alone canreplace thousands of dollars of expensive and unwieldy analog cablingin fixed or mobile applications. Cable lengths between each A-Netsystem component can be up to 500 feet long. The A-16SB System Bridgecombines up to four A-Net signals at one end of the system, and thenseparates them into separate A-Net streams at the other end.
The AN-16/i-EB Input Module is a single-rackspace unit that servesas the A/D input for the digital snake. It converts 16 line-levelanalog audio channels into uncompressed, full-bandwidth digital datatransmitted via the company’s proprietary A-Net protocol. TheAN-16/i-EB can also be used as an input module when using the company’spersonal monitor mixing system.
On the front panel, the AN-16/i-EB has a four-position gain switch(+22, +4, 0 and -10dB), stereo channel link switches, and signalpresent and clip LEDs. The rear panel of the AN-16/i has a row of 16Euroblock jacks for analog audio input that can also be used as anaudio thru. For system network connections, there is an A-Net out jackand an A-Net expansion jack.
The AN-16/o-EB Output Module is a 1U rackmount D/A converter. It has16 Euroblock line-level output jacks on its rear panel. Also on therear panel is a set of three network connectors for A-Net In, A-Net Outand A-Net Expansion. On the front panel, the AN-16/o has a two-positionlevel switch (+4 and -10 dB) along with signal present and clipLEDs.
The AN-16/o-EB Output Module can also be integrated into existingA-16 personal monitor mixing systems to provide 16 discrete line-leveloutputs for recording, broadcast, effects or other mixing purposes. Anynumber of AN-16/o or AN-16/o-EB Output Modules can be connected to asystem as needed.
MSRPs include:AN-16/i-EB Input Module, $999.95; AN-16/o-EB OutputModule, $999.95; AN-16/i Input Module, $899.95; AN-16/o Output Module,$899.95; and A-16SB System Bridge, $249.95. For more information, visitwww.aviom.com.
Synthogy Announces Ivory
Synthogy, an all-new audio software company dedicated to producingvirtual instrument products with flexibility and realism, unveiled”Ivory,” its first virtual instrument product at Winter NAMM 2004.Ivory is available for AudioUnits, VST and RTAS for both PC and Mac OSX. The product will ship in the first quarter of 2004 and carries anMSRP of $349.
Custom-built by Synthogy and produced by pre-eminent piano sounddesigner Joe Ierardi, Ivory features more than 3,500 samples designedto faithfully re-create every nuance of the grand piano.
Ivory features Synthogy’s proprietary 32-bit sample playback and DSPengine, which was specifically built from the ground up to bring outthe resonance, response and character of three of the world’s finestconcert grands: the German Steinway D 9-foot Concert Grand,Bösendorfer 290 Imperial Grand and Yamaha C7 Grand. The productfeatures more 20 Gigabytes of new samples, which were brought to lifein the finest studios and concert halls. All 88 keys of each piano wereindividually sampled in up to eight dynamic levels, including theextended low octave on the Bösendorfer, providing the user withtotal control over the nuance of each note.
Ivory includes a host of features designed to ensure the integrityof the sound. Synthogy’s “Sympathetic String Resonance” digital signalprocessing provides realistic damper pedal response, and the packagealso includes release and soft pedal samples. Ivory features an arrayof high-quality digital effects, including ambience, chorus and EQ,along with fully customizable user controls for timbre, stereo widthand perspective, velocity response, mechanical key noise, tuning andmore. Each 32-bit sample features full sustain without looping, andSynthogy’s unique “sample interpolation” technology allows forultrasmooth velocity and note transitions. Finally, each of the threepianos can be installed independently to save space on hard drives.
For more information, please reference Ilio’s Website at www.ilio.com.
New Book/DVD Teaches Final Cut Pro 4 Basics
Final Cut Pro 4 Editing Essentials, a new book and companion DVDby Tom Wolsky, claims to help readers master the craft of editing byproviding firsthand experience with the art and technique of editing.Eight tutorial lessons cover editing essentials such as capturingmaterial, organizing it, editing, adding transitions, basic titling andsound techniques, and outputting from the application.
Readers can also learn how the new editing paradigm in Version 4 canaffect workflow, and hone their craft by learning how to properly setup their system, get material into FCP, edit to build and trim asequence of shots, create and use transitions and more. Final CutPro 4 Editing Essentials sells for $29.95 through www.cmpbooks.com.
Roland Debuts VS8F-3 V-Studio Expansion Card
Roland has opened up its V-Studio platform to outside plug-indevelopers via the VS8F-3 Plug-In Effect Expansion Board, which givesV-Studio users access to both Roland plug-ins and optional third-partyplug-ins. Products from Antares, Cakewalk, IK Multimedia, Massenburg,McDSP, Sound Toys, TC Electronics and Universal Audio are currentlycompatible with the VS8F-3.
The expansion board will be available immediately for the VS-2480Series, VS-2400CD and the new VS-2000CD. Support for the VS-1680,VS-1880 and VS-1824 is planned for April 2004.
The VS8F-3 contains 56-bit processing and sampling rates up to 96kHz, depending on the V-Studio hosting the board. Each VS8F-3 can runtwo plug-ins. Roland includes five high-quality plug-ins with eachboard: a Mastering Tool Kit, Stereo Reverb, Pre-Amp Modeler, VocalChannel Strip and Tempo Mapping Effect.
For more information, visit www.RolandUS.com.
Mackie Distributes Tracktion to Interface With ControlUniversal
Mackie announced the completion of an agreement with UK-based RawMaterial Software, in which Mackie will assume worldwide distributionand marketing efforts for Tracktion!” software, a new audio/MIDIworkstation.
Mackie also announced plans to release an update in early 2004 thatwill allow Tracktion to interface with Mackie Control Universal.
Tracktion is compatible with Windows 98, 2000, ME and XP, as well asMac OS X 10.2 and above. The 24-bit, 96k Spike Powered Recording systemis the first Mackie product to incorporate Tracktion, with more tofollow. Free demo versions of Tracktion are currently available at www.mackie.com, andthe item will be available for purchase through the site in February.Tracktion with Mackie Control Universal support will be available bythe end of March 2004.
Tascam Announces 2488 24-Track, GigaStudio 3.0 Update
Tascam recently announced the 2488, a 24-track recording workstationthat sells for less than $1,500. The 2488 records 24 tracks of audio at24-bit resolution, with 250 virtual tracks and editing and loopingfunctions. Its 36 mixer inputs mix 24 playback tracks, eight analoginputs, a 64-voice MIDI tone generator and stereo effectsprocessor.
Three-band EQ is provided for all 24 channels, plus the eight inputsand tone generator channel. Three aux sends—one for each mixerchannel except for the effects return—send to a loop effect witheffects like reverb and delay or external devices. Up to eight dynamicsprocessors can be utilized while recording or mixing, and an additionalstereo compressor is dedicated to the stereo output. The 2488 can alsomaster and burn a CD using a built-in CD-RW drive, or transfer tracksto a computer using a high-speed USB 2.0 connection.
Tascam’s 2488 was developed using Analog Devices’ SHARC ADSP-21161Nprocessor, which adds powerful multi-effects, dynamics processing andstereo compression to the Portastudio’s robust functionality.
Tascam also announced three new versions of GigaStudio 3.0:Orchestra, Ensemble and Solo. The new versions offer up to unlimitedpolyphony, 96kHz/24-bit sample support, ReWire support, VST FX andGigaPiano 2, and real-time convolution.
For more information, visit www.tascam.com.
Edirol Unveils New FireWire Audio Interface
Edirol announced the FA-101, a 10-input/10-output FireWire bus-poweredaudio interface offering two premium mic preamps with phantom power,six dedicated TRS balanced inputs and eight dedicated TRS balancedoutputs. This half-rack unit has a front-mounted optical S/PDIF inputand output and rear-accessible MIDI input and output.
The FA-101 offers simultaneous 10 inputs and 10 outputs at up to24-bit/96kHz audio quality on both PC (ASIO 2.0, WDM) and Mac(CoreAudio), and is capable of running completely from the power of theFireWire bus. In addition, it supports stereo in and out at 24-bit/192kHz. The FA-101 can also be powered by the included DC adapter with4-pin FireWire ports.
The FA-101’s control panel routes various inputs and computersignals to different tracks and outputs
“This FireWire product along with our high-speed USB2 interface setsEdirol apart as the first company offering products using bothhigh-speed serial interfaces,” commented John Broadhead, lead productmanager for Edirol North America. “A customer can now focus on featuressuch as sound quality rather than first letting the type of interfacedictate a direction.”
The FA-101 lists for $695 and will be available in April 2004. Formore information, visit www.edirol.com/products/info/fa101.html.
TerraTec to Market All Waldorf Products
Effective immediately, TerraTec Producer, TerraTec Electronic GmbH’sdivision for professional audio production solutions, has extended itsproduct range by forging an alliance with Waldorf AG, in which allupcoming Waldorf products will be marketed exclusively by TerraTec.
Heiko Meertz, general manager of TerraTec Electronic GmbH, said,”We’re aiming to bundle the benefits of the two partners by convergingWaldorf’s excellence in sound generation with TerraTec’s ability toincorporate this expertise in computer application. First, we’ll focuson developing products in a joint effort to bridge the gap between twoworlds that to date have been disparate.”
According to Wolfgang Düren, CEO of Waldorf AG, “We aredelighted that the alliance with TerraTec will enable us to deliverWaldorf products and know-how to a much larger user group. We alsoperceive this partnership as the challenge of uniting worlds andachieving optimum results.”
For more information, visit Waldorf at www.waldorf-ag.comor TerraTec at www.terratec.com.
Orban Releases MPEG-4 aacPlus Streaming Audio Encoder
Orban announced the immediate availability of Opticodec-PC, an MPEG-4aacPlus!” encoding software that provides high-quality streaming audio.The software lets streaming providers supply content encoded with theCoding Technologies aacPlus codec; broadcast streams encoded withOpticodec-PC can be experienced through the new RealPlayer 10 and canautomatically list themselves on www.opticodec.net, an upcoming newdirectory service for Opticodec-PC streams.
Orban’s Optimod-PC 1100, a professional PCI sound card designed forstreaming media, provides “genuine radio” audio processing for Internetbroadcasters. With three onboard DSPs providing equalization, AGC,multiband compression and look-ahead limiting, Optimod-PC 1100, whencombined with aacPlus encoding technology, delivers a polished andproduced stream.
Opticodec-PC is available for Microsoft Windows 2000/XP and suppliesstreams compatible with the free Darwin Streaming Server, which isavailable for multiple platforms including Linux, Windows andMacintosh. Opticodec-PC is available in two versions: LE and PE.Opticodec-PC LE is compatible with all quality sound cards and encodesa single stream at bit rates between 8 and 32 kbps. Opticodec-PC PE isoffered solely in a premium package coupled with an Optimod-PC and canencode multiple simultaneous streams at bit rates from 8 to 320 kbps.Both products are available immediately to beta customers.
Opticodec-PC LE retails for $99. The Opticodec-PC PE has a suggestedretail price of $495 or with an Optimod-PC sound card for $1,995.
For more information, visit www.orban.com or Coding Technologies at www.codingtechnologies.com.
Winter NAMM: Arturia minimoog V
Arturia introduced the minimoog V, a faithful reproduction of BobMoog’s original Minimoog. Offering all the features of the original,the software version also brings polyphony, MIDI management andpresets, as well as new functions such as a modulation matrix, LFO,arpeggiator, chorus and delay.
Arturia used its TAE® proprietary technology for emulatinganalog circuits to offer high-quality sound, including sharp filters,aliasing-free oscillators and soft-clipping limitation. The minimoog Valso comes with hundreds of presets made by some of the most talentedMinimoog users.
Original features include three oscillators offering multiplewaveforms (the third oscillator can modulate either the first twooscillators or the filter); one mixer with a built-in overload circuit;one 24dB/octave resonant filter; two ADSR envelope generators; oneexternal audio input; and one external oscillator and filter modulationinput. New features include one modulation matrix offering up to sixdifferent connections between 12 sources and 32 destinations, one LFOthat can be synchronized on the tempo of the host sequencer, onearpeggiator that can also be synchronized in the same way; onethree-mode chorus; one stereo delay to be synchronized via MIDI and thepossibility to synchronize Osc2 on Osc1.
Arturia estimates the minimoog V’s release date will be the end ofFebruary to early March 2004.
For more information, visit www.arturia.com/en/comingsoon.html.
Now Available: ConcreteFX Software’s “Digital”
ConcreteFX Software announces the release of Digital, its PC VSTiphase-shaping synthesis, which uses phase distortion, waveshaping andfrequency modulation to re-create the sound of classic ’80ssynthesizers.
Digital is available for $65 from Paypal and Shareit Digital, andcomes with 160 presets and manual in pdf format.
Digital features include four operators, which can be arranged in 15different ways. These arrangements include all four-op FM arrangementsand ring modulation algorithms. Each operator comprises a phasedistorter, wave-shaper and a multimode filter. Depending on the chosenalgorithm, operators can also be frequency-modulated by input fromother operators, and also has self-feedback.
Other features include phase distortion, in which each operator canchange waveshapes to re-create the sound of Casio CZ synths; 19 wavesincluding all FM- and CZ-type waves. (Multimode waves are alsoavailable, which use two waves appended together.); each operator has a12/24 low- and high-passband reject and ring mod or comb filters; eightenvelopes, step sequences, LFOs and four key splits. (Envelope can haveup to 32 stages, each stage having variable slopes. Each envelope has auser-definable loop and release points for complex patterns.); amodulation matrix allows the user to modulate all of the controls usingenvelopes, LFOs, step sequences, key splits, MIDI controls, velocity,note played and in/out volume; and effects such as cross delay/reverb,chorus/flanger/phaser, 3-band equalizer and distortion effects.
For more information, go to the ConcreteFX Software Website at www.concretefx.com.
Translation Now Part of Sonic Studio’s Sonic Magic
Sonic Magic is a stand-alone Macintosh utility that allowsbi-directional translation among Sonic Studio HD, Pro Tools 5 and AES31formats. A cost-reduced, custom version of Media Magic by Dark MatterDigital, Sonic Magic not only converts the source sound files, but alsore-creates the entire EDL, defining region boundaries and placing themat the proper locations on the timeline. Sonic Magic also buildsapproximations of the project’s crossfades.
A free trial version of Sonic Magic is available for download. Thetrial contains the entire feature set and will not time out. However,there will be silence inserted every six seconds on converted projects.Once it is purchased, users will be given a serial number and directedto Dark Matter’s registration page for an unlock code.
For more information, go to the Sonic Studio Website at www.sonicstudio.com.
Available Soon: Melodyne uno Editor
At the Winter NAMM show, Celemony Software GmbH presented the audioediting software Melodyne uno for Windows and Mac OS X. This smallerversion of Melodyne operates like a sample editor, and is a tool forpitch correction, vocal production and the editing of melodies.
The application operates without arrange levels. Complex processessuch as note recognition operate smoothly in the background out of theuser’s sight. Like a sample editor, it permits editing of the pitch,tempo, phrasing, formants and timing of monophonic audio files.Parameters can be varied over a wide range and with good sound quality.Melodyne uno is designed to preserve the original phrasing, and canhandle all commonly encountered audio formats, integrating smoothlyinto all conventional MIDI/audio sequencers.
Melodyne retails for $150 and will be available in April 2004. Formore information, visit www.celemony.com.
Zero-G Releases Leon and Lola
Zero-G announces the release of virtual vocalists synths Leon and Lola,powered by Yamaha Vocaloid® Singing Synthesis Technology. Launchedat the Winter NAMM show, they are now available.
The Vocaloid VST/ReWire instrument reads Vocaloid vocal libraries,plays vocal MIDI tracks generated by Vocaloid editor via VST- orReWire-compatible host sequencers to manipulate voicecharacteristics.
Vocaloid Leon and Lola feature professional-quality male and femalevoices in English, offer multiple singing styles including soul anddance music, and vibrato and expression templates templates.
System requirements include Windows XP or Windows 2000; Pentium III,1 GHz or faster; 512 MB of RAM or more; approximately 700MB hard diskspace or more; CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive; SVGA display (1,024×768); soundcard with Microsoft DirectSound-compatible driver; and LAN/network cardmust be installed or a USB network card must be connected to the USBport. Vocaloid Singing Synthesis Technology requires Windows XP/2000and Plug-In Instrument (VST/ReWire).
For more about Vocaloid Leon, go to www.zero-g.co.uk/index.cfm?articleid=799. For moreabout Vocaloid Lola, go to www.zero-g.co.uk/index.cfm?articleid=800.
Edirol Announces PCR-1 MIDI Controller/Audio Interface
Edirol recently announced the PCR-1, a new combo device that integratesa USB bus-powered 24-bit/96kHz audio interface into a 25-key MIDIkeyboard controller.
The PCR-1 measures 1 and 3/16 inches thick, weighs less than threepounds and offers a wide variety of audio and MIDI features. The 25-keycontroller offers full 128-step velocity sensitivity and the samecontrol map support as its larger PCR siblings. Controls can beassigned to send any MIDI message. It offers 16 onboard memorylocations for saving control maps for software applications.
Audio features include stereo RCA input/outputs and a stereo miniheadphone connection, which doubles as an optical digital S/PDIFport.
Additionally, Edirol has devised a new technology known as”S.L.I.M.” (Short-stroke Low-profile Impact Mechanism), which allows acompact MIDI keyboard to maintain reasonable playability.
The PCR-1 offers support for Mac and PC with WDM, ASIO and CoreAudiodrivers.
The new device lists for $370 and will be available in February2004.
For more information, visit www.edirol.com.
Tascam Teams With SaneWave to Develop Computer InterfaceSolutions
Tascam, through its co-development alliance with SaneWave, introducedthe new US-2400 plug-and-play universal DAW controller at this year’sWinter NAMM show. The US-2400 is a control surface that works inharmony with mouse, monitor and computer, reportedly offering moreneeded hardware controls. According to Tascam product manager JimBailey, the US-2400 “works out of the box without complex computersoftware installation and configuration.”
Tascam also announced Mac OS X 10.3 Panther compatibility for all ofits USB and FireWire computer recording products.
The new Panther-ready driver for the FW-1884, Tascam’s FireWirecontrol surface and audio/MIDI interface, adds features such asimproved audio latency, flexible routing options and SoftLCD computerdisplay. The US-122, US-224 and US-428 have had Panther-compatibledrivers since the release of OS 10.3.
In addition to Panther support, FW-1884 driver Version 1.10 iscompatible with Mac OS 10.3 and includes a “virtual scribble strip”display via a SoftLCD application, which displays the names of thechannels controlled by the FW-1884 and attached FE-8s in a translucentbar on the computer’s monitor; direct routing from the eight analoginputs to the eight ADAT outputs; expanded surround control; and threeaux sends on all channels (except for the effects return).
Visit www.tascam.com for more information.
Moog Issues MuRF, Etherwave Pro
Moog Music announces the Multiple Resonance Filter Array (MuRF), a new,Bob Moog-designed analog effect that allows users to shape tones andadd pulsing, percolating or shimmering rhythmic effects to theirtracks.
The latest issue in the company’s “Moogerfooger” line features eightresonant, tuned bandpass filters similar to a graphic EQ, each with aslider to control the gain of that frequency band.
A tap-tempo input and wide selection of sequencing patterns areavailable, with varied sequencing rates. Sequence selection and rate,envelope shape and direct mix may be played in real time. The MuRFfeatures analog audio processing, and wide-ranging player parametersmay be controlled from the panel knobs, expression pedals or analogsynthesis instruments. The MuRF is housed in a classic “double-wedge”enclosure for desktop or floor use. The MuRF is anticipated to ship bythe end of March 2004. MSRP: $435.
In other company news, Moog released the Etherwave Pro, aprofessional, portable Theremin designed for both stage and studio use.The Etherwave Pro covers up to four octaves above middle C in threepanel-selectable pitch registers. Visually, the Etherwave Pro blendsfuturistic and retro styling with striking vertical lines,nickel-plated and wooden knobs, and a birds-eye maple front panel. Amultiposition timbre selector offers a variety of waveforms, includingthe authentic traditional Theremin tone. In addition, waveform,brightness and filter panel controls enable musicians to balance thetimbre to suit their musical requirements.
The Etherwave Pro’s antennas conform to the traditional Thereminstandard, and both right-handed and left-handed configurations will beavailable. The Etherwave Pro’s control voltage output allows it tointerface with the Minimoog Voyager or moogerfoogers effects modules.The Etherwave Pro can interface with the minimoog Voyager andmoogerfoogers effects modules. It will sell for around $995 and isexpected to ship by the end of the first quarter, 2004.
For more information, visit www.moogmusic.com.
AKG Debuts Sleek New Headphone Models
AKG Acoustics debuted three new headphone models at the 2004 NAMMConvention. The AKG K 71, K 101 and K 301 XTRA models featurehigh-fidelity sound and lightweight designs at prices that range from$70 to $130.
The semi-open, “feather-weight” K 71 is designed for use withportable audio devices, computers and utility applications. It featuresa full 20 to 20,000Hz frequency response, low 19-ohm impedance andweighs only 140 grams (five ounces).
The open-back, lightweight K 101 features a new computer-optimizedMX20 transducer, has a wide 18 to 22,000Hz frequency response andfeatures high 101dB sensitivity and low 19-ohm impedance forcompatibility with low-output audio devices such as portable CD/MP3players, notebook computers and keyboards. The K 101 weighs in at 160grams (5.6 ounces).
The new K 301 XTRA features AKG’s new VariMotion XXL transducers.The K 301 XTRA delivers a frequency response of 18 Hz to 26 kHz, andhas 55-ohm impedance and 102dB sensitivity. The K 301 XTRA allows fordeep bass, transparent mids and well-defined highs.
All three new models feature oxygen-free cables and gold-platedplugs with 1/4-inch adaptors for input compatibility. All AKGheadphones include a two-year parts-and-labor warranty.
For more information, visit www.akg-acoustics.com.
