Alesis Introduces Two Products at Summer NAMM 2011

AcousticLink

"Get your performances and ideas into your Mac or PC in seconds with the AcousticLink guitar-recording pack. The AcousticLink contains a no-drill acoustic guitar pickup, a guitar-to-USB cable, and Cubase LE recording software –– everything you need to go from any guitar to virtually any computer!

You can also use the AcousticLink with virtually any music software, such as GarageBand, ProTools, or Studio One."

"The AcousticLink digital recording system also works with Apple’s iPad USB connector, enabling players to record their instrument directly into their iPad using apps such as GarageBand. AcousticLink works with Mac and PC computers, with a plug-and-play USB connection that does not require any drivers or setup."

http://www.alesis.com/acousticlink

TwoTrack

"The Alesis TwoTrack is the easiest way to record studio-quality, stereo sound in any setting. Featuring convenient, dedicated-function controls and an easy-to-read, backlit LCD, the TwoTrack was designed for everyday use in a wide variety of applications.... "

"TwoTrack is perfect for capturing songwriting sessions, rehearsals or performances. At the end of the session, users will have a 16-bit, 44.1 stereo wav file, or an MP3 at up to 192kbps that can easily be transferred to a computer via the TwoTrack’s high speed USB 2.0 output. The TwoTrack’s dual cardioid condenser microphones are configured in an XY configuration that provides excellent spatial imaging, giving users two tracks of audio that can be edited in virtually any music software. "

"The TwoTrack portable audio recorder also features a convenient mic/line input for external mono or stereo sources and can even be mounted on compatible video cameras to greatly enhance the sound of video. Auto and manual gain controls and a red LED signal-clip indicator make it easy to adjust and monitor levels."

http://www.alesis.com/twotrack

Alesis is showcasing the AcousticLink and the TwoTrack at Booth #400 in the 2011 Summer NAMM show from July 21st- 23rd in Nashville, TN.

ATI 8MX2_8 Channel MicPre and 8x2x8 Mixer

When engineers mention the ATI 8MX2 the words "great sounding" "versatile" "reliable" and "lots of headroom" are often mentioned, and with good reason. The ATI 8MX2 based on the ATI Paragon ( a highly regarded live sound console) is a high quality, sturdily built eight channel microphone preamp and mixer in one. It works well in the studio as well as for live sound. The 8MX2 can be used as a summing mixer with its eight multitrack/DAW returns and multiple units can be linked. There's also a variable threshold limiter (infinity:1 ratio) on every channel. 

Don't be fooled by it's small footprint the 8MX2 is an extremely flexible unit that will deliver the "goods" again and again.

From the website:

"The extremely versatile 8MX2 rack mount preamp/mixer provides a great deal of flexibility in just one rack space. This unit is perfect for all critical digital and analog projects, including at-home and remote recording as well as live broadcast feeds. Boasting +24 db of headroom, the 8MX2's microphone preamplifiers can be driven hard without clipping. This mixer allows engineers to feed the mixbus while simultaneously feeding the direct outputs."

The 8MX2 is now manufactured by API and has their industry-exclusive five-year parts warranty along with the reliability and long life all API products are known for.

Features:

• 8/2/8 mixer
• Eight line level multi-track returns
• Eight-into-two mix bus with pan
• 10-segment Input/Mix LED meter
• 10-segment Gain reduction meter
• Headphone and speaker monitor Out
• Eight channels in 1u rack space
• Link multiple units

Each channel includes:

• +/- 48v Hi-voltage mic pre
• Threshold limiter
• Direct "Out"
• Selectable 48v phantom power
• Cue Select
• Return Level pot
• Return Pan pot
• Mix Bus Select
• Phase Reverse Switch

$2545.75 at Sweetwater Sound.

Waves Trans-X SuperSpecial $49

Trans-X is a unique dynamic processor that gives you control over transient duration and release times, to add punch, soften edges, and highlight sustain. Trans-X fixes and shapes transients, letting you change an instrument’s presence within the mix without affecting its original sonic character. Use it to tighten up the low end, add that missing punch to toms and other drums, and bring out the crispiness of hi-hats and percussion, or to soften the picking sound on bass guitar while retaining clarity and punch. The possibilities are limitless.

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IK Previews Three New Products at Summer NAMM 2011

"iRig MIDI connects MIDI keyboards, drum machines, drum pads, pedal boards and more to an iOS device to control not only the includedSampleTank FREE* but also a world of MIDI-compatible apps such as GarageBand®. You can also use iOS apps to control external MIDI equipment such as sound modules, DAWs or lighting systems right from the mobile device."

iRig MIDI

"SampleTank® for iOS is the mobile version of IK’s SampleTank for Mac and PC, the leading virtual sound workstation for the studio, now available for your favorite iOS mobile device and designed for live performance. It is a 4-part multi-timbral instrument with a sound set of over 1 GB of samples for over 500 acoustic, electric and electronic instruments (including a selection of the best workstation sounds from SampleTank, orchestral sounds from Miroslav Philharmonik and synths sounds from SampleMoog) plus a selection of over 1,000 melodic and rhythmic patterns that span every musical genre....."

SampleTank iOS

"iKlip MINI is a universal microphone stand adapter for the iPhone® and iPod touch® to support your iOS device on stage, in the studio, at school or in the office. iKlip MINI securely supports your iPhone/iPod touch on any standard mic stand, pole or tripod (with diameters ranging from 11 - 20 mm /.43” - .79”) placed on the floor or tabletop."

"An included detachable bracket supports our popular iRig guitar interface adapter together with iKilp MINI in both horizontal and vertical mounting positions so you can have immediate access to your iOS device multi-touch controls during your live performances with the AmpliTube range of apps or any other guitar effects app"

"iKlip MINI is also the perfect companion to IK’s iRig Mic, the handheld microphone for iOS devices, that allows vocalists and speakers alike to conveniently hold and operate the device at a close distance on the same mic stand with IK’s VocaLive or any other vocal processing app."

iKlip MINI

MyTek Stereo192-DSD-DAC USB/Firewire Converter

Mytek Digital is known for making some of the best audio converters in the industry. They recently announced that after two years of testing the final version of the Stereo192-DSD-DAC will be available on August 31st. The Stereo192 comes in a  Preamp (black or silver) version and a Mastering version.

Here's some info from their press release prepared by their esteemed Founder and DAC designer Michal Jurewicz:

"The Stereo192-DSD-DAC is not just another USB DAC. It’s the next generation DAC with computer interface. It includes all the latest of both interface and conversion technology: asynchronous operation with ultra stable jitter free internal clock, 192k and DSD playback capability, the newest, high performance Sabre(tm) DAC in 8 mono channel to two stereo configuration, high performance hardware upsampling, new design of ultra transparent analog attenuator and high current, high slew rate headphone amp. All this assembled with hand picked high quality metal film resistors, solid and low impedance capacitors and other selected parts. Most importantly, countless listening comparisons lead to this design resulting in sonic detail and transparency superior not only to the competition but also to our own best designs to date."

SPECIFICATIONS:

•  Conversion: 32bit, PCM up to 192k, 64xDSD, 128xDSD.
•  Dynamic Range: 128dB (ESS Sabre chipset in 8 mono to 2 stereo config.) THD DAC: -110dB.
•  Digital Audio Inputs: SPDIF, AES/EBU, Toslink all up to 192k single wire.
• (64xDSD and 128XDSD SDIF DSD interface on Mastering Version).
•  Clock: Internal Clock Generator (10ps jitter), Wordclock In and Out, or sync to incoming digital
• audio input with low jitter JET (tm) PLL.
•  Internal Async Hardware Upsampling- 16bit 44.1k etc. can be optionally upsampled prior to
• conversion to 192k/24bit with clock jitter eliminated.
•  Transparent, 1dB stepped programmable analog attenuator, separate for main out and headphones.
•  Relay bypass of the attenuator for direct purist DAC out.
•  A pair of unbalanced RCA analog outs for preamp functions (assignable to volume control) (In
• Preamp Version).
•  High Current, High Slew Rate ultra low distortion 500mA hi-fi headphone amp.
•  Worldwide user switchable linear power supply.
•  Online downloadable firmware updates. - Ability of converting standard digital audio inputs into
• computer FW/USB input.
•  Optional infrared remote (avail 2012).
•  Enclosure: Compact portable 1/2 rack space 1.72in H x 8.5in W x 8.5in D.
•  Weight 6 lbs.

User Menu Choices:

•  Functions assignable to buttons: MUTE, PHASE INVERT, MONO, DIM
•  Selection of clock choices
•  Choice of upsampling or not
•  Selection of slow or fast/steep filter for PCM
•  Selection of 3 filters for out of band DSD
•  Assignable input selection (display only active)
•  Dimmable intensity of display/led meter

First batch of 100pcs is being manufactured now and will be shipping by August 31st.

Units can be ordered via Mytek Online Stores:

http://www.mytekdigital.com/usstore/ (USA and worldwide)

http://www.mytekdigital.com/europe/store/ (European Union)

or from authorized Mytek dealers worlwide.

Units will be shipped on a first come first serve basis in the sequence the orders were received.

For all questions regarding this product please contact Mytek New York via email at highend@mytekdigital.com or call +1 347 384 2687.

Please check the website periodically for additional product information (manual, comparison sound files and FAQ are coming up).

Cost: $1695 Preamp version/ $1595 Mastering version

http://mytekdigital.com/

FatLoud - More4Less Sale up to 50% off!

Diginoiz Modern Pop Producers Kit (Construction Kits) Modern Pop Producers Kit is the first Diginoiz product containing all that You need to make highest quality, modern pop tracks. You will find here all necessary instruments and drum loops in 125 BPM tempo including the root key. So if You are looking for sounds that You may known from Your favorite artists radio hits, You are in the right place! Modern Pop Producers Kit contains over 150 loops (Drum, Arps, Keys, Bass, Synth, Pads, Percs, Orchestral and Lead lops) that can be used in Your production!

Dope Loops Dope Keyz Vol. 1 (Piano & E-Piano Loops) Dope Keyz Volume 1 is inspiring collection of piano & electric piano loops ready to use in your Hip Hop, R&B, Pop or Dance productions. All loops available in Dope Keyz Volume 1 are tempo & Key labeled, mixed & mastered to the perfection and available in 4 formats compatible with 99% of todays hardware & software samplers or sequencers. Formats included in download: 16 bit WAV, 24 bit Acidized WAV, 24 bit Apple Loops (AIFF) & REX2 (compatible with Propellerheads Reason, Record, Stylus RMX and any other software which is capable to load REX files).

FatLoud Hip Hop Construction King 4 (Construction Kits) The King is back! Looking for "anthemic" sounding Hip Hop construction kits? FatLoud Hip Hop Construction King 4 features 5 construction kits (composed from nearly 100 loops) full of brass, strings, synths and punchy drums. All loops in this library are completly Royalty Free and available in 4 formats giving you nearly 100% compatibility with all modern samplers & sequencers, both software and hardware.

http://www.fatloopshop.com/

Sweetwater Sound's OSX Lion Compatibilty List

Robert Williams from Sweetwater Sound sent me an email about the latest OSX Lion compatibilty status of various products.

Check their support page often for updated info.

Thanks Robert.

This is the current list:

• Apple Logic Studio (9) and Final Cut Pro X are compatible with Lion. Be sure to download the latest updates for each.

• APOGEE has announced that the following products are compatible with Lion (NOTE, be sure to download the latest drivers from www.apogeedigital.com):
Duet 2, GiO, JAM, ONE, Symphony I/O

At this time, Apogee is still developing and testing the following products for Lion compatibility: Duet, Ensemble, and Symphony 64 for X-Series and Rosetta Series converters. Apogee recommends waiting until updates for these products are final before upgrading to Lion.


• AVID: At this time Pro Tools 9 and earlier versions of Pro Tools software are not compatible with OS X Lion. Avid is working directly with Apple in order to establish full compatibility with Pro Tools 9.


• FOCUSRITE is in the process of testing their entire product line for Lion compatibility and do not recommend upgrading yet. However, based on preliminary results, these products appear to work with Lion:

Control 2802
Liquid Channel Control Software
Liquid Mix
Saffire 6 USB
Scarlett 8i6
Scarlett 18i6
VRM Box
Midnight Plug-in Suite


• MOTU has approved the current drivers of audio interfaces and MIDI interfaces for use with Mac OSX Lion.

Digital Performer 7.2.3 not compatible with Lion at this time, but an update to correct this is in development.

MOTU is testing their virtual instruments for compatibility. MOTU suggests waiting to update to Lion until official results are posted.


• NATIVE INSTRUMENTS has discovered an issue where running 64-bit versions of their applications with Mac OS 10.7 will cause a crash. This happens with both stand-alone versions and with plug-in versions. The cause of this issue has been successfully determined, and updates for the affected products are in development, with their releases planned for September or earlier.

In the meantime, users should utilize the 32-bit versions of NI applications, or should consider refraining from updating to Mac OS X 10.7 until the updates are finalized. An article on switching between 32- and 64-bit operation can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/3wcng8r


• PRESONUS will be posting beta drivers for all of their software, interfaces, and mixers in the very near future. We will post here when these are available.


• PROPELLERHEAD has announced that the latest versions of Reason and Record are fully functional with Mac OS 10.7 Lion. At this time, Recycle is not compatible. A beta version will be available soon to registered owners.


• STEINBERG is in the process of testing Cubase 6 and their other products with Lion. They recommend waiting to upgrade to Lion until their results are posted.


http://www.sweetwater.com/sweetcare/ts/detail.php?Index=33622

iZotope's The T-Pain Effect

The T-Pain Engine

The T-Pain Effect

iDrum: T-Pain Edition

iZotope has released The T-Pain Effect Bundle ($99). Mostly aimed at beginners the bundle enables the user to make a beat, record vocals, process them with the now infamous T-Pain sound then post the finished song to the web via SoundCloud.

The bundle consists of three parts:
1. The T-Pain Engine
2. The T-Pain Effect
3. iDrum T-Pain Edition

Check out iZotope's tutorial videos on the T-Pain Effect Bundle.

Visit Izotope.com for more details on the T-Pain Effect Bundle.

OS X Lion is now on the Mac App Store

OSX Lion is now listed on the mac App Store for $29.99. Download only. No install DVDs.
Please note: If you use Protools do not install OSX Lion. PT 9 is not yet compatible.


From Apples website:
"OS X Lion is the next major release of OS X, the world’s most advanced desktop operating system. It includes over 250 new features that will transform how you interact with your Mac....."


FEATURES:
Multi-Touch gestures
• Fluid and realistic animations make gestures feel natural and direct.
• Tap or pinch to zoom in on text and images.
• Swipe left or right to move from one page to another in an app or switch from one full-screen app to another.
• Swipe up to enter Mission Control.
• Pinch to access Launchpad.

Full-screen apps
• A new full-screen button takes an app window full screen.
• Run multiple full-screen apps at the same time.
• Switch between full-screen apps and your desktop with a gesture.
• Apps stay full screen when you switch to another app.
• OS X Lion includes full-screen Mail, Safari, Preview, iCal, FaceTime, Dashboard, Screen Sharing, and Photo Booth.

Mission Control
• Brings together Exposé, full-screen apps, Dashboard, and desktop spaces.
• Gives you a bird’s-eye view of everything running on your Mac, allowing you to navigate anywhere with a click.
• Exposé view shows all open windows on your desktop grouped by application.
• Create and organize desktop spaces in Mission Control.

Launchpad
• A new home for all the apps on your Mac.
• Apps downloaded from the Mac App Store automatically appear in Launchpad.
• Launchpad automatically adds pages to accommodate all your apps.
• Apps can be organized on multiple pages and grouped in folders.

Mail
• The widescreen layout displays the message list and selected email side by side in full-height columns.
• The favorites bar gives you one-click access to your favorite mail folders.
• Search suggestions dynamically present the best matches for your search.
• Search tokens help refine search results based on people, subjects, mailboxes, dates, and attachments.
• Conversations automatically groups related messages, displaying them in chronological order and hiding repetitive quoted text.

Other great Lion features
• Auto Save automatically saves your changes as you go, so you never have to worry about losing your work.
• Versions keeps a history of your document as you work and presents it in a timeline you can browse.
• Resume reopens an app exactly as you left it.
• AirDrop is the simplest way to send files to anyone around you, wirelessly — no setup or special settings required.
• Reading List in Safari lets you easily save web pages to read or browse later.

Some features require an Apple ID and/or compatible Internet access; additional fees and terms apply.

Some features require apps developed to work with Lion.

Gestures require a Multi-Touch trackpad or Magic Mouse (some gestures are not available on Magic Mouse).


Get more info  here.

CIRCLE OF FIFTHS WATCH

This would make a great gift for the family member or friend that's a musician or producer.

"CIRCLE OF FIFTHS WATCH The face of the watch shows how many sharps or flats go with each of the 12 major and minor keys. Guide to harmonic progressions and other patterns. This reference tool on your wrist makes it easy to master the circle of fifths and understanding music's grammar. The watch is available in a silver-tone finish or 18K Gold electroplate. 1.25: dial. Shipped from the manufacturer as a special order. Allow 2 weeks for delivery . No express delivery. No returns."

$34.95 at Music Treasures Co.

There's also a Circle Of Fifths clock for $29.95
This would look great in the studio.

Danfield Audio's MX30-t Desktop Recording Channel

The Danfield Audio MX30-t would make a great choice for a small or portable studio setup. 

It's the perfect channelstrip to use with a laptop and your favorite interface to record while on the go. The built in compressor with variable attack/release and sidechain HP filter, and the variable input impedance along with switchable HP filter are features that are hardly seen in a unit this compact.

"The MX30-t is an innovative new recording channel for the studio desktop. It is designed for the contemporary recording facility where tabletop rack space is a premium, and there is a necessity for a high degree of control whilst tracking. It is especially suited to applications such as voice recording, ADR post sync recording and voice dubbing. Furthermore, a handy optional mic stand attachment allows the unit to be located within a recording studio - so that it can be located right next to the musician or the sound source."

SPECIFICATIONS:
Input Stage: discrete solid state
Input Impedance: default 1500 Ohms, variable 600-100K Ohms
Output type: Solid state servo floating
Input symmetry: better than 100dB
Output symmetry: better than 100dB
Frequency range: 2Hz to 210KHz
Noise: -124dB
CMMR: 100 dB
Linearity: 0.006%
Distortion (1KHz): <0.0002%
Maximum system level: +27dB
Min gain: +9dB
Max gain: +73dB
Output  Impedance: less than 30 Ohm
High pass filter type: 12 dB /Oct
27-630 Hz

Power requirement:
< 25W supplied by Danfield Audio U500
PSU
size: 16*18*7cm
weight: 1.8 Kg 

Cost: 1,709.00 EUR/2,419.98 USD

Get more info at Danfield-audio.com

UAD Neve 1073 plugin

UAD Neve 1073

This is the EQ setting I used for Amy Winehouse lead vocal on the song "Unholy War" produced by Salaam Remi, recorded by Frank Socorro from the "Back To Black" album. The 1073 ($249) is one of UAD's many Neve emulations. The GUI is an exact replica of the hardware and the sound is very close to the original. 

The 1073 consists of a gain knob and 3 bands of EQ. A high shelf at 12Khz with ±18dB of gain. A mid band with a choice of 6 frequencies also with ±18dB gain and a low shelf with 4 selectable frequencies and ±15dB gain. There is also a low cut knob with a 18db per octave slope at frequencies of 300,160,80 and 50hz (see pic). 

Notice the knobs on the mid and low bands are bi-functional. The outer ring selects the frequency and the inner knob adjusts the gain. As with the hardware there is also a phase switch which comes in handy when using this EQ on live drums where you might run into phase issues because of the use of multiple microphones. The bypass switch (EQL) allows for quick A/B comparisons of the sound before and after processing. The 1073 has a thick, full bodied sound but with tons of sheen if needed. 

For more info and to purchase the 1073 plugin visit UAD's website at http://www.uaudio.com/stor​e/equalizers/neve-1073.htm​l

Waves API 2500 Giveaway

The API 2500 is a versatile dynamics processor that lets you shape the punch and tone of mixes with absolute accuracy. Its dual channel design lets the 2500 also function as two separate mono channels via a single compression setting. Using auto-makeup gain, you can adjust Threshold or Ratio while automatically maintaining a constant output level. With both "feed back" and "feed forward" compression types, the API 2500 boasts a wide range of incredibly musical parameters which have made it a favorite of engineers the world over. Read more:http://www.waves.com/Content.aspx?id=3612#ixzz1Sav0oaBM Look for the API 2500 Giveaway, and simply enter your name, age and email address. You’ll automatically be entered into a random drawing, and we’ll announce the winners on Waves.com. The API 2500 Giveaway runs from July 18 through July 25, 2011, with more on the way. Last week we gave away the C6 Multiband Compressor. This week it’s the API 2500 Compressor, a $400 value (Native). What’s it going to be next time? Join us on Facebook or Twitter to find out! Send to a Friend

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