Jimmy Iovine's $60M Music Plan

Last week  Jimmy Iovine appeared on All Things D (Dive Into Media) to speak on the Music Industry's past, present and possible future with his upcoming music service said to be launched in the summer of 2013. As a music mogul with 40 years experience both on the creative and business side plus being the mastermind behind Beats By Dre Headphones (which is now the #1 brand in the UK). He seems to have a pretty good idea where things should go with online music services. He has acquired a $60 million investment from Access Industries who owns Warner Music Group to start a new streaming service nicknamed "Daisy". This service is based on the MOG digital service that was purchased by Access last year.

He also speaks on the changes he has witnessed throughout his career and what he thinks went wrong with certain aspects of the music business.

Here's the full video interview:



http://allthingsd.com/

NAMM 2013_Universal Audio announces Apollo updates plus API, LA-2A Classic Collection and Softube Amp Room Bundle.

Universal Audio's Apollo interface has been a huge hit with many recording aficionados and it was announced yesterday at NAMM 2013 that they have enhanced its features in a major way.

"Among the new Apollo interface features slated for delivery in the first half of 2013 is multi-unit cascading, which combines two Apollo interfaces into a single elegant system via FireWire or Thunderbolt. Multi-unit cascading provides simultaneous use of 16 analog inputs / outputs, including eight Apollo mic preamps, plus 12 digital inputs and outputs — perfect for tracking a full band.

The boost in Apollo connectivity is navigated via a redesigned Console application, offering better visual feedback, a new Mix-Merge mode, and a Pro Tools mode which greatly simplifies integration with Pro Tools systems."

Read more here.

API 500 Series EQ Plug-In Collection

UA also announced API 500 Series Plugins featuring the 550A and 560 Eqs. I know the original hardware well and look forward to trying out the UA emulations.

"Designed by API’s Saul Walker in the late 60's, the 550A and 560 modular EQs featured Walker’s signature 2520 op-amp and proportional Q circuitry. For the API 500 Series EQ Plug-In Collection, UA’s industry-leading circuit modeling team expertly captured the filter shapes, band interactions, and unique filter amplifier clipping behaviors of vintage API 550A and 560 units to exacting detail. The result is tight, low-frequency imaging that gives users that legendary API punch.

Additionally, the API 500 Series EQ Plug-In Collection includes presets from several famed engineers and producers, including Ross Hogarth (Van Halen, R.E.M., Ziggy Marley), Vance Powell (Jack White, Red Fang, The Dead Weather), Eli Janney (Jet, Ryan Adams, Wilco), Jeff Juliano (John Mayer, Shinedown, Train), Carl Glanville (U2, Billy Joel, Jason Mraz), and Darrell Thorp (Beck, Radiohead, Charlotte Gainsbourg)."

LA-2A Classic Leveler Plug-in Collection

UA also upgraded their original LA-2A to the Classic Leveler Collection. If their 1176 Collection is any indication the new LA-2A Collection should not disappoint.

"The original LA-2A hardware — still hand-built at UA headquarters in Scotts Valley, California — is an audio industry icon, bringing smooth, warm compression to anything it touches, especially vocals. With the new LA-2A Classic Leveler Plug-In Collection, Universal Audio modeled the entire electronic path of three highly coveted hardware units — “Silver,” “Gray,” and the original LA-2 model — providing the most authentic plug-in emulations available of this iconic compressor.

The Bill Putnam-era LA-2A “Silver” model features a fast time constant, making it suitable on all sources, including drums and percussion. The Jim Lawrence-era LA-2A “Gray” model maintains an average time constant, providing a range of “medium-speed” compression. Finally, the LA-2 plug-in models the rarest of original Teletronix units, providing a super-slow compression response and a unique “mellowed” sound due to 50 years of luminescent panel aging.

Additionally, the LA-2A Classic Leveler Collection plug-ins includes presets from famous LA-2A users, including Ross Hogarth (Van Halen, R.E.M., Ziggy Marley), Carl Glanville (U2, Billy Joel, Jason Mraz), Darrell Thorp (Beck, Radiohead, Charlotte Gainsbourg), Vance Powell (Jack White, Red Fang, The Dead Weather), and Jeff Juliano (John Mayer, Shinedown, Train)."

Softube Amp Room plug-ins

I've used the Softube Amp Room Plugin Bundle on various projects and they sound great. I think they make a great addition to the UAD platform.

The Bundle consists of:

1. The Metal Amp Room

2. The Bass Amp Room

3. The Vintage Amp Room

4. Acoustic Feedback Deluxe

My favorite is the Bass Amp Room.

"With the addition of renowned Softube Amp Room plug-ins to the UAD platform, owners of UAD-2 DSP Accelerator hardware now have industry-leading guitar and bass amp modeling at their fingertips. And, when used with the award-winning Apollo Audio Interface, the Softube Amp Room plug-ins allow musicians and producers to jam, write, and record through stunning guitar or bass sounds with near-zero latency."

Get more details on the Softube Amp Room Bundle here.

Rupert Neve's 542 Tape Emulator and 511 MicPre announced for NAMM 2013

RND (Rupert Neve Designs) recently revealed their new 500 series line with the 511 Microphone preamplifier and 542 Tape Emulator that will be showcased at NAMM 2013(Jan. 24-27). I like their Portico series and I'm excited to see it now available in the 500 series format. The units are reasonably priced at $895 for the 542 and $649 for the 511.

From their website:

"For the 2013 NAMM show, Rupert Neve Designs is announcing two new 500 Series modules: the 511 Mic Pre with Silk, and the 542 True Tape Emulator with Texture. As two of the only 500 Series modules actually designed by Mr. Rupert Neve, the 511 and 542 combine the classic tone and versatility expected from a Rupert Neve design with the form factor and value of the 500 Series format."

"The 542’s “True Tape” emulation circuit provides the nostalgic rounding and compression typically achieved only through the use of tape, and can offset the harshness often found in digital recordings. Unlike digital emulations, the “True Tape” drive circuit works by feeding a tiny magnetic “record head,” which in turn is coupled to a correctly-equalized replay amplifier. As the voltage rises on the “record head,” saturation increases, and a soft-clip circuit engages at higher levels to round off harsh peak transients. The sound of the tape circuit can be further modified with selectable 15 and 30 ipsmodes, providing a “saturation equalization” of sorts, and a pre/post-tape blend control. In addition to the tape circuit, the 542 also includes the variable Silk/Texture circuitry found in the Portico II series of modules (with both much-loved Red and Blue modes), which allows the engineer to fine-tune the harmonic ratio and tonality of the output transformer."

"The 511 can be used for either mic or line sources, and pairs perfectly with any ribbon, dynamic, condenser or tube microphone. A polarity reverse switch is available to conquer phase issues when using multiple microphones. The 12 dB/octave swept high-pass filter can be dialed-in to remove rumble with minimal artifacts, and also to control proximity effect in close-mic’d vocals or other sources. To coax more rich harmonic content from the output transformer, the Silk Red mode can be engaged to add more thickness and sparkle in the high end as the Texture level is increased. While a little Silk Red can sound great on nearly any source, it is especially useful on dynamic and ribbon microphones that are inherently lacking in high-frequency energy and excitement."

Get more details on RND's 542 and 511 500 series modules at http://rupertneve.com.

Focusrite Red 1 500 series

Focusrite has announced the return of their acclaimed Red 1 series Mic Pre in the 500 series format.

For those unfamiliar with the Focusrite Red series the original Red 1 was only available in a 4 channel 19' standard rack mount format. It was a very popular piece that could be found in many of the best recording studios. I've used the original Red 1 in the past and it performed well with many different microphones.

From the website:

"Focusrite’s Red Range gained legendary status following its release in 1993. The Red 1 rapidly became a sought-after mic preamp in the world’s top studios, thanks to its ability to handle almost any microphone and its unique, signature sound.

Featuring the same circuit topology and components as the original transformer-based mic pre designs, Red 1 500 Series Mic Pre offers the same performance as the original Focusrite Red microphone preamplifier in a new, popular format: the 500 Series, or “Lunchbox” portable modular system. It’s ideal for mobile/location use as well as in the studio."

From their press release:

"The Red 1 500 Series Mic Pre has switchable phantom power, polarity invert, and an easy-to-read illuminated VU meter, making it the perfect preamp choice for a 500-series rack in the studio or on location. Its stepped gain structure (with a Grayhill gold-plated military-grade switch) in 6dB steps from -6 to +60dB, provides accurate, precise channel matching and recall. The output stage of the Red 1 500 Series Mic Pre will easily drive long cable runs without significant loss of quality, making it ideal for remote recordings.

Focusrite's unique mic preamp topology provides superb common-mode rejection, excellent overload margin and, with its shared gain structure (20dB from the transformer and up to 40dB from the amplifier), a very low noise floor combined with the signature extra-wide bandwidth (10Hz to 140kHz). This exceptional level of performance is maintained over a wide range of impedances applied to the input, making the Red 1 500 Series Mic Pre perform flawlessly with almost any microphone: ribbon, dynamic or condenser."

FEATURES:

• Original Red circuit topology and components
• 500 Series “Lunchbox” format
• Lundahl LL1538 Input Transformer
• Carnhill custom output transformer
• Grayhill gold-plated mil-grade gain switch
• Suitable for virtually any microphone
• Backlit VU meter with switchable calibration
• Polarity invert and +48V phantom power

Release Date April 2013. MSRP $1249

See Focusrite.com for more info.

Hamptone's HOC1 : Class A JFET Opto Compressor / Limiter

Hamptone who is known for their preamps (the HVTP2 and HJFP2) recently announced their latest product the HOC1 : Class A JFET Opto Compressor/Limiter. The preamps are solidly built and the words clean, detailed and larger than life are often used to describe them. I'm certain the HOC1 will also be well received. I like the layout of the controls and the fact that parallel processing can be done within the unit. I'm especially curious about the SHAPE control. I will do a more informative post once I actually get my hands on the unit.

FEATURES:

• Discrete Class A transformer balanced signal path.
• Parallel signal path (direct / compressed)
• Smooth opto cell compression, servo driven for high speed and stability (20dB in 1.5mS)
• SHAPE control and Feed Forward/Back allow infinite compressor response vs signal input
• Sophisticated stereo link capability, or as stand alone
• Two units fit into standard 2U rack shelf, mechanically = HVTP2 and HJFP2 micpres

Price $1499.

http://www.hamptone.com/hoc1_comp.html

Frequency Ear Training with Dave Pensado - Parts 1 & 2

I was asked recently about eq'ing a kick to make it sit right in a mix. It depends on the genre and the type of sound. In these videos Dave gives some great tips and advice on training your ear to help you decide what frequencies work best for your song/mix.

Waves introduces new Synth - The Element

Looking for some sonic inspiration? Try the new Element synthesizer from Waves.
Introductory price $99. Demo available.


From the website:

"Element includes a vast array of convenient features and functions. Like integrated effects. A 16-step arpeggiator / sequencer. MIDI Learn for all controls. And a massive preset library, with total tweakability. Plus, all parameters are laid out right there in front of you, so when inspiration strikes, there’s no need to scroll through page after page to customize your sounds. Searing leads, booming basses, ethereal pads, electro-percussion, sequential motions, mind-blowing FX and lots more: Element does it all.
Read more: http://www.waves.com/content.aspx?id=12081#image#ixzz2GvQyINRd

Introducing Element: The first ever synthesizer from Waves. Powered by Virtual Voltage™ technology, Element is an analog-style polyphonic instrument engineered to deliver the fat, gritty sound of the classics, with all the precision, flexibility and control of contemporary digital synths. Element is Native, and is available separately as well as in Waves Mercury.

Last Chance: End-of-Year UAD Storewide Sale

UA is having a huge holiday sale on many of their plugins including their popular Manley, Lexicon, EMT, Ampex, Studer, Neve and SSL emulations. They're also doing a special promotion where you receive a free UAD-2 Satellite Quad when you "Purchase a New UA 4-710d Four-Channel Tone-Blending Mic Preamp by December 31st and Get a FREE UAD-2 QUAD Core or UAD-2 Satellite QUAD Core DSP Accelerator Package!" Visit UA's website for more details.

Metric Halo 2012 Holiday Sale Extended!

Metric Halo's Holiday Sale that I posted recently has been extended to January 15th.
Also songs recorded with the ULN-8 by artist Sono Luminus received 7 Grammy Nominations.
(Note: "Cherry Wine" that I mixed for Nas and produced by Salaam Remi was also nominated for a Grammy. I used a Metric Halo 2882 as the interface when mixing.)

Visit mhlabs.com for more info on the great deals they're offering on their excellent software and hardware.

Waves Year-End Blowout - $9 Plugins

"The Q10 sounds great on anything." Gil Norton (Foo Fighters, The Pixies) "I love SuperTap. It’s so easy to use!" Todd Williams (Robbie Williams, Norah Jones) "MondoMod is a must-have." Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park "Renaissance Axx sounds great on drums!" 'Pooch' Van Druten (Slash, Van Halen) ALL PRODUCTS ARE NATIVE. OFFERS END DECEMBER 31, 2012.

Access Gobbler directly in Protools 10.3.3

Avid released Protools 10.3.3 yesterday and it now features full Gobbler access.
You can now send/backup full sessions directly from the Protools file menu.

From Gobbler's website:
"Gobbler can back up and send any Pro Tools session and its media, but with Pro Tools 10.3.3, you can send mixes or entire Pro Tools sessions directly from the Pro Tools UI! In addition, the latest Mac version of Gobbler will read the Pro Tools session file so it can even back up and send audio files stored outside of the session folder."

You can also export bounces directly to Gobbler right from the bounce menu.

                 

 Visit Gobbler's page for more details about using the Gobbler features in Protools 10.3.3.

Native Instruments Holiday Giveaway

Native Instruments sent me this announcement that they're giving away their Driver Distortion Filter plugin and 5 Remix Sets for their Traktor users.
They also sent a $30 voucher code for use in their web store. This offer is good until Dec. 31, 2012.

Happy Holidays from Native Instruments! Two incredible free gifts are our thanks to you for your support this year. DRIVER is a screaming filter distortion effect for adding anything from movement to mayhem – works stand-alone in any DAW, and integrates perfectly with MASCHINE. DJs get five floor-filling Remix Sets for TRAKTOR’s Remix Decks. And we’re also giving you a $30 / 25 € voucher, valid on software* at the NI Online Shop until December 31, 2012. Get your holiday gifts today! Your voucher code: 2Z3H4BCRNS   Any track, any genre – use DRIVER to add character, then twist it into complete sonic annihilation at the turn of a dial. Free until December 31, and available as a $49 / 49 € KOMPLETE effect in early 2013. Get DRIVER These five Remix Sets spice up DJ mixes and live performances in any genre. Get the sound of two of our most successful MASCHINE Expansions, some deep house loops, a selection of Latin and Indian percussion, and an exclusive set by Berlin beatsmith Comfort Fit. Get Remix Sets NI Twitter NI Youtube Channel KOMPLETE Facebook *The e-voucher is valid for all software titles at the NI Online Shop except KOMPLETE 8 and KOMPLETE 8 ULTIMATE. These special offers are valid until December 31, 2012. These special offer products are not for resale. NATIVE INSTRUMENTS GmbH, Schlesische Strasse 29-30, D-10997 Berlin, Germany Registergericht: Amtsgericht Charlottenburg | HRB 72458 | UST.-ID.-Nr. DE 20374 7747 Management Board: Daniel Haver / Mate Galic Phone number: +49 (0)30/61 10 35-1600 Fax: +49 (0)30/61 10 35-2600 Contact NI

Metric Halo’s 2012 Holiday Sale

If you've been thinking of purchasing any Metric Halo gear or software now is a great time to do so as their having a Holiday Sale till Dec. 25, 2012.  I use their Production Bundle and MIO 2882 daily. If you use Protools 10 don't forget to try out their new FREE Thump plugin.

Here is the email I received recently with details on the sale:

Announcing Metric Halo’s 2012 Holiday Sale

Happy Holidays! We know that you have been very, very good and it's time to reward yourself with the gift of better sound and a great workflow!

We want to help, so for a very limited time, we are making the TEC Award winning LIO-8 and ULN-8, along with all of our other award winning products, (including the new Production Bundle - now shipping on AU [Mac] and AAX [Mac/Win]) available at an amazing price!



Also, if you haven’t already downloaded Thump for AAX, take advantage of our FREE download and get yourself some super-low-end for the New Year! You can download the plugin from the Thump download page(registration required).

You can take advantage of these special offers until 12/25/2012!

Orders received after 12/20/2012 will ship on or after 1/2/2013.

Hardware Products	Regular Price	Special Price
ULN-8	$5995	$4496
LIO-8	$3995	$2996
2882	$1895	$1610
ULN-2	$1695	$1440
ULN-2 + 1 Jensen	$2145	$1823
ULN-2 + 2 Jensen	$2495	$2121
Hardware Upgrades	Regular Price	Special Price
2d Card Upgrade for 2882	$400	$300
2d Card Upgrade for ULN-2	$550	$412
LIO-8 Channel 1-4 Mic Pre Upgrade Kit	$700	$525
LIO-8 Channel 5-8 Mic Pre Upgrade Kit**	$625	$469
Software Products	Regular Price	Special Price
+DSP License*	$699	$524
MH Production Bundle for Pro Tools AU/AAX (Mac + Win)	$699	$524
MH Individual AU/AAX (Mac + Win) Plugins: ChannelStrip 3, Character, HaloVerb, Multiband Dynamics, Precision DeEsser, Transient Control or Multiband Expander	$199/ea	$149/ea
SpectraFoo Complete	$800	$600
SpectraFoo	$400	$300

This is a great opportunity to get your first unit, an additional unit, an upgrade for your existing unit, or add some sexy signal processing to your system and bring your projects to the next level!
This special pricing is available through your local Metric Halo dealer or distributor, as well as directly from Metric Halo via the Online Store. This pricing cannot be combined with any other Metric Halo discounts or offers including educational accounts.
Enjoy!
Metric Halo
Phone: 1-727-725-9555
Fax: 1-603-250-2451
www.mhlabs.com

Notes:
^* +DSP License requires a 2d Card to be installed (all Expanded and LIO-8 units include 2d Cards from the factory).

^** LIO-8 Channel 5-8 Mic Pre Upgrade Kit requires Channel 1-4 Mic Pre Upgrade Kit to be installed.