News/blogs
Gotta product company? - Write plugins? - Signup & add news direct to this page!... Click here
NEWS ITEM TITLE
Posted: 21-May-13
Musicrow releases Analogica, an advanced analog filter emulation for Native Instruments Reaktor.
Analogica is now available individually, or as part of Musicrow's Golden Ensembles 3 bundle for Reaktor.
Analogica is a fat and smooth analog sounding filter. It offers a distinctive warm character, sweet and
beautiful self oscillation sound, flexible design and an intuitive interface.
Analogica enables you to fulfill any filtering mission with ease. It is not only suitable for elementary
filtering tasks, but also capable of producing beautiful raw distortion sounds, interesting rhythmic
patterns and unusual musical effects.
Turn on the Ring Modulator and let it scream, produce a crunchy distorted sound using the Drive control,
or turn (slowly) the special Analogica control for extreme results!
Make your sound move with the groove! The Envelope Follower will let you modulate the filter cutoff
depending on the incoming signal level, and the built-in Sequencer will add movement and excitement to
your sound.
This filter can sing! By turning the resonance all the way up, you will get the desired sweet self
oscillation sound that makes all the difference.
Main Features:
- Warm analog filter sound
- Intuitive and flexible design
- Beautiful self oscillation sound
- Two different types of low-pass filters
- 12/24 db/oct slopes
- Ring modulation
- Envelope follower
- Step sequencer
- Crunchy drive/distortion
- The analogica effect for extreme results
- High-pass filter at the output stage
Price:
Both Analogica and Golden Ensembles 3 are now 40% OFF. Analogica is available for an introductory
price of €18 (instead of €29). The Golden Ensembles 3 bundle includes Analogica along with 44 other
Reaktor Ensembles, and is now available for €99 (instead of €169).
These special prices will be valid until June 11, 2013.
Web-Link:
Analogica Filter for Reaktor
Web-Link: Reaktor Ensembles
iKlip 2 & iKlip Studio for iPad mini Now Shipping!
Posted: 17-May-13
IK Multimedia are delighted to announce that they are now shipping the iKlip 2 universal mic stand adapter, in versions for iPad and iPad mini. iKlip 2 is the next generation of our iKlip line, and offers sturdy support and unprecedented ease of positioning for your tablet. They are also shipping iKlip Studio for iPad mini, a secure and durable tabletop stand that’s just like our popular iKlip Studio, but is sized for the iPad mini. Order your new iKlip today!
Web-Link:
www.ikmultimedia.com/news/?item_id=2519
Future Loops Releases Urban Symphony: Orchestral Hip Hop Kits
Posted: 17-May-13
Future Loops has just released Urban Symphony: Orchestral Hip Hop Kits, a collection of Orchestral based Hip Hop construction kits with over 1GB of content.
Urban Symphony: Orchestral Hip Hop Kits is aimed at producers who want to build epic and high impact tracks that feature rich orchestral arrangements with fresh and crafty hip hop beats.
Featuring a wide assortment of Orchestral elements - such as violins, trombone, trumpet, strings, piano, bells, flutes, cello & more - as well as full drum loops, drum loop elements and drum one shots, Urban Symphony: Orchestral Hip Hop Kits is 100% Royalty-Free and includes WAV, REX, AIFF & MIDI formats.
For more info and demos check out their website at the Future Loops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-urban-symphony-orchestral-hip-hop-kits.php
Producerloops releases: Swedish Pop Vol 2
Posted: 17-May-13
'Swedish Pop Vol 2' is the second in this stunning series bringing you a huge collection of powerful Pop, Dance and Swedish House-infused Construction Kits, created and produced exclusively for Producer Loops by Simon Rudd of "The Fliptones". This fresh new product combines razor-sharp modern production with catchy progressions and radio-ready melodic hooks, perfect for your next production.
Inside you'll find five pumping Kits, all expertly mixed and mastered to the highest standard. Buzzing highs, rumbling lows and powerful rises and drops are all set against a steady pulse of percussion and side-chained elements. Ranging from commercial and radio-ready to dark and edgy, you're sure to find inspiration in this pack.
MIDI Files Included:
Like so many other Producer Loops products, 'Swedish Pop Vol 2' includes MIDI files for the majority of musical phrases heard in each Kit, allowing you to seamlessly mix your favourite synths and samplers with the sounds contained in the pack.
Advantages of MIDI:
While the supplied ACID/Apple Loops/REX content is extremely flexible and powerful, MIDI has the added benefit of allowing you to go to extremes of pitch and tempo beyond which the loops were originally recorded, with no time stretching or pitch shifting artefacts. Furthermore, you can make tweaks to the riffs so they fit perfectly into your existing mixes.
One-Shot Samples:
Each Construction Kit features one-shot drum samples, allowing you to create new beats, fills and patterns to compliment the existing material. Simply load them up into your sampler of choice and create an infinite number of new beats.
Dry/Wet Loops:
For users looking to simply drag and drop, the 'wet' files contain all of the effects processing heard in the audio demos. But for producers looking to create their own effects mix, 'dry' loops are also included. Don't like the wet loops? No problem, add your own effects.
Unlooped Riffs/Tails:
This sample library also comes with unlooped/tail versions allowing you to end a phrase with the decay of the reverb/delay applied to the loop, another "Producer Loops" exclusive product feature.
Royalty-Free:
All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free (including the vocal loops), so once purchased, you can use these loops in your commercial releases without having to pay any hidden costs.
About the MP3 Demo:
There is one female vocal included in the demo which is for demonstration purposes only and is not included in this product. Everything else you hear in the demo is available inside this awesome pack.
Product Specifications:
- 5 Construction Kits
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- REX2 Loops
- Reason ReFill
- Loops sync to BPM
- 44.1 kHz/24-Bit
Price and Availability:
'Swedish Pop Vol 2' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £29.95 / 35,26 EUR / $38.01 USD. More information is available at the ProducerLoops website, via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Swedish-Pop-Vol-2.html
Arturia updates Oberheim SEM V and Wurlitzer-V Analog Classics
Posted: 17-May-13
Music software and hardware company Arturia is proud to announce availability of Oberheim SEM V 1.1.6 and Wurlitzer-V 1.0.5, the latest updates to its software recreations of the classic Oberheim Synthesizer Expander Module® and Wurlitzer EP 200A electric piano...
These free updates bring performance, stability, and MIDI improvements to two of Arturia's most popular Analog Classics, the Oberheim SEM V and Wurlitzer-V, respectively released to critical acclaim in 2011 and 2012. The best just got a whole lot better!
Using Arturia's TAE® (True Analog Emulation) technology, Oberheim SEM V faithfully reproduces the analogue warmth and ingenious interface of the classic Oberheim Synthesizer Expander Module® (SEM) to which it owes its inspiration and name. Created by legendary synth designer Tom Oberheim back in 1974, the dual-oscillator SEM was originally conceived as a way of beefing up weaker-sounding compatible analogue monosynths of the time before becoming a sought-after sound in its own right — so much so that its American creator came up with a series of successive SEM-based instruments, first pairing up two SEMs with a 37-note keyboard and a simple analogue sequencer to form the Two Voice, Oberheim's first compact, programmable, polyphonic synthesizer in 1975, followed by the larger Four Voice (featuring four SEMs) in 1976 and enormous Eight Voice (eight SEMs) in 1977. Though these instruments were groundbreaking, polyphony was achieved with multiple SEMs so each voice/module had to be programmed independently, which was quite a daunting task — even by somewhat shaky Seventies standards!
But that was then, this is now. Today, Arturia's eight-voice, MIDI-controllable, multitimbral Oberheim SEM V software solution brings many more truly 21st Century developments to the table — or even desktop (or laptop)! Additional ARPEGGIATOR, PORTAMENTO, SUB OSC, LFO 2, OVERDRIVE, CHORUS, and DELAY parameters, plus an in-depth Modulation Matrix module, all combine to considerably widen its sonic palette and appeal above and beyond merely mirroring the original Oberheim SEM hardware. Oberheim SEM V valiantly does that, too, of course — right down to replicating the behaviour of Oberheim's original multi-SEM synths' specific voice assignment and triggering, thanks to its advanced 'fold-out' 8-Voice Programmer, for example.
Arturia has taken a different approach with Wurlitzer-V, however. Unlike traditional sampling libraries, its embedded physical modelling engine readily reproduces the agreeable acoustic properties of the well-known Wurlitzer EP 200A electric piano's musically distinctive reeds, key action, and amplification characteristics by 'constructing' played notes in real time. In doing so, it realistically recreates a staple sound of the Seventies in a cost-effective performance package fit for 21st Century compositions.
Yet those beloved bright and overdriven 'Wurly' sounds so ingrained in popular music culture thanks to artists as musically diverse as The Beatles, Supertramp, and Marvin Gaye are as much down to a creative combination of admirable amplification, mic placement par excellence, and precision processing, with multiple analogue chorus, phasing, and tape echo units often being used to fashion a deeper, luscious tone. Which is exactly why Wurlitzer-V effectively places its users in an authentic-sounding Seventies-style recording studio, complete with classic tube amp emulations, modelled mics, and stompboxes galore — everything needed to achieve that vintage vibe, in fact. But that's not all. Alongside additional in-depth performance parameter controls, Wurlitzer-V also lets users choose between three output modes — Studio, Stage, and Rotary, each with a distinctly different sound.
Anyone wishing to transport those tricky still-sought-after sounds of the Seventies screaming and kicking into the convenience of present- day DAW-based workflow simply owe it to themselves to check out Oberheim SEM V 1.1.6 and Wurlitzer-V 1.0.5 — now better than ever, thanks to those latest updates!
Oberheim SEM V and Wurlitzer-V can each be bought from the Arturia online store (http://www.arturia.com/evolution/en/buy/online-shop.html) as software downloads for €99.00 EUR/$99.00 USD or as boxed versions for €119.00 EUR/$129.00 USD.
Existing Oberheim SEM V and Wurlitzer-V users can download the latest updates for free from here: http://www.arturia.com/evolution/en/downloads/updates.html
Web-Link:
www.arturia.com/evolution/en/downloads/updates.html
Waldorf boosts Rocket synthesizer with free iOS app
Posted: 17-May-13
High-quality synthesizer developer Waldorf is proud to announce availability of Rocket Control, a free iOS assistant app for iPad that boosts the capabilities of its Rocket hardware synthesizer...
Earlier this year, Waldorf went hell for leather to break the price/performance sound barrier when launching its revolutionary Rocket, a superficially simplistic USB-powered desktop synthesizer with digital waveforms and analogue multimode filter housed in a sturdy, compact and bijou (185 x 185 mm) casing. But beneath an eye-catching faceplate designed by synthesizer style guru Axel Hartmann lies a wealth of ear-opening sounds fit to reach for the stars! To the untrained eye it may look like the Rocket only offers a single oscillator, but truly trained Rocket scientists can soon see (and hear) that its OSC section includes some highly-flexible features: for example, selecting the sawtooth waveform switch then turning the adjacent Wave knob clockwise from the centre position adds up to eight sawtooth waves — wunderbar for producing PolySaw cluster-type sounds; selecting the sawtooth waveform and turning both the Wave and Tune knobs to their respective rightmost position activates a special unison mode whereby all eight sawtooth oscillators sound with frequencies according to the held notes, so playing a chord with up to eight notes results in that chord being played by all eight oscillators, whereas playing a single note produces just that — a single note, albeit with all eight oscillators slightly detuned to enrich the sound. Either way, it's a big sound from a little box with much more on offer besides! Blast off by selecting Boost to add warm, distorted characteristics, perhaps?
But hitting an attractive price point while maintaing Waldorf's all-important high-quality synthesizer sound meant making some tough design decisions. Rocket has no patch memories, for instance — no great loss to those creative types who like to sculpt sounds each and every time they play, but useful nonetheless in an age of instant recall.
Which is exactly where Rocket Control comes into play. This free iOS assistant app for iPad acts as a synth editor for the Rocket and allows users to edit and/or save their patches (when connected via a Camera Connection Kit, WiFi MIDI, or a CoreMIDI-compatible device). Edits can be viewed onscreen or edited directly on the iPad itself. Users can even play the Rocket using the Rocket Control keyboard — plus Pitch and Mod wheels!
What's not to like? Rocket Control is invaluable and free! So do yourself a favour and give your Rocket a sonic boost by heading on over to Apple's App Store and downloading Rocket Control... then reach for the stars!
iPad owners can directly download Rocket Control from Apple's App Store for free.
The Rocket synthesizer is available to purchase from Waldorf dealers worldwide with an RRP of €244.00 EUR/$349.99 USD (including tax).
Web-Link:
www.waldorfmusic.de/
DCAM Dynamics Rack Extension bundle for Reason
Posted: 11-May-13
FXpansion DCAM Dynamics is a bundle of 3 circuit-modelled Rack Extensions for dynamics processing in Reason. With bus compression, limiting amp track compression and envelope-style transient shaping, DCAM Dynamics is perfect for a variety of compression duties, from taming tricky transients to creating heavy sculpting effects.
DCAM Dynamics Rack Extension bundle is available for €60 at the propellerhead web shop.
Web-Link:
http://shop.propellerheads.se/product_bundle/dcam-dynamics-bundle/
DCAM EnvShaper for Auria on iPad
Posted: 11-May-13
FXpansion is proud to announce that DCAM EnvShaper is now available as an optional plug-in for Auria, WaveMachine Labs' iPad digital multitracking app.
DCAM EnvShaper is a powerful processor for controlling transients in your Auria projects. Ideal on electronic and acoustic drums, percussion loops, bass and guitar, it lets you emphasize or tame transients to increase punch or help parts sit well in a mix.
DCAM EnvShaper is available as an in-app purchase within Auria v1.08 for $14.99
Web-Link:
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/auria/id524122834?mt=8
Future Loops Releases Dubstep Roots: Ambient, Dub & Bass
Posted: 10-May-13
Future Loops has just released Dubstep Roots: Ambient, Dub & Bass, a collection of royalty-free loops & one shots that explores the foundations of the dubstep genre.
Dubstep Roots: Ambient, Dub & Bass features over 700 samples and includes full drum loops, individual drum loop elements for optimal mixing (kick, snare, clap, hat, percussion & more), synth, leads, pads, sound FX and drum one-shots.
With over 1.3 GB of content, Dubstep Roots: Ambient, Dub & Bass features samples & loops in WAV and REX formats.
For more info and demos check out their website at the Future Loops website, via the link.
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-dubstep-roots-ambient-dub-bass.php
Producerloops releases: Underground Trance Vol 2
Posted: 10-May-13
'Underground Trance Vol 2' brings you a staggering 3.3 GB of content, expertly crammed into FIVE colossal Construction Kits. Inside this essential collection, you'll find delicate, awe-inspiring breakdowns combined with speaker-shattering FX, the darkest of basslines, catchy vocal snippets, and dancefloor-destroying drops, produced by Tigran Oganezov, described as "One To Watch" by Super DJ, Judge Jules.
Each Kit offers producers a wide selection of stunning pads, intricate plucks, searing leads, thundering drums and a shimmering, spatially-expansive top end, all designed to give your next Trance or Electronic production the high-end finish that comes from using premium quality sampleware, designed by a professional sound engineer/producer.
All Kits are infused with the in-your-face Tech-Trance sound that Tigran is famous for, but also manage to seamlessly interweave elements of Anthemic, Epic, and Progressive Trance.
Tigran Oganezov's first sample pack for Producer Loops, 'Underground Trance Vol 1' topped the charts and we're positive its sequel will cause just as much of a stir.
MIDI Files Included:
Like so many other Producer Loops products, 'Underground Trance Vol 2' includes MIDI files for the majority of musical phrases heard in each Kit, allowing you to seamlessly mix your favourite synths and samplers with the sounds contained in the pack.
Advantages of MIDI:
While the supplied ACID/Apple Loops content is extremely flexible and powerful, MIDI has the added benefit of allowing you to go to extremes of pitch and tempo beyond which the loops were originally recorded, with no time stretching or pitch shifting artefacts. Furthermore, you can make tweaks to the riffs so they fit perfectly into your existing mixes.
MP3 Demo:
Everything heard in the MP3 demo is included in this product.
Dry/Wet Loops:
For users looking to simply drag and drop, the 'wet' files contain all of the effects processing heard in the audio demos. But for producers looking to create their own effects mix, 'dry' loops are also included. Don't like the wet loops? No problem, add your own effects.
Unlooped Riffs/Tails:
This sample library also comes with unlooped/tail versions allowing you to end a phrase with the decay of the reverb/delay applied to the loop, another "Producer Loops" exclusive product feature.
Royalty-Free:
All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free (including the vocal loops), so once purchased, you can use these loops in your commercial releases without having to pay any hidden costs.
About The Producer:
Hailing from Lviv in the Ukraine, Tigran Oganezov is now regarded by many as one his county's leading international EDM artists. Tigran's productions have been described as "pushing the boundaries"and he delivers some of the most imaginative and off-the-wall tracks out there today. This imaginative style caught the ear of pioneering Radio 1 DJ, Judge Jules who described Tigran as his "One To Watch" in 2011.
Tigran's main base for his current sound is Marcel Woods own imprint, "Musical Madness". The name says it all and like his label boss Marcel, he manages to smash genre barriers, making energetic and stylish dancefloor bombs for the masses. His other regular home is "High Contrast Nu Breed", owned by another Dutch heavyweight organisation, Be Yourself Music.
With impressive original tracks and remixes on the labels mentioned plus Spinnin', High Contrast, Kiddfectious, and more, Tigran has picked up a plethora of DJ support including Armin van Buuren, Tiesto, Paul Oakenfold, Ferry Corsten, Paul Van Dyk, Above & Beyond, Sander Van Doorn, Marco V, Judge Jules, Gareth Emery, Rank 1, Markus Schultz, Marcel Woods, and countless others.
Specifications:
- 5 Construction Kits
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- Reason ReFill
- Loops sync to BPM
- 44.1 kHz/24-Bit
- PC/Mac Compatible
- Royalty-Free (No Exceptions)
Price and Availability:
'Underground Trance Vol 2' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £39.95 / 47,16 EUR / $51.73 USD. More information is available at the Producer Loops website, via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Underground-Trance-Vol-2.html
Native Instruments Introduces KAOZ THEORY Expansion for iMASCHINE
Posted: 09-May-13
Native Instruments today launched a new range of iMASCHINE Expansions with the release of KAOZ THEORY - created by the much-lauded DJ and producer Kerri 'Kaoz' Chandler. These new iMASCHINE Expansions will be created in collaboration with internationally renowned artists from different genres, and will be available for iMASCHINE only. Users can however export their iMaschine projects to the MASCHINE software for further editing and arranging. Native Instruments will continue to release compact iMASCHINE versions of their acclaimed iMASCHINE Expansions.
"iMaschine is my favourite app to use on the road", comments Kerri Chandler. "If something comes to mind for a track it's an instant fix wherever I am. When I'm in hotels I swap my ideas to MASCHINE MIKRO and back again and when I finally get home to mix in my studio on my own mixing desk, I can swap it all to MASCHINE and it's a piece of cake. Honestly, I've written tracks with iMaschine right off the bat. In fact airplanes are my favourite place for iMaschine so I'm now working on an EP called 'Mile High Club' because of it. On top of all of this, it's an exciting live tool to work with, particularly when I'm DJing, so it's something I'm really passionate about."
KAOZ THEORY brings the unmistakable sound of Kerri Chandler to iMASCHINE - the deep, grooving house style that has made him one of the most respected artists on the underground scene for over 20 years. The Expansion contains a total of six kits, two instruments and two full projects. The three Drum Kits are made up of gritty, analog kicks, snares, hats, and claps. A Melodic Kit provides the trademark Chandler synth chords while two Special Kits deliver basses, vocal samples, synth stabs and keys. iMASCHINE users can also access two instruments and two full iMASCHINE projects created by Chandler himself. All the samples are provided in uncompressed WAV format (16-bit 44.1kHz) and have been processed and tweaked for immediate use.
KAOZ THEORY is available for iMASCHINE in the in-app store for $0.99 / 0,89 EUR.
Additional information on KAOZ THEORY is available at: www.native-instruments.com/imaschineexpansions
Web-Link:
www.native-instruments.com/imaschineexpansions
Future Loops Releases Consequence - Experimental DNB
Posted: 08-May-13
Future Loops has just released Consequence - Experimental DNB, a collection of drum & bass samples & loops by groundbreaking producer Consequence (aka Cameron McLaren) in WAV & REX format.
Consequence - Experimental DNB captures Cameron's mix of traditional drum & bass textures with sonic experimentation in a sample pack that features full drum loops, bass, synths, fx, vocals, percussion, pads and drum one shots.
With over 500 samples & loops, Consequence - Experimental DNB dares to take the 170Bpm signature fans and producers some steps further with a set of sounds that pushes the boundaries of the drum & bass genre.
For more info and demos check out the Future Loops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-consequence-experimental-dnb.php
TRAKTOR DJ now also available for iPhone
Posted: 08-May-13
Tired of going to a party and the music is drek? Well now you can ride to the rescue with your iphone! TRAKTOR DJ, the world-leading pro DJ app, is now available for iPhone and iPod Touch – get it at the iTunes App Store for only $4.99 / 4.49 €. Blast devastating DJ sets from the palm of your hand, and prepare your sets on the move for sync with TRAKTOR PRO.
TRAKTOR DJ for iPad is also available at the App Store for only $19.99 / 17.99 €.
Web-Link:
www.native-instruments.com/en/products/traktor/dj-software/traktor-dj/
Producerloops releases: Commercial Dance Elements Vol 3
Posted: 08-May-13
'Commercial Dance Elements Vol 3' is the third volume in this outstanding series created specifically for serious Dance and Commercial RnB producers looking for premium quality rhythmic and FX one-shots, synth loops, bass loops, and more. This pack was created and produced exclusively for Producer Loops by Simon Rudd of "The Fliptones" and this 'toolbox' approach has been designed with versatility in mind, allowing you to slot these samples and loops into your tracks instantly, for fast creativity.
Featuring over 190 discrete files, 'Commercial Dance Elements Vol 3', combines one-shots with a number of melodic and rhythmic loops to give you that professional edge you need for commercial Dance and commercial RnB productions.
You could also map any of the included one-shot samples into your favourite sampler (such as Kontakt, Halion, NN-XT, etc.) to create drum kits you can use time and time again.
MP3 demo:
Everything heard in the MP3 demo is included in this awesome pack!
Included Folders:
- Sound FX
- Kicks
- Percussion
- Snares & Claps
- Extra Sounds (Synths, Basslines)
Technical Specifications:
- 24-Bit Audio
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- REX2 Loops
- Reason ReFill
- Large number of one-shot samples ready to be used in any sampler
Price and Availability:
'Commercial Dance Elements Vol 3' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £29.95 / 35,38 EUR / $38.82 USD. More information is available at the Producerloops website, via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Commercial-Dance-Elements-Vol-3.html
Yellow Box Studios installs ATC SCM300ASL PROs
Posted: 01-May-13
Specialist British loudspeaker drive unit and complete sound reproduction system manufacturer ATC is pleased to announce that Yellow Box Studios, Singapore's largest and most highly-awarded audio post-production facility, has installed a top-of-the-range pair of SCM300ASL PRO three-way active series loudspeakers in its new no-expense-spared music production and recording facility...
"The music production and recording facility is also meant to cover our post-production needs as we do quite a lot of music recording and ADR for our films and commercials." So says Yellow Box Studios Managing Director Rennie Gomes, a go-getting, multi-tasking individual who is also actively involved as a sought-after sound designer and composer at the company he co-founded back in 1995. Backtracking further still, Rennie reveals, "Singapore was already a hub for post-production back in the '90s, and, even before setting up Yellow Box, I already had a good pool of clients from around the region. So setting up in Singapore was a natural choice, given its strong infrastructure and economy."
With a city centre-sited state-of-the-art studio and office to its company name, Yellow Box Studios set about producing soundtracks for feature films, television drama series, and television commercials with much success — so much so, in fact, that the decision was recently taken to expand its base of operations to include a new music production and recording facility housing a dub stage and one of Singapore's largest recording rooms in a light industrial unit within a stone's throw of Changi International Airport. Arguably a risky business move in today's rapidly changing climate, surely? "You can't hear a thing in any of the rooms, so all credit to the designer — who, coincidentally, created one of the rooms at Abbey Road — and an amazing building contractor," Rennie responds, semi-seriously, before adding: "We were all aware of the challenging times the music industry is going through, but we knew we could make it work if we diversified the use of the room. Singapore doesn't have many large recording rooms anymore, which puts us in a good position to record 30-piece string arrangements or a 60-strong choir, both of which we've already achieved since opening."
Both studio and control rooms are suspended on floating floors with fully-ducted, acoustically-dampened, ultra-quiet air-conditioning. Professional as that may sound on paper, making that control room sound professional in reality involved installing some premier professional audio equipment, evidently. At its heart is a discrete analogue mixer designed by one of the most trusted names in pro audio, perfectly partnered with industry performance overachiever ATC's flagship SCM300ASL PRO three-way active professional series loudspeakers as its main monitoring system. "They were highly recommended by one of my senior engineers," explains Rennie. "We had heard a pair in another facility and were very impressed."
And first impressions can count now more than ever in today's tightly-constrained recording world, which is exactly why those SCM300ASL PROs have been paying dividends for Yellow Box Studios from the get-go: "The response has been mind-blowing — even more so from the audio professionals that have set foot in the room. In this day and age of huge compromises in sound production, because of tight budgets, we are proving that paying a little more does, indeed, go a long way. Engineers and musicians are bringing in their favourite mic pres, amps, and other gizmos to test in our room, and they're amazed at the results. We're finally able to do large-format recording, helped by having the SCM300s in a room that best compliments their sound, because being able to hear an accurate bottom end matters so much when you're doing large string sessions and band recordings. In a sense, we are bringing back the romance of a great recording experience without any compromise — sort of a dying art, really."
Reasons Rennie: "As for the music scene in Singapore and the region in general, let's just say we're still optimistic as we've already had some amazing compliments about the recording room and how accurate everything sounds, which is exactly what we were striving for in the first place."
Thanks to ATC's SCM300ASL PRO three-way active professional series loudspeakers, what sounds good for Yellow Box Studios is also a good thing for its host nation, it seems: "Singapore has never really had a state-of-the-art facility for audio like this one, where film and music are merged. We foresaw this convergence of media a long time ago, and now music and picture are prevalent in all interactive and traditional media, so having such a facility also attracts mid-level to high-end projects to our shores as more and more projects we work on are for an international audience. There's always a certain kind of magic that happens when I see film producers and directors meet with bands and music producers in the same building. I think it's called... collaboration!"
Speaking of which, Yellow Box Studios' collaboration with ATC was also deemed a resounding success at an all-important installation level, too. "The installation went very well," wraps up Rennie on another uplifting note. "It was basically a case of set up and go, with not many tweaks needed as the system suits the room so well."
That it does. And, as a direct result of that fateful first listening session and subsequent sizeable installation investment, Yellow Box Studios can hear clearly now and forevermore with their new ATC300 ASL PROs.
Web-Link:
www.atcloudspeakers.co.uk/professional/
Reason 7 is HERE!
Posted: 01-May-13
Time to power up your MIDI hardware, load that song you've been meaning to mix, and probably hit File->New while you're at it to start creating some new music because Reason 7 has arrived!
Reason 7 brings some serious enhancements to the rack, the mixer, the sequencer, and most importantly, your music
The new Audiomatic Retro Transformer is for audio what your favorite retro photo apps on your phone are for images. Simply add Audiomatic and select one of the 16 snapshots - VHS, vinyl, gadget or even mp3 - to instantly change the character of your track.
The new External MIDI instrument is the gateway from Reason's virtual rack to your favorite hardware. If you've got classic synths or even MIDI-enabled circuit-bent gadgetry that inspires you, sequence it and control it via the External Midi Instrument. Reason classics like the RPG-8 Arpeggiator, Matrix Pattern Sequencer, or Pulsar Dual LFO can bring Reason's legendary CV routing and tweakability to the outside world.
Visualize your sound with the new Spectrum EQ. Directly integrated into the big mixer, the Spectrum EQ lets you sculpt the equalization curve and see the result in real time.
Identify problematic frequencies, sometimes ones you can't even hear, and carve out frequency curves that help instruments sit side by side in your mix without fighting for space.
Audio Slice Markers bring precision quantizing, creative rephrasing, and even experimentation beyond your imagination to audio recordings in Reason. And thanks to Reason's legendary time stretch, it sounds amazing too.
Slice and work with audio directly in the Reason sequencer or move it over to the Dr. Octorex Loop Player in REX format to get weird. The good kind of weird.
Reason 7 is available as an upgrade to existing Reason users from version 6.5 all the way back to version 1.0.
Reason Essentials, Limited, and even Adapted users qualify for special upgrade pricing too.
To purchase Reason 7 as an upgrade or full version, visit our website to purchase from our shop or find your nearest reseller.
Web-Link:
www.propellerheads.se/products/reason/
New, improved SOLID MIX SERIES available now
Posted: 01-May-13
The road to high-end sound just got shorter with the redesigned SOLID MIX SERIES. SOLID DYNAMICS, SOLID EQ, and SOLID BUS COMP now run as self-contained plug-ins, streamlining your access to pro-level effects. All three effects sport new, further-optimized user interfaces but the sound remains the same: Platinum sound with a pro-studio shine.
The SOLID MIX SERIES is available now at the NI Online Shop, priced at $99 / 99€ for each single effect, and only $199 / 199€€ for the SOLID MIX SERIES bundle.
Web-Link:
www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/effects/solid-mix-series/
Future Loops Releases South Of Trap
Posted: 26-Apr-13
Future Loops has just released South Of Trap, a collection of Hip Hop construction kits in WAV & REX format.
South Of Trap features over 500 trap inspired & dirty south samples that fit in the 65BPM to 86BPM tempo range. With each construction kit you get full Drum Loops as well as separate instrument tracks that allow you to have entire mixing control.
South Of Trap includes Kicks, Snares, Hats, Clap, Synth, FX, Pads, Brass, Bells, Arpeggios, Vocals, Drum One Shots and more, all 100% Royalty-Free.
For more info and demos check out their website at the Future Loops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-south-of-trap.php
PSP SpringBox an emulation of a high-end quality studio spring reverberator.
Posted: 26-Apr-13
PSP are happy to announce the release of the PSP SpringBox, an emulation of a hardware spring reverberator in VST, AU, AAX and RTAS plug-in formats for Windows and Mac OS X.
PSP SpringBox recreates several features typical of a spring reverb, such as a convincing "boing" on transients and a repeatable resonating musical character with an adjustable presence. A selection of configurations from two to six springs total is provided, as well as the ability to set stereo spread and pan/balance configured to suit various mix setups - from a typical guitar reverb to a creative uses as a send reverb in the mix. Thanks to PSP SpringBox's two channel A and B settings, setup and range of presets operation is fast and easy.
The fully operational 14 days demo (doesn't require any hardware dongle) is available now on PSP's download page http://www.PSPaudioware.com
MSRP (downloadable version): Until 30th April 2013 the special introductory price of $49. Starting from 1st May 2013 regular price $69 will be applied.
Web-Link:
http://pspaudioware.com/plugins/reverbs/psp_springbox1/
Producerloops releases: Future Dubstep Vol 1
Posted: 25-Apr-13
'Future Dubstep Vol 1' takes Dubstep into the next century, with five brilliantly produced Construction Kits packed full of power and intricate detail to create a brand new sound. Within this 1 GB library you'll find the usual set of pro features you've come to expect from Producer Loops products.
Combining the power and aggression of Dubstep with an almost quirky air of retro-futurism, 'Future Dubstep Vol 1' delves deep into new sonic territory. You'll find everything from deep wobs and dark FX to 8-Bit synth glissandos and euphoric pads.
Each kit is underpinned by a huge rhythm section, incorporating the traditional half time Dubstep beat, all of which is separated out into various stems allowing you to create endless new variations.
One-shots of all percussive sounds are also included, so you can create new complimentary beats and fills.
Read on to find out more about the professional feature set including tail/release loops and MIDI files.
MIDI Files Included:
Like so many other Producer Loops products, 'Future Dubstep Vol 1' includes MIDI files for the majority of musical phrases heard in each Kit, allowing you to seamlessly mix your favourite synths and samplers with the sounds contained in the pack.
Advantages of MIDI:
While the supplied ACID/Apple Loops/REX content is extremely flexible and powerful, MIDI has the added benefit of allowing you to go to extremes of pitch and tempo beyond which the loops were originally recorded, with no time stretching or pitch shifting artefacts. Furthermore, you can make tweaks to the riffs so they fit perfectly into your existing mixes.
One-Shot Samples:
Each Construction Kit features one-shot melodic and drum samples, allowing you to create new beats, fills and loops to compliment the existing material. Simply load them up into your sampler of choice and create an infinite number of new beats and phrases.
Dry/Wet Loops:
For users looking to simply drag and drop, the 'wet' files contain all of the effects processing heard in the audio demos. But for producers looking to create their own effects mix, 'dry' loops are also included. Don't like the wet loops? No problem, add your own effects.
Unlooped Riffs/Tails:
This sample library also comes with unlooped/tail versions allowing you to end a phrase with the decay of the reverb/delay applied to the loop, another "Producer Loops" exclusive product feature.
Royalty-Free:
All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free (including the vocal loops), so once purchased, you can use these loops in your commercial releases without having to pay any hidden costs.
Product Specifications:
- 5 Construction Kits
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- REX2 Loops
- Reason ReFill
- Loops sync to BPM
- 44.1 kHz/24-Bit
- PC/Mac Compatible
- Royalty-Free (No Exceptions)
Price and Availability:
'Future Dubstep Vol 1' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £29.95 / 35,16 EUR / $38.09 USD. More information is available at the ProducerLoops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Future-Dubstep-Vol-1.html
Native Instruments Introduces PULSWERK Expansion for MASCHINE
Posted: 24-Apr-13
Native Instruments today released PULSWERK – a new MASCHINE Expansion designed for minimalistic house and techno. Aside from its 30 drum kits, PULSWERK contains 20 unique Special Kits created exclusively with pitched sound sources. The Expansion also features an array of Multi-Effect Kits containing pre-sequenced, tempo synced effect chains and 60 new specially-designed MASSIVE presets. Combining these, PULSWERK provides an extensive toolkit for producers eager to turn deep sonic experimentation into finished professional productions. PULSWERK is out now for MASCHINE, MASCHINE MIKRO, and iMASCHINE.
PULSWERK's 30 Drum Kits provide a selection of kicks, snares, claps, metallic sounds, and more specifically chosen to serve as a sonic foundation for the rest of the Expansion's feature set. An array of Special Kits larger than that of any previous Expansion comprises chords, pads, drones, bleeps, and a variety of other pitched sound sources. Together, these sounds combine to give users a powerful toolkit for constructing polished, percussive grooves. The included patterns provide users with a creative springboard to quickly and easily start building tracks. PULSWERK's sounds were meticulously designed with top-of-the-line software, hardware, and modular synthesizers, and drum machines – each running through high-end compressor and EQ chains carefully chosen to enhance the sound's inherent character.
PULSWERK also features a set of pre-sequenced Multi-Effect Kits created from MASCHINE's vast selection of on-board effects. These custom effect chains conveniently load into MASCHINE's pads exactly like a drum kit. Each chain automatically syncs to track tempo for evolving, beat-synced textures. These effect chains also boast powerful routing options, allowing users to route chains into new ones for a wide array of combinations. Designed for performance, key effect parameters are intuitively mapped to the hardware's Macro knobs. Users can also automate effect performances and recall them for future production sessions and live improvisation.
PULSWERK was created by renowned sound designer Denis Gökdag – the creator of NI's wildly successful MASCHINE Expansion TRANSISTOR PUNCH, and the name behind Surround SFX and Zynaptiq.
PULSWERK is available at the NI Online Shop for $49 / 49 €.
A compact version of PULSWERK is also available for iMASCHINE in the in-app store for $0.99 / 0,89 €.
Additional information on PULSWERK is available at: www.native-instruments.com/pulswerk
Web-Link:
www.native-instruments.com/pulswerk
Rob Papen produces extras for The 4 Element Synth book/DVD set
Posted: 24-Apr-13
Virtual instrument and plug-in developer Rob Papen Soundware's namesake founder/Managing Director Rob Papen is proud to announce additional online content for The 4 Element Synth subtractive synthesis instructional book/DVD set...
Last year globally renowned sound designer Rob Papen published The 4 Element Synth book with four accompanying DVDs totalling over 10 hours of tutorial content to critical acclaim. According to fellow sound designer Ian Boddy, "The whole package comes in a beautifully packaged book. Superbly bound and elegantly printed, it has the feel of a quality coffee table book — it even has such nice details as a silk bookmark and pull-out 4 Element Synth chart, complete with four DVDs stuffed to the brim to watch in conjunction with the contents of the book."
Appropriately subtitled The secrets of subtractive synthesis, this 200-plus-page enlightening tome was many years in the making, effectively dating back to 2001 when Rob Papen started teaching exclusive masterclasses in synth sound design in his well-stocked studio using the likes of his beloved Roland Jupiter 8 programmable polysynth and seminal Korg MS-20 semi-modular monosynth alongside other vintage analogue classics and more modern counterparts. Here he developed an approach to working with subtractive synthesis that he termed The 4-Element Synth© — hence the book/DVD set's title. As implied by name, the book basically breaks subtractive synthesis down into four digestible and distinct chapters or elements: Element-1 / Oscillators, Element-2 / Filter, Element-3 / Amplifier, and Element-4 / Modulators — each of which receive their own equally easy-to-follow DVD treatment, thanks in no small part to the talented author and presenter's easy- going onscreen persona.
No teaching technique needs to be set in stone, however; there is almost always room for improvement — or even additional content, as is the case with The 4 Element Synth. The beauty of online content is that it can, of course, be updated far faster than print or physical media, which is exactly what Rob Papen has done by uploading two additional Element-4 / Modulators chapter-related bonus videos here: http://www.robpapen.com/book-a-dvds-extras.html
Anyone who has already purchased The 4 Element Synth book/DVD set is invited to thereby (re)read the LFO and Element-2 section (p152) and then watch an all-new accompanying video about LFO and resonance modulation. Meanwhile, the Three points to keep in mind using an envelope section (p107) also benefits from additional demonstrative video content; as Rob Papen himself says, "There's another important point about envelope modulation of the filter. As we've said already in the Element-2 chapter, many producers and synth players often use only the cutoff knob; they forget that there is also an envelope amount and the envelope settings that can change the sound — and not just a little bit! Keep these three points in mind when you're working with the filter section of your synthesizer."
Speaking of synthesizers, apart from those aforesaid analogue classics and a rather impressive looking (and sounding) ‘Moog-alike' System-22 modular system from Synthesizers.com — all of which make musical onscreen appearances throughout The 4 Element Synth DVDs, Rob Papen also makes much use of his own company's Predator — a ‘phat' sounding killer soft synth that combines inspiring presets and first-class features to create the perfect ‘go-to' synth for contemporary music production. Predator and Predator RE users can also download the preset banks used on the DVDs from here: http://www.robpapen.com/book-a-dvds-extras.html
Needless to say, anyone wishing to literally uncover the secrets of subtractive synthesis should surely look no further than The 4 Element Synth book/DVD set — now more enlightening than ever, thanks to these latest enhancements!
The 4 Element Synth book/DVD set can be ordered online directly from Rob Papen within the EU for €74.00 EURO (including 6% VAT) or outside the EU for €69.00 EURO — plus shipping (where appropriate) — from here: http://www.robpapen.com/buy-dvd-sound-design.html
Rob Papen is also delighted to announce availability of The 4 Element Synth from US dealer Sweetwater, as well as via various European dealers.
Web-Link:
www.robpapen.com/dvd-sound-design.html
Image-Line FL Studio, FL Studio Mobile and Deckadance 2
Posted: 24-Apr-13
Image-Line have had a huge month, with Musikmesse 2013 followed by three major product launches in quick succession, listed below.
FL Studio 11 (Today!)
FL Studio 11 is a complete software music production suite, representing more than 14 years of innovative developments and testament to our commitment to Lifetime Free Updates. Installed over 30,000 times every day!
http://www.image-line.com/documents/news.php?entry_id=1366332120&title=fl-studio-11-out-now
FL Studio Mobile (April 17)
FL Studio Mobile 1.0.1 for Android devices 2.3.3 and higher from the Google Play store, in addition to FL Studio Mobile 2.1 for iOS on iPod touch, iPhone & iPad.
http://www.image-line.com/documents/news.php?entry_id=1366156263&title=fl-studio-mobile-android--ios
Deckadance 2 (April 15)
Deckadance 2 DJ mixing application is now available for your PC or MAC. Includes a range of unique remix/performance features taking DJing to the next level.
http://www.image-line.com/documents/news.php?entry_id=1364869815&title=deckadance-2-released
Web-Link:
www.image-line.com/documents/news.php?entry_id=1366332120&title=fl-studio-11-out-now
Voxengo Drumformer 1.3 multiband drum track processing plugin released
Posted: 24-Apr-13
Voxengo Drumformer update version 1.3 is now available for download. Voxengo Drumformer is a multiband drum and master track dynamics processing plug-in for professional music and audio production applications, available in AudioUnit and VST plug-in formats (including native 64-bit support), for Mac OS X (v10.5 and later), and Windows computers.
Version 1.3 update includes the following changes:
- The EQ curve is now hidden when the equalizer is set to "Off".
- A crash when loading some routing presets was fixed.
Drumformer can operate in broadband, 2-band and 3-band modes, with each band having compressor-expander and saturation modules. The sound of the compressor can be defined as "gluey with a ping", because it instantly creates a "tight and glued together" sound while masterfully emphasizing the transients. The saturation module offers you a choice between six saturation modes, each having a smooth sound and differing harmonic content.
Drumformer features:
- Broadband, 2- and 3-band operation
- 3-band compressor/expander
- 3-band saturation module with 6 modes
- Broadband gate module
- Parametric equalizer
- Output clipper module
- External side-chain capability
- Real-time FFT spectrum analyzer
- Stereo and multi-channel processing
- Internal channel routing
- Channel grouping
- Mid/side processing
- Up to 8x oversampling
- 64-bit floating point processing
- Preset manager
- Undo/redo history
- A/B comparisons
- Contextual hint messages
- All sample rates support
- 16 ms compensated processing latency
Voxengo Drumformer is available for purchase on-line for USD 89.95. Voxengo Drumformer demo can be downloaded at the Voxengo web site: http://www.voxengo.com/product/drumformer/
Web-Link:
www.voxengo.com/product/drumformer/
New T-RackS CS Modules Released!
Posted: 20-Apr-13
IK Multimedia proudly announce new modules in the T-RackS Custom Shop: Bus Compressor, White Channel, Tape Echo plus a re-skin of the popular British Channel. Stay tuned as other new gear make their way to the Custom Shop.
These new essential sound processors are available either as single plug-ins or integrated within the T-RackS plug-in and standalone software suite of effects. They can be easily tried out and purchased by any user of the T-RackS Free, Classic, Deluxe and Grand editions, using T-RackS’ exclusive Custom Shop feature. The Custom Shop is an online-based virtual store that’s integrated inside T-RackS, and offers users the possibility to build a customized mixing and mastering suite with their preferred virtual gear, trying and buying the modules a-la-carte via a convenient credit-based system.
What's New:
The Bus Compressor models the master-bus compressor on one of the world’s most famous mixing consoles, which was nicknamed the “Glue Compressor,” for its ability to subtly “glue” a mix together.
The White Channel offers an ultra-accurate emulation of the dynamics and EQ sections of another renowned desk from the same manufacturer — this one known for its wide bandwidth and pristine sound.
The Tape Echo is a spot-on emulation of one of the classic tape echo units of all time. To go along with its cool vintage sound, we added some great modern features, like stereo operation, separate delay times on L&R, and syncing to host tempo.
The British Channel was modeled after one of the most widely used and acknowledged pieces of hardware in the music history and now it features a sleek new look that makes navigating its controls even easier.
Pricing and Availability
The new T-RackS Processors are available for purchase now in the T-RackS Custom shop, using Custom Shop gear credits, with prices ranging from 60 to 120 credits each. Gear Credit Packs start as low as $19.99 / €15.99 (for 20 credits) and go up incrementally to $499.99/€399.99 (for 1,000 credits).
To access the new processors, existing T-RackS users should download the free upgrade to T-RackS from their user area before launching the Custom Shop.
Web-Link:
www.ikmultimedia.com/news/?item_id=2456
Future Loops Releases Tribal Dance Percussion
Posted: 19-Apr-13
Future Loops has just released Tribal Dance Percussion, a collection of tribal percussion samples recorded for Dance productions. Tribal Dance Percussion features live recorded exotic percussion instruments ( Ashiko, Bongos, Talking Drum, Djuns Djuns, Dumbek, Shekere and Caxixi ) all at the tempo of 128 BPM. With over 1.000 samples, Tribal Dance Percussion includes not only ready to mix Loops but also One Shots that allow users to build their percussion patterns from the ground up
Tribal Dance Percussion is 100% Royalty-Free and includes both WAV & REX formats.
For more info and demos check out the Future Loops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-tribal-dance-percussion.php
Supercharge your beats with BATTERY 4
Posted: 19-Apr-13
BATTERY 4 is the cutting-edge drum sampler designed for the 21st century. Its supercharged library features 79 new kits tailor-made for electronic and hip hop music. Radically intuitive, BATTERY 4 gives you total control of your drum sounds with easy browsing, simple editing, plus drag-and-drop routing and sidechaining. Studio-quality effects, including highlights from the SOLID MIX SERIES, deliver production-ready sound out of the box and keep you inspired track after track. Blast your beats into the future with BATTERY 4.
BATTERY 4 is available now at the NI Online Shop. Note that BATTERY 2 and 3 owners get special update pricing. BATTERY 4 is also included in KOMPLETE 9 and KOMPLETE 9 ULTIMATE.
Web-Link:
www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/drums/battery-4/
XILS-lab launches Oxium 1.5 performance soft synth plug-in update
Posted: 19-Apr-13
Music software company XILS-lab is proud to announce availability of Oxium 1.5, an Avid Pro Tools 11 AAX format-ready major update to its popular performance soft synth plug-in, as of April 13...
Oxium has gained a solid foothold in the competitive computer-centric music marketplace since successfully launching last year to critical acclaim. Its intuitive GUI and awesome realtime modulation capabilities conspire to deftly deliver those still-sought-after analogue sounds of yesteryear alongside today's more modernistic adventurous tones. Thanks to the Grid, Oxium's onboard advanced sequencer modulator adapted from the Mask concept introduced in XILS-lab's Le Masque: Delay timeline-driven delay effects plug-in namesake, users can create, delete, and edit the different Masks; specify Grid length; quantise locators; swap between Mask and non-Mask areas; and specify the background quantisation of the Grid itself, both horizontally and vertically. Sounds amazing? Absolutely! As such, obviously Oxium appeals to those simply seeking a quick musical fix and also deeper-digging sound designers.
Of course, time stands still for no one, and XILS-lab has hardly been resting on its laurels, working hard on the Oxium 1.5 update. Besides being on the receiving end of a graceful GUI makeover — with welcome ergonomic enhancements including a redesigned Double Filter Block (that is easier to locate and identify), relocated KEYB/FX/INFO toggle buttons (to the right of the keyboard), a third skin (Ice, complimenting the original Orange and Rusty ones), and much more besides, Oxium 1.5 benefits from several well-thought-through new features to further increase its functionality and musicality, benefitting both existing users and all-new adopters alike.
More than 10 new modulation targets have been implemented, including both mixers' global levels, as well as all oscillator levels and noise source levels in each of those mixers. Think mind-blowing morphing filters, LFO-controlled components of sounds, and excellent evolving textures — just a few flexible examples of what is now musically possible with Oxium 1.5 as a direct result! Additionally, each Mask now has its own elementary envelope, elements of which have also been added as modulation targets. This allows the creation of hitherto-unheard sequence stylings when modulating those parameters in realtime with the mod wheel or other hardware controllers. All told, the Modulation Matrix and Musical Gestures Modulation pages now boast 59 modulation targets between them, making Oxium 1.5 one of the most powerful virtual analogue soft synths for serious sound designers anywhere!
Meanwhile, Mask functionality and usability has been dramatically increased and improved, thanks to MultiSelection and MultiEdition selection options of continuous or discontinuous Masks for speedy simultaneous editing. New Select ALL, Select ODD, and Select EVEN toggle buttons are available for this very purpose. Moreover, Mask Locators now gradually change colour when approached while onscreen editing, making it easier to grab them to change their lengths without running the risk of accidentally moving them. Thanks to these new Oxium 1.5 developments, Masks can easily be adapted to quickly create complex grooves and sophisticated syncopated music material — mimicking old-school step sequencers or gating techniques, and much more besides!
Rounding off this major update, Oxium 1.5 comes complete with over 50 new presets that mostly make use of its new features. So why not check out the downloadable demo and try before you buy? Rest assured, we're sure you'll like what you hear!
Free for all existing Oxium owners, Oxium 1.5 is available to purchase online directly from XILS-lab for €89.00 EURO via a reduced rate Group Buy offer (with up to 700 additional presets) lasting until May 10 from here: http://www.xils-lab.com/pages/Oxium-Reloaded-Group-Buy.html
Thereafter, Oxium 1.5 rises to €99.00 EURO, and is available to purchase from here: http://www.xils-lab.com/products/Oxium.html
Web-Link:
www.xils-lab.com/pages/Oxium.html.xils-lab.com/
Arturia improves iMini app for iPad with Version 1.1 update
Posted: 19-Apr-13
Musikmesse 2013 sees music software and hardware company Arturia announcing a major update to its iMini authentic recreation of the all-time classic Minimoog monosynth for Apple's all-conquering iPad...
Arturia broadened its appeal in February 2013 by introducing iMini to transform any iPad mini, iPad 2, or iPad with Retina display into the ultimate classic analogue synth emulation! This timely musical move into iOS portability was an overnight success since iMini is based on the TAE® (True Analog Emulation) synthesis technology found in Arturia's award-winning Mini V soft synth, meticulously modelling the distinctive tones and analogue nuances of R.A. Moog's legendary Seventies-vintage Minimoog Model D monosynth in true 21st Century style — with added polyphony and many more modern-day features besides. But never happy to rest on its laurels, Arturia always strives to be the best at what it does, and has worked with diligent development partner Retronyms to make iMini better than ever via Version 1.1 with a number of notable bug fixes, audible additions, and clear-cut improvements included in this major update.
First and foremost, many iMini users called for Audiobus support and Arturia has responded swiftly. Now iMini can connect to any Audiobus-compatible iOS app with all the benefits that this inter-app routing platform brings into play. Indeed, playing iMini live into a looper or recording app, for example, makes for a much more satisfying and interactive iOS musical experience.
Meanwhile, welcome background audio advances mean that iMini is always live, yet will still respond to MIDI and be able to run its arpeggiator when working as a background app. And on that very note, whenever iMini is making no sound itself its CPU usage drops dramatically — another neat touch that helps keep things running smoothly when running multiple music apps.
Added external audio input support enables iMini Version 1.1 users to employ the EXTERNAL input knob to process the iPad's built- in microphone input through iMini's wide-ranging CHORUS and accurate ANALOG DELAY effects models — and also that all- important 24dB per octave fabled filter emulation, of course!
Moving onwards and upwards, expanded MIDI support lets those up-to-date iMini users pick and choose from multiple sources; moreover, inter-app MIDI support — which establishes MIDI messages that enable two iOS devices to identify and enumerate each other — makes it much easier for cool controller apps like Audanika's SoundPrism Pro advanced MIDI controller for iOS to individually control multiple iMini instances while running in the background on the same iPad, for instance. Let's talk, in other words!
With all this talk of added support, it's good to know that Arturia will make a donation to The Bob Moog Foundation for every iMini sold in recognition of the groundbreaking instrument to which it owes its very existence. In turn, this supports the dream of building the MoogseumTM (Bob Moog Museum), the convergence of The Bob Moog Foundation's goals of inspiring and educating people through electronic music.
Today, then, there's really no excuse for not taking that history-making Minimoog sound anywhere anytime with iMini — all the more so with all that improved interactivity, thanks to the major Version 1.1 update. So what are you waiting for? Head on over to Apple's App Store and start digital downloading... right here, right now!
Appropriate iPad owners can purchase and directly download iMini from Apple's App Store for $9.99 USD/€8.99 EURO/£6.99 GBP.
Web-Link:
www.arturia.com/evolution/
£50 Off Valve Mic - this weekend only + other deals
Posted: 19-Apr-13
A number of people have contacted us to say they missed out on our recent RV15 Valve Mic promotion so we're running it again (ends Sunday evening). Our fabulous RV15 valve mic is absolutely stunning. Is there anything better under £500? You can be the judge, and at £50 off this weekend only, it's a steal.
Check out our other offers in our special weekend promotion.
New! RVb7 Acoustic Screen - £99 Brand New Model + free RVH90 headphones worth £32
Featuring wooden outer panel and luxurious acoustic foam. Heavy Duty stand included.
RV15 Valve Mic - £170.00 Absolutely Stunning! £50 Off this weekend only
The latest version of the RV15 has a revised PSU and an upgraded valve. Stunning sound.
RVD30 Dynamic + RVH90 Headphone Bundle - £49.00 (save £20)
Huge saving on our popular RVD30 dynamic mic and RVH90 Monitor Headphones
RVD30 4-Pack - £99! Normally £37 each
Huge saving on our popular RVD30 dynamic mics
4 Pairs RVH90 Headphones - £99! Normally £32 each
Our lowest ever price on RVH90 headphones. Great for tracking and monitoring.
Pair of RV85 Hanging Condenser mics - £49! Normally £35 each
A superb little condenser mic that's great for choirs and general ensemble work.
For these and other deals, please visit our website for details.
Web-Link:
http://www.red5audio.com/
Producerloops releases: Future Progressive Basslines Vol 2
Posted: 18-Apr-13
'Future Progressive Basslines Vol 2' is the second in this amazing series from The Madison and Producer Loops, bringing you 240 MB of infectious grooves and growls designed to infuse your next track with that essential low-end energy. Supplied in a range of high quality audio formats, this is an essential tool for all producers of Progressive electronic music.
The "Future Progressive Basslines" series is designed with one thing in mind; bass. With 75 loops in 25 folders, you're sure to find the right bassline for your next track. A range of keys are covered, and all loops are written at a uniform mid-tempo, making them all completely interchangeable.
Razor-sharp tonality and bold phrasing make these loops perfect for modern, cutting-edge Progressive House and other electronic productions.
Wet and dry files are included, as well as side chained and non side chained. A bonus folder containing 23 percussive loops is also included to get you started.
Dry/Wet Loops:
For users looking to simply drag and drop, the 'wet' files contain all of the effects processing heard in the audio demos. But for producers looking to create their own effects mix, 'dry' loops are also included. Don't like the wet loops? No problem, add your own effects.
Side Chained Loops:
Get that radio-ready pumping compression with pre-processed side chain loops. There's no need to set up complex routing; just drag and drop. Non side chain versions are also included for those who like to stay in control.
Royalty-Free:
All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free (including the vocal loops), so once purchased, you can use these loops in your commercial releases without having to pay any hidden costs.
About The Producer:
Hailing from the Ukraine, a country that continues to emerge with new production talents, Stanislav Nozdrachov or The Madison as you may know him, has leapt to fame, enjoying consistent Beatport Top 100 chart placements and recent success on labels such as Armada, Enhanced and Infrasonic. He has gone on to remix for high profile artists, such as Matt Darey, Tritonal, Susana, Ana Criado, Dennis Sheperd, and many more.
Technical Specifications:
- 25 folders and 75 loops
- Bonus percussion folder
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- REX2 Loops
- Reason ReFill
- Loops sync to BPM
- 44.1 kHz/24-Bit
- PC/Mac Compatible
- Royalty-Free (No Exceptions)
Price and Availability:
'Future Progressive Basslines Vol 2' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £29.95 / 35,02 EUR / $38.21 USD. More information is available at the Producerloops website via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Future-Progressive-Basslines-Vol-2.html
Voxengo Shinechilla spectral harmonics generator plugin released
Posted: 18-Apr-13
Voxengo is pleased to announce the release of Shinechilla - an experimental creative sound effect plug-in for professional audio and sound production applications. Shinechilla allows you to generate and blend 2nd, 3rd and 4th harmonics with the original dry sound. The harmonic generation process offered by Shinechilla is quite unique on the plug-in market since it produces almost no intermodulation distortion.
Shinechilla is mainly usable for solo instrument processing where it literally 'shines' by producing convincing and full-bodied harmonic coloration. Shinechilla is also unique in that it is able to add harmonic coloration on top of the sound instead of distorting the whole sound. However, the option to saturate the whole sound is also available.
The strength of harmonic coloration added by Shinechilla can be flexibly adjusted over the whole frequency range, for each harmonic. In overall, Shinechilla is a great tool for contemporary electronic music producers looking for impressive timbres.
Shinechilla features:
- 2nd, 3rd, 4th harmonics generator
- Spectral saturation
- Spectral harmonic level control
- Spectral threshold control
- Stereo and multi-channel processing
- Internal channel routing
- Channel grouping
- Mid/side processing
- Up to 8x oversampling
- 64-bit floating point processing
- Preset manager
- Undo/redo history
- A/B comparisons
- Contextual hint messages
- All sample rates support
- 60 ms compensated processing latency
Introductory price of USD 49.95 will be effective for two weeks from now, which is 15% off the regular price of USD 59.95. Demo version of Shinechilla can be downloaded freely at the Voxengo web site: http://www.voxengo.com/product/shinechilla/
Web-Link:
www.voxengo.com/product/shinechilla/
IK Multimedia adds Audiobus support to SampleTank for iPhone and iPad
Posted: 18-Apr-13
IK Multimedia announced today that the new SampleTank® version 1.5, the leading sound workstation app for iPhone and iPad, is now Audiobus compatible.
This new feature gives mobile musicians the ability to link the output from SampleTank into the input of their favourite music and recording apps, compatible with Audiobus, for an unmatched level of creative flexibility and pristine digital quality. Audiobus is a groundbreaking new app (developed by A Tasty Pixel in cooperation with Audanika) that allows users to connect the audio of up to 3 apps, much like connecting hardware devices with audio cables, opening up countless new sonic possibilities.
Audiobus lets users send audio out of one app, filter it through the next one in the chain and record it in the third: for example users can run SampleTank sounds through AmpliTube effects, then record the output into a channel in Garageband (all apps compatible with Audiobus) - all in real time. The new Audiobus support, along with the previously introduced Virtual MIDI compatibility, makes SampleTank the ideal go-to virtual instrument when used with recorder apps.
SampleTank offers a sheer variety of up to 500 high-quality sounds in every possible instruments category - piano, strings, drums, bass, guitars, synths and more - that can be played as a regular keyboard instrument or through its over 1,000 MIDI pattern sequences.
SampleTank can be played live by connecting keyboards and MIDI controllers to an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, with IK's iRig MIDI interface, iRig KEYS portable MIDI keyboard controller or any other controller and interface compatible with iOS devices.
There are currently over 120 apps supporting Audiobus from premium music app developers such as Korg®, Steinberg®, Moog®, Propellerhead®, Apple® and many others, covering the widest range of music applications including synths and instruments, multitrack recorders and studios, real-time effects and loopers and more. For a complete list, please visit http://audiob.us/apps
To enable this new feature and use SampleTank with other compatible Audiobus apps, users must install the Audiobus app (to be purchased separately on the App StoreSM) on their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The new Audiobus support is included in all app versions of SampleTank, including SampleTank FREE.
Pricing and Availability
SampleTank with the new Audiobus feature is a free upgrade for existing SampleTank owners. Audiobus sells separately on the App Store for only $9.99. For new users the full universal version of SampleTank is available for $19.99/€17.99 from the App StoreSM. A free version is also available for both iPhone and iPad.
For more information on SampleTank, go to: www.sampletank.com
For more information on Audiobus, go to: www.audiob.us
Web-Link:
www.sampletank.com
Web-Link: www.audiob.us
Future Loops Releases Latin Jazz Guitars
Posted: 17-Apr-13
Future Loops has just released Latin Jazz Guitars, a collection of guitar loops & one shots in WAV & REX format. Latin Jazz Guitars features both Lead guitars (licks and solos) and Chords (Rhythm guitars) recorded at 2 different tempos (130BPM & 200BPM) with several different keys. The diversity and range of vibes and styles ensures Latin Jazz Guitars can be used not only in jazzy productions but also in Soul, Funk, Electronica, Chill Out, Downtempo and Dance music.
Latin Jazz Guitars includes over 2000 samples all 100% Royalty-Free.
For more info and demos check out their website at: http://www.futureloops.com/product-latin-jazz-guitars.php
Web-Link:
www.futureloops.com/product-latin-jazz-guitars.php
Producerloops releases: Electro Funk Constructions Vol 1
Posted: 14-Apr-13
'Electro Funk Constructions Vol 1' is ready to infuse your productions with insane levels of bounce and retro electro funk. Includes five Construction Kits and over 1 GB of uncompressed content, including drum grooves, bass loops, REAL guitars, incredible robot vocals, and all of the usual pro features youÕve come to expect from the Producer Loops label.
Give your next track more Bounce to the Ounce and climb aboard the Rocket ship with this set of five fresh and funky Construction Kits produced exclusively for Producer Loops by internationally known artist and producer, DJ Khalid.
This pack takes influence from the sound of late 70's and early 80's Electro Funk and brings it bang up-to-date with 21st century production.
You'll find essential big drum grooves, laid back bass loops, real funk guitar lines, dizzying synth leads and authentic voice box/vocoder loops in this unique product. On top of that, the "Talkbox Vocals" included are made by DJ Khalid himself.
All kits are tempo matched meaning you can mix and match elements as you please.
Of course, no product would be complete without our set of professional features including MIDI, one-shots and release loops. Read on to find out more!
MIDI Files Included:
Like so many other Producer Loops products, 'Electro Funk Constructions Vol 1' includes MIDI files for the majority of musical phrases heard in each Kit, allowing you to seamlessly mix your favourite synths and samplers with the sounds contained in the pack.
Advantages of MIDI:
While the supplied ACID/Apple Loops/REX content is extremely flexible and powerful, MIDI has the added benefit of allowing you to go to extremes of pitch and tempo beyond which the loops were originally recorded, with no time stretching or pitch shifting artefacts. Furthermore, you can make tweaks to the riffs so they fit perfectly into your existing mixes.
One-Shot Samples:
Each Construction Kit features one-shot melodic and drum samples, allowing you to create new beats, fills and loops to compliment the existing material. Simply load them up into your sampler of choice and create an infinite number of new beats.
Dry/Wet Loops:
For users looking to simply drag and drop, the 'wet' files contain all of the effects processing heard in the audio demos. But for producers looking to create their own effects mix, 'dry' loops are also included. Don't like the wet loops? No problem, add your own effects.
Unlooped Riffs/Tails:
This sample library also comes with unlooped/tail versions allowing you to end a phrase with the decay of the reverb/delay applied to the loop, another "Producer Loops" exclusive product feature.
About the Producer:
DJ Khalid has taken the urban world by storm over recent years, with numerous appearances alongside famous DJs and international acts, including Kid Koala, DJ Vadim, The Herbaliser, DJ Hype, Coldcut, Gonzales and Amon Tobin.
Among his many accolades, DJ Khalid was awarded 8th place in the DMC World Championships in London in 2000, and more recently, his track "H-Kayne" is included in the Hollywood movie "Body of Lies" which features Leonardo Dicaprio (2007).
Widely regarded as one of the most talented scratchers of his generation, Khalid has produced countless tracks and even commercial campaigns for multi-national giants, including Danone and Coca-Cola.
He is currently working alongside world-famous New York group "De La Soul" on a brand new album scheduled for release in early 2012.
Royalty-Free:
All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free (including the vocal loops), so once purchased, you can use these loops in your commercial releases without having to pay any hidden costs.
Product Specifications:
- 5 Construction Kits
- ACIDized WAV Files
- Apple Loops/AIFF Files
- REX2 Loops
- Reason ReFill
- Loops sync to BPM
- 44.1 kHz/24-Bit
- PC/Mac Compatible
- Royalty-Free (No Exceptions)
Price and Availability:
'Electro Funk Constructions Vol 1' is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for £39.95 / 46,80 EUR / $51.04 USD. More information is available at the Producerloops website, via the link.
Web-Link:
www.producerloops.com/Download-Producer-Loops-Electro-Funk-Constructions-Vol-1.html
Arturia unveils KeyLab keyboard controller range at Musikmesse 2013
Posted: 14-Apr-13
Music software and hardware company Arturia is proud to launch its KeyLab range of professional-grade MIDI keyboard controllers with all-new accompanying Analog Lab synthesizer software at Musikmesse 2013...
As implied by name, KeyLab 25 features 25 keys with velocity sensitivity for performance flexibility. As such, it's the smallest, most lightweight, and simplest member of this trio of professional-grade MIDI keyboard controllers, ideally suited to travelling musicians, mobile music producers, and performance-orientated DJs alike. Complimenting that full-size keyboard is a feature-packed panel bristling with controls, including two clickable encoders; 12 encoders; nine sliders; pitch bend and modulation wheels; six backlit transport controls; 15 backlit buttons; octave up/down buttons; and an informative 32-digit LED screen to enrich the performance experience and aid speedy software navigation. Its rugged aluminium construction with eye-catching wooden end cheeks combine to heighten its status as a highly-capable controller compatible with any third-party software and hardware, helped by the bundled MIDI Control Center software. Rear panel-mounted MIDI IN, MIDI OUT, Expression Pedal, Sustain Pedal, Aux foot switch, Breath control, and USB connections complete communication with the outside musical world.
The larger KeyLab 49 and KeyLab 61 MIDI keyboard controllers maximise performance and expression further still, thanks to their respective 49- and 61-note full-size keyboards boasting both aftertouch and velocity sensitivity, and are designed to easily integrate into any studio or stage setup. The bigger is better maxim again comes into play here as KeyLab 49 and KeyLab 61 feature an even more extensive set of physical controls with an additional 16 backlit pressure-sensitive pads — perfect for beat-making purposes or triggering chords.
KeyLab 25, KeyLab 49, and KeyLab 61 all come complete with an all-new version of Arturia's Analog Lab synthesizer software solution. With all-important parameters pre-mapped to the MIDI keyboard controllers themselves, users have hands-on, instant control over the huge library of 5,000 presets by internationally-renowned sound designers. These presets are taken from all eight of Arturia's acclaimed TAE® (True Analog Emulation) synthesis-powered Mini V, Modular V, CS-80V, ARP2600 V, Jupiter-8V, Prophet 5, Prophet VS, and Oberheim SEM V soft synths, as well as the Wurlitzer V software recreation of the classic Wurlitzer 200A electric piano, providing the immediacy of a hardware synthesizer with the flexibility of a software-based solution. Moreover, Multi mode allows several sounds to be played simultaneously with the addition of effects, layer/split functions, and a Chord mode — perfect for getting the most out of those TAE® soft synths without having to delve deeper into sound design. And with 200 Multi patches conveniently organised by musical genre, inspiration and creativity are a given, thanks to Analog Lab!
25, 49, or 61 keys; velocity sensitivity or velocity sensitivity and aftertouch; beat-making or breath control... whatever your performance preference, there's a KeyLab MIDI keyboard controller to suit with Analog Lab to boot. Let your musical ideas flow forth with the greatest of ease with these superb-sounding software/hardware hybrid synthesis combos!
KeyLab 25, KeyLab 49, and KeyLab 61 will soon be available to purchase from Arturia's online store (http://www.arturia.com/evolution/en/buy/online-shop.html) or any authorised Arturia dealer.
Web-Link:
www.arturia.com/evolution/
iLine Mobile Music Cable Kit Now Shipping!
Posted: 14-Apr-13
The much anticipated iLine Mobile Music Cable Kit is now shipping. It includes 6 high-quality cables, all made in Italy, in an assortment of lengths and connector combinations. Think of it like a cable version of a "Swiss Army Knife," equipping you for multiple connection scenarios, whether with smartphones, tablets, laptops, DJ gear, car stereos or a host of other devices. It contains both common and hard-to-find cables, and comes in a handy carrying case. All the connectors are color-coded, so finding the cable you want is a snap. Order your kit today!
Web-Link:
www.ikmultimedia.com/products/iline/
SPL launches breakthrough audio and MADI interfaces at Musikmesse
Posted: 13-Apr-13
Analogue and digital audio processor developer/manufacturer SPL is proud to launch its Madison 16+16 Channel Studio I/O System and Crimson USB Audio Interface & Controller at Musikmesse 2013...
As implied by its full name, Crimson combines a USB interface with high-quality pre-amps and a separate, fully-featured monitor controller, creating a cost-effective, portable package. Play, playback, record, convert, control, and listen with a single device. Add a DAW and you’ve got yourself a truly professional recording setup with outstanding SPL performance to boot at a hitherto unachievable price point.
How is this possible, though? To create Crimson, SPL redesigned its tried-and-tested circuitries, creating a new, fully- integrated design. This, together with new production methods, enabled the company to break through previous price barriers to create a boutique-level product at a fraction of traditional German manufacturing costs.
So what exactly does this keenly-priced product offer, then? The 24-bit/192kHz-capable Crimson packs an amazing amount of features into its conveniently compact and attractive desktop footprint, that’s for sure. With its 30 I/O channels (10 recording and 20 playback); +/-18V operational voltage (for professional levels up to +24dB); two boutique-level, discrete Class A, +/-30V high-voltage mic pre-amps; two Hi-Z instrument pre-amps; two separate headphone amps (individually controllable); dual stereo speaker set connections (and control); monitor signal mix function (from playback and recording paths); MIDI input and output; plus USB 2.0, S/PDIF input and output, Crimson creates professional sound at an incredible price!
Moving more upmarket, broadcast and sound reinforcement professionals have relied on the still-unsurpassed Multichannel Audio Digital Interface (MADI) for over 20 years, thanks to its jitter-free and reliable transmission of multiple audio channels per single wire using low-cost cabling (up to 2km in length); now, with MADI emerging as the new studio I/O standard, the Madison 16+16 Channel Studio I/O System is perfectly positioned to integrate into any home, project, or commercial studio or scoring stage by combining state-of-the-art conversion, ultra-reliable clock, and MADI processing with a simple- to-operate, easy-to-expand, and awesome-sounding system housed in a compact 1U rack-mountable unit offering 16 input and 16 output channels — hence its full name.
Quite simply, Madison makes integrating professional analogue equipment into larger multichannel infrastructures a breeze, bringing the sought-after analogue SPL sound to MADI-equipped digital consoles, audio routers, or PC MADI cards — any professional audio routing infrastructure, in fact — for the first time. Its all-important, built-in MADI port offers pristine and near- zero-latency digital transmission of up to 64 inputs and outputs with galvanic insulation (via four units connected on a single MADI port) making Madison the ideal front end for anyone serious about pure conversion of multiple audio channels.
In true SPL style, special features found in Madison all add up to a price and value per channel ratio that’s hard to match elsewhere. These include: 16 superb-sounding AD and DA convertors with a sophisticated 18V analogue section (36V audio rail for +24dBu professional level); 44.1 to 192kHz operation (with ±10% varispeed); SPL clock-shop (for jitter-free operation); ultra-compatible, always-operational MADI I/O (with ultra-low conversion latencies); four directly-selectable reference levels (15/18/22/24); simple operation and setup (directly from front panel controls); ergonomic, distance- readable meters (for clear level status indication of any I/O channel); fan-less, silent lower-power design (30W max); redundant power supply (optional); and four industry-standard (TASCAM) D-Sub analogue eight-channel multicores, making Madison the most analogue digital interface ever produced, perhaps? Possibly, yes!
The Crimson USB Audio Interface & Monitor Controller (Model 1250) and Madison 16+16 Channel MADI Interface (Model 1260) will be available to purchase worldwide from any SPL dealer with a RRP of €549.00 EURO (including German VAT)/$725.00 USD and €1,499.00 EURO (including German VAT)/$1,899.00 USD, respectively. Availability is scheduled for June 2013.
Web-Link:
http://spl.info/
ALEX4 showcases slew of specialist products at Musikmesse 2013
Posted: 13-Apr-13
Musikmesse 2013 sees ALEX4 Distribution proudly introducing several new brands to its European retail network, with notable new analogue synthesisers and innovative musical hardware products being showcased by big names like Buchla Electronic Musical Instruments and Haken Audio from the USA alongside emerging European manufacturers and already in place partners alike...
Doepfer (www.doepfer.de) is proudly previewing the MAQ 16/3 Dark Edition of its long-running, rack-mount MIDI Analog Sequencer with CV/Gate connections. This limited-edition version celebrates the 20th anniversary of its development in close collaboration with techno pop pioneers Kraftwerk. Now that aptly-named Dark Edition features a black front panel and bigger knobs to match the recently redesigned desktop Dark Energy II Analog Synthesizer and accompanying desktop Dark Time Analog Sequencer in both look and feel. Several significant additions coming to Doepfer's diverse A-100 Modular System are also on show, including the A-127 Triple Voltage Controlled Resonance Filter; A-130 Linear Voltage Controlled Amplifier; A-131 Exponential Voltage Controlled Amplifier; A-135-1 Quad Linear VCA/Voltage Controlled Mixer; A-157 Trigger Sequencer Subsystem (based on the same 8x16 matrix central to the discontinued 'full-size' 8U rack-mount SCHALTWERK MIDI Trigger Sequencer); A-171-2 Voltage Controlled Slew Processor/Generator; A-180-2 Small Multiple; A-190-5 Polyphonic USB/MIDI to CV/Gate Interface; A-190-8 USB/MIDI to Sync Interface; and A-192-2 CV/Gate to MIDI/USB Interface — not forgetting the newly-designed, pocket-friendly A-100 Low Cost Base Frame to house all those modules... and many more besides.
ALEX4 also spearheads new additions to the ever-expanding Eurorack modular system format by boutique European manufacturers Endorphin.es (www.endorphin.es) from Austria — following up its Furthrrrr Generator dual oscillator module with a prototype of the Terminator analogue delay/low pass gate/reverb — and Frankfurt's very own Broken Silicon, making its Eurorack debut at Musikmesse 2013 with Gainsburg, a dual VCA module with severe signal-boosting for some seriously nice-sounding distortion... interstellar overdrive, anyone?
Having given its RES-4 Quad VCA a cream-coloured facelift to match the recently relaunched MMF-2 Stereo Multi Mode Filter, high-standing Swedish synthesiser developer and manufacturer CWEJMAN (www.cwejman.net) is back with the DP-2. With this brand-new complex modular compression tool CWEJMAN continues to play its part in ensuring that the Eurorack modular system format remains even more buoyant and musically vibrant than ever!
Reaching beyond Eurorack — and, indeed, Europe itself, ALEX4 is delighted to introduce Dr Lippold Haken and Edmund Eagan of Haken Audio (www.hakenaudio.com) fresh from the USA. Duly demonstrating the captivating Continuum Fingerboard realtime performance controller — running the latest firmware in its full-size glory (with greater pitch range than a traditional 88-note MIDI keyboard), they are also introducing the inbuilt EaganMatrix digital modular synthesiser, designed to take advantage of the controller's delicate and dramatic musical performance possibilities!
Alongside that rolling workshop, ALEX4 proudly presents the wonderful world of Buchla Electronic Musical Instruments (www.buchla.com) to the wider European musical community. A new incarnation of founding father Don Buchla's classic Californian design from 1973, its Buchla Music Easel is a portable, performance-orientated instrument, comprising the 281e Touch Keyboard Controller (29-key chromatic touch keyboard with pitch, pressure, and pulse outputs) and 208a Stored Program Sound Source (primary sound generator with five-position sequencer, ADS-type envelope generator, pulser circuit, modulation oscillator, complex oscillator, dual lowpass gates, envelope detector/inverter/preamp, and output section) housed in a rugged carrying case. Seeing is believing, but you'd better believe it: standing in front of an actual Buchla electronic musical instrument is truly a sight (and sound) to behold!
Berlin-based Manikin Electronic (www.manikin-electronic.com) is introducing Harry's Collection for its Memotron, an acclaimed digital remake of the legendary Mellotron, much beloved by the likes of popular music landscape-changing Beatles — think 'Strawberry Fields Forever' — and Moody Blues, classic prog-rock era Genesis and Pink Floyd, as well as electronic music pioneers Klaus Schulze and Tangerine Dream during their so-called 'Berlin School' days. Complimenting already available Memotron sound library collections, this includes 12 sounds originally created by none other than Harry Chamberlin, famed for inventing his namesake electro-mechanical Mellotron forerunner, the 1950s-vintage Chamberlin. Available as a 35-note keyboard — now in charcoal grey or beautiful black lacquered finishes in addition to traditional white — or conveniently compact 1U rack-mountable module, Memotron sound library collections continue to heighten its status as a must-have 'digital Mellotron' for the modern-day discerning musician!
Also joining ALEX4 at the Musikmesse 2013 launchpad is fellow Berliner MFB (www.mfberlin.de), presenting a keyboard version of its Dominion X programmable analogue synth with onboard sequencer, alongside an all-new, mature MIDI-compatible drum machine: Tanzbär bristles with innovative functions from contemporary sequencers and workstations, together with high-quality sounds and six full-size output jacks. MSRP will be €840.00 EURO (including 19% VAT). Having had to discontinue some earlier established products due to plastic casings no longer being available, MFB is rereleasing 'MkII' models of its Kraftzwerg and Microzwerg desktop analogue synths alongside the Urzwerg Pro step sequencer — all rehoused in more upmarket metal casings combined with eye-catching wooden end cheeks, while its popular TR-808 classic-cloning 552 Drumcomputer remains in production.
SubtleNoiseMaker (www.subtlenoisemaker.com) from Vienna is introducing its not-so-subtle-sounding Cacophonator Noir, a handmade electronic music synthesiser, effects pedal, and noise box. This extreme noise and drone machine is inspired by circuit-bending, but better suited to those who prefer music-making stability! MSRP: €369.00 EURO (including 19% VAT).
Thanks to ALEX4, Scottish 'synthmeister' Ken Macbeth's namesake Macbeth Studiosystems (www.macbethstudiosystems.com) is making its seriously-sought-after boutique synths available throughout Europe, starting with the upcoming Micromac-D, a full-scale integrated analogue desktop — small... but perfectly formed!
Also new to the ALEX4 fold — and Musikmesse 2013 — is the midiclock (www.midiclock.de) from Berlin-based Erfindungsbüro Rest & Maier. This simple but brilliant little tool can synchronise several software and/or hardware sequencers with the greatest of jitter-free ease and full BPM control via a dedicated knob. MSRP will be €195.00 EURO (including 19% VAT).
Last, but by no means least, Trautoniks (www.trautoniks.com) from Germany is introducing its new Trautonium Manual with separate CV and Gate manuals in 70cm and 90cm lengths. Based on the Volkstrautonium, a pioneering monophonic electronic musical instrument mass-manufactured by Telefunken throughout 1933/34, those manuals are made of a resistor wire over a metal plate — playable just like an original, only when pressed produce a sound on any connected CV/Gate-equipped analogue synth with perfect velocity curves. Come see for yourselves... on Stand C54 in Hall 5.1!
Web-Link:
www.alex4.de
Muse Research ships RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO dedicated hardware plug-in players
Posted: 13-Apr-13
music and audio technology developer Muse Research & Development is proud to announce availability of RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO, the latest additions to its line of dedicated hardware plug-in players, as of March 28...
With the introduction of these two new models, Muse Research now offers a complete RECEPTOR range priced to suit both budgetary and application requirements; yet each enable recording engineers and performing musicians to run popular virtual instruments and effects software in a high-performance, self-contained, tour-proven package with maximum performance and convenience.
RECEPTOR QU4TTRO, the company's top-of-the-line model, is designed for demanding studio applications, film and TV composers, and touring bands wishing to simultaneously process keyboards, guitars, and/or vocals. This fourth-generation RECEPTOR is powered by a fastest-in-class 3.9GHz (peak) Quad-Core Intel processor and is equipped with 16GB of RAM and a voluminous 2TB 7200 RPM hard drive (or optional 256GB or 512GB SSD) to run even the most demanding virtual instruments and effects with ease.
RECEPTOR TRIO is the more affordable 'middle child' of the RECEPTOR family, and also features a Quad-Core Intel processor — only slightly slower than its big brother's super-speedy affair, 8GB RAM, and a 1TB 7200 RPM hard drive (or optional 256GB or 512GB SSD). No slouch by any means, RECEPTOR TRIO is a seriously-capable, cost-effective system suited to touring and studio professionals, as well as higher-end project studios, with ample power to run many plug-ins at once.
The RECEPTOR range was designed to tackle even the most demanding software synthesis and advanced signal processing tasks that face today's modern musician. RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO take this one step further, thanks to TetraCore technology. This proprietary software threading and load balancing technology prioritises musical tasks over all others and optimises available processing resources to extract maximum performance from those four CPU cores. In turn, this lets the system run more demanding plug-ins at lower latencies than unoptimised platforms, but, more importantly, it makes RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO feel much more like a real hardware instrument or effects processor as a result. Users will immediately notice how natural and 'tight' their favourite virtual instruments and effects sound with TetraCore.
Supporting the new TetraCore processing engine is a new and improved 64-bit operating system featuring Intellibridge technology to provide simultaneous support for 32- and 64-bit plug-ins. Users can comfortably run large, multi-gigabyte sample libraries that occupy more than 4GB of RAM while still running their favourite tried-and-tested 32-bit plug-ins at the same time. RECEPTOR TRIO is perfectly primed to do just that with 8GB of onboard RAM at its disposal while RECEPTOR QU4TTRO can capably handle even the largest sample libraries with its 16GB helping of RAM.
Even more impressive is what RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO users can do with that extra RAM when working with LIVE MODE, a proprietary performance feature for preloading virtual set lists (up to the limits of the available RAM) and moving instantly from preset to preset. No more waiting for large presets to load while onstage since LIVE MODE preloads presets for instant access when moving from song to song or cue to cue. Try doing that on a bog standard laptop!
RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO users have an abundance of stellar sounds to use with that breakthrough LIVE MODE since each model comes complete with over $900 USD of software plug-ins for free! Ranging from perfect pianos to searing synths, and running the gamut from guitar amp models to vocal harmonisers, too, there's surely something there to suit most musical tastes and needs. Needless to say, sonic horizons can be affordably and easily expanded as both new models now ship with Native Instrument's KOMPLETE 9 and KOMPLETE 9 ULTIMATE collection of premium sonic tools for production, sound design, and live performance pre-installed and ready for evaluation and authorisation. And there are also dozens of other third-party plug-ins pre-installed in demo mode, making the search for that 'just right' sound for any music project or performance a breeze.
RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO are equally at home on the road or in the studio, and integration into any performance or recording environment is easier than ever thanks to the bundled PreSonus AudioBox 1818VSL 24-bit/96K USB 2.0 Recording Interface. This pairing provides both models with support for four times the analogue I/O of their predecessors, with eight analogue inputs and outputs, eight ADAT optical digital inputs and outputs, a stereo S/PDIF digital input and output, and digital word clock output for integration with other digital audio devices. This massive 18- channel I/O count propels RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO to new heights, letting users send individual instruments to their own dedicated outputs, process multiple independent streams of audio, or simultaneously process guitars, vocals, basses, and other instruments while generating sounds using virtual instruments. Coupled with that PreSonus audio interface, RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO are more than capable of serving as the central hub to anyone's musical universe!
The new models compliment the existing entry-level RECEPTOR VIP, taking the RECEPTOR range to the next level of power, ease of use, and flexibility. With RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO, Muse Research has successfully strengthened RECEPTOR's robust, roadworthy plug-in-playing status as the go-to performance instrument of choice for thousands of professional musicians worldwide.
Quite simply, RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO possess all the power, memory, storage, and I/O needed to adapt to any recording or performance scenario. Wherever the superior sounds of virtual instruments and effects are needed, RECEPTOR QU4TTRO and RECEPTOR TRIO will deliver high-quality results with exemplary performance and stability, all in a self-contained, roadworthy, and affordable package.
The Muse Research RECEPTOR product line is available through select music retailers in the US and Canada, as well as through music equipment distributors worldwide. The Muse Research dealer network from within the United States offers the products at the minimum advertised prices of $1,699.00 USD (RECEPTOR VIP), $2,499.00 USD (RECEPTOR TRIO), and $2,999.00 USD (RECEPTOR QU4TTRO). International distributors set their own pricing for their respective territories.
If there is no stocking retailer in your area, a RECEPTOR can be configured to your specifications and purchased via the Plugorama.com website (www.plugorama.com), which also offers virtual instruments and effects packages for use with RECEPTOR starting at $29.99 USD.
Web-Link:
www.museresearch.com
dancetech
&
thomann
partner store
Help support the site & the users music space - Buy via our partner store for EU customers. One fixed price delivery for most items, even for heavy things like a bass-cab!
bela d media - anthology: celtic wind vol. 01
€ 153.00 - £123.33
bela d media - sampled landscape amb. world
€ 151.00 - £121.72
best service - psy-fx
€ 76.00 - £61.26
best service - studio box mark 2 1-4-dvd set
€ 335.00 - £270.05
big fish - elements: south america
€ 47.00 - £37.88
big fish - funk city 2
€ 71.00 - £57.23
big fish - jazz quartet
€ 57.00 - £45.94
big fish - notorious: hiphop and r&b
€ 76.00 - £61.26
big fish - nu metal city
€ 62.00 - £49.97
big fish - soul city
€ 63.00 - £50.78
big fish - suite grooves
€ 72.00 - £58.04
ilio - skippys big bad beats sage rmx
€ 47.00 - £37.88
ilio - xpander bundle - 4 pack
€ 105.00 - £84.64
manikin-elektronic - berlin school collection
€ 139.00 - £112.05
manikin-elektronic - memotron studio collection
€ 73.00 - £58.84
manikin-elektronic - memotron vintage collection 2
€ 73.00 - £58.84
manikin-elektronic - memotron vintage collection 3
€ 73.00 - £58.84
manikin-elektronic - memotron vintage collection 4
€ 73.00 - £58.84
philtre labs - bollywood bundle
€ 111.00 - £89.47
philtre labs - bollywood grooves
€ 72.00 - £58.04
sample magic - electro
€ 60.00 - £48.36
sample magic - nu-rave
€ 66.00 - £53.20
sample magic - progressive house
€ 62.00 - £49.97
sample magic - tribal tech-house
€ 63.00 - £50.78
steinberg - cubase 6.5 update 4/5
€ 175.00 - £141.07
twiddly bits - country
€ .97 - £.78
überschall - balkan lines
€ 91.00 - £73.35
überschall - chillers joint
€ 89.00 - £71.74
überschall - dancehall madness
€ 86.00 - £69.32
überschall - dancehall madness ii
€ 86.00 - £69.32
überschall - hip hop underground
€ 82.00 - £66.10
überschall - reggae fundamentals
€ 85.00 - £68.52
überschall - soundscapes
€ 89.00 - £71.74
überschall - trance id
€ 90.00 - £72.55
überschall - urbanic producer pack
€ 86.00 - £69.32
überschall - urbanic producer pack 2
€ 86.00 - £69.32
zero-g - alien skies
€ 95.00 - £76.58
zero-g - creative essentials for reason
€ 95.00 - £76.58
zero-g - dark skies
€ 95.00 - £76.58
zero-g - pure hip hop
€ 41.00 - £33.05
zero-g - satin grooves
€ 82.00 - £66.10
zero-g - total rex
€ 134.00 - £108.02
zero-g - urban elements
€ 71.00 - £57.23
zero-g - urban legend
€ 85.00 - £68.52
