Ableton & Soniccouture Release Electric Pianos
SA Distributor: Tuerk Music
Arturia Releases Wurlitzer EP 200A
Wurlitzer V lets users choose between three output modes: Studio (Wurlitzer V and associated effects are connected to a virtual DI box with reverb thereafter); Stage (with guitar amp simulator, multiple mic and speaker options, and a satisfying-sounding spring reverb at the output stage); and Rotary (with a rotary speaker simulator to create musical movement).As most producers are already aware, the beloved bright and overdriven Wurly sound so musically ingrained in popular music culture — thanks to artists as diverse as The Beatles, Supertramp, and Marvin Gaye — is actually a clever combination of admirable amplification — Fender Bassman and Twin Reverb guitar tube amps, et al; mic’ing par excellence; and precision processing, with multiple analogue chorus, phasing, and tape echo units often being used to fashion a deeper, luscious tone.
As such, Arturia’s Wurlitzer V effectively places its users in an authentic-sounding Seventies-style virtual recording studio, replete with classic tube amps (Fender Deluxe Reverb Blackface, Fender Twin Reverb Blackface, Fender Bassman, and Marshall Plexi guitar tube amp models; Leslie Speaker rotary simulator model); modelled mics (Shure SM57, Sennheiser MD 421, and Neumann U87); and vintage stompboxes (Wah-wah, Autowah, Overdrive, Flanger, Compressor, Phaser, Chorus, Delay, Pitch Shifter/Chorus, Vocal Filter, and Reverb models) — everything needed to achieve that classic ‘Wurly’ vibe or more adventurous sound design (thanks to advanced in-depth control parameters: 10-band Graphic Equaliser; Vibrator Rate; Pickup Distance; Pickup Axis; Impedance; Damper Position; Dynamics; Octave Stretch; Hammer Hardness; Hammer Noise; Note Off Noise; Sustain Pedal Noise; Velocity Curve).Arturia’s Wurlitzer V is available to purchase from Arturia as Mac-compatible (OS X 10.5 or higher — Intel only) and PC-compatible (Windows XP, Vista, and 7 — 32- and 64-bit) boxed software in the these flavors: Standalone, VST 2.4 & 3 — 32-bit and 64- bit, RTAS and AU — 32- and 64-bit. Wurlitzer V will set you back $129 / €119 or as a software download for $99 / €99.
Pioneer Awarded DJ Manufacturer Of The Year
The Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. Professional Sound and Visual Division (Pioneer DJ) won five awards at the 2012 Winter Music Conference (WMC) held on March 22, including the prestigious Manufacturer of the Year and Best New Product award for its new DDJ-T1 DJ controller. Pioneer DJ was honored for three other award categories including Best Headphone (HDJ-2000), Best CD player (CDJ-2000) and Best Mixer (DJM-900nexus). These awards highlight Pioneer’s technological contributions to the industry and commitment to bringing the very best product offerings and experiences to the DJ community.
Celebrating its 27th consecutive year, the WMC’s week-long gathering in Miami, Fla. is considered as one of the most popular music gatherings in the world, attracting thousands of DJs, producers and music industry professionals from over 70 countries. More than 100,000 attendees take part in the annual music event that incorporates over 400 mini events, seminars, workshops, parties and over 1,400 artists and DJ performances. The International Dance Music Awards (IDMA) put on by WMC is the only longstanding awards event dedicated to the electronic and dance music industry. The awards highlight innovative artists, products and technologies from the previous year.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by our peers in the DJ and music industry,” said David Arevalo, senior marketing manager, Professional Sound and Visual Division for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “We want to continue to bring the most innovative and technologically advanced products to market so DJs around the world, from aspiring DJs to professionals and everyone in between, can perform to their utmost potential.”
Pioneer won the following coveted IDMA industry awards:
27th Annual International Dance Music Awards (IDMA)
More than two million votes were cast from music enthusiasts to recognize the most innovative and elite artists, DJs, producers, equipment, manufacturers and labels in the business in 57 award categories.
Best Manufacturer: Winner – Pioneer DJ – Pioneer was honored for outstanding contributions to the advancement of the industry. Pioneer has won IDMA’s coveted Best Manufacturer award five years in a row, since the award category was first introduced on the ballot in 2008.
Best New Product: Winner – DDJ-T1 – First available in February 2011, the DDJ-T1 is a DJ controller dedicated for use with Native Instrument’s TRAKTOR® DJ software and designed for the next generation of home and casual DJs who leverage digital music files. When the controller is combined with a computer, DJs of all levels have access to the same operability and functionality of a professional player and mixer setup along with excellent audio quality.
Best Mixer: Winner – DJM-900nexus – The high performance digital mixer is designed for today’s DJ performers and is an ideal complement to Pioneer’s latest CDJ line of players. The DJM-900nexus offers a multitude of features including a variety of onboard effects, increased sound quality, and direct PC connection to enable any DJ to perform to their utmost potential.
Best CD Player: Winner – CDJ-2000 – The highly regarded CDJ-2000 multi-format digital media player has features that DJs of all experience levels can use to enhance their mixing and scratching capabilities. The player includes proprietary technologies such as rekordbox™ music management, 6.1″ Full color LCD panel, Pro DJ Link, Needle Search and USB and SD card connectivity, which help reduce the DJ’s reliance on his or her laptop to access music files.
SA Distributor: Pro-Audio
New DJ Stickphone announced by Numark, Redphone
REDPHONE combines sleek, minimalist design with a single premium-quality 50 mm driver.Numark, one of the worlds leading manufacturer of DJ technology, introduces REDPHONE, a full-range stickphone for DJs.
With the advent of sync controls, many modern DJs dont need to constantly monitor their mix, and dont want a set of headphones hanging around their neck. REDPHONE is the answer. The form factor designed to free up a DJs hands so they can perform at their best.
With an ergonomically designed s-arm handle and swiveling padded ear cup, REDPHONE allows effortless monitoring and cueing for DJs without tethering them to their rig by the neck. DJs are able to pick up REDPHONE, hear what they need to hear and get back to performing live. Even when using both hands, REDPHONEs cushioned handle and ear cup can be easily held between the ear and shoulder on the left or right.
REDPHONE connects to a DJs rig using the included XLR-1/4 cable, providing a pro-grade audio connection. REDPHONE channels audio through a premium-quality 50 mm driver, providing superior monitoring at every gig.
REDPHONE will be a great tool for DJs everywhere, said Chris Roman, Senior Product Manager, Numark. Its perfect for DJs who want to experience the crowd and enjoy the energy of each gig but also want to cue and monitor their mix instantly.
SA Distributor: Hybrid
Gemini Awarded for DJ Line of the Year and Best New DJ Product
Gemini captured attention from two of the industry’s most recognized and respected trade publications thanks to their reputation for a diverse, dependable product line and innovative product development. The positive feedback surrounding Gemini’s CDJ-700 also attracted well-deserved consideration, and eventually earned the new professional media player the highly sought DJ product award.
“This is what manufacturers strive for,” says Alan Cabasso, President of Gemini. “We’ve taken massive steps to improve our presence in the industry, and these awards validate our hard work. We’d like to thank Musical Merchandise Review for recognizing our entire DJ line, as well as Music & Sound Retailer for granting the CDJ-700 top honors as the best new DJ product. Of course, none of this would be possible without our dedicated employees and loyal dealers. This is the perfect way to start a new year.”
Both awards highlight Gemini’s reinvigorated focus on product development and market presence, while maintaining strong relationships with their users and distributors.
SA Distributor: Audiosure
MixVibes Release the World’s First Professional DJing App For iPad
MixVibes presents the most exciting DJing application they have ever created: CrossDJ for iPad. MixVibes brings you a comprehensive iPad DJing experience with a user friendly yet professional and feature rich layout. This application allows all DJs to enjoy performing quality sounding mixes on an iPad.
CrossDJ was developed by the same professional software team who developed ‘Cross’, awarded ‘Best DJing Software’ in 2010 and 2011 the MIXMOVE awards in Paris. MixVibes has been providing DJs with professional solutions for over 10 years. Hence, no other iPad DJing application has ever received such expertise, attention to ergonomics and user feedback in its development.
“A decade later, [MixVibes has] fully matured software running on Mac and PC – and now iPad”. DJ Worx
A complete DJing tool, CrossDJ is a fully-fledged DJing controller. It features a full 2-channel mixer with 3-band EQs and Kills, preset Loops, 6 Locators, High-precision audio FX with X/Y control pad and much more. These professional features are what will no doubt make this application a reference in the DJing Market. Eric Guez C.E.O. of MixVibes commented, “I believe that the iPad is and will become a serious DJing tool in years to come.”
In addition, CrossDJ takes advantage of the iPad/iPhone media management paradigm with fluid, rapid and intuitive browsing and loading. You can easily access all iTunes playlists and browse media using a Dynamic Triple Criteria Filter.
The audio stream can be split in order to be able to monitor tracks with headphones, which is essential for a professional mix.
Clean mixes and clear sound is what you are getting with CrossDJ!
Available from the App Store – Expected Launch Date: 7th May
Special launch price 7.99€ (ends 4th June)
Normal price 14.99€
iPhone version launching summer 2012
CrossDJ – Main Features
A DJing Controller
Thanks to 10 years of expertise in DJing software, MixVibes brings you a professional iPad application including all the main DJing features you need to perform and control a seamless mix. The mixer section includes 2 players with 3-band equalizers, frequency kills, gains, 2 volume faders, a crossfader and 2 pitch sliders with adjustable range (4%, 6%, 8%, 16%, 32%, 100%).
FX Touch Pad and Vinyl Wheel
The interface features 2 deck views: The “vinyl record deck” allows precise scratching and the possibility to cue a track as you would with a regular turntable. The “FX view” features a large X/Y control pad allowing you to explore the full extent and potential of the 13 audio FX. The “FX hold” feature allows you to lock down an audio effect on a precise setting point. These features are the gateway to a whole new spectrum of creative possibilities.
Two Loop Modes
The first mode is the regular loop mode with 8 different lengths of loops varying from 1/8 beat to 16 beats (4bars). The second mode is called “slip” mode. Here, loops are active only when a finger is pressed on the loop. While the loop is active the track keeps playing so that when you release the finger the musical flow is not affected.
Star Features
The BPM analysis algorithm used by CrossDJ has been fire-tested and perfected to the max for the iPad. This analysis is performed automatically the first time you load a track. Once analyzed, the mix is visually assisted with a sync meter and high definition waveforms. Thanks to the “Beatgrid” feature, mixes will be flawless and synchronized automatically. Edits to the beat grid are doable on-the-fly and saved to the collection.
“We think it is a contender for best elastic beatgridding of any DJ software”. – Digital Tips
Headphone Monitoring: Split Output
CrossDJ offers the possibility to monitor the mix with headphones using multiple routing modes. The split routing allows monitoring, which means you are performing a mix in actual professional conditions. The default setting plays music directly through the master stream.
Media Management
CrossDJ is stocked with a combination of MixVibes’ multiple award-winning Media Management system and Apple’s intuitive track search paradigm. Media browsing is made through a multi-criteria filter or directly on the full size iPad keyboard. Hence, loading a new track is done in seconds.
Sound
CrossDJ is compatible with most popular audio formats including every iTunes compatible format and many more. A pristine sound quality of CrossDJ will be offered through the headphone plug jack and the USB port.
Clean mixes and clear sound is what you are getting with CrossDJ!
Reloop wins awards in Frankfurt and Paris!
At the Musikmesse Frankfurt 2012, many DJ- and Producing-Manufacturers ran head-to-head in various categories during this year’s DJ Tools Award. In the run-up to the award, favorites could be voted online from a pool of categories, such as DJ headphones, mixers, DJ controllers up to CD players and live-act controllers.
Reloop was nominated again in numerous categories this year – and was awarded several times. The Jockey 3 ME won the award as “Best DJ Controller 2012” – competing against strong competitors!
The DJ Tools Award turned out to be very successful for the following products as well:
RMX-40 DSP BlackFire Edition, 3rd place
IQ.2 MIDI, 2nd place
RMP-3 Alpha, 2nd place
Play, 2nd place
Contour IE, 2nd place
Digital Jockey 2 IE, 2nd place
RHP-20, 2nd place
ADM-5, 3rd place
Besides the awards, the DJ Tools event also offered exciting showcases where manufacturers could impressively show off with their equipment. Reloop’s DJ Angelo thrilled the crowd with his Jockey 3 performance show case.
In France: Reloop was also able to glance at the french Tech Awards during the Mix Move exhibition in Paris. During the voting period and following judging presentation at the Mix Move Tech Awards, their Terminal Mix 4 was awarded as “Best DJ Controller beneath 600 Euros”
SA Distributor: Tradelius
Viva Afrika awarded two new agencies for Africa
Viva Afrika Sound and Light (PTY) LTD announced recently that the company has been awarded the exclusive distribution rights for Beyma loudspeakers in Sub-Sahara Africa. Viva Afrika is one of the fastest growing professional audio and lighting distributors in South Africa with a portfolio of brands that include: Numark DJ products, Audiocenter loudspeakers, Real loudspeakers, Hybrid, Hybrid+ and dB Technologies. Says director, Bernard Pienaar (pictured); “Beyma Components fit in perfectly with our company vision: to offer high quality European components at competitive pricing to the South African market. Viva Afrika and its team are looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship with Beyma.”AVID Appoints New Pro Audio Distributor for South Africa
Avid®, the leading provider and manufacturer of audio and video solutions, announced that SEGMA, based in South Africa, has signed an agreement to sell its professional audio product range.
Maldwyn Greenwood, CEO, and Johan van der Colff, CFO at SEGMA South Africa, both agree, ‘’It’s with great pleasure that we take on the Avid Pro Audio distribution for South Africa and we are looking forward to taking the brand to new levels within the local Pro Audio market. Pro Tools has always been on the leading edge with outstanding products and innovative workflow solutions and working together with our local sales partners and retailers we want to put the Avid products right on the “doorstep” of each and every potential user. With the new product range from Avid there is now a solution for every need and we plan on making this more accessible than ever before. With international pricing structures being implemented, the South African music industry will now have access to the world’s leading brand at prices that fits their budgets.’’Jem Compact Hazer Pro™
The perfect haze solution for any application!Reloop RHP-20
With the RHP-20, Reloop introduces premium DJ headphones with scene stealing, state-of-the-art aesthetics and elite sound design that is acoustically balanced for professional use. Engineered with exceptionally high audio output for a club setting and clear frequency separation with the ideal balance of mids, highs and bass, these innovative headphones are perfect for the DJ booth or the studio. Equipped with a rotating ear cup for on-shoulder/single-ear monitoring, the RHP-20 is rugged and ready for continuous operation in even the most challenging environment with a sturdy hinge and folding mechanism made of high-quality aluminum and a hard rubber head band that withstands wear and tear. The design is lightweight, and the ear cups are carefully crafted to surround the ears in comfort with memory foam padding covered in fine protein leather, so there is no pinching or fatigue… even on a long night. A trendsetter with pristine audio quality and robust construction, the RHP-20 sets a new standard for the professional DJ headphones.
Traktor Kontrol F1 – ‘The world’s first remix decks’
TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 has landed – the same day TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 hits the stores worldwide. TRAKTOR PRO isn’t the only thing receiving the remix treatment – the entire TRAKTOR family is set to raise the bar once again. If you’re already a TRAKTOR user or thinking of becoming one, there’s great news for everybody. If you currently use PRO 2 or DUO 2, you’ll receive a free update to the flagship TRAKTOR PRO 2.5, complete with the innovative new Remix Decks™. From now, all TRAKTOR hardware comes with TRAKTOR PRO 2 included and a free update to 2.5.15 Years of Native Instruments and the job of communication
In 2011 leading software and music technology company, Native Instruments, turned 15 years old. Now it may seem a little strange that we’re talking about this 6 months later when the net was awash with this news back in October 2011, including our own BPMMAG.co.za, but what has spurned this feature is that I eventually got around to reading the NI Anniversary book called The Future of Sound: 15 Years of Native Instruments only recently and well… I AM the Editor so sometimes I get to do as I please! This and the fact that I had the opportunity to meet with Native Instruments’ ‘Corporate Communications Manager,’ Tobias Thon whilst he was on holiday here from Berlin.
The Future of Sound
The Book
The 90-page soft cover book offers an impressive account of the history of Native Instruments, their products and the infrastructure of the company. It’s an interesting read, certainly if you are a big fan of the company, as I am sure many are, although I am rather bemused at the 15 dollar price tag since the book quite naturally focuses most of its effort on promoting the company and its products.
But I have to admit it is actually quite interesting to read about how Traktor came about, the concept behind Maschine and the history behind NI’s Komplete synth packages etc., not to mention the history behind the formation of the company itself.
For example did you know that the program Generator was the forerunner to Native Instruments GmbH being established as a company and was first shown off at Musikmesse Frankfurt in 1996? As the name suggests, Generator was capable of generating sound… but in real time on the first Pentium processors!
Today that just seems laughable but in fact it’s a timely reminder of how far computer processing and indeed the software has come since then.
The brainchild of one Stephan Schmitt, a hardware engineer and musician, he was a synthesizer player looking for a less bulky and indeed less pricey way to perform his music. Together with programmer, Volker Hinz he developed the concept of the first modular software synthesizer; Generator. Schmitt, by the way, has gone on to build Reaktor and many of the other soft-synth products that NI boasts in its collection.
Communication
Belying his title as ‘Corporate’ Communications Manager about which we both share a chuckle and he swears he’ll look into the use of ‘corporate’ in his title, Tobias is a super laid back and very cool dude. Over coffee he is quick to add that this was actually a well-deserved holiday with a very relaxed eye on what South Africa and its burgeoning music scene is all about.
“Well,” I exclaim, “then you’re meeting with the right person!” as I go on to give him a brief SA Music 101 lesson on the complexities of our music production scene throughout the country. He tells me that his main concern is that back in Germany all they see are numbers and sales figures and that his objective was to see the people behind the numbers… understand the country better and get a feel for what’s happening on this side of the world on a social level.
“I’ll be back in October,” he tells me over a mid-morning breakfast, “and then I want to start implementing some of the ideas we’ve been discussing.” For now those ideas will remain top-secret, suffice to say that if his long term project pans out, it’ll certainly have made his visits here worthwhile.
As I wish him a safe journey back to Berlin I find myself thinking ‘wow I wish guys like this would come out and see what we’re up to musically in SA more often,’ ‘cos you know it and I know – SA Dance music rocks!
Oh and if you can, try get your hands on a copy of the NI book. It’s way cool checking out their products, new and old.
Image-Line launches FL Studio 10.5 with Performance Mode
Image-Line launches FL Studio the 10.5 (beta) for testing by their registered customers. You can download the installer from here in Looptalk or read the manual here.
Activate record during a performance & it will be saved to the Playlist
Notable changes to FL Studio 10.5 (beta):
Performance Mode – Trigger Clips using your mouse, touch screen, typing keyboard or MIDI controller.
New controllers supported – APC20/40, Launchpad, Block, MASCHINE / MASCHINE MIKRO, padKONTROL
Unique controller MIDI input port – Controllers can now be assigned unique input & output ports for feedback.
Linking includes MIDI input port – Links now use MIDI input ports to avoid conflict between controllers
New Content Library – The content library has received a complete overhaul based on user input.
Options > Project general settings > Play truncated notes in clips – Restores notes overlapping slice points in Pattern Clips.
Horizontal/Vertical movement locking – Shift (horizontal lock) & Ctrl (vertical lock) when moving items.
Piano roll click & hold functions – Glue notes, Mouse wheel velocity change, Mouse wheel tool select.
Piano roll – Brush tool: Monophonic step mode (hold shift for old behavior). Chop chords: Strum & Articulate tools.
Improved Tap Tempo & Fine control – Updated algorithm + nudge control for Performance Mode.
Instrument Channels – Ctrl+mouse wheel on Channel button to change the mixer track.
Stay open sub-menus – Right click to check several menu items without closing them.
Plugin Picker – Start typing plugin names to highlight entries.
Right-click data enter – Most controls now allow a Right-click option to type in values.
TRAKTOR KONTROL F1
Two new TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 units were given to controllerism pioneer Moldover for a weekend test drive. Combining the F1s with his TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, he unlocked the full potential of TRAKTOR’s new Remix Decks™.
In just two days he came up with some amazing tips and tricks, captured here on video. Watch as he slays searing guitar solos, manipulates layered vocal harmonies, and remixes tracks on-the-fly.
SA Distributor: Tuerk Music
Pioneer launches the HDJ-1500 – Professional DJ headphones
Every DJ knows that a spectacular set requires high-quality headphones. Enter the HDJ-1500s, the pro-DJ headphones that deliver flawless sound reproduction and impressive durability in a seriously stylish package.
The latest addition to Pioneer’s professional headphones range, the HDJ-1500s owe their crystal-clear sound quality to increased output levels, a lower impedance and an exclusive soundproofing chamber specially developed by Pioneer.
The HJD-1500s’ copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils guarantee accurate reproduction of deep base notes and superbly balanced sound across all frequencies. And the exclusive soundproofing chamber eliminates outside noise so DJs can easily monitor the beat –even in the loudest of venues.
Ruggedly built, with lightweight but durable magnesium alloy parts, the HDJ-1500s are perfectly designed to endure the rigors of frequent professional use. And the urethane memory foam ear pads hug the ear for maximum comfort even during the longest sets.
Available in two stunning colors – classy chrome black and sleek deep silver – the HDJ-1500s look good in every venue, while the included carrying pouch means they’re perfectly portable.
Key features of the HDJ-1500
1. Superb sound quality
With high-quality components, the HDJ-1500s deliver perfectly balanced sound across all frequencies. The headphones feature copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, large 50 mm driver units, rare earth magnets and 38μm-thick diaphragms, guaranteeing accuratereproduction of deep base notes and clear delivery of other low to medium frequencies, such as kicks and snares. Output levels are 1 dB greater than Pioneer’s HDJ-1000 headphones, and a lower impedance offers even greater sensitivity, so DJs get pristine sound reproduction every time, regardless of what device the HDJ-1500s are hooked up to.
2. WORLD EXCLUSIVE: groundbreaking soundproofing component
Monitoring tracks on a heaving dance floor is a breeze with the HDJ-1500s, no matter how rowdy the party gets. Sound insulation around low and medium frequencies (300 Hz to 1,300 Hz) has improved by an impressive 4 dB compared to the HDJ-1000s thanks to the innovative sound-isolation chamber on the bass reflex port, which eliminates background noise.
3. Durable design for professional use
The HDJ-1500s’ moving headband and hinges are composed of rugged yet lightweight magnesium alloy to withstand the rigors of professional use. Plus, the single-sided cable can be easily replaced if it gets damaged, further prolonging the life of the headphones.
4.Supreme comfort with interchangeable urethane foam ear pads
The narrow ear cup design creates a tight seal on your ear to block out external sound, while the low-resilience urethane memory foam ear pads make sure the HDJ-1500s are easy on the ears even during prolonged use. The included ear pads can be replaced with the HDJ-EP01s –open-cup protein leather ear pads which sit around the ears and are sold separately –so DJs can choose the best option to suit their comfort and listening style.
5. Available in two colors: chrome black and deep silver
DJs can coordinate their headphones with the club, the studio, their kit, their set, their clothes or even their mood as the HDJ-1500s come in two striking colors–classy chrome black and sleek deep silver.
6. Included accessories
The compact carrying pouch means the headphones can be safely transported to the club or the studio in style. The HDJ-1500s also fit perfectly in the slim and lightweight HDJ-HC01 carrying case.Accessories such as USB memory sticks and SD cards can be stored in specially designated pockets within the carrying cases for added convenience.
Main specifications – HDJ-1500
| Description | Enclosed dynamic stereo headphones |
| Impedance | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 108 dB |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz to 30,000 Hz |
| Maximum input | 3,500 mW（JEITA） |
| Drive units | φ50 mm domes |
| Cable length | 1.2 m single-sided coiled cable (approximately 3.0 m when extended – removable type) |
| Plug | φ3.5 mm stereo mini-jack (gold-plated, two-way, screw type) |
| Ear pads | Polyurethane (leather type) |
| Weight | 285 g (excluding cable) |
| Included accessories | φ6.3 mm standard stereo adapter (gold-plated, screw type) and carrying pouch |
SA Distributor: Pro-Audio
Defected and Sample Magic present an exclusive package of royalty free ATFC samples
ATFC House Samples
Defected have teamed up with Sample Magic and their very own house maestro ATFC to bring you producers an essential package, ATFC House Samples
Stacked with chunky mainroom beats, tribal-infused rhythms, bumpin’ basslines, peaktime melodics, jackin’ kick-free tops, XXL one-shots and FX, ATFC has mined his personal sample vault to create the essential sample collection for house music producers.
Described as “a true house don” by Mark Knight (Toolroom) and “verging on genius” by Pete Tong (Radio One), ATFC has been a purveyor of sublime, main room house for well over a decade, embodying the sound of Defected across a slew of seminal singles including the soulfully anthemic ‘Bad Habit’
Now for the first time – and exclusively via Sample Magic – you can inject your productions with the sound of Defected, 100% royalty-free
The collection includes:
Drum Loops
From chunky big-room beats to jackin’ minimal grooves and deep tribal rhythms: 93 floorfilling drum workouts to kick-start your tracks. Beats are offered in full, stripped and kick-free flavours to sweeten the beat-making deal.
Kick-free top and percussion loops
69 fully-primed beat building tools – from poppin’ and pumpin’ to jackin’ and jivin’ – finely-sculpted organic rhythm-rollers for seamless layering.
Basslines
From deep and funky to beefy and dirty: 33 pumping bin-busters to blitz the groove.
Synth loops
Full-fat chords, all-analogue arps, stonking synths and rampant hooks: 52 key-labeled melodics for the mainroom.
FX
Huge synth sidewinders, swirling modulations, spring-loaded impacts, beat-delay bangers, reach-forthe-lights risers, deafening descenders and more.
Drum Hits
Prime cut of kicks, claps, snares and hats direct from the main man’s personal drum bank.
SMP08 Defected House Samples contains: 24-bit Wav, Apple Loops, Rex2 & Stylus RMX Rex2 files, EXS24, NN-XT and Kontakt III patches, plus Digital Booklet.
Get Ready to Remix: The New World of TRAKTOR
TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 lands May 30th – the same day TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 will hit stores worldwide. TRAKTOR PRO isn’t the only thing receiving the remix treatment – the entire TRAKTOR family is set to raise the bar once again. If you’re already a TRAKTOR user or thinking of becoming one, there’s great news for everybody.
If you currently use PRO 2 or DUO 2, you’ll receive a free update to the flagship TRAKTOR PRO 2.5, complete with the innovative new Remix Decks™. From today, all TRAKTOR hardware comes with TRAKTOR PRO 2 included* and a free update to 2.5 when it’s available on May 30th.
SA Distributor: Tuerk Music Technologies
Gemini Caters to Market Trends and an International Audience at Musikmesse 2012
As a global brand in an evolving industry, Gemini’s presence at Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany is crucially important. In 2012, Gemini showed an ability to grow with a progressive market, exhibiting products like the CDJ-700, CDMP-7000 and CDJ-650, along with the newest FirstMix digital controllers. This equipment gave international attendees a glimpse into Gemini’s most innovative line of DJ gear to date.
Musikmesse attendees were amazed with Gemini’s CDJ-700 and CDMP-7000, which feature the industry’s first full-color touchscreen displays. These units cater to modern DJs with true media versatility (CDs, USB sticks, SD cards), as well as DJs who want to use the MIDI capabilities in conjunction with software like Virtual DJ and Traktor.
Young attendees also waited in line just to try the new FirstMix Pro and FirstMix I/O USB DJ controllers, which offer intuitive features that make the digital DJ world accessible to everyone. And Gemini’s Pro Audio gear, like the GVX loudspeakers, XGA amplifiers, UHF wireless systems and new SR monitors, highlighted the company’s diversity as a manufacturer.
In fact, Gemini’s speakers and monitors brought crowds to the booth – the company’s DJs and product specialists played a variety of music, from House and New Disco, to Dubstep and Drum & Bass. This assortment kept the Messe masses coming back for more, as many guests returned to the booth just to see what the Gemini DJs were spinning. Dance parties ensued!
“The DJ and Pro Audio industries continue to develop,” says Alan Cabasso, President of Gemini. “Not just the gear, but the DJs and performers as well. Musikmesse is an ideal place to check out industry trends and new technology. This year, Gemini showed solutions that are convenient, contemporary and innovative. We recognize that it’s all about the music – we just strive to develop products that accommodate the different ways performers use the music.”
SA Distributor: Audiosure
Introducing the new Gemini Powered 5, 6, 8 and 10sub
The truth about monitors
When it comes to monitors, accuracy is crucial. Let’s be honest, decent monitors can sound great in your project studio, but truly accurate monitors will ensure your mix sounds great everywhere else – whether you’re listening in your car, on your portable media player or on your home stereo. That’s why the cost-effective SR active monitors from Gemini were designed to offer genuinely precise audio that truly reflects the state of your mix.
Build your mix, from the bass up.
Gemini SR series monitors
Gemini’s SR-5, SR-6 and SR-8 boasts woven glass aramid composite woofers for tight, accurate low-end response. To complement this custom-designed low frequency driver, the elegant, magnetically shielded enclosures incorporate a front-firing port, which helps deliver clean, accurate bass. While rear-firing ports can throw low-end frequencies into walls and corners, creating an imprecise image, front-firing ports ensure clear bass response for a mix without coloration, even at high SPLs.
Get high… with an articulate tweeter
For crisp natural highs, the SR series monitors house a 1-inch neodymium driver on its soft-dome tweeter. This recessed high frequency driver also employs a purposeful waveguide that directs sound away from the cabinet, so your high frequencies are reproduced with articulate precision and without diffraction. Combined with outstanding bass response, the result is a highly detailed stereo image.
Power and control: your room, your rules
To reduce distortion, the monitor features a bi-amped design, with 50, 65 or 100 watts of Peak power delivered to the low frequency drivers and 25 watts of Peak power delivered to the high frequency driver. And because mixing environments vary from one room to another – a large professional studio, a mid-size project studio, a small bedroom, a spacious basement – the SR series provides Volume and High Frequency controls, so you can adjust your sound to suit your setting.
Style meets substance
For flexible connectivity, all the SR monitors provide XLR, TRS and RCA connectors. An extensive frequency response between 50Hz and 20kHz also guarantees accurate, well-balanced audio with true sonic clarity. And when it comes to looks, these sleek, black monitors with red woven woofers offer a stylish complement to your mixing space.
Ideal for a variety of mixing rooms, Gemini’s SR monitors offer value, power and precision for professional studios, home recording setups and everything in between, giving you the power to create the best mix possible.
SR-10SUB, Powered for super kick bass response!
Build your mix, from the bass up
Gemini’s SR-10SUB boasts a 10-inch woven glass aramid composite woofer for tight, accurate low-end response. To complement this custom-designed low frequency driver, the elegant, magnetically shielded enclosure incorporates a front-firing port, which helps deliver clean, accurate bass. While rear-firing ports can throw low-end frequencies into walls and corners, creating an imprecise image, front-firing ports ensure clear bass response for a mix without coloration, even at high SPLs.
Power and control: your room, your rules
To reduce distortion, the monitor features a 175-watt high efficiency class D amplifier. And because mixing environments vary from one room to another – a large professional studio, a mid-size project studio, a small bedroom, a spacious basement – the SR-10SUB provides controls for volume and crossover frequency. The crossover frequency can be adjusted from 40Hz to 180Hz, allowing you to designate which frequencies are sent to your sub and which are sent to your main satellite speakers. This ability to adjust your calibrations to fit your needs and your setting is both easy and extremely useful.
Style meets substance
For flexible connectivity, the SR-10SUB provides XLR and TRS connectors, along with output jacks for connecting the sub to your full-range speakers. A frequency response between 35Hz and 200Hz also guarantees accurate, well-balanced audio with true sonic clarity. And when it comes to looks, this sleek, black sub with its red woven woofer offers a stylish complement to your mixing space.
SA Distributor: Audiosure
Pioneer DJ presents the RMX-1000: All the potential of software with the hands-on usability of pro-DJ hardware
Pioneer is setting a new benchmark in pro-DJ equipment, with the awe-inspiring RMX-1000 remix station. Taking a totally new direction to effectors and samplers, the RMX-1000 is a three-in-one system comprising editing software, innovative performance hardware and VST and AU plug-ins.
Technological innovation is in Pioneer’s DNA. So only we could produce a remix station that not only manipulates the input sound, but also lets DJs produce new beats and sounds and trigger personalised samples on the fly. And, thanks to our Quantize function, they’ll always be in time with their sets.
The RMX-1000 serves up all the possibilities of studio effects and beatboxes, with the added physicality of pro-DJ equipment. Intuitive performance interfaces from Pioneer’s flagship mixers and effectors – such as the DJM-2000’s Isolator FX, the DJM-900nexus’s X-Pad and the EFX-1000’s multiple FX chaining – have been evolved and brought together into one unit.
Simplifying these concepts even further, the RMX-1000 uses intuitive DJ controls to manipulate several parameters in macro. Each effect has been designed to work in a totally unique way with the interface, for results previously only possible with hours of studio automation or robot-like performance skills.
While the unit is incredibly simple to operate, DJs can still create a totally unique sound with Pioneer’s remixbox™ editing software. remixbox allows DJs to completely customise the RMX-1000 hardware to their own performance style and load it up with their own banks of samples.
And, by saving their settings to an SD card, DJs can effectively take their own personalised DJ rig with them wherever they perform. Plus, Pioneer plans to upload internationally renowned DJs’ settings and samples to its website so DJs can give themselves a head start.
Using the RMX-1000 as a USB controller for the, included, RMX-1000 VST and AU plug-ins gives DJs the same hands-on feel they get with studio DJ mixes, saving them from hours of editing and breathing new life into studio productions.
The RMX-1000 will be available from May 2012 at a SRP of 599 GBP/699 EUR, including VAT.
Key features of the RMX-1000
1. Club quality and fully customisable remix station unit
The ultimate multi-use unit, the RMX-1000 can be used with mixers, CDJs and laptops in the booth, or with a PC in the studio for recording and producing.
With fully customisable settings, the RMX-1000 offers the kind of flexibility never before seen in hardware. The control parameters can be completely modified using the remixbox software included.
The hardware offers three ways to access settings. Default activates Pioneer’s intuitive factory settings. And User settings can be stored on the unit, or on an SD card to be taken along to the booth – DJs simply plug their SD card in to get immediate access to their personalised controls. And Pioneer plans to make settings from internationally renowned DJs such as Chuckie, Kissy Sell Out, Kutski, James Zabiela, Doorly and Laidback Luke available for DJs to download.
SA Distributor
The unit’s user-friendly, intuitive controls are divided into four categories:
Scene FX
- The Scene FX wheel allows DJs to build up and break down tracks by combining ten types of effects.
- Use the top section to build up, adding effects like Noise, Echo and Spiral Up and the bottom section to break down, cutting sounds with effects like Crush Echo, Spiral Down and Reverb Down.
- Twist the central knob to move from Wet to Dry to add pitch and intensity to the effect that’s in play.
- Plus, two sub-parameter dials allow DJs to manipulate the Time and Resonance parameters for even more character.
Isolator FX
- Inherited from Pioneer’s high-end DJM-1000 mixer, the RMX-1000’s isolators allow DJs to change the main audio input’s rhythm and timbre using hi-, mid- and low-frequency bands.
- Plus, three effects are loaded into the dials for even more flexibility: Cut/Add, Trans/Roll and Gate/Drive.
X-Pad – with exclusive Pitch control
- DJs will be itching to get their fingers on the RMX-1000’s intuitive X-Pad. Evolved from Pioneer’s flagship mixer, the DJM-900nexus, the touch-sensitive X-Pad reaches new levels of ingenuity on the RMX-1000.
- DJs can instantly get involved with the unit’s drum samples by tapping the individual sample buttons (Kick, Snare, Clap and Hi-Hat), or by using the X-Pad to roll (repeat) the samples at different speeds.
- DJs can record their own beats and patterns on the fly by switching on Overdub, then use Roll and Mute to manipulate each sample in a variety of impressive combinations.
- The Quantize button snaps each tap of the sample pads to the nearest beat, so DJs always sound on time.
- And for truly unique performances, DJs can add up to 16 samples across the four sample banks, which they can instantly trigger and manipulate during live performance.
- For unprecedented flexibility on the fly, DJs can edit the sample banks through remixbox and even alter them during play.
- And, as if that wasn’t enough, the RMX-1000’s exclusive Pitch knob alters the pitch to add even more character to each repeated beat.
Release FX
- The DJ’s get-out-of-jail-free card, the Release FX allows DJs to elegantly and seamlessly exit complex effect combinations and return to the original track.
- Three modes with three customisable speeds – Spin Back, Echo and Break – allow DJs to choose exactly how they want to return to normal play.
- For even more flexibility, DJs don’t have to exit totally from the engaged effect; they can come partially out and go back in by manipulating the highly sensitive Release switch. Or they can cut the original track out completely so just the engaged effects are heard.
2. Fully customisable with specially designed remixboxsoftware
Designed by Pioneer exclusively for the RMX-1000, the remixboxsoftware allows DJs to prepare mind-blowing sets – while the hardware leaves plenty of room for spontaneity on the night.
And DJs can use the software to modify the unit’s features and change its parameters for a truly personalised DJing experience. By hovering their mouse over the remixbox’s virtual RMX-1000, DJs can edit features, change parameters or adjust effects on the hardware itself.
3. First DJ-dedicated controller for Virtual Studio Technology/Audio Units
As the first VST/AU controller dedicated to the DJ industry, the RMX-1000 brings the operability of hardware into the recording studio.
By just plugging the unit into a laptop, DJs and producers can use the RMX-1000’s dedicated controls to manipulate the VST/AU’s exciting features.
There’s no need to fiddle around with the mouse and keyboard: just hit a button, twist a dial, or turn a knob – the RMX-1000 literally puts every effect right at producers’ fingertips.
4. Other features
- High-quality sound design reduces noise for clear and pristine sound.
- The Quantize function can be applied at any stage during play or production for real-time music analysis and automatic synchronisation of the beat.
- NEW Auto BPM function automatically measures and follows the tempo of the music.
- USB-MIDI connection means the RMX-1000 can be used as a MIDI controller.
- Compact and sleek design makes the RMX-1000 highly portable – and it looks good as part of any DJ set-up.
Main specifications – RMX-1000
Inputs
RCA x 1
6.3 mm jack x 1
Outputs
RCA x 1
6.3 mm jack x 1
Other ports
USB B port x 1
Sampling rate
48 kHz
A/D and D/A converter
24 bit
Frequency response
20 Hz – 20 kHz
Total harmonic distortion
Max. 0.005%
S/N ratio
102 dB
Head room
20 dB
Software
remixboxTM, RMX-1000 Plug-in
External dimensions
(W x D x H)
334 x 157 x 57 mm
Mass
1.3 kg
SA Distributor: Pro-Audio
Native Instruments Announces TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 and TRAKTOR PRO 2.5
New hardware controller with multi-colored LED pads to access the new Remix DecksTM in TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 software
Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL F1, a pad-based, USB-powered hardware controller built to control the advanced Remix DecksTM in the included TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 software. TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 provides 16 multi-colored, touch-sensitive LED pads, an advanced global control section as well as an ergonomic mixer section including four volume faders and dedicated filter knobs. Designed specifically for DJing, the KONTROL F1 offers a DJ-centric workflow for launching clips in an intuitive way, allowing users to switch between up to 64 tracks, loops and one-shot samples on each deck.
TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 includes the full version of the TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 software, also available as a free update to all users of the TRAKTOR 2 generation. Version 2.5 introduces the innovative Remix DecksTM, giving access to a powerful loop suite made up of 64 slots, each able to hold loops, one-shot samples or even tracks. DJs can control up to four Remix Decks at once and save their work as an entire Remix Set with its respective beat grids, BPM and key information in a new file format that can be comfortably imported into a track deck via TRAKTOR’s browser.
TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 was designed specifically to control the Remix DecksTM and provides full and tactile control over the new feature, benefiting from seamless bi-directional software-hardware integration and offering full visual feedback through the multi-colored LED pads. Advanced parameters such as Punch mode and FX assignment can also be comfortably changed from the KONTROL F1 and four smaller pads at the bottom of the matrix stop or mute a group of samples. Controlling Sync, Quantize, Sample Size, Reverse and other functionality, the comprehensive global section also features a push encoder to switch through the four pages of the 16 pads and offers a ‘Capture’ button, which allows DJs to grab samples from running tracks of each track deck within the TRAKTOR software, both before and during the actual DJ performance.
Each regular track deck within TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 can be switched to a Remix Deck, thus offering dedicated transport, sync and tempo master controls. This allows DJs to control an entire Remix Deck via Native Scratch timecode control with vinyl or CDs, or using the jog wheels of the KONTROL S4 and KONTROL S2 hardware.
TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 was designed to integrate perfectly into any TRAKTOR DJ setup. With the same form-factor as TRAKTOR KONTROL X1, KONTROL F1 fits neatly alongside standard DJ mixers and the all-in- one DJ systems TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and S2. The TRAKTOR Bag provides reliable protection for the KONTROL F1 during transport, and also doubles as a solid stand, elevating the KONTROL F1 to standard mixer and turntable height.
Pioneer Steez – Portable Speakers on the run
We all remember the old boombox era; well it looks like Pioneer have given the concept a new very innovative twist with a new range of portable speakers called the Steez. They have been put together with the dance crews in mind, to be a portable performance speaker that can be customized for your crew or dance competition. The range currently has three sizes out, all fitted with inputs for iPods and iPhones, USB, microphone and a mini-headphone jack input to cater for the huge variety of music storage out there.
But no worries if you don’t have tunes on you, the Steez comes with built in music libraries covering most of the dance styles out there. There are multiple modes of use including a DJ Mix mode which will mix the songs for you, to the Auto Battle mode which can be set to run off a playlist for specific times with countdowns in between to let the crews change up. You can set up your own playlists and adjust the tempo of the music playing so this is an ideal piece of kit for dance crews, fitness trainers, or gyms that need a sound system and way of timing your routines or workouts. All of the models in the range come with remote controls and power transformers to make things a little easier or you can take to the streets and use batteries to keep that party or battle going.
SA Distributor: Proaudio |011-8221430|
Numark – iDJ Pro
Premium DJ Controller for iPad
Deck out your iPad for some serious mixing. iDJ Pro from Numark is a professional DJ controller that expands your iPad’s touch interface, seamlessly integrating with Algoriddim’s djay for iPad app to form a completely new DJ experience. iDJ Pro features a sleek, brushed aluminium casing and is equipped with all the professional controls you expect, plus some design features and capabilities that will inspire brand-new surges of creativity.
Combining the industry-leading design of Numark DJ controllers with the power of your iPad and Algoriddim’s djay app, iDJ Pro puts a 30-pin dock for iPad at the centre of its traditional dual-platter setup, giving you access to your iPad’s touch-screen alongside an expanded layout of physical controls: touch-sensitive platters, large die-cast aluminium volume knobs, a dedicated music-library scroll knob, plus hot cues, looping, pitch and effect controls. Once your iPad is docked, a latching door provides total, seamless integration, giving you an intuitive, flexible and powerful DJ system.
Thanks to your iPad’s wireless capability, you’ll have access to virtually any song instantly. iDJ Pro empowers you with access to the cloud, allowing you to download tracks and have them pumping in seconds. iDJ Pro is fully integrated with Algoriddim’s popular djay for iPad app and can work with other Core MIDI-enabled apps. It’s also AirPlay compatible, giving you the flexibility to blast your set wirelessly through AirPlay speakers. iDJ Pro comes ready to party with professional microphone and external device inputs as well as balanced XLR master outputs.
SA Distributor: Viva Afrika | (011) 2503280| www.numark.com
Ohm RGB by Livid Instruments
The OhmRGB is a totally customizable, interactive MIDI instrument, designed to give you hands-on control for your performance. High-quality sliders, knobs buttons, expansion jacks, and multicolour LEDs provide the interface for creative expression, whether you’re mixing samples and synths or DJ’ing a cutting-edge set. Constructed with anodized aluminium and hand-finished wood, the quality is felt down to your fingertips. All controllers are hand crafted and assembled for artists by artists at the Austin, Texas shop.
Adaptable
The OhmRGB is designed as an adaptable instrument and can be used for music, dj’ing, visuals, lighting, and presentations, in the studio or on the stage. The bi-directional communication keeps the controller in touch with the software, and keeps you focused on your performance. Completely reprogrammable MIDI settings let you set up the controller for any situation. Scripts and templates are available for many popular software titles like Ableton Live, Propellerhead’s Reason and Record, Traktor, Arkaos, Cuelux, and many more for total plug-and-play performance.
SA Distributor: Benjamin Studios | +27 76 984 6691 |
Robert Juliat: Aledin – 330LF LED 85W
With its high output LED, its 200 mm Fresnel lens and its great beam quality, this fixture gives a very powerful wash effect.
Economical, the 330LF extends colour media life due to its low heat output, and requires fewer maintenance calls thanks to its extra-long-life LED. It is particularly appreciated for its electronic flicker-free dimmable PSU. The versatility offered by the choice of two colour temperatures (3500K or 5800K) makes the 330LF perfect for studios, theatres, and events, as well as architectural applications.
- Very low power consumption
- Significant savings on the running costs
- Ideal for venues and events with limited power
- Extra long LED life
- Fewer maintenance calls
- Great for inaccessible areas
- Perfect for long duration operations
- Low heat output
- Very long lasting gel filters
- Accessories and spare parts virtually indestructible
- Less expenditure on air-conditioning
- Built-in dimmer
- No need for costly installation and cabling
- Constant colour temperature when dimming
- Flicker-free ideal for camera and studio work
- Environmental protection
- Low heat, low energy and no UV / IR emissions mean:
- Protection for the public; even when close to the audience
- Protection for sensitive objects: works of art, museum exhibits and old theatre decor
- Less demanding on the environment
Elite QuickStand Staging Screen
Portable Presentation Screen for ProAVStrong, lightweight and portable folding aluminium fixed-frame screen for multi-media conference/classroom presentations Standard CineWhite (Gain 1.1) screen material with black backing and drape kit Optional 2.2 Gain WraithVeil (rear-projection) – material sold separatelySealed edge detachable frame design with material snap button attachments and corner pull strapsEasy setup and teardown design with no tools requiredAdjustable frame height can be raised or lowered at 8″ increments for various presentationsDurable aluminium travelling case is wheeled for easy transport, storage, and shipping for tradeshows and travelling presentations150″ and above models come with AT legs for additional supportAvailable in 72″ – 250″ diagonal sizes in 4:3 & 16:9 aspect ratio2-year manufacturer parts and labour warranty, 3-year warranty for GEMR (Government, Education, Military and Religious)
SA Distributor: Electrosonic | Tel: 011 770 9800 |
Updates for Reason and ReCycle
The good people at Propellerheads have been busy working on Reason and ReCycle to make them better for you. Recently, they’ve released updates for both. Reason 6.0.2 fixes a couple of bug reports and performance issues. It is recommended for all users of Reason 6. You can download it from their website.
Please note, if you store your ReFills in the Reason program folder (not recommended), you’ll want to back them up or move them prior to upgrading.
ReCycle 2.2.1 sports an all new interface, 64bit support, Mac OS X Lion support, and a couple extra bonus features like Rex files created in 2.2.1 will now contain tempo meta data for use with Reason’s time stretch feature.
SA Distributor: Tuerk Music
Melodyne Awarded Technical Grammy
At this year’s 54th annual Grammy Awards, the nod for Technical Grammy goes to Celemony’s Melodyne editing software.
Since its release more than a decade ago, Melodyne, has become an invaluable tool for studio professionals, gaining recognition as one of the most powerful and unique audio editors available. And PreSonus Studio One software is the only digital audio workstation software to fully and seamlessly integrate Melodyne into the program.
Producer and songwriter A.R. Rahman has called Melodyne a milestone in audio processing, saying, “Melodyne has completely changed how I record music. With Melodyne one can seamlessly correct out-of-tune notes in a piano track, change the chords in a harmonic accompaniment after it’s been recorded, or manipulate the timing within notes. The creation of music is enriched by this technology.”
PreSonus Studio One integrates Melodyne so tightly that it becomes essentially part of the program. Melodyne’s editing window opens within Studio One, and edits created in Melodyne can be immediately auditioned within Studio One, without cumbersome porting of files between the two programs.
“PreSonus has long recognized the unparalleled power Melodyne brings to audio editing, and we knew early on that integrating it into Studio One was a big part of creating the next generation of DAW software,” said Jim Odom, PreSonus co-founder, President and Chief Strategy Officer. “We’re truly excited that the Recording Academy has recognized Celemony with this tremendous award, and we’re proud to be associated with such an innovative team.”
SA Distributor: Tuerk Technologies
PreSonus Announces Monitor Mix Control via iPhone/iPod touch
Up to 10 musicians can simultaneously control their StudioLive monitor mixes using an iPhone® or iPod touch® and PreSonus’ free QMix™ app. QMix builds on PreSonus’ original Virtual StudioLive (VSL), which provides bidirectional computer control of PreSonus StudioLive™-series mixers via FireWire. Next came StudioLive Remote for iPad®, which provides wireless control of StudioLive mixers.
“SL Remote is very useful for the front-of-house engineer but it’s overkill for onstage performers, and the cost of iPads can add up. That’s why we created QMix,” noted PreSonus Chief Technology Officer Bob Tudor. “The iPhone and iPod touch offer enough screen real estate to comfortably manage an aux mix, yet are relatively inexpensive and ultra-portable. QMix is designed for musicians and can be used in parallel with an engineer running StudioLive Remote from an iPad.”
QMix works by networking one or more iPhones wirelessly with a Mac® or PC, enabling QMix to remotely access Virtual StudioLive to control one or more FireWire-connected StudioLive mixers. As each iPhone connects to the network, its copy of QMix will discover all StudioLive mixers on the network, enabling each musician to quickly and easily create an aux mix that includes all mixer channels. And QMix lets the engineer set permissions so that each iPhone on the network only controls a specified mix.
QMix will be a free download from the Apple App Store and is expected to be available in January 2012.
SA Distributor: Tuerk Technologies
PreSonus Ships BlueTube DP V2 and TubePre V2 Tube Preamps
Enjoy solid-state clarity or tube warmth with the BlueTube DP V2 dual-path mic/instrument preamp. The solid-state path feeds PreSonus’ Class A XMAX™ mic preamplifier with 80 dB of variable gain-an upgrade from the original BlueTube DP. The tube path features a 12AX7 tube that operates on voltages double that of other preamplifiers in its class, producing lots of headroom and big tone. The Tube Drive enables you to achieve anything from gentle warmth to edgy distortion. You also get 48V phantom power, an 80 Hz high-pass filter, -20 dB pad, and polarity reverse.
With two combo mic/instrument inputs, the half-rackspace BlueTube DP V2 is a great choice for guitars as well as vocals. Singer-songwriters can run their vocal through one channel and their guitar through the other, feeding both to the P.A.-no guitar amp needed. It also serves as a DI box, thanks to balanced XLR and unbalanced ¼” outputs, and is housed in a new, rugged, 1/2U case. Try the BlueTube DP V2 as a front end for a DAW, too. The BlueTube DP V2 is available immediately.
The single-channel TubePre V2 tube preamp is an affordable way to add high quality tube warmth and character to your sound. This new version provides an even wider palette of sound options, and a much more focused tube saturation, than the original TubePre. It has been upgraded to employ PreSonus’ popular XMAX Class A solid-state preamp, which is followed in the signal path by a 12AX7 vacuum-tube stage with Tube Drive tube-saturation control.
Housed in a rugged, 1/3-rackspace case, the TubePre V2 rear panel sports separate unbalanced, ¼” instrument and balanced, XLR mic inputs and unbalanced ¼” and balanced XLR line outputs. The front panel offers controls for gain, 48V phantom power, 80 Hz high-pass filter, and polarity-reverse, as well as a mic/instrument input switch. A lighted VU meter and a clip LED help you keep an eye on your levels. The TubePre V2 is available immediately.
The Music Business Master-class
Places are still available in the Music Business Master-Class as advertised last year. The Academy of Sound Engineering, in conjunction with David Chislett and Nick Matzukis, are proud to present the Music Business Master-class (MBM): the one-stop business course for the modern musician trying to make it in the new music industry.
The industry is abuzz with talk of how the music business has changed, how no-one needs a record deal anymore, and how easy it is to do everything yourself as an independent. The problem is however, that there is not enough information readily available for average South African musicians to empower themselves to take advantage of the situation. That is all set to change.
Many course and ideas have surfaced, but the MBM is the one where you can find out everything in one place, taught by two highly-respected industry personalities in a professional music environment.
Presented by Nick Matzukis and David Chislett, under the auspices of the Academy of Sound Engineering, the MBM is a two-month skills programme that covers everything from contracts and contract law, to marketing and the use of the digital arena. It is the only truly comprehensive course available that will empower musicians and managers of any level to seize control of their careers by understanding the business and then being able to take advantage of the new business terrain in the music industry. This course, pitched at the highest level, is designed to teach you everything you need to know about making money out of the music industry.
The programme covers:
Getting started: thinking about your music
Artist agreements: steering your project
Income streams
Planning for Success
Marketing start
The digital arena marketing, reach
Business Models
Industry overview key players (SA and internationals)
Royalties
Contractual Principles
The Record Deal and its variants
The Publishing Contract and its variants
The Artist Management Agreement and its variants: Copyright
With a one-off introductory offer of R5 950.00, the MBM is now available.
The programme takes place 2 nights a week for 2 months at the ASE campus in Auckland Park from MARCH 2012. The course fee includes tuition, some working materials, a copy of Nick Matzukis’ Book “South African Music Law And Contracts“ and a copy of David Chislett’s Book “1,2,1,2: A Step By Step Guide To The SA Music Industry.”
The first programme kicks off in MARCH 2012 and registration is open NOW
For more information or to book your place contact: (011) 482-9200 or georgej@ase.co.za
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