Stylin Basslines: Electric & Synth Edition is the first bass collection designed with Stylus RMX users in mind. With over 550 loops, this collection covers a wide range of styles and grooves using vintage, modern, fretless and electric upright basses, and vintage analog, modern analog and computer based synths.

As part of the BPM Flex Series™, any loop in the collection can be used at virtually any tempo without artificial stretching or unwanted audio artifacts!

Stylin Basslines also includes 150 new and original bass infused RMX multis to get you going when inspiration is coming slow.

Whether using Stylus RMX, Reason or any other REX2 player, Stylin Basslines is said to add “bump” to any track.

Specifications:

• Contains the Stylus RMX format with 130 suites and 566 bass grooves
• Contains 150 Stylus RMX multis, utilizing the Stylin Bassline loops and other Nine Volt Audio bonus guitar loops
• Contains a bonus section of 85 guitar loops from previous Nine Volt Audio releases.
• Contains a Reason Refill and a separate folder with the REX2 files. This allows the loops to be used in other programs that support the REX2 format
• As part of the BPM Flex Series™ loops in the REX2, Refill and Stylus RMX formats can be used at virtually any tempo without artificial stretching or unwanted audio artifacts. The tempo listed with each loop is more of a suggestion to the user, than a hard-and-fast rule
• All loop file names identify the musical key
• All loops were recorded at 24/96 resolution. As bass frequencies benefit little from high resolution recordings, we opted to dither them to 16/44.1 for the disc, which benefits the user by requiring less RAM per suite and faster load times while using Stylus RMX

Pricing and Availablity:

Stylin Basslines: Electric & Synth Edition is now available on DVD-ROM or as a download for $69.99 at www.NineVoltAudio.com.

For more information, visit their web site at www.NineVoltAudio.com.

Posted in Plug-Ins, Synth, Technology, VST

Allen & Heath has released a new software suite comprising new firmware and Mac configuration utility software for its mixer/controller, the Xone:3D. The updates include an improved interface for Mac users and greater MIDI functionality.

The updated utility software provides an interface – identical to the PC version – for users with Mac computers to set up and configure their 3D unit.

Key to the firmware release – v.1.10 – is the inclusion of a MIDI merge facility, which enables MIDI data from external devices to be combined with the MIDI data from the Xone:3D control surface and passed via USB to the software. The new firmware also includes full MIDI duplex, which enables MIDI data generated by the software to be sent back down the USB and out of the Xone:3D MIDI socket to an external device, such as a sequencer or sound generation module.

MIDI time clocks can now be generated either internally by the Xone:3D, or by an external device, with the 3D clock turned off. This is a great feature that enables multiple DJ set-ups to all synchronize to a common MIDI clock.

Further improvements include improved tolerance to USB clock jitter that in extreme cases could cause degradation of the soundcard audio output, smoother MIDI clock generation, and improved response of the encoders and jog wheels.

The Xone:3D is the amalgamation of a high performance 4 stereo channel DJ mixer, a top spec 8-channel USB soundcard, and a comprehensive MIDI control surface with 105 different controls that can be mapped to manipulate any music software.

The unique design offers DJs and producers an integrated performance workstation, providing all necessary control on one surface. This offers flexibility during live performance or production work when the user can introduce various clips and samples, sync them with other music sources via the USB soundcard, and build a unique set.

For more information, visit their web site at www.allen-heath.com.

Posted in Mixers

Blue Cat Audio has released a new version of its freeware Chorus and Stereo Chorus directX and VST plug-ins.

Main changes:

• Advanced MIDI control with customizable parameters, curve response, and MIDI learn
• Blue Cat’s Skinning Language V1.2.1 support
• Now supports one skin per preset and a global default skin: customize each instance of the plug-in in the same session
• All parameters can now be fine tuned thanks to a text-edit popup window that appears when double clicking on user interface widgets

Blue Cat also has a step by step tutorial available to learn how to use the new advanced MIDI control features.

For more information, visit their web site at www.bluecataudio.com.

Posted in Audio, Effects, Plug-Ins, Technology, VST

Line 6, Inc. announced today that GuitarPort XT is now shipping. The hardware and software bundle, which will include GearBox™ 2.0 software, is a powerful tool for guitarists seeking a no-hassle way to learn, play and record music. GuitarPort XT works with both PC and Mac computers, including the new Intel-based OS X machines.

GuitarPort XT delivers 18 classic and modern guitar amp models, 24 cab models, and 28 must-have studio and stompbox effects. Plus, included tools such as a chromatic tuner, hum reducer, metronome, and riff looper with half-speed playback ensure a great musical experience. “We’ve taken the studio standard digital modeling we perfected with POD XT, and our expertise in guitar-friendly user interfaces, and combined them into a computer-based product anyone can use and afford,” said Mark McCrite, Product Line Manager for POD & PC Products, Line 6.

With the optional GuitarPort Online™ membership, the musical possibilities of GuitarPort XT are almost limitless. Using an Internet connection, GuitarPort Online members can immerse themselves in a world of guitar tones, tracks and tablature. An incredible collection of loops, grooves, in-depth artist lessons, and original Line 6 songs are instantly available for jamming. The online library also features hundreds of the world’s greatest guitar songs. Ranging from blues to hardcore to modern rock and country, most tracks are available with and without guitar.

Recorded with the same painstaking detail as the original versions, users can learn their favorite songs by using the provided tablature, then “sit in” with a band like Double Trouble on Stevie Ray Vaughan tunes. GuitarPort Online members can even jam with the original master tracks from Jimi Hendrix exclusively remixed by original engineer Eddie Kramer. All lesson, cover, and master tracks are matched with perfectly dialed in amp, cab and effect tones for the ultimate in-studio experience that only Line 6 can offer.

GuitarPort XT (hardware/software package) – $139.99 MSRP, $99.99 Street Price

For more information, visit their web site at www.line6.com.

Posted in Amplification, Computer, Digital, Effects, Software, Technology

IPlayMusic enables students to easily incorporate active music making into their daily lives, with the ability to export lessons onto the iPod.

By combining audio, video, animation and interactive technologies, iPlayMusic’s beginner guitar lessons put the fun into learning guitar by teaching users to play actual songs by popular recording artists.

What’s more, iPlayMusic provides a less-expensive and time-sensitive alternative to traditional music study. There is no need to drive back and forth to lessons or purchase costly sheet music. There is no ramp up time as students can purchase their guitar, bring it home and immediately have fun playing songs.

For a sneak peak of iPlayMusic’s suite of music leaning products, visit the site at www.iplaymusic.com for free demos. The following products are currently available for children and adults:

Beginner Guitar Lessons Interactive DVD; Levels 1 and 2
Each lesson presents four on-screen panels that demonstrate a basic guitar skill or technique from different angles. To help beginners master a song or to enable a “karaoke-style” sing-along, a guitar, vocal or scrolling text sections can be easily added or removed.

Beginner Guitar Lessons Level 1 introduces the musician to guitar basics and musical styles. Guitar anatomy, chords, strumming patterns and transitions are demonstrated, as is an introduction to various musical styles, including rock, blues, country and more.

Level 2 presents the next step in content for players interested in mastering the guitar. They are introduced to riffs, licks and tricks that expand on the rock, blues and country styles initiated in Level 1. In addition, musicians are introduced to new styles like reggae and 12 bar-blues.

Beginning Guitar Lessons, Level 1 and 2 are available on www.iplaymusic.com, eBay and Amazon. Each is available for $24.95 as a DVD or for download.

Beginner Guitar Lessons Mac Software
iPlayMusic Beginner Guitar Lessons for the Mac takes advantage of iLife applications including GarageBand, iTunes and iWeb. Aspiring musicians have everything they need to learn guitar, play and sing popular songs and easily create their own performances, which can then be downloaded to iTunes to share with friends.

The software includes more than four hours of video, presented in 140 individual lessons featuring iPlayMusic’s multi-angle video learning method. Users can learn to play more than 25 popular songs made famous by artists like The Beatles and Eric Clapton. Song lessons include guitar chord videos, scrolling lyrics for sing-along, and tips on riffs, transitions, strumming and more.

Beginner Guitar Lessons for the Mac is available for $49.95 at www.iplaymusic.com and carried in select retail stores. A PC version of the product will be available this September.

Play Music Together Interactive DVD Video and Mac Software
Play Music Together, a new Mac software and DVD video product, help preschoolers develop their musical skills and encourages families to learn to play the guitar together.

The interactive learning product features scrolling chords and lyrics, close-ups of the left and right hands and looping features that enables children to learn songs by playing or singing along at their own pace. Capo the puppet models fun songs and activities, so youngsters develop an understanding and appreciation of musical elements including rhythm, tempo and pattern, while parents, teachers or caregivers play along and join in the fun. After just a few basic lessons, children can play and sing-along with six popular family songs including If You’re Happy and You Know It and The Wheels on the Bus.

Play Music Together for the Macintosh is available for $39.95. The video-only DVD version is sold separately for $24.95. The PC version of Play Music Together will be available in September.

For more information, visit their web site at www.iplaymusic.com.

Posted in Computer, Education, Music

Kustom Amplification proudly celebrates its 40th Anniversary with the introduction of two series of Limited Edition guitar amplifiers. Sporting cool racing-style stripes, the 40th Anniversary Coupe® Series consists of three models while the new ’66 DART™ takes Kustom’s popular 10-watt guitar amp platform and gives it a full-on “Tuck n’ Roll” visual treatment.

The 40th Anniversary Coupe Series amplifiers will be available in 1×12 (36-watt) and 2×12 (72-watt) combo amp formats as well as a 2×10, 36-watt version – a new configuration for the Coupe Series. In keeping with the Anniversary theme, only 40 of each model will be manufactured.

The padded Tuck n’ Roll panels of each Anniversary Coupe are crafted using the original Uniroyal® Naugahide material but with a bold racing stripe added and a special “1966 – 2006″ embroidered logo stitched directly onto the colored panel. Otherwise, each model is identical to the standard ’36 Coupe and ’72 Coupe designs, which are now being endorsed by professional players such as Tracii Guns, Roy Z, Rich Eckhardt (Toby Keith), Van Zant, Jeff Bates, and more. Anniversary Coupes will be shipped with a matching cover that also features the Kustom 40th Anniversary logo.

The ’66 DART is based on Kustom’s best-selling DART10FX, but now dressed up in either Red, Blue, Silver or Black Tuck n’ Roll. Each unit boasts a vintage Kustom logo, carrying handle, control knobs and grille cloth. The ’66 DART is a two-channel amplifier with Analog Reverb and Delay effects and a plywood baffle, which enhances the resonance and overall tonality of any guitar amplifier.

Although it’s a small amp, the ’66 DART offers full 3-Band EQ, a speaker output to drive an external cabinet, Line Out and Headphone jacks as well as a CD/Tape input. The ’66 DART amplifiers will be offered for a limited time only.

For more information, visit their web site at www.kustom.com.

Posted in Amplification, Guitar

Line 6, Inc. announced the latest version of their award-winning guitar recording software, RiffWorks Line 6 Edition Version 2. RiffWorks is available as a standalone software recording application for Line 6® USB enabled devices, and as part of the GuitarPort® RiffTracker™ hardware/software bundle. RiffWorks Version 2 is available for Mac® OS X Universal, as well as Windows® XP and includes RiffLink online collaboration for 60 days and RiffCaster instant podcasting technology.

Designed for guitarists, RiffWorks makes recording easy and fun. RiffWorks users can set the tempo and start recording simply by strumming their guitar. Seven real-time effects help create just the right mix, and the included InstantDrummer™ offers authentic drummer back-up recordings and the ability to dial in the right amount of intensity and variation without typical tedious drum-machine programming. Eight InstantDrummer sessions are included and 46 more are available from Sonoma Wire Works.

With integrated RiffLink technology, RiffWorks users will be able to jam together online with no technical challenges regardless of their platform (Windows® XP or Mac® OS X). RiffLink collaboration will allow multiple users to record and mix in a shared session in real-time or when they have time. After the 60-day free trial, for a nominal subscription fee, users can continue to enjoy all the robust features of RiffLink online collaboration.

RiffWorks Version 2 will offer one-click podcasting and webcasting. RiffCaster broadcasting service allows instant publishing via podcasts and webcasts at the press of a button — all with embedded Creative Commons licensing. “We’ve heard several killer songs produced by RiffWorks users who say it’s their first time ever recording. Many musicians post their first song on RiffCaster the same night they install RiffWorks,” says Doug Wright, President of Sonoma Wire Works. “And now with RiffLink they can collaborate with friends, too.”

RiffWorks Line 6 Edition works seamlessly with Line 6 products such as TonePort™, POD® xt, POD® xt Live, POD® xt Pro, and GuitarPort for Windows® and Mac® OS X. RiffWorks Version 2 is available as an add-on for Line 6 GuitarPort, TonePort, and PODxt customers for $99 and as a complete solution in a box with a GuitarPort in stores now for $265.99 MSRP. Any version of RiffWorks/GuitarPort RiffTracker purchased on or after February 1st, 2006 will be upgraded for free to RiffWorks Line 6 Edition Version 2.

For more information, visit their web site at www.line6.com.

Posted in Guitar, Recording, Software, Technology