Carvin proudly introduces the new BR615 Bass Combo. Featuring a powerful amplifier, advanced equalization, a 15-inch low frequency driver, a Titanium high frequency driver, an XLR direct output, and numerous additional features integrated into a Duratuff™-covered enclosure with retractable handles, the BR615 Bass Combo is the perfect solution for gigging or studio bassists in search of compact, powerful, all-in-one system.

The BR615 maintains the compact form factor of its BR Series siblings, yet its powerful amplifier combined with a 15-inch low frequency driver for deep, rich bass and a Titanium high frequency driver makes this a remarkably robust setup. With a rugged Duratuff-covered enclosure that hides the wear and tear of the road, this amplifier also features a tilt-back design that puts the bass right where it’s wanted. When the gig is over, the retractable handles make moving the amp quick and easy. To protect the transducers, a 16-guage, perforated steel grille is supplied.

The new BR615 Bass Combo’s BX600 mono block bass head features discrete Class A circuitry, a contour control, a single knob compressor, and a front-mounted XLR direct output. With 600 watts of power at 2 ohms, the BR615 has plenty of muscle for those musical applications where high output levels are a must to get the job done. The system also incorporates a heavy-duty crossover featuring a 6-position attenuator for precision settings at 0, -3, -6, -12, -24, and OFF. The BR615’s sealed crossovers and connector plates prevent air leakage and make for a rugged amp that will withstand years of road use.

For shaping the sound exactly to one’s liking, the BR615 Bass Combo features parametric EQ with mid sweep and a 9-band graphic equalizer coupled with a Graphic EQ In/Out switch. This versatile amp also provides Active/Passive switching, and the switches feature active electronics for clean, precise control and greater reliability. To warm the sound up, the front panel Drive control can push the Class A preamps to a warm growl—providing the ultimate in tonal diversity. There is also a Master control for the preamp.

The new Carvin BR615 Bass Combo is sold factory direct at $599.99. The BR615 will be available Fall 2006.

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

Posted in Amplification, Bass

Attendees will walk out with a fully functional, Egnater-modified JTM45 Marshall head from Mojo Musical Supply.

On Saturday, October 14, 2006, Egnater is offering a One Day Amp Build Seminar. The classes are held at Egnater World Headquarters in beautiful Berkley, Michigan located just North of Detroit (Rock City).

When you sign up for the class, you are also purchasing an amplifier kit. These high quality kits are supplied by Mojo Music and use the JTM45 head model. Egnater then modifies the stock kit into a “hotrodded” version for you to build.

The modifications take the stock 4-input, 2-channel amp and turn it into a JCM800 master volume model on steroids. You get more gain, smoother tone and more punch than a stock JCM800.

Each participant has his/her own work station for the day. Instuctors will walk you through the process of building your amp kit, one step at a time. Failure isn’t an option, as you will be guided by professionals each step of the way. You are guaranteed to walk out at the end of the day with a great sounding amp head that you built with your own hands.

No electronic knowledge is necessary, though it doesn’t hurt to have some. You should also be somewhat proficient at using basic hand tools (screwdrivers, nutdrivers, pliers etc).

Email begnater@aol.com for an information package on the seminar.

Amp Loung/Egnater
3833 West 12 Mile Road
Berkley, MI 48072
248-541-9100

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

Posted in Amplification, Education, Events, Guitar, News

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

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

SM Pro Audio’s super compact “Nano” series products are now available. The XP200 phone preamplifier, XPH4 multi-channel (4) headphone amplifier, and XPM1 microphone preamplifier are now available through all reseller channels.

The new Nano series products have been designed as highly affordable compact audio solutions for use by home and professional audio enthusiasts alike. With excellent technical properties, robust steel contruction, and simply operational feature sets, the Nano series pack a serious punch without putting a hole in the wallet.

XP200 – Phono Preamplifier:
The XP200 is a portable stand-alone phono preamplifier designed to convert any turntables audio output to a suitable line level signal for recording or playback. With an adjustable preamplifier gain control and perfectly designed RIAA EQ, the XP200 is one of the only phono preamlifiers on the market that can accept both moving coil (MC) and moving magnet (MM) cartridges. The adjustable gain allows for both low and hot input signals! Taking its power from either a 9V battery or DC adaptor, the XP200 is immediatley ready for use in any situation.

• Input/ Output Connectors: RCA
• Input Sensitivity: 55 dBV gain @ 1kHz, 47k Ohms Input Z (with Gain control)
• Input Capacitance: 5pf + cable capacitance
• Input Impedance: 50k Ohms
• Output Impedance: 1 K Ohms
• Max Output Level: +14dB @ 1kHz
• Frequency Response: + / – 1.5dB 20 Hz – 20 kHz (Conforms to RIAA Equalization Curve)
• S/N Ratio: >80 dB
• Power: 12VDC adapter or 9V battery
• Size: 88 X 54 X 38 mm

XPH4 – 4 channel headphone amplifier:
Conveniently powered from either battery or DC adaptor, and housed in a hardened steel chassis, this robust little tool features 4 high-powered independently controllable headphone amplifiers. A handy Stereo/Mono switch is also provided to for use when required.

• Input Connectors: stereo 3.5mm mini TRS and RCA
• Input Impedance: 100K unbalanced
• Max input level : + 22 dB
• Output connectors: 1/4″ stereo TRS phone
• Output impedance: Minimum10 ohms each output
• Max gain: 19dB/Channel
• S/N ratio: >98dB
• Power: 12-18V DC adapter
• Size: 88 X 54 X 38 mm

XPM1 – Microphone preamplifier:
The XPM1 is a compact battery/or DC powered microphone preamplifier offering 50dB of adjustable gain and phantom power. Designed for both project studio and field location recording environments, and boasting excellent technical specifications, the XPM1 is ideal for a wide variety of applications. With an extremely compact form factor, rugged steel chassis, and high quality components, the XPM1 is sure to provide years of trouble free operation under the most challenging conditioins.

The XPM1 features both XLR and TRS jack inputs on the front panel allowing for the connection of all types of microphones. The switchable 12V phantom power facilitates the powering of condenser microphones.

• Input Impedance: Mic-600 ohms / Line-10K ohms
• Input connectors: 1/4″ stereo TRS and XLR
• Max input level: +22 dB
• Max Gain: +50 dB
• Output impedance: 100 ohms
• Output connectors: 1/8″ stereo TRS and RCA
• Max output level: +14 dB
• Phantom Power: +12VDC
• S/N ratio: >105dB
• Frequency Response: +0/-1dB 20Hz-20 KHz
• Power: 12-18V DC adapter
• Size: 88 X 54 X 38 mm

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

Posted in Amplification, Recording, Technology

Guytron is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Guytron GT20 Amplifier System. The Guytron GT20 is a feature-rich guitar amplifier, based upon the Guytron GT100’s popular and patented preamp technology.

Designed to be a serious musician’s tool, the GT20 is perfectly at home anywhere from the studio to the most stringent of stage environments. Just like its bigger brother, the Guytron GT 100 F/V, the GT20 delivers the true feel and vibe of a cranked amp in pretty much any setting, and at any volume from 0 to 20 watts.

The GT20 features:

• Classic Vintage Styling with Versatile Modern Features
• Includes GT 100 F/V Channel Switching Pre-Amp with Gain, Tone, and Level Controls for Each Channel
• Introducing Post Phase Master Volume “Cut”
• Introducing all L.E.D. Back Lit Front & Back Control Panels
• Introducing the “All New” HLB Internal Sennheiser Microphone System
• Introducing New Anti-Beaming , HLB Baffle Design
• Includes Guytron Big Tone 12″ Speaker
• Effects Loops for Each Channel
• XLR Direct of Slave Out with Pad & Phase
• Two EL84 Class-A Output Stage with Modifier Switches:
  • Final Output Attenuator: 100%, 50%, 5%, and 0% = XLR Out Only
  • Focus Control: Deals with Clarity and Focus of Output Section
  • Slope Control: Controls High End Roll-Off Slope of Output Section
• Maximum Output: 20 Watts RMS
• Dimensions: Height = 20″, Width = 24″, Depth = 9″
• Total Weight: 46 lbs.
• Made in Troy, Michigan

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

Posted in Amplification, Guitar

Janus is a virtual bass amp for VST-compatible hosts. Using separate Contour- knobs for left and right channels, the user can create their own “mixdown” of the material or retain two separate channels to achieve unique, stereophonic bass-sounds. Janus works best on dry, stereo bass-tracks.

Main features:

• Dual Contour-controls for radical tone-shaping
• Master volume and treble settings
• “Deep” knob to boost ultra-low frequency content
• Soft- and Hard-preamp voicing options
• Reverb and cabinet resonance controls
• Includes 16 presets

A free demo version with limited functionality is available for download.

The full version of Janus costs $14 US.

For more information, visit their web site at www.zensoundcheck.com/audio.

Posted in Amplification, Bass, Computer, Microsoft PC, Software, Technology

Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell and vocal coach Renee Grant-Williams announced today the formation of Music City Community Chorus (MC3), a non-profit, broad-based volunteer performing chorus in Nashville. As the group’s conductor, Grant-Williams’ goal for the chorus is to give both professional and non-professional singers in Nashville a chance to participate in a community musical experience, building a bridge between the various genres of music that flourish within Nashville’s music community.

“I envision MC3 as the people’s chorus of Nashville,” says Grant-Williams. “There are so many talented people in this city that we don’t ever see and hear perform. This organization will provide them that opportunity.”

Mayor Bill Purcell feels, “Now, with the formation of the Music City Community Chorus we have additional opportunities for the local music community and citizens of Nashville to come together.”

The chorus will be open to anyone 18 years of age or older. Auditions will be structured to recruit not only those who are skilled at reading music, but those who are willing and able to acquire music skills. Grant-Williams is already holding auditions, which began August 2.

“I’m so excited about the news of the chorus, because Nashville is sorely lacking and needs to have a community chorus opportunity,” says singer/musician John Cowan. “The fact that the chorus will be in the hands of Renee Grant-Williams tells me it will be guided by a consummate professional who has the resources to guarantee excellence.”

It is Grant-Williams’ plan to have two performances per year. The Winter performance will follow rehearsals that take place September through December and the Spring performance will follow rehearsals that take place late January through May. Auditions will be held again in January.

The repertoire will be primarily, but not limited to, classical choral works in the tradition of the great composers. Whenever possible and appropriate, solo assignments will be extended to members of Nashville’s non-classical community. As dictated by programming and budget, all performances will be accompanied by the appropriate professional caliber instrumentalists.

Music City Community Chorus will include a scholarship program of four $850 voice scholarships for section leaders representing 10 private lessons to study with one of Grant-Williams’ associate teachers.

Grant-Williams established a similar program when she lived in San Francisco, where she was hired by the Community Music Center to form a city-wide broad-based community chorus. Very quickly, the San Francisco Community Chorus became a highly respected, highly disciplined performing choral ensemble of 200 dedicated enthusiasts that presented polished, sold-out performances.

MC3 will rehearse at Glencliff High School at 160 Antioch Pike. To arrange an audition, call 887-5599.

For more information, visit their web site at www.MusicCityCommunityChorus.org.

Posted in Amplification, Events, News

Star Amplifiers is the new Los Angeles home of Mark Sampson’s latest all tube, all Class A, hand wired guitar amplifier designs. The company has just begun shipping its all new Super Nova model to its many resellers. In addition to its Blues Star, Gain Star, Sirius Reverb, and Nova models, Star Amplifiers finally fills the gap with its new Super Nova.

This all new 15 watt amplifier with pan reverb boasts a single 12″ Vintage Celestion speaker in a reduced-size, lighter-weight cabinet.

Features:

• Single channel with HI or LO input
• Knobs: DRIVE 1, VOLUME, BASS, TREBLE, MASTER and REVERB
• 4×12AX7 Preamp with a 2×6V6 Power Amp section
• Point-to-point hand wiring in an all-pro chassis and cab

The Super Nova delivers over the edge smooth breakup to harmonics-sparkling studio clean.

Comments Mark Sampson, “With a growing trend to package a wide variety of possible tones with critical power reserve in a small and easy to carry cabinet, the new Super Nova totally fits the bill.”

MSRP $2929.00

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

Posted in Amplification, Guitar

Hoag Instruments introduces ELI (Extreme Low Impedance) magnetic guitar pickup technology. It is now possible to have the guitar string act as the pickup. A simple impedance matching mechanism is used to achieve this. The string is insulated from metal parts that will complete an electrical circuit with other strings. Also, the bridge and nut must be made of nonconducting materials. The metal frets are okay as long as they don’t complete an electrical circuit.

This is an extremely low impedance pickup and the resistance of other strings will be a hindrance. Each string is the pickup and forms a single loop of wire when connected to the input of a low to high-z transformer. A magnet is placed under the strings to energize them with a magnetic field. This is a divided pickup or could be made mono. The divided mode will allow each string to have its own EQ and effects. Also, it can be used with a MIDI connector package, permitting a guitar interface application.

Hoag Instruments is a research and development company in the field of optical guitar pickups and now ELI magnetic pickups. These technologies are available to instrument manufactures for their own application.

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

Posted in Amplification, Strings, Technology