TC Electronic is delighted to announce that its long anticipated audio interface, Konnekt 24D, is now available at EUR 470 retail ex. VAT. The 14 in 14 out (2 mic/inst/line, 2 line inputs and 4 line outputs, 8 ADAT and 2 S/PDIF (optical and coaxial) inputs and outputs) Konnekt 24D audio interface integrates TC’s world-renowned DSP effects in a state-of-the art design developed for recording and performing musicians seeking the highest possible sound quality from analog input through built-in real-time DSP effects to the hard disk.

In addition to front panel control of internal mixer parameters, Konnekt 24D features two front panel inputs that combine TC’s new IMPACT™ (Integrated Mic Preamp Circuit Technology) mic preamps with true Hi-Z input circuits optimized for guitar. Designed for use with active monitors and bundled with Cubase LE software, TC’s new audio interface allows users to start recording right out of the box.

Konnekt 24D’s intuitive user interface design allows users to focus on making music, not on tweaking, and with the Fabrik C channel strip and Fabrik R reverb, Konnekt 24D has the most essential music production tools covered.

Both Fabrik effects feature TC MINT™ technology facilitating complex audio adjustments simply by moving the MINT icons around the screen. The effects are designed to work even in stand-alone mode, a feature that allows users to easily plug, play and monitor without needing to power up the computer.

In addition, Konnekt 24D includes Assimilator Konnekt - an extremely powerful equalization tool that “learns” the frequency curve of one piece of audio so it can be applied to another audio file.

This native fingerprint equalizer, originally developed for PowerCore, has been customized for Konnekt 24D and is ideal for analyzing and copying EQ curves of individual instruments, voices or reference mixes. It truly excels when applied to align the frequency response of different tracks recorded at different times compiled to appear on the same album. Assimilator Konnekt is available as a free download.

Konnekt 8, a non-DSP version with less I/O available in fall 2006.

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

Posted in Audio, Recording

The Musicrow Group releases Crow Mix Pack, 23 processor ensembles for Native Instruments Reaktor-5.

Crow Gold Pack offers the NI Reaktor-5 user a massive collection of high quality ensembles for mixing, sound designing, and music making. The pack contains a variety of classic processor emulations along with fresh 21th century effects.

The following ensembles are available with Crow Mix Pack:

• Plate Reverb - Plate reverb emulator
• Drive - Multi-band distortion
• Tape Echo - Tape delay emulator
• Osmosis - Advanced filter
• Green Tape - Analog tape-recorder emulator
• Magician - Multi-tap delay
• Tube Compressor - Analog compressor emulator
• Vintage Chorus - Vintage chorus emulator
• White FX - Special granular effect
• Mood Filter - Analog filer emulator
• Ultra Chorus - Chorus effect
• Ultraverb - High-end reverb
• GrainD Lay - Granular-delay effect
• Space-Boy - Space-locating effect
• Electroverb - Sci-fi reverb
• Preamp - Preamp emulator
• Vocal Modeler - Extreme vocal effect
• Ultra Phaser - Analog phaser emulator
• Crow DX3 - Delay effect
• Tape Flanger - Tape flanger emulator
• Gold Delay - Special multi-delay
• Graphic Equalizer - Equalizer
• Crow Tremolo - Tremolo & auto gate

Crow Mix Pack is now available for $89.

For more information, visit their web site at www.mcrow.net.

Posted in Effects, Plug-Ins, Recording, Technology

Previously released as a VST Plug-In for 32 & 64-bit (x64) Windows, Surge is now available to Mac OS X users as well. Delivered as a Universal Binary for both the Audio Units and VST Plug-In architectures, the software synthesizer is compatible with the majority of host applications on both Intel and PowerPC-powered Macs (1GHz G4 or faster).

Combining analog-style & wavetable oscillators, configurable dual filters with a feedback-loop and massive modulation capabilities, Surge goes far beyond the capabilities of most fixed-architecture synths but still retain the directness of one. Along with a powerful effect section and the high sound quality Vember Audio is known to deliver make Surge an obvious candidate to fulfill you synthesis and sound-design needs.

Key updates in v1.2.0:

• Improved filter algorithms. Carefully crafted to provide dependable self-oscillation at high resonance settings and a musical sound
• Updated Graphical User Interface with a fresh new look
• A wider selection of preset patches (914)
• Mac OS X compatible (AU & VST, Universal Binary)

Available immediately, Surge v1.2.0 can be bought in the Vember Audio on-line shop for 120€ (+VAT for EU residents). The v1.2.0 update is free for registered users.

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

Posted in Audio, Computer, Plug-Ins, Recording, Software, Technology, VST

Blue Cat Audio has released a new version of the Digital Peak Meter Pro, a unique plug-in able to transform the audio signal to various types of controls.

New in V2.0:

• The plug-in is now 100% real time thanks to the MIDI output capability: generated envelopes can be used to control any MIDI hardware or software plug-in
• Advanced MIDI control with customizable parameters curve response and MIDI learn
• Skinnable user interface with Blue Cat’s Skinning language V1.2.1 support
• RMS envelope support
• new parameters for total control of the peak envelope detection
• Real time envelopes display
• All parameters can now be fine tuned thanks to a text-edit popup window that appears when double clicking on user interface widgets

A step by step tutorial is available to learn how to use the new advanced MIDI control features.

Pricing:
A special introductory price lets you get the Digital Peak Meter Pro for 27.3 EUR (USD $32.76) instead of 39 EUR (USD 46.80).
Upgrade from version 1.x is 12 EUR only (USD 14.40).

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

Posted in Computer, Plug-Ins, Recording, Technology, VST

Audiowarrior has released Master Songwriter® v1.0 for Reason, a complete 4GB sample workstation Reason Refill.

Everything you need is here to make complete songs for music demos, TV, Film, or any audio-visual project.

Acoustic drum kits, Electric drum kits, Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Analogue Synthesizers, Acoustic and Electric Pianos, Organs, Acoustic and Electric Basses, Sound Effects, Soundscapes, World Percussion, all from one easy-access DVD. Includes these Pro-SongTool Instruments:

• Acoustic Dreadnought Strummer Rythym/Lead with iStrum® MIDI patterns
• Elektrik Lead Guitar with alternating harmonics and Power Chords
• 30 Drum Kits Plus 12 World Percussion Instruments (All Maple and Birch)
• Axe-N-Skin DoubleBass Drums
• Reason Bass Rig (J-Bass-Slap Bass-Acoustic Upright-18 Synth Basses)
• Banghis Khan Vintage Ludwig®
• The Seven Deadly Synths (Pads, FX, Basses, Leads)
• The Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ (One Man Orchestra)
• Pianos & Organs (two Acoustic Grands, Rhodes, B3, Wurly Electric Piano)
• Vintage ‘63 Collector’s Silvertone® Electric Rythym/Lead Guitar with iStrum® MIDI patterns
• Bryan ‘Brain’ Mantia Drum Track Builder (extremely flexible and adaptable drum beat collection)
• Scott Rockenfield Drum Track Builder (extremely flexible and adaptable drum beat collection)

ReWire Master Songwriter® into Pro Tools® and Cubase® via Reason®.
Requires Reason® 2.5 or 3.0 For Mac OS X and Windows XP

AW Customers who have purchased one or more AW titles since Jan 1st, 2006 are eligible to upgrade to Master Songwriter® for the difference of their original purchase.

DVD or Download from the AW Online Shop: list $199.

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

Posted in Audio, Computer, Recording, Software, Technology

Reason is a complete virtual studio, a powerful application with endless creative possibilities — assuming you know how to use it. Indeed, the key to producing and composing in Reason is learning how to master the tools available to you in its MIDI sequencer. MIDI Sequencing in Reason: Skill Pack by Steve Nalepa is your guide to unlocking the power and creative freedom available in this dynamic program.

A key part of MIDI Sequencing in Reason: Skill Pack is the CD-ROM included with this book. It’s full of sample content and examples that you will use to build a song and, in the process, learn all the MIDI-sequencing intricacies of this dynamic and flexible software. Unlike other books with companion discs, the source files on every Skill Pack CD-ROM are an essential part of the book’s tutorials - they are not there as mere examples, but are the building blocks from which you’ll construct the projects. The result is a fully integrated learning experience.

This book/CD package will teach you how to use all the major features of Reason’s sequencer. Every available tool and function will be introduced and explained, with step-by-step exercises that illustrate the various ways to use them to enhance your productions.

Features

• Perfect for any musician, engineer, or music producer who uses Reason and wants to focus on MIDI sequencing within the application
• The book plus CD-Rom combination offers a unique learning experience for readers
• Learn a specific software skill and complete a project with step-by-step instructions from a pro, using the author’s source files on the accompanying CD-ROM
• Truly focused content allows the reader to hone a specific skill within the application

Table of Contents: MIDI and the Modern Sequencer
Sequencing in Reason
Inputting MIDI Into the Sequencer: Playing MIDI Notes
Inputting MIDI Into the Sequencer: Drawing in MIDI notes
Sequencing Beats in Reason
Editing MIDI Notes
Recording and Editing Velocity and Controller Data
Quantization

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

Posted in Computer, MIDI, Recording, Software, Technology

American ribbon microphone maker Crowley and Tripp are unveiling their new Recordist and Recordist Ensemble Stereo Kit at AES in San Francisco this October, adding a new voice to their established line of highest quality U.S. ribbon mics, and raising the bar for Blumlein ribbon recording.

The company’s newest ribbon microphone - The Recordist - is voiced for realistic reproduction of classical and jazz performances where a full-range, natural sound is desired. As with other Crowley and Tripp products, the Recordist’s high output, low noise design excels with location recording devices and digital audio interfaces, without the need for special high gain ribbon mic preamps. The Recordist is priced at $1,295 each, and comes with its own low diffraction rotary mount for exact placement, a durable Pelican™ case for location gigs, and a three-year warranty.

The Recordist Ensemble Stereo Kit fills the need for those who want to record in realistic Blumlein stereo, but need the tracking flexibility not offered by integrated stereo ribbon microphones. The Recordist Ensemble Stereo Kit consists of two matched Recordist microphones, extender bar, two low diffraction rotary mounts, and is offered at an introductory price of $1,995. Recordist mics come with a three-year warranty, a durable Pelican™ case and a stage-appropriate gunmetal gray finish.

In addition to the Recordist, Crowley and Tripp manufactures the Studio Vocalist, Soundstage Image, Proscenium, SPLx Custom, and Naked Eye ribbon microphones completely in the U.S. Each microphone is an original design carefully voiced for a variety of applications in recording studios and on location. See and hear the full line of highest output, lowest noise Crowley and Tripp microphones at booth #1431 at AES.

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

Posted in Microphones, Recording, Technology

Synthax Audio AG today announced that RME is shipping the little brother of the highly acclaimed Fireface 800 - the Fireface 400 - worldwide. Rather than simply being a compact version of its illustrious relative, the portable, fiery little Fireface 400 is a newly designed product whose flexibility, functionality and performance sets it apart from other devices and sets new standards among 19-inch half-rack products in much the same way as its bigger brother has in the full 19-inch category.

The Fireface 400 is the only device in its category to offer active jitter suppression, additional stand-alone functionality, direct device operation, professional quality I/Os, and an unsurpassed 648-channel matrix router. And, everything is operational up to 192 kHz. Included in the Fireface 400:

• Support for up to 192 kHz
• Two digitally controlled high-quality mic preamps
• Two balanced universal line/instrument inputs
• SteadyClock for maximum jitter suppression and clock refresh
• Simple stand-alone operation via display and rotary encoders
• TotalMix: 648-channel mixer with 42 bit internal resolution
• 54 level meters displaying peak and RMS, calculated in hardware
• Full mobility with reliable bus power support
• For use with Windows and on Mac

Thanks to the DSP-based mixers, all 18 input and playback channels can be routed and mixed to any of the 18 physical outputs. This makes the Fireface 400 an indispensable tool for monitoring, with up to 9 completely independent stereo sub-mixes possible. Copy/paste of routings, fader grouping and the unique matrix window represent just some of the other outstanding features. All mix functions can be remotely controlled via MIDI using any Mackie-compatible controller.

The 8 channels from the ADAT optical I/O can be used simultaneously with the analog channels. The coaxial SPDIF I/O is fully AES/EBU compatible (as always with RME) and can operate up to 192 kHz. The optical SPDIF, alternatively provided via the ADAT I/O, also operates up to 192kHz. Rounding off the Fireface 400’s feature set is a word clock in- and output (BNC), plus two low jitter, high-speed MIDI in/outs (using 5-pin DINs), culminating in a versatile, user-friendly product of the highest quality.

The Fireface 400 retails at €899 and US $1199.

For more information, visit their web site at www.rme-audio.com.

Posted in Audio, Computer, Recording, Technology

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

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