Category Archives: Speakers

Avid Announces New M-Audio ultra portable Keystation Mini 32 Keyboard Controller and hot new look, sound for BX D2 Studio Monitors

Posted on August 22, 2011 by Planet-Musician

Introduces 32-key mini controller, delivering ultimate portable playability.
Advances best-selling M-Audio BX monitor line with new look, improved sound.

Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced the availability of the new M-Audio® Keystation Mini 32 ultra-portable keyboard controller, as well as the
M-Audio BX D2 studio monitor series—the next generation of the best-selling BX Deluxe family. These new offerings extend Avid’s commitment to deliver best-in-class quality, performance, and value to mobile musicians, producers, and video editors.

The Keystation Mini 32 is a 32-note, USB bus-powered keyboard controller designed for musicians on the go. Small enough to fit in a backpack, this ultra-portable controller delivers unmatched playability in its class, with features including:

  • 32 low-profile mini-keys, enabling musicians to play two-handed parts
  • Highly musical velocity curves, allowing keyboard sensitivity customization to individual playing styles
  • 4 assignable controls, including a knob, providing real-time control of DAW and virtual instrument functions
  • USB bus-powered, plug-and-play connectivity including iPad compatibility (iPad Camera Connection Kit required; check specific apps to verify MIDI support)

The BX D2 series monitors—comprised of the BX8 D2 and BX5 D2 models— flaunt a new look,and improved sound. These models from the best-selling line deliver a listening experience that’s true to the source, helping musicians, producers, and video editors create mixes that translate well across listening systems. Plus they look great. Along with the exceptional accuracy and sonic definition that studio and post-production professionals demand, the BX D2 series features:

  • Technology leveraged from high-end M-Audio monitors, providing enhanced acoustic performance, especially in the low-frequency range
  • Kevlar low-frequency drivers and waveguide-loaded silk dome tweeters, providing rich, defined bass and smooth, clear highs
  • The BX8 D2 features an 8” woofer and 130 watts of distributed power and the BX5 D2 is equipped with a 5” woofer and features 70 watts of distributed power, delivering cohesive, accurate sound
  • Optimized rear port, providing extended low-frequency response

“The M-Audio brand is leading the way in the mobile studio revolution,” said Tanguy Leborgne, Avid vice president of consumer products and solutions “Now, the new Keystation Mini 32 pushes the category further than ever before—giving on-the-go musicians a way to create great music and effects through an ultra-playable, ultra-portable design. In addition, the updated BX5 D2 and BX8 D2 monitors extend our best-selling studio monitor legacy, delivering the look and performance musicians and video editors demand.”

Availability and Pricing

Keystation Mini 32 is available from September in EMEA for £54.99 GBP / €63 EUR.
The BX5 D2 and BX8 D2 are available in EMEA now for £215 GBP / €255 EUR and £319 / €379, respectively. To learn more visit m-audio.com or shop.avid.com.

Posted in Keyboard, MIDI, Monitoring, Speakers, Studio

Frankfurt Musikmesse 2011: Mackie Introduces New Ultra-Compact TH-12A Powered Loudspeaker

Posted on March 7, 2011 by Planet-Musician

Extremely affordable new option from Mackie’s popular Thump Series.

Mackie today announces an ultra-compact new addition to its bestselling Thump Series portable, powered loudspeakers — the Thump TH-12A. Delivering the perfect balance of power, portability and price, the new 400-watt, 2-way 12˝ Thump Series loudspeaker is perfect for any application that demands high-output and professional sound without breaking the budget.

“The new TH-12A is simply the best powered loudspeaker option for your hard-earned money,” said Greg Young, Mackie Brand Director.  “While it is more compact, it is an equally powerful version of our top-selling TH-15A. It is truly the most professional compact loudspeaker in its class.”

The new TH-12A is designed by the same award-winning team that created the industry-standard SRM Series powered loudspeakers, delivering proven Mackie build-quality and sonic performance. The TH-12A’s efficient Class-D Fast Recovery™ amplification provides 400 watts of total system power, tuned to perfectly match the custom-designed 12˝ high-precision woofer and 1˝ compression driver. An integrated 3-band EQ on the back panel allows the user to dial in the TH-12A’s tone, perfect for simple room correction or tonal adjust per application (vocal only, low-volume, etc.). Featuring Mackie Active electronics, the precision crossover and transducer time-alignment optimize the system while protective circuitry protects against overload and thermal shutdown. Pole-mountable and ideal for use as a stage monitor, the TH-12A’s lightweight design offers undeniable portability.

“Now there’s a great, ultra-compact Thump loudspeaker,” remarked Young. “…perfect for vocal applications, solo performances or for use as a DJ monitor, too.”

The TH-12A is now available worldwide and is €299 inc. tax & £249 inc. VAT. Visit Mackie during Musikmesse from April 6-9, 2011 in Frankfurt, Germany in Halle 4.1, Stand E31.  For more detailed product information, please visit www.mackie.com.

Posted in Frankfurt Musikmesse, Live Sound, Speakers, Technology

Frankfurt Musikmesse 2011: Mackie’s New MRmk2 Reference Monitors Offer Powerful Studio Solution

Posted on March 7, 2011 by Planet-Musician

Redefining the concept of the affordable studio reference monitor.

Mackie today announces a complete redesign of its bestselling line of ultra-affordable powered studio monitors – the MRmk2 Mackie Reference Monitors.  Featuring class-leading power with unmatched clarity and definition at its price point, the new series is sure to please those looking for a professional monitoring solution for project studios, edit suites and home theatres alike.

“Mackie is well known for delivering professional monitoring solutions at affordable prices,” remarked Mackie Product Manager, Matt Redmon.  “Our new MRmk2 monitors deliver on all fronts, from an extended low-frequency response unmatched in their category, to the clear definition of mids and highs upon which engineers stake their reputations.”

Mackie MRmk2 studio monitors feature all-new professional transducers specifically designed to match their respective amplification.  Both models employ a 1˝ neodymium magnet-driven soft dome tweeter featuring ferro-fluid cooling to help protect against power compression during wide dynamic playback.  The 5.25˝ (MR5mk2) and 8˝ (MR8mk2) hyperbolic-curved cone woofers reduce severe cone resonances, drastically minimizing distortion.

The powerful, precision Class A/B amplifier section features XLR, TRS and RCA connectivity, along with user-adjustable acoustic controls for simple room correction. The robust cabinet is rear-ported, reducing distortion, and features an optimally-sized custom Waveguide and molded baffle, offering balance to the HF / LF content while increasing both the stereo imaging and depth of field.

The Mackie MRmk2 Series Powered Studio Monitors are now available worldwide.  The MR5mk2 is €175 inc. tax & £145 inc. VAT and the MR8mk2 is €265 inc. tax & £220 inc. VAT.  Visit Mackie during Musikmesse from April 6-9, 2011 in Frankfurt, Germany in Halle 4.1, Stand E31.  For more detailed product information, please visit www.mackie.com.

Posted in Frankfurt Musikmesse, Monitoring, Speakers, Studio

Winter NAMM 2011: Mackie’s New MRmk2 Reference Monitors Offer Powerful Studio Solution

Posted on January 13, 2011 by Planet-Musician

Redefining the concept of the affordable studio reference monitor.

Mackie today announces a complete redesign of its bestselling line of ultra-affordable powered studio monitors – the MRmk2 Mackie Reference Monitors.  Featuring class-leading power with unmatched clarity and definition at its price point, the new series is sure to please those looking for a professional monitoring solution for project studios, edit suites and home theatres alike.

“Mackie is well known for delivering professional monitoring solutions at affordable prices,” remarked Mackie Product Manager, Matt Redmon.  “Our new MRmk2 monitors deliver on all fronts, from an extended low-frequency response unmatched in their category, to the clear definition of mids and highs upon which engineers stake their reputations.”

Mackie MRmk2 studio monitors feature all-new professional transducers specifically designed to match their respective amplification.  Both models employ a 1˝ neodymium magnet-driven soft dome tweeter featuring ferro-fluid cooling to help protect against power compression during wide dynamic playback.  The 5.25˝ (MR5mk2) and 8˝ (MR8mk2) hyperbolic-curved cone woofers reduce severe cone resonances, drastically minimizing distortion.

The powerful, precision Class A/B amplifier section features XLR, TRS and RCA connectivity, along with user-adjustable acoustic controls for simple room correction. The robust cabinet is rear-ported, reducing distortion, and features an optimally-sized custom Waveguide and molded baffle, offering balance to the HF / LF content while increasing both the stereo imaging and depth of field.

The Mackie MRmk2 Series Powered Studio Monitors will be available worldwide February, 2011.  The MR5mk2 will have a U.S.  MSRP of $199.99 and MR8mk2 will have a U.S. MSRP of $329.99.  Visit Mackie during NAMM in the massive new showroom upstairs in Demo Room 209A/B from January 13-16, 2011 in Anaheim, CA.

For more detailed product information, please visit www.mackie.com.

Posted in Monitoring, NAMM Show, Speakers, Studio

Winter NAMM 2011: Mackie Introduces New Ultra-Compact TH-12A Powered Loudspeaker

Posted on January 13, 2011 by Planet-Musician

Extremely affordable new option from Mackie’s popular Thump Series.

Mackie today announces an ultra-compact new addition to its bestselling Thump Series portable, powered loudspeakers — the Thump TH-12A. Delivering the perfect balance of power, portability and price, the new 400-watt, 2-way 12˝ Thump Series loudspeaker is perfect for any application that demands high-output and professional sound without breaking the budget.

“The new TH-12A is simply the best powered loudspeaker option for your hard-earned money,” said Greg Young, Mackie Brand Director.  “While it is more compact, it is an equally powerful version of our top-selling TH-15A. It is truly the most professional compact loudspeaker in its class.”

The new TH-12A is designed by the same award-winning team that created the industry-standard SRM Series powered loudspeakers, delivering proven Mackie build-quality and sonic performance. The TH-12A’s efficient Class-D Fast Recovery™ amplification provides 400 watts of total system power, tuned to perfectly match the custom-designed 12˝ high-precision woofer and 1˝ compression driver. An integrated 3-band EQ on the back panel allows the user to dial in the TH-12A’s tone, perfect for simple room correction or tonal adjust per application (vocal only, low-volume, etc.). Featuring Mackie Active electronics, the precision crossover and transducer time-alignment optimize the system while protective circuitry protects against overload and thermal shutdown. Pole-mountable and ideal for use as a stage monitor, the TH-12A’s lightweight design offers undeniable portability.

“Now there’s a great, ultra-compact Thump loudspeaker,” remarked Young. “…perfect for vocal applications, solo performances or for use as a DJ monitor, too.”

The TH-12A will be available worldwide in Q1, 2011.  The TH-12A will have a U.S. MSRP of $389.99. Visit Mackie during NAMM in the massive new showroom upstairs in Demo Room 209A/B from January 13-16, 2011 in Anaheim, CA.

For more detailed product information, please visit www.mackie.com.

Posted in NAMM Show, Speakers

Klein + Hummel Introduces O 300 Nearfield Studio Reference Monitor

Posted on September 15, 2006 by Planet-Musician

Klein + Hummel, the latest addition to the Sennheiser family of brands, is introducing the O 300 triamplified three-way nearfield studio reference monitor at AES 2006 San Francisco. The O 300 delivers the same stunning quality of the famed O 300 D minus the digital input and control hardware, resulting in a cost-effective price without sonic compromise. As its more fully-featured sibling, the O 300 delivers superlative, uncolored sound, precise bass response, picture-perfect dispersion patterns, and a stunningly real soundstage with remarkable image focus and depth. Its precise and revealing detail enables the mixing engineer to make critical judgments with supreme confidence.

By utilizing a dense, new, extremely low-resonance material called LRIM, Klein + Hummel was able to mold the waveguides required for optimal dispersion directly into the baffle. The elliptical shape of the high-frequency horn makes the dispersion angle in the vertical plane more narrow thus reducing the amount of early reflections off the console surface which would otherwise interfere with the direct sound from the speakers (comb-filter effects), thereby improving spatial definition. At the same time, the effective horizontal listening area is made wider, giving the recording engineer greater freedom of movement in front of the console. The use of LRIM has also made it possible to align the acoustic centers of the two drivers exactly on one plane, parallel to the baffle, thereby preventing time and phase coherency problems at the crossover frequencies. This allows the individual drivers to work together perfectly to produce a precisely detailed soundstage.

The unit’s eight-inch cone woofer is made of a special lightweight polypropylene material that has excellent self-damping properties. Its long-excursion voice coil enables this driver to produce very low frequencies at high sound pressure levels with practically no distortion. In contrast to common bass-reflex systems, which tend to blur the low end, the acoustic suspension system of the O 300 delivers tight, articulate bass, which is strikingly clear, detailed, and natural, particularly in transients.

The midrange is handled by a treated fabric dome with a three-inch voice coil. Since its mass is much lower than that of cone drivers, it has the advantage of being able to achieve superior impulse response and extremely uniform amplitude response. As a result, midrange reproduction is impressively true-to-life, especially with the human voice.

The one-inch high-frequency driver is equipped with a titanium/fabric dome that combines the transparency of a titanium dome with the low distortion of a fabric dome. This driver has been finely matched to its elliptical waveguide, ensuring exceptional directivity.

All three drivers are magnetically shielded, permitting placement of the speakers directly next to video monitors or computers. O 300 is available in anthracite finish as standard; optional silver, white and custom colors are also available.

For more information, visit their web site at www.klein-hummel.com.

Klein + Hummel O 300 Nearfield Studio Reference Monitor

Posted in Monitoring, Speakers

Las Vegas Pro Audio Introducing New ATC Passive Monitors

Posted on September 13, 2006 by Planet-Musician

Las Vegas Pro Audio, the U.S. sales office of ATC (Acoustic Transducer Company – UK) is introducing the new ATC passive SCM20SL loudspeakers at AES 2006 San Francisco (Demo Room #270). This offering represents ATC’s first venture into the U.S. pro market with a passive monitor. Maintaining the strict performance criteria of ATC reference monitors, the SCM 20SL offers project and home studios the dynamic range and pristine imaging ATC is known for worldwide.

The ATC “Passive 20″ features the same woofer and tweeter as the active (SCM20ASL) version of the speaker. The SCM20SL passives are housed in a conventional “pro-black” box for easy placement on any meter bridge. ATC recommends amplifiers with at least 200W per channel of power. The Passive 20 loudspeaker enables ATC speaker fans to own a high performance monitor at half the price of the actives.

The SCM20SL Passive low-frequency section is a hybrid design incorporating a 150mm bass cone with a grafted 75mm soft dome for mid-range assist. The woofer magnet assembly utilizes ATC’s unique “SL” technology to greatly reduce third harmonic distortion and reveal mistakes and details. All ATC drivers are manufactured in-house to exacting tolerances. Situated in Aston Down in rural Gloucestershire, England, ATC was established in London in 1974 by acoustics engineer and musician Bill Woodman.

MSRP: $3,500/pair

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

Las Vegas Pro Audio ATC Passive Monitors

Posted in Speakers

WorxAudio Introduces The TL.218SS Sub Bass System

Posted on August 29, 2006 by Planet-Musician

WorxAudio Technologies is pleased to announce the introduction of the new TL.218SS Sub Bass System. Available in both powered and non-powered configurations, the TL.218SS—with dual TL1801SS 18-inch low frequency (LF) transducers—is the ideal subwoofer for applications requiring maximum output with smooth, extended LF response. The TL.218SS is the perfect choice for live concert reproduction, high energy club installations, houses of worship, theme park effects, and theaters.

Built to truck pack dimensions for efficient transportation of multiple units, the new TL.218SS Sub Bass System makes an ideal choice for both touring sound reinforcement and permanent installations. The TL.218SS utilizes a tuned port enclosure built from tour-tested, 21-ply Baltic Birch that is extensively braced for high cabinet rigidity. Combined with its 24mm thick baffle, this rugged, 1-inch thick enclosure is coated with a weather-resistant, multi-layered, catalyzed polyurethane finish (available in a variety of colors to match the environment) designed to withstand the rigors of the road. Protecting the drivers is a 14-guage, powder-coated, cloth-backed, perforated steel grille.

The new TL.218SS Sub Bass System utilizes dual TL1801SS long excursion, high output, 18-inch LF transducers. Each TL1801SS incorporates a high temperature, neodymium magnet surrounding an under hung, 4-inch diameter x 1.5-inch high voice coil encased in a low carbon steel structure that enables the light weight, high strength aluminum cone to have extremely high excursion—over 2-inches of peak to peak movement while staying in the gap 71% of the time without damage to the unit. Delivering more than four times the acoustic output of competing designs, the TL1801SS woofer provides quick transient response, low power compression with high linearity, and ultra low distortion. The result is a remarkably efficient transducer with exceptional sound quality and proven, long-term durability.

An ideal choice for a wide variety of sound reinforcement applications, the TL.218SS Sub Bass System is available in both powered and non-powered configurations. The powered version of this subwoofer is driven by WorxAudio Technologies’ highly-regarded PMD-2 digital power amp. Featuring 1000 watts of power for each TL1801SS LF driver in the enclosure, this powerhouse amplifier incorporates twin digital program processors, an XLR transformer with isolated I/O, and industry-standard AC PowerCon switchgear I/O.

Rounding out the TL.218SS Sub Bass System is the inclusion of EASE Focus aiming software for the TrueLine line array—a two-dimensional, acoustic simulation program that facilitates the configuration and modeling of line arrays. Designed for flying or ground stack applications, the TL.218SS incorporates all the contact points for the optional WorxAudio TrueAim™ rigging hardware. Among its numerous distinct advantages, WorxAudio Technologies rigging accessories are available for both touring and permanent systems, with the permanent installation hardware having a clean, inconspicuous design that presents a high-tech, uncluttered look enabling WorxAudio loudspeaker systems to blend perfectly into any environment. The new TL.218SS Sub Bass System carries a MSRP of $8,080.00 for the powered touring version (with rigging hardware), and $5,031.00 for the non-powered install version. Both models are available now.

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

WorxAudio The TL.218SS Sub Bass System

Posted in Audio, Speakers

Bose L1 Cylindrical Radiator Loudspeaker Now Available With ToneMatch Presets For Taylor Guitars

Posted on August 1, 2006 by Planet-Musician

Bose Corporation has introduced a new set of ToneMatch™ presets customized for Taylor® Guitars. Available with the Bose® L1™ Cylindrical Radiator® loudspeaker, these presets are designed to give owners of Taylor’s Expression System® guitars the ability to deliver truer, more natural guitar sound to listening audiences of up to several hundred people, with little change in tone or level.

Recognizing the challenges acoustic players face when trying to amplify their guitar, engineers from Bose and Taylor worked together to develop the ToneMatch presets. The result is a system that offers acoustic players a way to maintain their Taylor tone while playing amplified. The ToneMatch series includes presets for a number of Taylor body shapes, including Dreadnought, Grand Concert, Grand Auditorium and Jumbo, each with a setting specific to fingerpicking and strumming.

The L1 Cylindrical Radiator loudspeaker is the result of a decade of research and development into the improvement of live amplified sound. It projects sound evenly across the stage and into the audience, maintaining uniquely consistent sound levels for both performers and audience members. The L1 loudspeaker mimics the acoustical qualities of a natural, all-acoustic unamplified performance. It allows musicians to hear themselves and each other, improving the quality of their performance and the players’ enjoyment, with a compact system that can be set up in minutes.

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

Bose L1 Cylindrical Radiator Loudspeaker

Bose L1 Cylindrical Radiator Loudspeaker

Posted in Amplification, Guitar, Speakers

Samson Introduces The db300 Series Of Two-Way Loudspeakers

Posted on July 31, 2006 by Planet-Musician

Samson has introduced the dB300 line of portable, 2-way loudspeakers. The line features both active and passive versions of the loudspeaker, suitable for a variety of applications, maximizing performance and versatility.

The dB300 (passive) has a power handling capacity of 300 Watts RMS and features a custom designed 12-inch driver with 3-inch voice coil, a 1.75 inch titanium compression driver with a 1-inch exit, parallel Speakon™ and 1/4-inch connectors.

The dB300a (active) amplifier section produces 300 Watts RMS total power and the same driver and horn combination as the passive version along with balanced microphone and line level inputs with 2-band EQ.

Maximizing flexibility through design, the dB300 series is also designed to perform as near or far field stage monitors and includes pole mounts and integrated M6 fly points for a variety of applications.

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

Samson db300 Two-Way Loudspeakers

Posted in Speakers, Technology