Όλα τα τελευταία νέα για τη Μουσική Τεχνολογία και την Ακουστική, κατευθείαν από τις επίσημες ιστοσελίδες των εταιρειών, συγκεντρωμένα σε ένα blog!

Reaper Revealed

macProVideo.com releases a tutorial video series on the affordable DAW


macProVideo.com has released Reaper Revealed. Here's what they have to say about it...

Move over big name DAWs because Reaper is here! Reaper is a fully realized, affordable DAW that is competing with the big boys! Download a free version of Reaper and dig into this intro course to see what the excitement is all about...

The world of DAWs is changing right before our ears and Reaper represents the leading edge of the future in music production. In this 26-tutorial introduction by MPV Hub author Gary Hiebner, you will see how Reaper has crashed the crowded DAW party and raised some audio eyebrows with its advanced features, user flexibility and unbeatable price!

Gary starts off this series with a step by step explanation of the installation process. From there you'll learn all about audio: recording tracks, editing waveforms, mixing, and effects. Next up is MIDI. Here you'll see Reaper's MIDI capabilities and how to create tracks for all your virtual instruments. The next section of this course is dedicated to customization--and this is where Reaper really shines. Gary shows you the many ways you can make Reaper work for you by creating personalized themes and layouts. This intro course concludes with a look at Reaper's automation, ReWire capability and exporting options.

Gary's hard at work creating more Reaper courses to help us build the best Reaper courseware on the planet! So dive in an get ready to reap the rewards of Reaper!

  • Reaper 101: Introduction to Reaper
  • Reaper 102: Working With Audio
  • Reaper 103: MIDI, Instruments and Plugins
  • Reaper 104: Mixing and Automation

Pricing and Availability:
$25/mth USD Unlimited library access
$19.50 USD HD download

More information:
www.macprovideo.com

61 Note USB MIDI Controller For Reason

Nektar announces Panorama P6


Nektar has announced Panorama P6, a 61 note USB MIDI controller keyboard which they say has the same deep Reason integration as their Panorama P4. They tell us that Panorama P4 first shipped in June 2012 and has already become a favorite among Reason users who are looking for great integration with hardware and workflow that allows uninterrupted creative freedom. Here's what Nektar has to say about the P6:

Like the P4, the Panorama P6 features 4 modes that allow the user to switch between Mixer, Instrument and Transport mode and a 4th Internal mode with 20 user presets each configurable for control of external hardware, ReWired DAW's or other software.

A motorized fader, solo and mute buttons give channel control in every mode as does the extended transport buttons with no less than 11 functions a button push away. 16 encoders, 9 faders and 9 LED buttons do most of the controlling with parameters and values displayed on the TFT display. All assignable buttons including the 11 function keys and 12 pads can be setup to send MIDI messages or QWERTY macros, a unique Panorama idea where up to 8 computer keyboard shortcuts can be sent with just one button press. In addition the Panorama P6 features a 61 note velocity sensitive semi-weighted keyboard with after touch, pitch bend, modulation wheel, MIDI out, foot switch and expression pedal sockets.

Panorama P6 also includes important improvements and additions such as:

  • Re-designed Kong, ReDrum and Dr OctoRex interfaces for improved beat creation including colored graphic pads on the TFT display and drum parameters selectable by hitting the corresponding pad.
  • Kong pad 1 can now be triggered via the foot switch socket.
  • New mixer channel signal indicators show if a signal is present for any of the 8 channels visible on Panorama's Mixer view.
  • Improved Transport mode with icons showing status for click, Q-record, cycle and pre-count. A button for quantize has also been added along with some re-organization that eliminated the need for another menu level to access some functions.
  • A unique Looper addition to Transport mode. With the looper active the pads act as an array of loop markers automatically set across a Reason song at an adjustable loop length. Hitting a pad will move Reason's Left and Right locator points to the positions corresponding to the pad. Pressing Panorama's "Go to Left marker" button will immediately move playback to the new position. The Looper is a great way to navigate Reason while building up a composition from Panorama but also allows for real-time performances or on the fly experimenting with the organization of Reason songs.
  • New Randomize function. Inspired by Reason's own ability to randomize loop devices such as Matrix and ReDrum, this function now allows the randomization of device parameters that are currently in view on Panorama's display. Whether it's Thor's sequencer, Subtractor's filter or oscillator section or any of the supported Rack Extensions, Panorama will provide alternative inspiration when an extra boost is needed.
  • Formatting of Reason parameter values that are not formatted by the application including EQ and Dynamics parameters.
  • Instant view of F-keys assignments when the F-keys shift button is pressed.
  • Increased pad sensitivity so the pads can be triggered with the lightest of touch.
  • Presets and map changes assignable to any button so it's possible to recall any given preset or map at the push of a button. Options for assigning next or previous are also available with the new default assignment of the Patch- and Patch+ buttons carrying out this function.
  • Secondary encoder curve assignment to be triggered by the PB-buttons. This allows immediate switching between an acceleration curve and a new linear option.

In addition Panorama is regularly updated to include support for the latest Reason Rack Extensions. A Downloadable update containing all the additions and improvements will be available to existing and new registered Panorama users from mid December 2012.

About Nektar, Inc.
Nektar Technology, Inc is a California based Musical Instrument Company that has one mission: To bridge the gap between the incredible sonic and creational possibilities of today's and tomorrow's music software and the desire of musicians for tactile experience that makes it inspiring, playing software like an instrument. When Nektar started in August 2009 they were looking at what would be the ultimate controller, a controller that is transparent to use. With the focus on the instrument aspect of a truly musical experience in combination with the sonic capabilities of modern music software, the team found a lot of room for improvement. Nektar's Panorama P4 Controller is the first testament to this concept. This Advanced Control * Advanced Workflow Keyboard seamlessly integrates with Propellerhead Reason adding a tactile user interface that makes it complete as a production and a live instrument.

To achieve this goal the team created an intriguing design, developed a new high class keybed and took care of all the mechanical and electrical engineering required to create this true musical instrument.

Pricing and Availability:
Panorama P6 is shipping in December 2012 at a MSRP price of USD 659.99 / Euro529.99 / GBP419.99. Nektar anticipate a street price of USD599.99 / Euro479.99 / GBP369.99

More information:
www.nektartech.com

Mix Video Like Music

MixVibes Release the Video Plug-in For Cross DJ


MixVibes has announced the release of the Video Plug-in, a powerful tool which allows you to play, mix and scratch video files like music within CrossDJ and Cross software. Here's all the details in Mixvibes' own words...

Based on 4 years of research in video mixing, MixVibes 'Video Plug-in' is the easiest way to incorporate video into your DJ setup. No need to be a video specialist!

All features from CrossDJ work within the 'Video Plug-in': Play a locator or a loop, scratch, add FX: every action that you usually perform on audio can also be performed on the video automatically, so you can focus on the music and take your mix to the next dimension.

The 'Video Plug-in' integrates seamlessly within CrossDJ: each player gets a video preview and the mixer can be switched from audio to video. The 'Video Plug-in' can be deactivated at any moment, returning to the regular audio-only appearance of CrossDJ.

FEATURES

- MixVibes Video Plug-in

  • MixVibes Video plug-in runs inside CrossDJ / Cross 2.2
  • All player actions affect the video (scratch, loops, locators...)
  • Mixer actions can be linked to video transitions effects
  • Over 20 video effects
  • Music and video can be loaded separately
  • 1080p HD support and output on a second monitor
  • Supported formats .mov, .mp4, .avi, .mpg, .mpeg, .m4v, .mkv, .vob, .flv, .divx, .webm and .wmv.
  • Free video content on our forum's download center (http://forum.mixvibes.com)

- CrossDJ

  • MIDI support for most controllers on the market
  • DVS support (Cross only)
  • Locators, loops, smart seek
  • 8-pad Audio samplers
  • 2 FX units
  • Highly-accurate BPM and beatgrid analysis
  • Snap and Quantize
  • The best media browsing engine on the market

Pricing and Availability:
Available November 28th, 2012
Price MSRP 129€ / $149 / £109
SPECIAL LAUNCH PRICE : 50% off until December 31st
The Plug-in is free of Charge for VFX and VFX Control users

More information:
Mixvibes Video Plug-in

Hardware Analog Synth For Less Than $100

SX-150 Mark II has 10 controllable parameters and a four octave range


The Analog Synthesizer SX-150 Mark II for sale at Think Geek features ten controllable parameters, line in and out, and a four octave range. You use an electrode stylus to play tones, but a printable keyboard overlay is available to play exact notes.

Analog Synthesizer SX-150 Mark II features

  • Fully-functional analog synthesizer, ready to help you rock the world.
  • Four octave range.
  • Achieve vibrato, tremolo, and "wah" effect with VCF and LFO buttons.
  • 10 Parameters to control: cutoff, resonance, attack, decay, pitch ENV, LFO wave, LFO rate, LFO depth, VCF modulation, and LFO modulation.
  • Tunable to play nice with other instruments.
  • Line in and line out (standard 3.5mm headphone jack size) to expand your synth voice.
  • Batteries: 4 AA (not included)
  • Dimensions: approx. 6.5" x 4.75" x 1.5"

Pricing and Availability:
$99.99

More information:
SX-150 Mark II

Five More DnB Construction Kits

Producer Loops releases Subtractive Drum & Bass Vol 3


Producer Loops tells us that Subtractive Drum & Bass Vol 3 brings you five Minimal DnB Construction Kits guaranteed to transport your mixes to new and inspiring dimensions. They say that this pack features a unique combination of half-tempo Drum & Bass drums, blissful ambiences, intense build ups, stunning sound effects and live vocal performances. This multi-format product also includes MIDI files and one-shot drums.

A spokesperson had this to say, "If your musical tastes lean towards the fresh sounds of dBridge, Bop, Data, Sabre, and Instra:mental then check out Subtractive Drum & Bass Vol 3. Each Construction Kit here has been expertly mixed, and artfully crafted, as you will hear from the MP3 demo."

Specifications:

  • 5 Construction Kits
  • ACIDized WAV Files
  • Apple Loops/AIFF Files
  • REX2 Loops
  • Reason ReFill
  • Loops sync to BPM44.1 kHz/24-Bit
  • PC/Mac Compatible
  • Royalty-Free (No Exceptions)

Pricing and Availability:
Subtractive Drum & Bass Vol 3 is available for instant download for £29.95 / 37,05 EUR / $39.98 USD.

More information:
www.producerloops.com

Powered Plug-Ins And Windows 7

UA announces Windows 7 Support for 64-Bit UAD Plug-Ins, UAD-2 Satellite, and Apollo Audio Interface  


Universal Audio (UA) has released UAD Powered Plug-Ins v6.4 software, delivering long-requested features for PC-based audio engineers and producers on 64-bit Windows 7 operating systems.

New UAD v6.4 Software Features:

  • 64-bit UAD Plug-In Support for Windows 7

UAD Powered Plug-Ins are now 64-bit for Windows 7 64-bit edition operating system users.

  • UAD-2 Satellite Drivers for Windows 7 (FireWire)

The UAD-2 Satellite FireWire DSP Accelerator is now compatible with Windows 7 64-bit edition operating systems, using a qualified PCIe-to-FireWire 800 adapter card.

  • Apollo Audio Interface drivers for Windows 7 (FireWire)

The Apollo Audio Interface is now compatible with Windows 7 64-bit edition operating systems, using a qualified PCIe-to-FireWire 800 adapter card.

CEO and Founder, Bill Putnam Jr, told Sonic State, "After the launch of Apollo earlier this year, we've devoted much of our engineering resources to solidifying the UAD Powered Plug-ins platform on the PC side. I'm happy to announce the release of 64-bit plug-ins for Windows 7, as well as Windows 7 FireWire drivers for the UAD-2 Satellite and our popular Apollo Audio Interface."

Separately, Universal Audio will be releasing a public beta of 64-bit Mac plug-ins (UAD Powered Plug-Ins v6.4.1 software) in December, ensuring that 64-bit UAD plug-in support will be available on both PC and Mac platforms in 2012.

Pricing and Availability:
See website

More information:
UA

Quneo Rogue Goes Wireless - People Are Excited

60 Metre range, 6-8 hours power - hello!


In the wee small hours of this morning, news arrived of the new Keith McMillen Quneo Rogue - a thing (there is no image of the actual unit yet), presumably some kind of flat plate that fits to the bottom of the Queno providing both power and Wifi - meaning you can send your control data wirelessly to the host DAW.

Looking at the product page, this may be an idea that has not reached final production, but if enough interest is shown, resources will be put into the Rogue and it will be made. Its an interesting model - crowdsourced manufacturing. Something that might catch on for other manufacturers.

The QuNeo Rogue will be priced "at around" $395 according to the KMI site, which does make it significantly more expensive than the actual Quneo, but perhaps it can be used with other devices too.

What do you think?

More Information
KMI Quneo Rogue

Podcast: SONIC TALK 293 - My Golden Spanner

24 carat Moog, Korg Polysix App, Imogen's gloves, Chromebooks and Donald Fagen

Guests:
Gaz Williams - Songsurgeon.co.uk
Mark Tinley - likebeing.com
Dave Spiers - GForce Software
Rich Hilton - Nile Rodger's studio guy and member of Chic


The panel assembles to discuss - that golden Moog, the Korg Polysix iOS app, Imogen Heap and her gloves, the new Google Chromebooks and Donald Fagen new release Sunken Condos.

Free '80s Synth Sounds For JUPITER

Roland announces JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1


Roland has announced JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1, the first in a series of free sound libraries for the JUPITER-80 and JUPITER-50 synthesizers featuring a wealth of authentic vintage sounds from some of the most legendary and iconic instruments in Roland's history.

The collection uses Roland's SuperNATURAL synthesizer sound engine to capture the essence of historical Roland synths and showcases all-new Tones, Live Sets, Registrations, and arpeggio patterns. Roland says that the Live Set architecture and multi-effects of the JUPITERs are fully maximized, giving players a huge selection of "dream" synth combinations comprised of the most legendary synths ever created.

  • JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1, the initial release in the series, honors these seven legendary Roland instruments from the 1980s:
  • JUPITER-8 (1981)
  • JUNO-60 (1982)
  • TB-303 (1982)
  • SH-101 (1982)
  • JUPITER-6 (1983)
  • JUNO-106 (1984)
  • D-50 (1987)

Here's more details directly from Roland:

These classic synths each have between 10 and 20 iconic factory preset sounds that distinguish their character, and they're all represented among 123 newly created single Tones for the JUPITER-80/-50. There are 512 new Live Sets also included that combine the historic synths together using layers and multi-effects processing. Many Live Sets feature single legacy Tones, enhanced with effects unavailable in the original instruments, and nearly 300 new arpeggio patterns are included that are perfect for a wide range of contemporary electronic music genres.

The inspiring sounds made by these classic instruments have helped shape modern music, and now players can access them all inside the JUPITER-80/-50. Future JUPITER Synth Legends volumes will feature the sounds from other sought-after analog classics and spotlight the three vintage LPF types available in the JUPITER-80/-50.

In honor of the release, Roland is hosting the Roland JUPITER #SynthLegends Giveaway. Synth fans in the U.S. can enter the contest for a chance to win a JUPITER-50 fully pre-loaded with all the sounds from the JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1 sound collection. Synth fans are also being encouraged to join the conversation with @Roland_US on Twitter using the hashtag #synthlegends to share all-time favorite synthesizers and synth sounds.

Pricing and Availability:
Free download

More information:
www.rolandus.com/go/jupiter-80/

Soundiron Releases Reason ReFills

Old Busted Granny Piano and Tuned Micro now available for Reason 6


Soundiron has announced the arrival of their first two ReFill Packs for Reason. They tell us that they've worked with Propellerhead to carefully optimize and redesign their Old Busted Granny Piano and Tuned Micro libraries specifically for the Reason 6 platform, with Combinator and NN-XT presets that truly capture the playability and advanced control functionality that people have come to love with these popular instruments.

A spokesperson told Sonic State, "While ReFills and Kontakt presets have very different capabilities and strengths overall, you'll find many of the same familiar UI features, a variety of matching presets, stylized artwork and the same great sound. And don't worry, we'll be adding new offerings to our Reason catalog as time goes on to expand the selection for our Reason users. And existing customers of the Kontakt versions of these libraries are eligible to receive low cost cross-grades to the Reason version."

Here's Soundiron's description of the new ReFill packs...

Tuned Micro Reason ReFill Edition

Tuned Micro is a compact yet powerful multi-instrument collection focuses on a variety of our unique stringed and tuned percussion instruments. We took a dozen of the popular instruments found in our Stringed and Tuned Percussion Bundles for Kontakt and selected a core set of samples from each that offer a good introduction to the signature style, flavor, tone and quality you can expect from our full libraries. You'll find a useful variety of bamboo log drums, wooden box drums, plucked zithers, prepared piano, steel bells, music box, PVC tube drums, wine glasses, kalimba/mbira, toy glockenspiel, waterharp and a modified twine-strung cello.

We've designed a dual-layer mix control for each instrument category preset that allows you to create custom blends with selected layered pairs from the 20 different articulations. Each preset comes with dual layer volumes, attack, release gating, filter, Echo, Reverb and other shaping and special FX parameter controls that can be automated and changed in real-time, allowing truly unique sonic possibilities.

Granny Piano Reason ReFill Edition

The Old Busted Granny Piano is a unique instrument that goes way back with us. This classic beat-up, worn-down, rickety upright piano is just the kind of faded old beauty that your grandmother had collecting dust and creepy porcelain dolls in her living room when you were a kid. With a watery and faded tone, wobbly hammers and a few broken strings, you'll hear and feel every creak and groan as it plays. Clearly, the years have not been kind to her looks or her voice, but her soul truly has aged like a fine wine. This old girl has heart, so give her a whirl.

We've included plenty of Combinator patches that feature front panel controls to easily reshape the action and tone right at your fingertips, with note attack to simulate pad-like sounds, note release, release sample volume and the volume of the pedal sound effect that plays when you use the sustain pedal. We also included a couple of nifty reverb effects and an awesome "Grahammy" mode which makes Granny sound like she's coming out of an old phonograph, complete with vinyl record pops. We also included a selection of ambiences we call Geriatrocities – various sustaining pads and evolving drones derived from the source.

Pricing and Availability:
You can download each for $29. Existing owners of the Kontakt version of each library can order the Reason ReFill Edition as an add-on for only $9. All ReFill Editions require Reason version 6.0.2 or later.

More information:
Soundiron

Best Service Updates Engine

Engine 2.1 gets full 64-bit cross-platform support


Best Service has announced the immediate release of Engine 2.1.0.186. They tell us that this new version brings a couple of really great new features and a lot of minor bug fixes. One of the new exciting features being the AU and VST 64-bit OS X support. From now Engines memory access is not limited any more to 4GB. The company says that tou can use a 64-bit sequencer to take full advantage of your computers RAM and load as many Best Service Engine instruments as you like (and your computer can handle).

New features:
- Added 64 Bit Support for OS X 10.6, 10.7, 10.8
- Improved Memory Management
- VST Gui updated to 3.6 for better mouse handling [Mac 64bit only]
- Enhanced/Improved legato
- Enhanced directory/file structure management. It´s now possible to use UNC Path and special characters  [PC]
- Enhanced/Improved Convolution Reverb
- Enhanced/Improved Midi processing
- Fixed some bugs in the E-License Manager [Mac]
- Fixed some minor bugs
- Fixed split keyboard function
- Fixed some bugs in the midi learn function
- Fixed virtual keyboard

Pricing and Availability:
Engine 2.1 may be downloaded for free at Best Service website

More information:
Best Service

Beyond Tech House

Ueberschall announces the availability of a new sample collection


Ueberschall has announced the availability of a new sample collection, Beyond Tech House, with which they say Berlin based producer and DJ Asem Shama captures the vibe of today's club sound on the edge of Tech-House and Techno. They tell us that this library delivers sophisticated grooves, elaborate hooks and ground shaking basslines ready to be recombined and shaped to fit your production needs. Here's the details in Ueberschall's own words:

Harder than House, groovier than Techno. Tech House melts the best elements of two styles. This library is an explosive laboratory for your latest grooves.
Asem Shama has already galvanized successful Ueberschall libraries such as Sounds of Berlin and Electro ID.

Beyond Tech House focuses on quality not quantity. Each single loop has been perfectly constructed and balanced. Guaranteed and approved for club-use! Be aware: We cannot exclude the risk of a restless dance-leg-syndrome!
This library's sound convinces by its extreme compactness, punchy and deep basses and powerful drums - really PHAT! In addition, the right mixture of minimal chords, wicked percussions, larger-than-life pads and experimental FX-sounds guarantees a cool atmosphere for your tunes.

Each of the ten construction kits consists of an 8-bar main-part and a 16-bar break, allowing to create transitions and suspense arcs easily. Beyond Tech House enables bedroom producers to design perfect club tunes using their sequencers. All loops have been prepared to be freely combined and mixed in Ueberschall's Elastik player - the next groove is always just a few clicks away.

The construction kits offer: mix-part, backing-part, drum-mix, bass-drum-loop, snare/clap-loop, hi-hat-loop, percussion-loop, bass-loop, synth-loops, FX-loops as well as single sounds for drums and percussions.
This makes Beyond Tech House the ideal source of inspiration for ambitioned dance-producers, PDJs and club-cracks, but as well a best match for game-productions, dubbing and jingles. Go Beyond!

Elastik-Feature
Ueberschall's loop-based Elastik player is the ideal plug-in for libraries such as Beyond Tech House. Its elaborate time-stretch- and pitch-change-algorithms allow matching of loops to any song within seconds. Using Elastik player's attribute-based browser, all libraries can easily be searched for beats, basslines, synth-loops and sorted in categories, by base pitch and original tempo. Hence, all instrument-phrases and drum-loops of a construction kit can be transposed, tempo matched and adapted to another kit effortlessly.
Drastic sound manipulations are possible by Elastik player's sequencer-controlled functions such as formant, resample, reverse and a multimode-filter with a grip comparable to a DJ's kill-eq. Indispensable for modern club tunes!

  • 1.2 GB, 10 construction kits, 299 extended loops and single sounds
  • Genre: Tech House
  • Elastik soundbank for Mac/PC/AU/VST/RTAS/standalone
  • Elastik player included - no sampler required

Pricing and Availability:
49 Euro

More information:
Beyond Tech House

8 Construction Kits For Club Music

Equinox Sounds releases Clubby Kits sample pack


Equinox Sounds has released Clubby Kits, a downloadable sample pack that they tell us features features 8 Construction Kits for producing outstanding club music such as Electro, Electro House, House, Commercial and Progressive inspired by the latest chart-topping club hits. All the MIDI parts of these Kits are also supplied.Here's the details in Equinox Sounds' own words:

Clubby Kits includes 8 Construction Kits made for producers who want to make Electro, Electro House, House, Commercial and Progressive radio and club bombs. Each Kit is provided with the BPM and presented with a full mix and its component parts.

The collection also includes the MIDI parts of these Construction Kits.

Each of these Kits is given its own unique treatment, to create a pack which has all of the unmistakable hallmarks of the genre but with a sound all of its own and available in WAV and MIDI formats.

Features:

• 8 Construction Kits
• MIDI parts of the Construction Kits included

Specifications:

• BPM Range: 128-132 BPM
• 161 MB Uncompressed
• 100% Royalty-Free

Formats:

• WAV
• MIDI

Pricing and Availability:
Clubby Kits is currently available for $19.95 as a download.

More information:
Equinox Sounds

Steinberg Releases Virtual Electric Piano

Neo Soul Keys VSTi combines sampling with HALion technology


Steinberg has released Neo Soul Keys, the latest addition to their range of Virtual Studio Technology (VST) instruments. They tell us that, recreating the sound of one of the most popular electric pianos of the past, Neo Soul Keys brings the vintage keyboard sound to the musician's fingertips.

Matthias Quellmann, product marketing manager at Steinberg, told Sonic State, "Neo Soul Keys takes virtual e-pianos to a new level! It's amazing just how authentic and vivid the play and feel of this instrument has become."

Here's more details in Steinberg's own words...

In collaboration with Gospel Musicians, Neo Soul Keys offers users a unique and authentic-sounding e-piano experience. Based on the powerful HALion engine and sampled with 12 velocity layers for sustain, release and staccato notes, the Neo Soul Keys virtual electric piano features sound quality and playability on par with the real world.

Employing the acclaimed VST Amp Rack technology first introduced to Steinberg's Cubase 6 production software, Neo Soul Keys features six different amp types and a comprehensive set of high-class studio effects, such as vibrato, tube distortion, flanger, phaser, chorus, delay, reverb and wah. Also included are bell, pedal and key noises to reproduce all aspects of piano sound plus more than 40 presets that allow users instantly to hone in on various timbres.

Neo Soul Keys can be used as a plug-in in every VST 3, VST 2 and AU compatible host as well as library expansion in HALion Sonic, HALion Sonic SE and HALion 4.


Features at a glance

• Faithful sampling of original Mark I suitcase piano with multiple velocity layers of sustain, release and staccato notes

• Elaborate interface for direct access and intuitive workflows

• VST Amp simulation with 6 different classic amp types

• Premium effect section including tube distortion, chorus, flanger, phaser, delay, reverb and virtual wah pedal

• Vintage modeled vibrato with intensity and speed control

• Realistic sounds with level controls for bell, pedal and key noises

• Authentic bass, mid and treble boost to recreate the original sound

• Adjustable velocity curves for individual playing behavior

• Dedicated "bark" samples for classic grit sounds for authentic vintage sounds

• Virtual microphone simulation with axis and off-axis positioning, and condensed and tube microphone types

• MIDI Learn and automation functions for all parameters

• VST 3, VST 2 and AU host compatibility as standalone plug-in

• Full accessibility in HALion Sonic (1.6.2 or higher), HALion Sonic SE and HALion (4.5.3 or higher)

• Cross-platform 32/64-bit for Windows and Mac OS X

Pricing and Availability:
Neo Soul Keys is available as download through the Steinberg Online Shop. The retail price is 79.99 euros including German VAT.

More information:
Steinberg

AmpKit Now Available For Mac Users

Agile Partners launches their amp sim software on the Mac App Store


Following on from our earlier review, Agile Partners has been in touch today to tell us that they have officially launched AmpKit on the Mac App Store. They say that AmpKit Mac users can simply connect a guitar to their Mac using a guitar interface, and the Mac is transformed into a powerful amp, effects and recording studio. AmpKit has previously been available for iPhone and iPad users, with over 600,000 downloads worldwide.

Agile's John Berry, told us, "We built AmpKit Mac to take advantage of the latest features in Mac OS X Lion and Mountain Lion, such as Full Screen mode and Multi-Touch gestures. We're already getting early reviewer feedback that AmpKit Mac has significantly raised the bar for Mac-based amp and effects apps."

AmpKit Mac includes all of AmpKit's amps and effects in its $49.99 price (US Mac App Store): 22 amps with 38 separate amp channels, 28 pedals, 28 cabinets and 8 mics.

"We wanted AmpKit to be an easy purchase decision for Mac guitarists, whether they're GarageBand users seeking more in-depth modeling options, or pro users who'd rather work in a truly native Mac app," said Agile's Jack Ivers.

AmpKit is offered on the Mac App Store, which Berry feels is a significant benefit to users. "The Mac App Store makes for an incredibly simple and secure purchasing, installation, and upgrade experience," says Berry. "It makes life so much simpler--no frustrating registration and activation process, no hassles with update managers, no intrusive anti-piracy mechanisms like USB keys."

AmpKit gear and setups are fully compatible between Mac and iOS versions. Users with a Mac as well as an iPhone or iPad can easily use the same setup on all devices, thanks to AmpKit's setup sharing feature. AmpKit Mac includes 137 built-in presets that range from smooth cleans and earthy acoustics to bone-crushing high-gain metal.

AmpKit will run on any Mac with OS X 10.7 (Lion) or 10.8 (Mountain Lion) installed. A free trial version of the app is available for download at the URL listed below

Pricing and Availability:
$49.99

More information:
http://ampkitmac.com

Learn Digital Performer 8

Hal Leonard releases a new book - The Power in Digital Performer


Hal Leonard Books is now shipping The Power in Digital Performer, described as a guide to help those who are new to Digital Performer get up to speed quickly.

A spokesperson told Sonic State, "Author David E. Roberts has been directly involved with the development of this incredibly powerful and innovative DAW software since 1993 – he is also responsible for artist/VIP support at MOTU and has been training new users for the past 20 years. Considering Roberts' depth of understanding and insightful experience, this Quick Pro Guide offers a uniquely succinct path to understanding and eventually mastering Digital Performer.

This is the first book to look under the hood of Digital Performer 8 - the first version of the program manufactured for both Mac and Windows OS. In fact, this is arguably the most up-to-date and insightful guide available focused specifically on Digital Performer.The Power in Digital Performer provides concise, easy-to-understand, and practical text combined with instructive screenshots. An accompanying DVD-ROM provides extremely powerful and supportive video tutorials featuring Magic Dave Roberts doing what he does best: revealing the insider tips and tricks that have kept Digital Performer at the forefront of DAW technology since its inception."

About the Author
David E. Roberts has lectured at Berklee College of Music, Middle Tennessee State University, University of Colorado, and Massachusetts College of Art, plus he has been a featured speaker at Macworld Expo. He has also been a presenter at numerous trade shows,including NAMM, NAB, and Frankfurt Musikmesse. He continues to work with local and international artists and is currently running the recording studio for legendary music producer Al Kooper. Since 1993, Roberts has been a product specialist for MOTU's hardware and software products, including Digital Performer. With an instrumental background (playing bass and guitar since age 12), influence from his mother who is a writer and teacher, and his extensive experience building and running studios throughout the '80s, Roberts is a uniquely qualified author, especially on the topic of all things Digital Performer. He lives in Boston.

Pricing and Availability:
$16.99

More information:
www.halleonardbooks.com

iOS Harmony Generator Updated

Virsyn updates Harmony Voice and introduces 40% off offer


Virsyn has updated Harmony Voice for iOS to version 1.1 and is offering it at 40% off for a limited time.

A spokesperson told Sonic State, "Harmony Voice is a pitch shifter and harmonizer with professional features including automatic tuning correction.Transform your voice into a choir with up to four voices!"

New version 1.1 available
  • Improved engine with reduced latency.
  • Adjustable Noisegate to suppress background noises.
  • New mode for automatic scalic harmony generation.
  • Keyboard option to select key hold mode.
  • Realtime pitch display was broken on some devices with iOS6.
  • Kraehenbuehl harmony mode was somewhat broken and is now fixed.
  • Reduced lag on keyboard display.
  • Record button now accessible with opened keyboard.
  • See Harmony Voice in action on this YouTube video...

Pricing and Availability:
$5.99

More information:
App Store

Explore Iris

Learn all about iZotope's Iris in a video tutorial course


You can see how iZotope's Iris lets us explore sound design and sampling by using both our ears and our eyes in a new 'Iris Explored' 41-tutorial course from macProVideo.com. Here's what they have to say...

Sound designers, by nature, like to think about audio in visual ways! The audio spectrum in many plugins' GUIs is represented by frequency graphs, amplitude energy displays and other analysis-type tools. Those kinds of visuals are great for making sonic decisions based upon strong knowledge of audio engineering. However, when it comes to creative sound design those scientific interfaces can sometimes seem a bit, shall we say, uninspiring!

Enter Iris: This groundbreaking virtual instrument lets us approach sound design the way a sculptor looks at a slab of marble. It enables us to artistically and visually chip away at the audio "slab" to reveal the hidden beauty locked within. This is powerful stuff for anyone interested in thinking outside the box! In this course, Iris Explored, audio alchemist G.W. Childs takes us deep into sculpting sound and shows us how to harness Iris' powerful visual tools to create very personal and unique sonic masterpieces. You'll learn the interface, tools and the sampling/synthesis engines that set Iris apart from most other virtual instruments.

So get out your audio hammer and chisel and learn how to do some sonic sculpting in this awesome course by G.W. Childs!

Pricing and Availability:
$25/mth USD Unlimited library access
$19.50 USD HD download

More information:
www.macprovideo.com

News From Kong Audio

ChineeXun updated, QIN RV 2.0 engine released for free ChineeGuZheng Classic


Kong Audio has released an update for the freeware ChineeGuZheng Classic featuring the new QIN RV 2.0 engine, and an update for ChineeXun.

ChineeGuZheng Classic has an extensive sampleset which contains various types of tremolo, slide, Glissando, and strumming. It is the predecessor of the brand new ChineeGuZheng II. The free ChineeGuzheng Classic powered by the brand new QIN RV 2.0 engine is now available for download.

ChineeXun, the Chinese ocarina, has had the sampleset updated with fixes and modifications. This update is free for existing customers.

QIN RV 2.0 engine sports 16 MIDI and Audio channels with multi-timbral capability and can load multiple KAI instruments for easier project and resource management. Some features of standard QIN RV instruments are disabled in the free GuZheng Classic:

  • Velocity Mapping in Keymaps Editor disabled.
  • Keywsitch 2 and Keyswitch 3 Extenders disabled.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENT:
Windows XP/Vista/7/8 (32/64 bit). 2 GB RAM. 6 GB disk space.
32/64 bit VST host sequencers

Pricing and Availability:
Free download

More information:
www.chineekong.com

Free Remote App For Vienna Instruments PRO

Vienna Symphonic Library releases free updates for all of their software products


The Vienna Symphonic Library has updated their complete range of software products, making them compatible with Avid's new plug-in format AAX Native. In addition, the new version of Vienna Instruments PRO comes with a brand new Remote App that converts iOS and Android tablet PCs into external MIDI controllers for Vienna's proprietary sample player. Registered users have access to the updated versions at the company's User Area, free of charge. New users may order full-fledged 30-day demo versions at the Vienna Symphonic Library web shop. Here's the details in VSL's own words:

Tablet PC as Customized MIDI Controller
The latest version of Vienna Instruments PRO comes with a customized, wireless touch-pad remote control app for both iOS and Android tablet PCs. Articulation switches and fader movements for various parameters such as Master Volume, Velocity Crossfade, Expression, Tuning, etc. can be controlled and recorded instantly in real-time, and even multiple faders can be moved simultaneously. Customers may send key switch commands and controller data for Vienna Instrument PRO instances to multiple computers from just one tablet – the Automatic Activation Mode displays the Vienna Instruments PRO instance that is being
performed via MIDI. When the APP Sequencer (Vienna Instruments PRO's internal Auto-Playback and Pattern Sequencer) is activated, additional control options for switching chords, voicings and patterns become available.

AAX Support for all Software Products
In addition to general improvements, all software products of the Viennese company such as Vienna Instruments, Vienna Instruments PRO, Vienna Ensemble, Vienna Ensemble PRO, Vienna MIR PRO / MIR PRO 24, Vienna Suite and Vienna Imperial now support AAX Native, Avid's new plug-in format for Pro Tools systems.

About the Vienna Symphonic Library
The Vienna Symphonic Library is an innovative, research-driven music software and sample library developer based in Vienna, Austria. The team continually strives to improve virtual orchestral music production with a special emphasis on authenticity and ease-of-use. Vienna Instruments, the company's multi-award-winning virtual instruments in AU/VST/AAX Native/RTAS formats, encompass an exhaustive range of solo instruments and ensembles, from their flagship Symphonic Cube to special instruments such as the Vienna Konzerthaus Organ, the Vienna Imperial grand piano, saxophones, upright bass, and even distorted guitar. Vienna Instruments PRO is the most powerful software sample player on the market, providing Auto Humanization, Polyphonic Legato, Enveloped Time Stretching, Adjustable Tuning Scales as well as an internal Auto-Playback and Pattern Sequencer. Vienna MIR PRO and Vienna MIR PRO 24 are network-capable mixing and reverberation solutions for Macs and PCs, based on Multi-Impulse Response convolution. Vienna Ensemble PRO 5 is a universal mixing-host for stand-alone and cross-platform network
applications with full parameter automation and 3rd party plug-in support. The Vienna Suite audio plug-ins encompass eleven high-end mixing and mastering tools, such as convolution reverb, hybrid reverb, equalizer and master equalizer, limiter and multiband limiter, compressor, exciter and others.

Pricing and Availability:
Free update

More information:
www.vsl.co.at

Polysix For The iPad

Korg releases the iPolysix polyphonic synth studio with an introductory sale



Today sees the release of the KORG iPolysix polyphonic synth studio for the iPad mini & iPad at a special introductory 50% price until the end of the year. Here's all the details in Korg's own words...

iPolysix is an analog polyphonic synthesizer that's been carefully designed to take full advantage of the 7.9-inch display of the new iPad mini as well as the iPad. Bringing together a sequencer, drum machine, and even a mixer, it transforms your iPad or iPad mini into the ultimate analog synth studio. Pack an amazing set of early-'80s analog equipment into your iPad, and time-travel back to the dawn of polyphonic synthesizers!

Features
  • The world-wide best-selling Polysix polyphonic synthesizer, fully replicated on your iPad
  • Use the newly developed Polyseq polyphonic step sequencer to control the Polysix
  • A music production environment including two Polysix units, a drum machine, and a mixer
  • Dual Kaoss Pads with chordal support make it easy for anyone to play analog synth sounds
  • Polyshare powered by SoundCloud lets you publish, share, and remix songs with iPolysix users

The world-wide best-selling Polysix polyphonic synthesizer
Korg's Polysix, a six-voice analog polyphonic synthesizer, went on sale in 1981. While a popular synthesizer of that time was able to produce only five notes simultaneously, the Polysix had six-note polyphony, and its name was an expression of its designers' pride. iPolysix uses Korg's proprietary "CMT" (Component Modeling Technology) to simulate the actual electronic circuits of the original unit, perfectly reproducing the original Polysix.

The newly developed Polyseq polyphonic step sequencer
Polyseq is a polyphonic step sequencer that provides up to 64 steps, newly developed in order to take full advantage of the Polysix's capabilities. Polyseq provides a different operating feel than a conventional piano-roll sequencer or even a step sequencer; it's a new yet somehow familiar experience, as if you were retracing the evolution of electronic musical instruments. Don't miss the opportunity to try out this perfect match; the Polysix+Polyseq.

A music production environment including two Polysix units, a drum machine, and a mixer
iPolysix has been created as a professional music production tool. In addition to two Polysix units, it provides a six-part drum machine, and an analog mixer that's reminiscent of the KMX-8 mixer. You'll have everything you need to produce great sounding music. Surrounded by analog equipment, you'll imagine that you've time-traveled back to the early '80s.

Dual Kaoss Pads with chordal support
The large multi-touch display shows two Kaoss Pads which you can control using both hands to perform music. This enables creative performance even for those who have no musical knowledge. These Kaoss Pads have been customized for iPolysix to allow not only single-note performance, but also chordal playing with just one finger; a new experience made possible only by a combination of new and old technology, the Polysix+Kaoss Pad.

Polyshare powered by SoundCloud lets you publish, share, and remix songs with iPolysix users around the world
Polyshare is a function for iPolysix users to share their songs. It's based on SoundCloud, the song sharing service favored by music creators. You can make your song available to iPolysix users around the world simply by uploading the song directly from the app. You can download and upload remixable tracks. It's easy to enjoy remixing and collaboration with users around the world.

*You'll need a SoundCloud account to use Polyshare.

Compatibility
iPad mini or iPad series (iPad 2 or later is recommended).
iPolysix is a dedicated iPad app.

Pricing and Availability:
$14.99

More information:
App Store

Three Free Synths For Windows

Acrobatics releases the VST Minisynth series


Acrobatic's Minisynth series collection consist of three instruments: FRET, GRIT and PEAK.

A spokesperson told us, "As an overall concept, Acrobatics simplified controls and packed implementations to the highest grade to push-up users creativity first and give steady look and maximum usability to the three polyphonic synthesizers. A common look and feel and standardized location of knobs and switches goes in the direction of helping musician when in a busy musical work, when certainly requires fast access to basic synthesis controls and settings to fit in the mix. The Minisynth series collection is also suitable for educational purpuses for its separate interpretations of most important synthesis methods and applications."

Pricing and Availability:
Free download

More information:
Acrobatics

Sonic LAB: Korg Krome Presentation

New affordable workstation range


Product specialist Luke Edwards paid a visit to Sonic Towers and gave us a good look at the new Korg Krome Workstation - Korg's budget full-size workstation range. Available as 61, 73 and 88 keys - this one features a weighted keyboard based on the SP170 piano.

With a touchscreen and a selection of sounds from the Kronos, it has a good range of meat and potato sounds - due to a large PCM wave ROM memory (4GB) 2.8GB of which is dedicated to the German Piano with 8 velocity layers per note.

Those expecting a fully synth'ed up machine will be sad to hear that it doesn't feature any of the 13 synth engines the Kronos boasts, but has the more standard Korg M3 engine. Although you do get access to the usual synth parameters via the touch screen interface. Osc (x2), LFO (x3), ADSR (x3) plus five insert effects and 2 send effects.

I'll let Luke take over from here.

UK Street Prices:
Krome 61 £799, 76 £949, 88 £1249

More Information
Korg.co.uk

Video: Cubase 7 Focus on Mixer Window

From the London Music Production Show


As well as taking a look around the impressive surroundings of the Emirates Stadium - home of Arsenal Football Club, we got to have a chat with Andy from Steinberg, who was proudly showing off the newSteinberg Cubase 7 - scheduled for release just next week (December 5th).

One of the big areas of change is the Mixer Window - where the workflow and functionality has been given a good workout by the boffins at Laboratory Steinberg - indeed they seem to be on a bit of a roll of late. But don't worry, Steinberg tell us that they've done this with a lot of user consultation, not just changed everything for the sake of it. From what I saw, there's some pretty cool new features.

Cubase 7 will be available from December 5th 2012.

More Information
Steinberg.net

Limited Edition Of 15 Access Synths

Access announces the Virus TI Snow Black Edition


Access has announced the Virus TI Snow Black Edition to celebrate their 15th anniversary and are only releasing 15 of them. Here's what they have to say...

The Virus TI series comes in different flavors. You're looking for something ultra compact and yet powerful? The sturdy Virus TI Snow features exactly the same sound engine like its bigger Virus TI brothers. It fits on an issues of Time magazine and has proven itself to be an ideal companion for musicians on the road or with limited desktop estate.

The Snow features 4 multimode parts and about 50% of the polyphony in comparison to the bigger models. Those result in everything in between 10 and 50 voices cranking out the same powerful signature sound like all other Virus TIs. Each and every voice can use up to four oscillators in parallel including Virtual Analogue, Wavetable, HyperSaw and Grain Oscillator models. The filter section comprises two independent multi-mode filters with optional Mini Moog emulation and self-resonance. An extensive array of parallel effects enable you to compose highly complex sounds in virtually no time.

In Multi mode, your patches sound 100% identical and include all of the effects. The 4 independent parts can be routed to 1 Stereo Analogue or 3 USB outputs streaming audio directly into your sequencer workstation. The software suite includes a VST, RTAS and AU compatible plug-in allowing for total recall, sample-accurate timing and modern automation features.

The audio inputs and outputs can be optionally used as a sound card in your sequencer. The hardware knobs can be used to either control the Virus' sound engine or compatible third party software plug-ins.

Specifications
  • Various oscillator models including Virtual Analog, Wavetable, HyperSaw, GrainTable types.
  • A maximum of 192 parallel effects in total.
  • Independent multi-mode filters, 32-step arpeggiator, extensive mod matrix and multiple LFOs.
  • Depending on the complexity of a patch everything in between 10 and 50 voices can be achieved.
  • 512 RAM patches and 512 ROM patches which can be exchanged by the user.
  • 2 outputs with soft limiting algorithm, 2 line level inputs. Studio grade 192 khz D/A converters.
  • Total Integration plug-in link for VST, AU and RTAS plug-ins used in compatible sequencers.
  • Audio and MIDI inputs and outputs can be used by the sequencer application as sound card and MIDI interface.
  • Sample accurate and delay compensated audio timing when using Total Integration.
Pricing and Availability:
$1,325.00, €1,032.00

More information:
Virus TI Snow Black Edition

Classic DBX VCA Compressor Emulated

SKnote releases C165a with with saturating limiter for punch, sustain and drive


SKnote tells us that C165a has been developed by measuring and testing a classic VCA compressor. They say that its features have been extended to include sidechain filters, a sample-aligned parallel mixing control and a limiter switch.

Main Features:
  • mono/stereo
  • Auto mode for easy compression, punch and smooth sustain
  • 4x oversampling for nice saturation
  • internal sidechain equalizer (low, mid and high bands)
  • internal limiter with controlled distortion (for more punch, peak control or creative drive - switchable)
  • sample aligned internal parallel compression
  • knee meter (leds) and in/out/compression meter
  • simple 3D interface
  • from transparent compression to extreme punch, sustain and creative distortion
Pricing and Availability:
Available as Win32/64 VST, Mac32/64 VST/AU and soon RTAS
$29.99

More information:
C165a

Edit Your Alpha JUNO

reKon audio releases VST-AU Editor for the Roland Alpha JUNO Series


reKon audio has released their latest new product, the VST-AU Alpha JUNO Editor. The VST-AU Alpha JUNO Editor™ is a real-time MIDI Synth Editor that allows you full control of every parameter of the sound on the Roland Alpha JUNO-1, JUNO-2, and HS-80 synthesizers. With it, you can view, manage and edit all your Patches with detail on the computer, visually. reKon audio tells us that all parameters are fully automatable in your favorite VST or Audio Unit Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) host, giving you the ability to visually program the hardware synthesizer along with your music via the DAW host sequencer. They say that this ability to model your Patches in real-time, inside your main music production environment is part of what makes the VST-AU Alpha JUNO Editor™ unique when compared to other hardware Synth Editors.

If you don't need or use a DAW host, you can still use all the features, manage your patches, and make real-time edits with the Standalone version.

reKon audio will also soon be releasing a VST-AU MKS-50 Editor. So, although the VST-AU Alpha JUNO Editor will 'mostly' work with the MKS-50, it is recommended to wait for the release of the VST-AU MKS-50 Editor instead.

The VST-AU Alpha JUNO Editor comes in VST, Audio Unit and Standalone versions for both Mac OSX (10.6 and above), and Windows (XP and above).

Pricing and Availability:
$69.95

More information:
Alpha JUNO Editor

Relaxing Riddims

Ueberschall releases Reggae Fundamentals 2 sample collection


Ueberschall tells us that Reggae Fundamentals 2 is the continuation of their library that melts different handmade reggae styles.Here's what they have to say about it in their own words:

Whether classic or current roots reggae, synth-based dancehall or its forerunner rub-a-dub, fresh sounding modern reggae, Caribbean groove or effect-loaded dub - this library mirrors the broad versatility of the reggae genre. The grooves and riddims of Reggae Fundamentals 2 have been performed live by experienced musicians with that special relaxed Caribbean feeling. The library is characterized by beats on the spot, rolling bass lines, minimalistic guitar backings and embedded synth lines - combined in a clean, authentic production by Ueberschall.

Reggae Fundamentals 2 offers a huge package of song ideas, consisting of 25 construction kits. Each kit offers up to six subfolders with a main theme and additional variations. It only takes a few actions to construct a first song layout. All instruments and drums of each part are available as optimized and premixed single tracks. This allows combining single elements with other construction kits of this and other libraries and to create your personal, preferred mix down.

The drumkits' components are also available as single tracks: Bass drum, snare, hi-hats, claps, cymbals as well as congas, bongos and other percussions.
The instruments used are electric and synthesized basses, electric guitars, organs, synthesizers, piano, electric piano, strings, brass, pad sounds as well as dub-specific effects.

Reggae Fundamentals 2 brings real Jamaican feeling to your tracks. Be it for classic song production, crossovers with pop or hip-hop, advertisement trailers with a beach atmosphere, jingles or flexible loop material for DJ-sets - these construction kits offer the simplest and best way to create convincing reggae tracks within your DAW.

Elastik-Features
Ueberschall's Elastik player allows for a fast, creative and targeted workflow. Music productions benefit from high quality time stretching and pitch shifting algorithms provided by zplane as well as from Elastik's clearly arranged library browser. Search across all loops of all installed libraries by attributes such as category, root note or original tempo. Using the Elastik player allows to transpose all instrument loops of a construction kit effortlessly, change their tempo and use them in any other kit. Likewise, all drum tracks can be swapped and combined across all construction kits.
With functions such as formant, resample, reverse and a multimode filter, the Elastik player also offers creative functions that can be controlled from your sequencer and change the sound of any loop completely.

Credits
Responsible producers for Ueberschall's Reggae Fundamentals 2 are Benjamin Kastner and Marc Steinmeier. This team has produced and remixed for widely known artists such as Gentlemen, Far East Band, Christina Aguilera and Eminem.

Musicians: Peter Jordan – Guitar (Paul Reed Smith Electric Guitars, Lakewood Acoustic Guitars, Engl Amplification, Kemper Profiling Amplifier, Lehle Pedals, D'Addario Strings), Benjamin Kastner & Hakan Türközü – Keyboards, Felix Wolter – Drums and Percussions

3.7GB, 25 Construction Kits, 1159 Loops and Single Sounds
Genres: Reggae, Dancehall, Dub
Elastik sound bank for Mac/PC/AU/VST/RTAS/StandAlone
Elastik player included - no samples required!

Pricing and Availability:
99.00 €

More information:
Reggae Fundamentals 2

Producer Loops Releases Dark Tech Progressions Vol 5

Construction kits feature funky shuffled grooves and more


Producer Loops tells us that Dark Tech Progressions Vol 5 continues the series with five royalty-free Construction Kits bringing you some of the deepest funky shuffled grooves and after-party vibes around. They say that sparse bass lines, ambient pads, rich FX and minimal drums & percussion make this an unmissable pack.

A spokesperson told Sonic State, "Inside this pack, you'll find five extremely deep and moody Construction Kits guaranteed to keep the party going until the sun comes up. Everything you need is included, from fat quirky bass lines to strange pads, synths and FX. In addition to these awesome kits - totaling more than 700 MB per format - you also get a bonus folder which includes 33 additional loops, all of the same high quality and all optimised to work with Sony ACID, Logic Pro, Garage Band and any other software which supports time stretching and pitch correction. MIDI and one-shots complete the feature set, giving you all of the tools you need to fully customize your next Minimal House or Deep House production."

About the Producer:

This pack was created by producer and live artist Oriol Benedet. His current projects, 'Soul of Life' and 'Funkadub' see him working with talented musicians like Hubert Tubbs, Oscar Aguilera, Supernova, Audio junkies and Iban Dasca, to name a few. His club mixes and remixes for labels like Darkroom Dubs, Lapsus Music and Travelling Soul Recordings among others, have earned him support and recognition by artists including Silicone Soul and Laurent Garnier.

Pricing and Availability:
Dark Tech Progressions Vol 5 is available for instant download for £24.95 / 31,00 EUR / $33.18 USD.

More information:
www.producerloops.com

Sonnox Black Friday Sale

Save 50% on Sonnox Elite, Essential and Enhance bundles


Sonnox has announced their Black Friday Sale with a 50% saving on their most popular bundles, Sonnox Elite, Essential and Enhance.

Black Friday Sale Terms and Conditions.

  • The Sonnox Black Friday Sale takes place between the following times: 12.01am (PST) Thursday 22nd and 11.59pm (PST) Friday 23rd November 2012. Orders placed outside of these times will not qualify for the promotional discount.
  • 50% off retail pricing is available on the following bundles (Native or TDM):
  • Sonnox Elite, Sonnox Essential, Sonnox Enhance
  • Sales are limited to one bundle per iLok account.
  • This promotion does not apply to upgrades or crossgrades.
  • This promotion cannot be combined with Education discount.
  • This promotion cannot be combined with any other promotion.
  • Sonnox reserves the right to withdraw the offer or change these terms and conditions at itssole discretion at any time.

Pricing and Availability:
See website

More information:
Sonnox Black Friday Sale

Native Instruments Thanksgiving Sale

50% offers on KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects, MASCHINE Expansions and TRAKTOR PRO 2


Native Instruments has launched a 50% off Thanksgiving sales special. From November 22 until November 26, KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects, MASCHINE Expansions and TRAKTOR PRO DJ software are on sale for 50% off their original price. iMASCHINE is also specially priced at $0.99 / 0,89 € – an 80% savings. Here's NI's press release with all the details:

The world of KOMPLETE offers users a vast range of instruments and effects for modern music production. Customers can now get various stars from the KOMPLETE range for half price, including pristinely sampled instruments such as The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series, THE GIANT, the cinematic DAMAGE and EVOLVE libraries, and the SCARBEE range of electric pianos and basses. An unmatched selection of synthesizers such as MASSIVE, REAKTOR, and RAZOR and studio effects like the PREMIUM TUBE SERIES and SOLID MIX SERIES give producers across all genres professional, innovative, and inspiring tools. The new KOMPLETE generation integrates seamlessly with MASCHINE, providing direct access to instrument parameters from within the MASCHINE browser.

MASCHINE Expansions are sound packs created to expand the sonic palette available to MASCHINE users. Expansions such as CONANT GARDENS, RAW VOLTAGE, and VINTAGE HEAT come complete with perfectly-matched sounds, samples, patterns, and projects, letting users create complete tracks without the need for additional sounds. DROP SQUAD, the very latest MASCHINE Expansion, also features custom presets for MASSIVE – the powerful synthesizer included free with the purchase of MASCHINE.

iMASCHINE is an intuitive beat sketchpad for iPhone®, iPod touch®, and iPad®. Portable, flexible and easy to use, iMASCHINE is ideal for developing song ideas on the go. All projects can be exported to MASCHINE for further production and final tweaking.

TRAKTOR PRO 2 is NI's flagship DJ software, offering DJs maximum creative potential. DJs have access to up to four decks, plus innovative Remix Deck™ technology. More than 30 studio quality effects and a loop recorder are also included for powerful remixing options. The latest version of TRAKTOR PRO 2 also features the new Flux Mode and Macro FX. Flux Mode tracks the time elapsed during complicated scratch and effect performances, and returns to the track at exactly the right point – as if the song had been playing in the background. The 11 Macro FX have been designed according to classic DJ workflows, mapping complex effect performances onto a single knob on TRAKTOR hardware controllers. Customers can purchase TRAKTOR PRO 2 for $44.50 / 39.50 € during the sales special – a very special value on this powerful DJ software.

Pricing and Availability:
From Nov 22nd until November 26, 2012, KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects, all MASCHINE Expansions, and TRAKTOR PRO are available for 50% off. iMASCHINE is available from the Apple App Store for $0.99/0,89 €.

This special offer is valid from 11:00 (CET) on November 22, 2012 to 24:00 (CET) on November 26, 2012, while stocks last. The special offer is not valid on iMASCHINE Expansions, accessories, bags, or NI Wear, KOMPLETE AUDIO 6, GUITAR RIG 5 KONTROL, RIG KONTROL, MASCHINE, MASCHINE MIKRO, KOMPLETE 8, KOMPLETE 8 ULTIMATE, KOMPLETE ELEMENTS, SESSION HORNS, ACTION STRINGS. Not valid on TRAKTOR products except for TRAKTOR PRO 2. iMASCHINE is available from the Apple AppStore. All other offers apply to the NI Online Shop only. Note that according to our terms and conditions, e-vouchers cannot be used in conjunction with special offers.

More information:
www.native-instruments.com/3coursedeal

Virtual Tube Preamp

Studio Devil releases a plug-in to add natural warmth and compression


Studio Devil tells us that their Virtual Tube Preamp faithfully emulates the analog circuitry of a discrete, class-A biased, vacuum tube preamplifier. They say that all of the associated analog circuitry, including the vacuum tube itself and the effects of biasing resistors and capacitors, are simulated in amazing detail. They believe that just about any audio source or track can benefit from the natural soft limiting and dynamic warmth that this virtual tube preamplifier provides.

Features:
  • Discrete Vacuum Tube Preamplifier Channel using the best vacuum tube modeling technology available to faithfully emulate the dynamic and expressive nature of real vacuum tube preamplifiers using Studio Devil's proprietary vacuum tube circuit modeling technologies.
  • Input Drive Control adjusts the strength of the signal feeding the input grid of the virtual tube preamplifier.
  • Output Level Control to adjust the output signal strength and to compensate for low drive settings.
  • Bass Contour Control to sweep the value of the cathode bypass capacitor which controls the low frequency and dynamic saturation responses of the preamp.
  • Treble Rolloff Control to tweak the value of intrinsic and parasitic capacitances in the simulated vacuum tube preamp, giving control over the natural warmth and softness associated with real vacuum tube preamps.
  • Bias Switch to select from two preset tube bias levels which vary the interaction of gain, asymmetrical drive, and dynamics of the preamplifier.
  • Invert Switch permits controlling the phase of the preamplifier and the polarity of the class-A asymmetry.
  • CPU Switch adjusts the modeling algorithm to balance the tradeoff between accuracy and CPU load allowing multiple instances to run on even slower workstations.
  • Overload LEDS assist in setting healthy levels by indicating when the input signal is overdriving the tube preamp and when the output level clips.

Pricing and Availability:
$99 until the end of the year, then $129.
$79 for existing Studio Devil users.

More information:
Virtual Tube Preamp

Store 12 Guitars In 3 Feet Of Space

GuitarStorage.com introduces the Carousel Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand


GuitarStorage.com, a subsidiary of A&S Crafted Products has announced the release of its new Carousel Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand. The Carousel™ Stand's solid construction and ergonomic design provide superior protection for guitars so they can be displayed and stored out of their cases in an attractive and organized way. The Carousel™ Stand features a rotating base which allows easy access to all the guitars while displaying them from all angles. It features nitrocellose-safe wool felt at all contact points and soft supports for the guitar bodies to provide ultimate cushioning and protection for a wide variety of guitars.

Founded in 2003, A&S Crafted Products manufactures high quality wood storage solutions for guitarists, guitar collectors, and music teachers who need to store stringed instruments. Karen Schwartz, the company's Product Development Manager, told Amped, "The Carousel Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand was developed as the ideal solution for people who need to store many guitars in a very limited space, yet who want a sturdy, decorative, and furniture-quality rack on which to store them. Using our many years of experience and our intimate knowledge of our customers' needs, we developed a stand that stores six guitars in only three feet of floor space and rotates easily to give quick access and a clear view of any guitar in a collection. For more than six guitars, our customer can purchase the optional Expansion Tier which fits over the base unit, doubling the capacity to 12 guitars while requiring no additional floor space. Because it does not need to be placed against a wall like linear guitar racks, and the Carousel™ looks great and functions anywhere in a room, in a corner or even in the middle of an open area. With nothing like it available on the market, we are extremely proud of our new, innovative design."

The Carousel™ Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand features ribbon-stripe sapele mahogany and herringbone wood inlay as well as solid maple support cradles with cushioned supports and soft wool felt at all contact points.

The bottom tier (base unit) of the Carousel™ Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand is 36" wide X 36" deep X 31 1/2" high and holds up to six guitars. The optional Expansion Tier (which can hold six more guitars) is 36" wide X 36" deep and adds 46" to the total stand height. The Expansion Tier can be purchase along with the base unit, or it can be purchased at a later date as the customer's guitar collection expands.

Pricing and Availability:
The MSRP for the bottom tier (base unit) of the Carousel™ Deluxe Multi-Guitar Stand is $640.00, the Street Price is around $589.00 and is currently shipping. The MSRP for the Optional Expansion Tier (to double the capacity) is $569.00, the Street Price is around $529.00.

More information:
www.guitarstorage.com

Half-Price EastWest/Quantum Leap Virtual Instruments

50% Holiday Special at SoundsOnline.com


Soundsonline.com is ringing in the holidays with a spectacular offer: Through December 31, 2012, you can save 50% on EastWest/Quantum Leap virtual instruments.

This straightforward holiday special requires no minimum purchase.


Pricing and Availability:
See website

More information:
www.soundsonline.com
www.soundsonline-europe.com

2012 Roland V-Drums World Championship U.S. Finals

Texan Patrick Kennedy is Named U.S. Champion


Held on the eve of the annual Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC), the U.S. finals for the2012 Roland V-Drums World Championship exposed exceptional drumming talent and the power and versatility of Roland drums and percussion. Each of the talented U.S. finalists played an original drum performance using the TD-30KV V-Pro Series V-Drums, OCTAPAD SPD-30 Percussion Pad, and SPD-SX Sampling Pad.

U.S. finalist Jeffrey Fajardo drove all the way from his home in Brooklyn, New York, to Austin, Texas, for the competition, a journey of nearly 2,000 miles, after his flight was cancelled due to Super Storm Sandy. Though Fajardo didn't win, his dedication reflects the passion inspired by the Roland V-Drums World Championship. The big winner of the evening was Patrick Kennedy from the Austin suburb of Manor, Texas, who performed a solo that combined electronica, real-time loops, and a display of groove and fills.

Previously a runner-up in the 2011 U.S. semifinals, Patrick Kennedy will be representing the United States at the V-Drums World Championship 2 in April 2013 during Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany. "It was an honor to participate in the V-Drums national competition," Patrick reflected on the experience afterwards. "I had an amazing time getting to hang out and talk with Thomas Lang and Johnny Rabb, as well as all of the other contestants." Kennedy won a TD-30KV V-Drums set with a set of REMO custom shell wraps, a complete set of DW hardware, dozens of Pat Kennedy signature sticks from Vic Firth, and a year's subscription to DRUM! magazine.

Runner-up Phillip "P.J." Hill of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, performed with a blend of technique and hip musical style. The other talented competitors included Brandon Currie from Marietta, Georgia; DeCarlos Davis from Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Jeffrey Fajardo from Brooklyn, New York; Tony "T.J." Fisher from Long Beach, California; Casey Glass from Loveland, Colorado; and Reed Hayes from Deltona, Florida.

Roland's Annual V-Drums World Championship gives drummers around the globe a unique opportunity to explore their musical passion, flexibility and the creative options of electronic percussion. The contestants performed in front of a lively onsite audience of over 250, while a large, worldwide audience watched the live event online as it was broadcast on the Roland U.S. website.

Co-sponsored by DRUM! magazine, Drum Workshop, Remo, and Vic Firth, the national finals was the culmination of more than four months of exciting drumming competitions in the U.S. Beginning with an 11-week online selection process that began in June, nearly 300 drummers submitted video performances that were carefully judged by Roland U.S. staff members. Of the hundreds of submissions, 48 contestants were selected to compete in eight semifinal events in front of live audiences nationwide. These events were held on two consecutive weekends in September, where judges chose the final eight drummers for the national finals.

"Having the contest at this year's PASIC event was awesome," said Roland Percussion Product Manager Tim Root, who once again served as the evening's emcee. "We were able to introduce Roland V-Drums to a whole new group of drummers and percussionists. We were very pleased at the turnout and our partnership with the Percussive Arts Society. By streaming the contest live, we were able to reach a global audience. Now, it's on to the V-Drums World Championship 2 finals in Europe--go USA!"

More information:
www.RolandUS.com/VDrumsContest

Plugin Alliance Contributes Plug-Ins To Avid's AAX Pack

Company tops Avid AAX Pack plug-in count and announces updates


Plugin Alliance has announced that it has contributed six multi-format (including AAX DSP/AAX Native) plug-ins to Avid's recently-released AAX Pack, making it the main contributor to this 18-plug-in-strong bundle. Here's what their PR person has to say:

The AAX (Avid Audio eXtension) plug-in format was launched last year alongside Pro Tools 10 to provide better workflows and sound parity when sharing sessions between DSP-accelerated and native-based Pro Tools systems; AAX Pack offers Pro Tools|HDX and Pro Tools|HD native owners running Pro Tools 10 software a must-have collection of superior-sounding, studio-essential AAX plug-ins from the world's leading plug-in providers, including six of the best from Plugin Alliance:

  • Brainworx bx_limiter is a great-sounding, simple, but effective low-latency limiter plug-in designed to help determine how many dB of dynamics to reserve for each and every signal -- go louder with more punch, less distortion!
  • Brainworx_XL V2 is based upon the M/S technology taken from Brainworx's bx_digital, a 'modern classic' high-end analogue M/S EQ developed in 2006/7 -- maximize your loudness with this powerful peak limiter!
  • elysia alpha compressor is a software recreation of elysia's acclaimed mastering compressor, emulating its sound and features to match the analogue hardware as closely as possible -- programmed by the coding experts from Brainworx!
  • Mäag Audio EQ4 successfully models Mäag Audio's renowned EQ4® (500 Series) equaliser -- retain original sound integrity and enhance 'airy' frequencies while shaping sounds to perfection with this studio-coveted six-band EQ!
  • Pro Audio DSP Spectrum Mapper V2 was developed by former Sony OXF R3 digital console development team members using groundbreaking adaptive techniques -- create great-sounding vocal tracks with this unique compressor/limiter/de-esser!
  • SPL TwinTube transfers the warm, transparent, and smooth sound of analogue tube and coil filtering to the digital domain -- add the warmth and presence of SPL's renowned RackPack modular system processor!

Plugin Alliance has also announced major updates for all its currently available plug-ins from global partners Brainworx (Germany), elysia (Germany), Mäag Audio (USA), Noveltech Audio (Finland), Pro Audio DSP (UK), SPL (Germany), and Vertigo Sound (Germany); all are now conveniently grouped in the same menu (named Plugin Alliance) and listed alphabetically -- no need to go searching anymore. Registered users can download them now for free from the Plugin Alliance website.

New users are also invited to open an online Plugin Alliance account, where four free plug-ins are awaiting them! Pro Tools|HDX and Pro Tools|HD native owners or otherwise.

Pricing and Availability:
AAX Pack is available to registered Pro Tools|HDX and Pro Tools|HD Native owners for $1,295.00 USD from all Avid pro audio resellers until December 14, 2012.

All six Plugin Alliance plug-in licenses sold as part of the AAX Pack are non-transferrable and must be registered on the Plugin Alliance website to activate them.

More information:
www.plugin-alliance.com

Free SSL Studio Workshop Event In London

At KMR Audio on 12 December


Solid State Logic and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd have announced a free SSL studio workshop event at KMR Audio in London on 12th December 2012.

From 12 noon on 12/12/12, Solid State Logic's James Motley and mix engineer Gary Bromham will be on hand to demonstrate SSL's latest DAW control and audio processing range including: the X-Rack system and new 500 Series compatible E-Series modules, X-Desk, Nucleus, and new MADI-equipped Alpha Link MX converters.

At 7pm, James will be present a seminar discussing workflow and the factors that affect your studio environment. He will examine and discuss various studio setups to give you insight on how your workflow can be more productive, feel more creative and how you can make better music!

SSL Studio Workshops bring together like minded individuals to share expertise and offer you a unique opportunity to see and hear the improvements SSL 'big studio' technology can make in your project studio productions.

The event is free to attend but numbers are limited and registration is required.

For more information and to register please click here.

Pricing and Availability:
Free

More information:
SSL

A Creative Way To Make New Grooves

Steinberg's sonote beat re:edit plug-in is soon to be available


Steinberg has announced the upcoming release of sonote beat re:edit, the ideal beat instrument plug-in for Steinberg's recently announced Cubase 7 and Cubase Artist 7 music production systems. sonote beat re:edit will be available in the beginning of December.

Matthias Quellmann, product marketing manager at Steinberg, told Sonic State, "For all Cubase users who're into meddling with beats, sonote beat re:edit is a unique approach to making new grooves from your content."

Based on Yamaha's renowned sonote technology, sonote beat re:edit extracts beat slices within an audio loop and replaces them with similar sounds. Analyzing the transients of individual waveforms, sonote beat re:edit defines and categorizes fragments -- so-called sonotes -- in dedicated databases based on parameters, such as loudness, attack and frequency. This allows sonote quickly to exchange fragments with comparable audio material and generate new rhythmical content.

Exclusively compatible with Cubase 7 and Cubase Artist 7, sonote beat re:edit perfectly integrates into the Cubase environment, allowing for drag-and-drop of audio events from and to the Project window and MediaBay.

sonote beat re:edit includes a factory library with three databases of acoustic, electronic and standard beats and additional VST presets of rhythmical phrases.

Features at a glance

• Exchange the sounds of your beat with sounds of your own music

• Create your own sonote database out of your favorite sounds and tracks

• Seamless import and export of audio material from and to Cubase

• MIDI support to control virtually all parameters via external devices

• Out-of-the-box factory library

• Available as download for Windows and Mac OS X Intel


Pricing and Availability:
sonote beat re:edit is a product of Digital Musical Instruments Division, Yamaha Corporation, and is available in December exclusively as download through the Steinberg Online Shop. The retail price is 49.99 euros including German VAT.

More information:
Steinberg

AES Option For iLive

Allen & Heath has launched a new AES Out option module for the fixed format MixRacks

iDR-48 MixRack fitted with the new AES out option

A&H tells us that customers are now able to order an iDR-16, iDR-32, iDR-48 and iDR-64 fixed formatMixRack or the xDR-16 expander unit, fitted with an AES Digital Output Option, providing two AES3 digital 2-channel outputs in place of four of the analogue line outputs. Supported by the newly released firmware V1.9, the option is also available as a retro-fit kit for existing customers, allowing single or multiple AES Digital Output options to be fitted.

A&H product manager, Leon Phillips, told Sonic State, "A&H is really pleased to be able to offer the option for AES outputs on all of the fixed format MixRacks in the iLive family. The launch comes in response to engineers and installers who want to keep the connection to the PA in the digital domain. Previously only an option on the flagship modular iLive systems, the new AES options will place fixed format iLive systems in the running for new applications, such as cost-sensitive broadcast installations."

Pricing and Availability:
See website

More information:
www.allen-heath.com

How To Make It In Nashville

Hal Leonard's Making the Scene: Nashville shows you how to succeed in Music City


Hal Leonard tells us that a new series on living in arts, entertainment, and media centers begins with a step-by-step guide to establishing yourself in Nashville, Tenn: Making the Scene: Nashville - How to Live, Network, and Succeed in Music City by Liam Sullivan. Here's their press release with the details...

How hot is Nashville? So hot that when ABC was looking for a setting for a musical/drama series to compete with Fox's Glee and NBC's Smash, it landed in Music City, U.S.A. Aspiring singer-songwriters, country music fans, and musicians of all stripes inspired by ABC's Nashville to move to country music's hometown will find a wealth of invaluable information about what it will take to make their mark in Making the Scene: Nashville - How to Live, Network, and Succeed in Music City by Liam Sullivan.

One could argue that moving to Nashville is the easy part. Getting acclimated and gaining a foothold in the Nashville music scene can be another story. Making the Scene: Nashville addresses those challenges, while serving as a comprehensive guide for musicians and artists looking to move to and establish themselves in the city. Making the Scene: Nashville is filled with interviews with Music Industry professionals, who provide insight into how the music scene in Nashville works and what the best plan of attack is for hitting the big time.

There are also uplifting and heartwarming interviews with singer-songwriters from around the country who have made the move and embrace Nashville as their new musical home. Music venues in Nashville are plentiful and bustling with singers and songwriters every night, and Sullivan lays out a step-by-step approach to figuring out not only how to get gigs, but also understanding how the music business in Nashville works. With the help of interviews with a host of Music Row professionals, Making the Scene: Nashville covers every facet of Nashville's music scene: from tips to performing "live" to understanding music publishing terms that every musician should know. Sullivan explains the best way to approach an open mic or writer's night, and maps out the most musician-friendly neighborhoods. He also looks at Nashville's hundred years of music history, important to know when speaking with music publishers and executives alike.

Van Morrison once said, "Music is spiritual, but the music business is not." From where to buy gear to where to see live music and where to network and exchange ideas with other musicians, Making the Scene: Nashville provides the tools newcomers will need to meet the challenges of the business and make the move to Nashville.

About the author
Liam Sullivan is an active musician and is currently creative director of Tricktones LLC, a music production company. Sullivan spent the past 15 years as an executive with music magazines, holding positions with Spin and Entertainment Weekly. Previously, he founded Vertigo Magazine, a cutting-edge guide for adventurous tourists in New York City, and Linx, a step-by-step walking guide through the streets of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Pricing and Availability:
$19.99

More information:
www.halleonardbooks.com