Article

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Cloud Unveils Cloudlifter Two-Channel Ribbon Microphone Interface Device At 2010 Winter NAMM

Cloudlifter can elevate a ribbon mic’s sound over 20 dB, equipped with direct-coupled JFET (Junction Field-Effect Transistor) circuitry that is ultra-transparent

Cloud Microphones has introduced the Cloudlifter, a two-channel device for interfacing passive, low-output ribbon microphones with any phantom-powered input device.

“The Cloudlifter is small enough to go anywhere and use with your favorite preamp,” explains Cloud Chief Design Engineer Stephen Sank, son of Jon R. Sank, the designer of some of the best and last of RCA’s ribbon microphones such as the BK-11 and BK-10A. “The purity of its sound makes it a pleasure to work with. With only a minimum amount of makeup gain required, your tracks will always shine.”

The Cloudlifter can elevate a ribbon mic’s sound over 20 dB, equipped with direct-coupled JFET (Junction Field-Effect Transistor) circuitry that is ultra-transparent.

Offering clean gain while preserving the natural sonic characteristics of the source, the technology keeps the audio path free-and-clear of transformers, capacitors, and resistors. Pure sound is the end product, without any coloration.

Safe for use with any passive ribbon or dynamic mic, the Cloudlifter is ideally suited for voice and music alike.

Debuting at the 2010 Winter NAMM show, the Cloudlifter a suggested retail price of $329.

Cloud Microphones Website

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Peavey Introduces Versatile EU Series Powered Loudspeakers, Subwoofer At 2010 Winter NAMM

Two-way models incorporate the new Peavey Black Widow BWX-DVC Neo cone driver, RX22 titanium compression driver and patented Quadratic Throat Waveguide horn; subwoofer is outfitted with 1,000-watt Peavey IPR power section and a Low Rider 18 woofer

At the 2010 Winter NAMM show, Peavey introduced the EU Series of Class D-powered loudspeakers, including the EU 112D and EU 115D two-way models and the EU 118D subwoofer.

The EU 112D and EU 115D powered enclosures incorporate the new Peavey Black Widow BWX-DVC Neo cone driver, engineered with dual voice coil, push-pull technology and a neodymium magnet.

A Woofer Servo circuit monitors back-EMF and controls cone motion, ensuring the cone’s movement mirrors the driving signal from the power amp and resulting in very low distortion, high power handling and rock-solid low-frequency attack.

The EU 112D and EU 115D also feature Peavey’s 2-inch RX22 titanium compression driver and patented Quadratic Throat Waveguide horn in an asymmetrical design providing 100-degree H x 50-degree V (+15, -35) coverage.

The driver is positioned in line with the horn geometry to ensure clear sound reproduction.

Utilizing Peavey’s IPR power amplifier technology, the EU 112D and EU 115D produce 1,200 total watts of efficient power with a lightweight switch-mode power supply and a high-speed class D topology that yields the highest audio resolution and efficiency available.

The EU input section features two input channels and a line output, with a mix of I/O options such as combination XLR-quarter-inch jacks, RCA and install-ready Phoenix connections.

Input channels 1 and 2 also have mic/line source switches and gain controls. The Auto-Off function automatically shuts off the power when it no longer detects a signal, while the Line Out allows the user to chain multiple units or send the input signal to another source.

The DynaQ section offers advanced tone controls such as Bass Enhancer, which is an overall loudness boost; a Music/Speech switch that provides optimized EQ settings for each audio type; and Contour, specially configured for program music.

A module bay allows for future expansion including wireless I/O, delay/time adjustment, mixer/expander, Ethernet I/O and more.

The EU 118D features a 1,000-watt Peavey IPR power section and a Low Rider 18 woofer in a highly rugged enclosure.

The EU 118D also is outfitted with a fourth order Linkwitz-Riley crossover that has eight selectable low-frequency crossover points, a crossover in/out switch, low frequency enhancement, and a high-pass output to send the signal out to an EU powered high/mid enclosure.

The EU 112D, EU 115D and EU 118D are constructed of lightweight 13-layer plywood with a durable Hammer Head polyurethane finish.

The EU 112D and EU 115D have three built-in flying points and a tilt-back design to facilitate use as a personal monitor, while all three models are equipped with pole mounts.

All EU models will be available from authorized Peavey retailers in Q2 2010.

EU 112D and EU 115D:
• 1,000W IPR power amplifier for the low frequencies
• 200W IPR power amplifier for the high frequencies
• 12-inch Neo Black Widow Dual Voice Coil Woofer on EU 112D
• 15-inch Neo Black Widow Dual Voice Coil Woofer on EU 115D
• RX22 titanium compression driver with ferrofluid cooling
• Two-way, bi-amplified active loudspeaker system
• Patented Quadratic Throat Waveguide technology
• Asymmetrical horn aims the sound down to the audience
• Expansion port for input and control modules
• Angled side for use as a floor monitor
• Durable Hammer Head polyurethane finish
• Dual position stand mount adapter
• Rigging points on top, bottom, and back for flying the enclosure
• DDT compression/anti-clipping protection
• DynaQ audio enhancement circuit provides automatic equal loudness compensation and increased audio clarity
• Servo Feedback controlled woofer
• Two independent input channels, with level control and mic/line gain switch
• U.S. MSRP $1199.99 for EU 112D
• U.S. MSRP $1299.99 for EU 115D

EU 118D:
• 1,000W IPR power amplifier
• 18” Peavey Low Rider subwoofer
• Full power handling down to 34 Hz
• Fourth order Linkwitz-Riley crossover with eight discrete low-frequency crossover points
• Bass enhancement circuit
• Crossover in/out switch
• High-pass thru jack
• Compact and lightweight design
• Speaker pole mount
• Heavy-duty steel handles inset on both sides
• Hammer Head polyurethane black finish
• Full-length, perforated steel grille for speaker protection
• Servo Feedback controlled woofer
• U.S. MSRP $1499.99

Peavey Website

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Crown HiQnet Band Manager Breaks 10,000 Download Barrier

Function-driven interface designed to simplify system setup and management proving popular

Crown has announced that more than 10,000 users have downloaded the company’s HiQnet Band Manager, a free application with a function-driven interface designed to simplify system setup and management while enabling audio professionals, musicians, and engineers to configure and control a rack of Crown XTi series amplifiers. 

Band Manager, which unlocks all loudspeaker-processing capabilities of the XTi Series, makes use of browser-style navigation and the ‘Home’ screen displays monitor strips for each amplifier in the rack and front-of-house EQ and level control. 

EQ for stage monitors and all other processing is accessible on an individual amplifier basis.  Upon starting Band Manager, all amplifier settings are transferred from the connected devices but they can also be saved to disk for quick recall if the rack is used often in multiple venues. 

Band Manager is a cut-down version of its parent software, HiQnet System Architect, a much larger application which provides full-system control of over 70 professional audio devices from across the entire Harman Pro group, including the XTi Series.

Users of System Architect with the XTi will be familiar with the amplifier control layout since Band Manager makes use of the same software plug-in.

Directly tailoring Band Manager to the needs of portable PA market enables far quicker configuration of a rack of XTi amplifiers by bringing only the essential tools into direct focus. 

For those who need the more advanced control, any rack configurations saved within Band Manager can be opened in System Architect.  By using the plug in concept, Band Manager is all ready to control other future portable PA HiQnet devices.

Commenting on the success of Band Manager over the last year, Andy Flint, Crown Marketing Manager for Portable PA, stated, “Band Manager is successful because it provides real value. It simplifies the process of setting up and optimizing the PA system, while at the same time allowing users to extract the maximum from their system. Put simply, it’s a performance accelerate.”

Crown Audio Website

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TC Electronic Unveils Impact Twin Interface - Maximizes Signal Into DAW & More

Also designed to optimize any microphone, from the finest vintage tube mics to the most low-budget condensers

The new TC Electronic Impact Twin is an audio interface offering a pristine recording path, two mic preamps that feature the company’s Impact III technology, each featuring three stages: a high quality and very flexible mic amp, 192 kHz/24 bit HD conversion, and a set of recording Channel Tools, each carefully brought together.

The Impact III mic amp has been designed from the ground up to maximize the signal recorded into a DAW, as well as optimize any microphone, from the finest vintage tube mics to the most low-budget condensers.

While Impact Twin offers 192 kHz/24 bit HD conversion, rates can also be selected from 44.1kHz up 192kHz, helping to maintain the essential transients of the original sound.

Channel Tools that go even further to optimize the sound, with onboard EQ, compressor and de-esser that quickly, simply and invisibly tame and enhance those signals.

Another feature is iCheck (Integrity Check), which provides a shortcut for revealing any artifacts caused by data reduction – essential when encoding mp3 or AAC files.

More features:
• Direct Monitor Reverb -  A simple way to add reverb at the monitor stage so the singer can enjoy quality reverb through headphones
• FireWire 800 compatible, adaptor included
• Quick compressor access and feedback - Access the crucial compressor setting directly from Impact Twin’s front panel – the light ring instantly shows gain reduction
• 14/14 I/O (4 analog, 10 digital I/O) - 14 ins and 14 outs give the flexibility to record and monitor just about any device
• Hi-Z guitar optimized inputs ensure that guitar tone is beautifully preserved
• JetPLL jitter reduction
• Included plug-ins (M40 reverb, ResFilter, Assimilator) Impact Twin comes bundled with TC Electronic effects. The M40 reverb is based on an algorithm from the Reverb 4000 processor, the multi-purpose ResFilter provides an ultra-fat filter sound, and the Assimilator EQ curve assimilation allows producers to quickly grab an EQ curve from any sound and apply it to their own.
• Sturdy design
• Guitar Tuner maintains perfect pitch with the built-in guitar tuner
• Comes bundled with Ableton Live Lite 8 TC Electronic edition

The new Impact Twin is available now, at a list price of $519 MSRP (USD).

TC Electronic Website

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Universal Audio Partnering With Harman Pro Group On Plug-Ins For UAD-2 Powered Platform

Emulations of classic Lexicon, Studer, dbx, and AKG equipment coming to UAD-2 platform on Mac or PC

Universal Audio has announced a licensing agreement with the Harman Pro Group, with Universal Audio developing, marketing and selling plug-in emulations of select Lexicon, Studer, dbx, and AKG equipment for the UAD-2 Powered Plug-In Platform.

“We are delighted to be working with Universal Audio to bring these virtual legacy products to market,” commented Michael MacDonald, Harman International EVP of Marketing and Sales. “Our brands are like gold to us, and when it comes to faithfully reproducing the sound and character of these vintage devices, we knew that we needed to partner with the best — and that is UA.

“We have the utmost confidence in Universal Audio to not only deliver on the promise of these brands, but to provide customers with the ‘best in class’ support they expect.”

“The Harman Pro Group is the parent company behind and array of legendary premium audio brands, and we are truly honored by this partnership,” said Universal Audio President Matt Ward. “This is a great tribute to the care and detail that our DSP and user interface teams put into each and every UAD Powered Plug-In.

“We look forward to working with the talented folks at the Harman Pro Group to ensure every emulation detail is as faithful and accurate as possible to the original classic equipment.”

Universal Audio Website
Harman Pro Group Website

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Saturday, January 23, 2010

Lexicon Introduces Complete Desktop Recording System With Omega Studio Bundle

Contains necessary hardware and software components to transform a PC or Mac into a 24-bit recording studio

Lexicon has launched the Omega Studio Bundle, a completely integrated computer recording package that combines Lexicon’s Omega Studio USB recording interface with Steinberg Cubase LE 4 multi-track audio and MIDI recording software, the Lexicon Pantheon VST reverb plug-in, and an AKG D 88 S lead vocal microphone and mic cable.

It contains all the necessary hardware and software components to transform a PC or Mac into a professional 24-bit recording studio and allows the user to start recording immediately.

The Omega Studio recording interface is built around a mixer paradigm. The interface is an 8-input, 4-bus, 2-output, USB I/O mixer with inserts, instrument input, MIDI I/O, and complete metering and monitoring functions with the ability to record up to 4-tracks at once.

The Omega I/O mixer makes it easy to record, arrange, edit, process and mix music.  A user gets intuitive hands-on control over the most important functions, creating an easy-to-use interface for creative recording.

Cubase LE 4 integrates seamlessly with the Omega I/O mixer to achieve an easy-to-use 48-track complete recording solution that includes all of the modules that you need to track, edit, and mix your masterpiece. 

The Pantheon VST reverb plug-in allows the user to add that full, rich luster of reverb and delay to create a polished and professional mix.

In addition, the AKG D 88 S dynamic handheld microphone for lead vocalists completes the package.

“The Omega Studio Bundle represents Lexicon’s continued commitment to give users the highest quality recording options for their home studio.  This complete package provides someone with everything they need to capture the moment and begin recording immediately at price points that make this recording bundle accessible to all musicians and recording enthusiasts,” stated Randy Garrett, Director of Marketing for Lexicon.

Highlights:
• Lexicon Omega 8-Input, 4-Bus, 2-Output USB I/O Mixer
• AKG D 88 S Dynamic Vocal Microphone with Cable and Case
• Steinberg Cubase LE 4 Multi-track Audio and MIDI Recording Software
• Lexicon World Class Pantheon VST Reverb Plug-In

Lexicon Website

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Electro-Voice Launches ZXA1 Compact Powered Loudspeaker At 2010 Winter NAMM

Powered by an 800 watt amplifier module derived from EV’s Tour Grade Series

Electro-Voice has added to the ZX loudspeaker family with the new ZXA1, self-powered version of the popular ZX1 compact two-way loudspeaker.

Launching at Winter NAMM 2010, ZXA1 is powered by an 800 watt amplifier module derived from EV’s tour-class Tour Grade Series – amplifiers with audio quality and reliability proven at the very highest levels.

ZXA1’s lightweight, super-durable molded enclosure ensures it looks as good as it sounds, incorporating a professional-grade 8-inch woofer and 1-inch titanium compression driver.

Features:
• Integrated 800 watt power amplifier
• Biamplified design with transducer protection
• EV8L 8-inch high-output LF transducer
• DH2005 1-inch exit true compression driver
• 90-degree x 50-degree coverage pattern
• Rotatable horn design
• 123 dB maximum SPL
• Selectable high-pass filter for use with subwoofers
• Line and microphone inputs
• Integral monitor angle on enclosure
• Built-in pole mount
• Light weight (

< 20 lbs) with integral handle for easy carrying

Electro-Voice Website

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Rane Debuts AM 1 Versatile Mic/Line Mixer, AutoMixer & More At 2010 Winter NAMM Show

Can be used as a stand-alone mic/line mixer, add more gain-shared mics, and/or use the RAD Port to transport the main mix via a Rane Mongoose to a CobraNet network

The new Rane AM 1 is part gain-sharing automatic mic mixer, part manual line mixer, part USB audio I/O device, and simultaneously a Rane RAD.

It can be used as a stand-alone mic/line mixer, add more gain-shared mics using up to seven Rane AM 2 Automixers (sold separately), and/or use the RAD Port to transport the main mix via a Rane Mongoose to a CobraNet network.

Each of the four XLR Mic Inputs offers front panel input Level controls feeding a gain-sharing automatic mixer.

Rear panel, 3-position switches for each Mic Input support dynamic mics (no phantom power), condenser mics (48 V), or line input optimized for wireless receiver outputs (+10 dBu max). A front panel Mic Mix Level control adjusts the volume of all automixed mics.

The AM 1 is optimized for automixing speech. The mic inputs have a fixed 100 Hz to 7 kHz bandpass filter to provide the best voice-only automatic mixing using a gain-sharing algorithm.

Three manually-mixed audio inputs provide a simple user interface and installation. The Aux 1 Input dual RCA and Aux 2 3.5 mm jacks are independently monoed, each with a front panel Level control.

A dedicated USB Charge port adjacent to Aux 2 provides power to USB devices such as iPods or other USB-powered devices. The separate orange USB Audio Input also offers a front panel Level control for the 16-bit, 48 kHz digital audio that is monoed immediately upon entry.

Signal and Overload indicators monitor the Mic and Aux Inputs, the Mic Mix and the Main Mix. Indicators flank the corresponding Level controls.

The AM 1 appears in Windows and Apple OS X computers as a standard USB Audio Device, immediately compatible with dozens of audio recording and playback audio applications.

The AM1 registers with the OS as a 16-bit 48 kHz device for both incoming and outgoing audio. The USB Audio port doubles as a firmware update port if future updates become available.

The XLR Main Output can be set to Mic- or Line-level to feed a mic snake or a +20 dBu max balanced input. The front panel Output Level control affects the XLR Output and the RAD Port output.

The analog RECORD RCA Outputs and the digital USB Audio output are both mono, pre-Output Level, containing the same mix as the Main Output.

The RAD Port sends the AM 1 output mix to a Rane Mongoose for routing to output RADs and/or a CobraNet network. The Cascade IN accepts audio and data from a Rane AM 2’s Cascade OUT. This adds the AM 2’s eight mic channels to the AM 1, creating a 12 channel gain-sharing automix.

Up to seven AM 2s can be cascaded to a single AM 1, offering up to 60 gain-shared mics. Both the RAD and the Cascade IN port have status indicators to aid setup and troubleshooting.

Rear panel Fault, Locate, USB and Power indicators inform head-scratchers of device errors, the AM 1’s physical location, positive USB audio device OS registration and AC power status.

A front panel pre-Output Selector permits headphone cueing so users can verify input and output operation before bringing new sources into the live Output mix. Both 1/4-inch & 3.5 mm headphone jacks with a Level control are provided. Duplicate Locate and Power indicators are on the front and rear.

Universal IEC power on the rear supports 100 to 240 VAC and 50/60 Hz. The AM 1 is UL Listed and CE certified, and will be available in April 2010.

Rane Website

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New BSS Audio BLU-100 Provides Upgraded Signal Processing To Soundweb London Series

An open-architecture solution in the form of a highly flexible, cost-effective and scalable package

BSS Audio has added a cost-effective signal processor to its Soundweb London family of digital signal processors, with the new Soundweb London BLU-100 representing a premium, open-architecture solution in the form of a highly flexible, cost-effective and scalable package.

The BLU-100 offers a fixed configuration of 12 inputs and eight outputs, configurable signal processing, logic processing and a fault tolerant digital audio bus.

The configurable signal processing capability offered by the BLU-100 is roughly twice that of the Soundweb London BLU-80 and BLU-16 devices.

The analog inputs of the BLU-100 provide software configurable gain in 6 dB steps up to +48 dB per channel and software selectable Phantom Power per channel.

Phantom Power, Signal Present and Clip information per channel is easily accessible, without the requirement for a PC, from clear front panel LED indication.

The BLU-100 features a low latency, fault tolerant digital audio bus of 48 channels which uses standard Category 5e cabling giving a distance of 100m between compatible devices.

Fiber media converters can be used to increase the distance between devices to over 10km (6.2 miles) using single mode fiber.

The BLU-100 is configured, controlled and monitored from HiQnet London Architect and is compatible with other members of the Soundweb London family.

Its 48 channel digital audio bus represents channels 1-48 of the larger 256 channel digital audio bus when integrated with the BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160, BLU-120 and BLU-BOB devices. Up to 60 digital audio bus compatible devices can share channels on a single bus.

As with other Soundweb London devices, 12 Control Inputs and six Logic Outputs allow the BLU-100 to be integrated with GPIO compatible devices.

Iain Gregory, Market Manager for Installed Sound at Harman Music Group, stated, “The BLU-100 is an example of where user feedback, combined with the leveraging of Soundweb London’s technology, functionality and flexibility has resulted in the development of a truly game-changing product. The BLU-100 broadens the reach of Soundweb London and makes a solution strongly associated with high-profile projects available to many more applications.”

BSS Audio Website

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QSC Highlights K Series Compact Powered Loudspeakers At 2010 Winter NAMM

Systems pack 1,000 Watts of Class D amplification

At the 2010 Winter NAMM show, QSC Audio highlighted its new K Series line of compact, lightweight, high-performance powered loudspeakers.

K Series loudspeakers combine a molded ABS enclosure, uniformly matched drivers, advanced DSP, and QSC’s touring spec amplification.

The same 1,000-watt Class D amplifier module powers all four models - whether the K8, K10, K12 - or KSub (dual-12-inch subwoofer).

QSC Director of Entertainer Solutions Ray van Straten states, “The K Series has been designed entirely without compromise, from the ground up. QSC has departed from convention and at the same time exploded a myth that smaller woofers must equate to lower performance.

“Competitors will typically use the highest power amplifier and the best quality drivers in the largest format model, while designing their smaller format models with lower power amplification and lesser performing components. This allows them to reduce the price of the smaller models, further propagating the myth that a smaller woofer enclosure necessitates lower performance.”

He continues, “Apart from using the same amp module across the line, we are also using the same quality woofer motor in all four models, and the same 1.75-inch HF device in the three 2-way enclosures. The primary differentiator is the resulting output dispersion - the K8 being the widest at 105 degrees and the K12 the narrowest at 75 degrees.

“The choice for the customer then is not ‘good, better, best’, but ‘best, best, best’ - and ‘How wide a box do I need?’”

A proprietary process called Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) allows QSC to take advantage of a fundamental law of acoustics - smaller diameter woofers have wider coverage patterns than larger ones. QSC has matched the HF device to the LF dispersion, allowing for the smoothest and flattest frequency response possible across the entire sound field.

Several other proprietary QSC DSP technologies are incorporated into K Series, including Digital Extension and Excursion Processing (DEEP), which allows each model to deliver exceptional levels of low-frequency extension.

Intrinsic Correction, first featured in QSC line-array technology, utilizes dozens of spatially-averaged measurements, mapped to the processor to deliver smooth and accurate reproduction across the entire sound field.

Preventing amplifier clipping or overload is QSC’s proprietary GuardRail technology, also present in their popular GX amplifier line.

GuardRail closely monitors the input voltage and controls the amplifier output stage before the onset of clipping. Unlike typical clip limiters, when GuardRail is activated, the results are all but undetectable - there’s none of the “pumping” associated with other methods.

In addition, user EQ controls are provided to select between application settings (EXT SUB, VOCAL, or FLAT response).

When K Series loudspeakers are pole-mounted, the Tilt-Direct pole socket converts to a 7.5-degree down-tilt with a simple 180-degree rotation of the dial.

A locking IEC power cord is included, preventing accidental disconnect during a performance.

For installed applications, connecting a commonly available potentiometer to the unit allows the operator to obtain gain control from a remote location.

Multiple K Series units can also be daisy-chained together to one centralized control.

Additionally, the K Series enters standby mode after five minutes of inactivity, both conserving power and enhancing ease of use.

The entire package is housed in rugged and sonically-friendly ABS (the sub in birch plywood) with steel grilles (2-way models) and carry-friendly ergonomic aluminum handles. The KSub also features low-noise casters for easy transport.

Three two-way models are available, with 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch woofer diameters, built around an advanced switch-mode power supply and Class D output section, the subwoofer power module also delivering 1,000 watts from an efficient and lightweight design.

K12
The K12 is a 12-inch two-way system with 75-degree horizontal and vertical coverage. Low frequencies extend to 48 Hz (-10 dB high acoustic output, 131 dB peak).

Equally at home in the stage monitor role, the K12 enclosure has an angled side for use as a low-profile, horizontal wedge and a flat side for proper side-fill use.

K10
The K10 is a 10-inch two-way system sharing the same amplification, HF device and low-frequency driver of the same high quality as its big brother, and offering 90-degree (conical) coverage and 129 dB peak output (low frequencies extending to 56 Hz.

The K10 can also be used as an ultra low-profile, horizontal wedge or sidefill.

K8
The extremely compact size of this 8-inch loudspeaker won’t intrude on audience sightlines. Its 105-degree wide dispersion is a major advantage when the audience is up close to the loudspeaker.

Low frequencies extend to 61 Hz (-10 dB) and the unit outputs 127 dB.

KSub
For live reinforcement of bass instruments and drums, or higher level playback of recorded music, the KSub is the ideal supplement to the K Series two-way models - an M20 threaded pole socket (pole included) provides a secure, wobble-free method of elevating a mid-high speaker over the subwoofer.

A pair of high-power 12-inch speakers in an optimized bandpass enclosure will handle everything the 1,000 watt power module can give them. Compact in size, and ergonomically designed, well-placed handles, noise-free casters along with an available accessory cover ease load-in and load-out.

Processing, Connectivity & Monitoring
While the DSP functions are optimized using Intrinsic Correction, DEEP, DMT and GuardRail technologies (with the high-pass filter included for use with subwoofer systems), two XLR-combo inputs, each with its own level control, are also provided.

Both accommodate line-level inputs and one may be switched to microphone level sensitivity. Phono (RCA) input jacks are also included for connection of consumer electronics sources (2-way models only).

Dual XLR outputs are provided for dual ‘loop-thru’ XLR/M connectors and a single XLR jack is available as a summed output. All three input sources may be utilized at once and mixed via the two gain control knobs (2-way boxes only).

Input Panel LED indicators are provided for power, signal present, mic level sensitivity and limit annunciation. A front-mounted power LED may be disabled by means of a rear panel switch when desired, or set so it indicates when the limit circuitry has been engaged.

Waveguide
Each K model incorporates a conical waveguide that maintains pattern control all the way down to the crossover frequency. The coverage angles of the waveguides are tailored for a smooth transition from woofer to compression driver with far less ‘waist-banding’ or other directivity related anomalies than other products in this class.

Suspension and Mounting
The K Series two-way models may be pole-mounted, suspended or yoke mounted. The K8, K10 and K12 yoke accessory kits allow for either horizontal or vertical yoke mounting, providing a flexible means of attaching K Series loudspeakers to a building structure or truss.

When suspended deployment is required, M10 threaded inserts support vertical or horizontal suspension, while the integral pole mount socket accommodates 35mm speaker poles for use on a speaker stand or over a sub.

The pole socket is designed so that the speaker may be angled down 7.5° in order to cover the audience while keeping acoustic energy off reflective walls and ceilings.

Principle Features
• 1,000 watt, efficient and lightweight Class D power module
• Light Weight
• Professional appearance and rugged construction
• Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) and Intrinsic Correction DSP tuning for accurate, undistorted performance across the entire sound field
• GuardRail technology discreetly protects the system from damaging overload
• DEEP mode for enhanced low-frequency extension without a subwoofer
• Locking IEC power cable
• XLR and 1/4-inch connectors
• Phone mic/line and line inputs with loop-thru connectors and independent level controls.
• Phono (RCA) inputs (2-way units)
• Three 2-way models - each with coverage pattern optimized to match the LF driver
• Front-mounted LED may be switched off or to indicate LIMIT or AC Power On
• Dual angle, 35 mm pole socket with Tilt-Direct™ allows the speaker to be angled down to put the energy on the audience
• Suspension and yoke mounting accessories available
• 4-inch voice-coil woofer design for high output
• 1.75-inch voice-coil compression driver
• High Pass Filter for use with subwoofers
• Subwoofer - 1,000 watt, efficient and lightweight Class D power module
• Dual 12-inch band-pass for compact size, efficiency and high-power handling
• Threaded pole socket for solid, secure pole mounting (KSub, includes pole)
• 3-inch Casters (KSub)

QSC Audio Website

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Waves Introduces Three New Artist Collaboration Collections, Created With Top Producers & Engineers

Chris Lord-Alge Artist Signature Collection; The Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collection; and Eddie Kramer HLS Channel and PIE Compressor

Waves Audio continues its successful string of Waves Artists Collaborations as it announces the release of two new bundles plus two new plug-ins: The Chris Lord-Alge Artist Signature Collection and The Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collection, both part of the Waves Signature Series, along with the Eddie Kramer HLS Channel and Eddie Kramer PIE Compressor, from the Waves Modeling line.

The Waves Signature Series features customized multi-effects plug-ins (with compression, EQ, reverb and more) based on the personal processing chains and settings of top producers and engineers.

The Waves Modeling line consists of software plug-ins based on vintage and rare hardware, such as SSL, API, and Neve mixing console components. .

The Chris Lord-Alge Artist Signature Collection
Following closely on the heels of the Waves Modeling CLA Classic Compressors, Waves Signature Series presents The Chris Lord-Alge Artist Signature Collection.

These six application-specific plug-ins (CLA Bass, CLA Drums, CLA Vocals, CLA Guitars, CLA Effects and CLA Unplugged) are the result of close collaboration between Grammy Award-winning mixing engineer Lord-Alge and the Waves R&D team.

With a mixing career spanning almost three decades, Chris Lord-Alge has worked alongside such artists as Green Day, U2, Creed, Snow Patrol, Daughtry, Nickelback, Jimmy Eat World, Santana and many others.

Created from CLA’s custom processing chains, this collection gives users instant access to Chris Lord-Alge’s signature sound: radio-ready rock with an edge.

The Chris Lord-Alge Artist Signature Collection is Native only and has an MSRP of $800.

The Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collection
Over the past three decades, JJP has helped redefine the role of the producer/mixing engineer, working with such acts as John Mayer, Black Eyed Peas, No Doubt, Panic at the Disco, Weezer, Goo Goo Dolls, the Pussycat Dolls and many more.

Following the successful JJP Collection, which modeled rare pieces of vintage gear from his personal arsenal, Waves Signature Series introduces the Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collection.

Developed in close association with JJP himself, these six application-specific plug-ins (JJP Bass, JJP Strings & Keys, JJP Drums, JJP Vocals, JJP Guitars and JJP Cymbals & Percussion) were created from JJP’s personal processing chains and give users immediate access to Puig’s larger-than-life pop/rock sound.

The Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collection is Native only and has an MSRP of $800.

Both the new Chris Lord-Alge and the Jack Joseph Puig Artist Signature Collections are part of the Waves Signature Series.

The Waves Signature Series is Waves’ exclusive line of application-specific audio processors, created in collaboration with the world’s top producers, engineers, and mixing engineers.

Each and every Signature Series plug-in has been precision-crafted to capture the artist’s distinct sound and production style, using custom multi-effect processing chains designed by the artists themselves.

Eddie Kramer HLS Channel / Eddie Kramer PIE Compressor
Over the course of a production and engineering career that spans more than four decades, Eddie Kramer was the man behind the board for some of the biggest names in music history, including Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, The Beatles, David Bowie and many more.

Continuing a fruitful partnership that recently resulted in Waves Signature Series’ Eddie Kramer Collection, Waves announces the latest in its Modeling line: the Eddie Kramer HLS Channel and the Eddie Kramer PIE Compressor.

Created in collaboration with Kramer himself, these meticulously modeled plug-ins are based on the vintage gear he used in historic sessions by such acts as Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin at London’s acclaimed Olympic Studios.

The HLS Channel Strip was modeled on the Helios recording console from the Rolling Stones’ mobile truck (and which was immortalized in Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water.”).

The PIE Compressor was modeled on the vintage Pye compressor, which was a mainstay in high-end British studios during the ‘60s & ‘70s.

The Eddie Kramer HLS Channel and the Eddie Kramer PIE Compressor are Native and TDM.

Waves Audio Website

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Friday, January 22, 2010

Roland Systems Group Recognizes Sales Representative Achievements For 2009

Honors go to S.K. MacDonald of Maryland and Scott Hough, Pro Audio and A/V Division Manager of Griffith Sales

Roland Systems Group has announced the recipients of it’s 2009 Sales Representative Achievement Awards, recognizing both outstanding individual and company sales efforts.  The awards were presented at the 2010 Winter NAMM show.

S.K. MacDonald of Maryland was selected as the 2009 U.S. Sales Representative Company of the Year. Pricipal Perry D’Angelo and Account Managers Todd Peden and Jeff Mullin were on hand to receive the award. 

S.K. MacDonald is one of the industry’s oldest, most accomplished, and most experienced representative firms in the audio and video industry. S.K. MacDonald represents RSS and EDIROL product lines for Roland Systems Group in the Middle Atlantic territory.

Scott Hough, Pro Audio and A/V Division Manager of Griffith Sales, was presented the award for Outstanding Individual Sales Effort in 2009. 

Hough has developed an outstanding reputation amoung the industry and his dealers for “going the extra mile”. 

Griffith Sales, based in Altanta, represents RSS and EDIROL product lines for Roland Systems Group in the Southeast U.S. territory.

“We are very fortunate to work with many of the best of independent sales representatives in the country, said Christian Delfino, Vice President of Sales. These awards recognize outstanding sales achievement, a commitment to effective territory management, ‘above and beyond’ customer service and fostering a spirit of teamwork between RSG, rep firm, consultant and reseller.

“We are very happy to recognize the achievements of SK MacDonald and Scott Hough in 2009.”

Roland Systems Group Website

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Universal Audio Partners With Manley Labs To Unveil Massive Passive EQ Plug-Ins For UAD-2

Emulations coming soon to UAD-2 powered plug-ins platform on Mac or PC

At the 2010 Winter NAMM show, Universal Audio announced the impending release of the Manley Labs Massive Passive EQ plug-ins, the company’s most ambitious EQ modeling project to date.

Specifically, the two-channel, four-band Manley Massive Passive EQ utilizes design strengths from choice console, graphic, parametric and Pultec EQs — delivering a fundamentally different type of EQ.

The Massive Passive’s natural treatment of a signal lends itself to both radical tonal shaping as well as delicate vocal shading or subtle mastering enhancement.

“The Massive Passive is truly the ultimate in mastering grade EQs. It sounds warm without ever being dull; it stays precise while remaining highly musical,” offered UAD Powered Plug-Ins Product Manager Will Shanks.

“The Massive Passive EQ is one of our best-known products. We didn’t even want to entertain doing a plug-in unless it was really going to be done right,” commented EveAnna Manley, Owner of Manley Laboratories. “Our expectations were high for the plug-in emulation to be spot-on. Working with Universal Audio, we believe they’ve totally nailed it.”

“Manley Labs represents quality, sonic excellence and unequivocal analog design expertise,” added Matt Ward, President of Universal Audio. “To say Universal Audio has admiration for Manley’s designs and reputation as a company would be a huge understatement. There has always been a special affinity between our companies, and we are elated to have EveAnna Manley joining us a plug-in partner for the UAD-2 platform.”

The Manley Massive Passive EQ plug-ins will be available for download directly from the Universal Audio online store.

Universal Audio Website

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Sony Showcases PCMM10/B 96-kHz/24-bit Recorder At 2010 Winter NAMM

Built-in loudspeaker, cross-memory recording, digital pitch control, digital limiter, low-cut filter, and more

At the 2010 Winter NAMM show, Sony showcased the PCMM10/B, a 96 kHz/24-bit recorder with electret condenser stereo microphones, 4 GB of internal flash memory and a microSD/Memory Stick Micro (M2) slot for expanded memory.

Key features include a built-in loudspeaker, cross-memory recording, digital pitch control, digital limiter, low-cut filter, track mark functions, a 5-second pre-recording buffer and AB repeat capability.

The Sony PCMM10 includes a USB high-speed port for simple uploading and downloading of native .WAV or .MP3 format recorded files to and from Windows PC or Macintosh computers.

It offers durable construction and long battery life using conventional AA alkaline batteries.

The electret condenser microphones have exceptional high sound quality, and are omni-directional with a flat and wide frequency response and natural sound characteristics.

The PCMM10/B includes both digital pitch control and key control. Digital pitch control maintains pitch while slowing down or speeding up playback speed. Key control allows changing the pitch while maintaining playback speed.

It conforms to the USB 2.0 Mass Storage Class Device standard and this recorder’s native recording file formats include .wav and MP3. This means recordings can be rapidly uploaded to a computer and used in conjunction with most common audio production software

The PCMM10/B offers comprehensive signal processing features for location recording including: digital limiter, auto record level control and a digital low cut filter. The PCM-M10/B also includes a 5 second pre record buffer, cross-memory recording and track marking functions

Features:
  * Audio Formats Supported Record: .wav and MP3; Playback: .wav, .MP3, .WMA (Non DRM), .M4A
  * (AAC-LC, Non-DRM)
  * Built-in Mic Electret condenser microphones. Max input level: 123 dB SPL. Frequency response
  * 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  * DC Input Jack 3V
  * Dimensions 2 1/2” x 4 1/2” x 7/8” (w x h x d) not including projecting parts and controls
  * Frequency Response Fs = 96 kHz: Frequency Response = 20 Hz to 40 kHz (Line in)
  * Headphone Output Stereo Mini Jack; Maximum output: 20 mW + 20 mW; Load impedance: 16
  * ohms
  * Line Input (Analogue) (Stereo Mini Jack) Input impedance: 22k ohms; Minimum input level:
  * 500mV; Rated input level: 2.0V
  * Line Input (Optical) NA
  * Line Output (Analogue) Line out available from headphone jack (menu selection) Output level:
  * 1Vrms; Load impedance 22k ohms
  * Line Output (Optical) NA
  * Memory Stick Slot Accepts Memory Stick Micro (M2) and microSD
  * Mic Input (Stereo Mini Jack) Input impedance: 22 k ohm, Rated input level: 2.5 mV;
  * Minimum input level: 0.9 mV
  * Power Consumption 0.27w
  * Power Requirements DC in 3V. Two AA size Alkaline batteries (supplied). Two AA NiMH Rechargable
  * batteries (optional)
  * Quantization 16-bit linear, 24-bit linear
  * Recording Format Linear PCM Stereo .wav and MP3
  * S/N Ratio 87dB or greater (1KHz IHF-A) when set to 24-bit
  * Sampling Frequency 22.05 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 96 kHz
  * Total Harmonic Distortion
  * (Line Input to Line Output)
  * 0.03 percent or below (1 kHz, 22 kHz LPF)
  * USB High-speed USB,mass storage class
  * Weight 6.6 oz (including batteries)
  * Wow and Flutter Below measurable limit (less than +/-0.001 percent W.Peak)

Sony Website

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Korg Sound On Sound (SOS) Unlimited Track Personal Recorder Debuts At 2010 Winter NAMM

Records CD-quality 16-bit, 44.1 kHz .wav files

The new Sound On Sound (SOS for short) from Korg is an unlimited track recorder - battery-powered, completely self-contained, and features a built-in, high-quality stereo microphone and speaker.

Each track, take, or overdub is recorded as an individual CD-quality 16-bit, 44.1 kHz .wav file, and saved directly to a microSD or microSDHC card. Accurate BWF (Broadcast Wave Format) timing information is embedded in each track, which ensures that all tracks will automatically line up when imported into a DAW for further editing, mixdown, and final playback.

The SOS can record up to 200 songs in the traditional linear manner, or be set to loop a specific section. Memory consumption is roughly 100 recorded minutes per GB.

The SOS provides 100 effect programs divided into Guitar and Bass, Microphone, and Master categories. Nine of those effects provide real-time control using the LCD touchscreen.

In addition, the SOS features built-in guitar, bass, and chromatic tuners; 50 internal rhythm patterns (with 4 variations each); the Sound Stretch function that can alter the playback speed without affecting the pitch; an unlimited Undo function; and free software for basic audio editing and CD burning.

The compact recorder also provides a 1/4-inch balanced instrument input, an 1/8-inch mic input, an 1/8-inch stereo line input, and a stereo headphone output.

The SOS ships in April 2010 and will carry a list price of $400. SOS owners can download the free compatible Korg Audio Utility software from korg.com.

Korg Website

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