All posts by JenThorpe

Bank Industries Launches Roadie 4 Automatic Guitar Tuner



Band Industries has unveiled Roadie 4, the latest generation of the company’s innovative automatic tuners.

Designed for fast, reliable tuning for nearly any instrument with geared pegs, the new tuner is built from the ground up with enhanced accuracy and usability. Roadie 4 delivers a smoother, faster, and more reliable tuning experience. With revamped algorithms and upgraded audio circuitry, it offers excellent noise immunity and pinpoint tuning accuracy, whether you’re tuning on stage, in a noise rehearsal room, or at home.

Key New Features Include:

Completely reengineered algorithms and audio circuitry for superior tuning accuracy better performance in noisy environments.

Larger 1.9” full color LCD screen with over twice the display area for greater visibility when tuning.

New intuitive scroll wheel for lightning fast selection and navigation.

Auto detect feature: In previous models, Roadie turned your instrument in a fixed sequence lowest to highest string or required manual string selection. Now, just pluck any string. Roadie 4 will automatically detect when string you are on, tune it precisely, and notify you when it is in tune with a vibration and audible beep.

Redesigned peg connector to accommodate a wide range of larger and smaller pegs.

Improved ergonomics: Taller build, anti slip backing, and a more natural, secure grip.

Band Industries introduced the original Roadie Tuner in 2014, followed by the breakout Roadie 2 in 2017 and the powerful Roadie 3 in 2020. Roadie 4 builds on that legacy and provides even better performance.

From electric to acoustic guitars to mandolins, ukuleles, banjos, and more, Roadie 4 tune almost any instrument with geared pegs. It also winds new strings quickly and accurately, making string changes a breeze.

Roadie 4 is available for a street price of $139. For more information, visit Roadiemusic.com.


Shure To Spark Innovation At IBC 2025



Celebrating a century of audio innovation, Shure returns to the IBC Show in Amsterdam (from September 12th – 15th), where we will be announcing a groundbreaking solution for capturing audio in the broadcast industry. This year, Shure is not only unveiling its latest line-up of products but also empowering the future of the entertainment landscape as an Associate Sponsor of the IBC2025 Accelerator Media Innovation Programme.

“IBC is an unmatched platform for driving innovation and exploring how technology is reshaping our industry,” said Chad Wiggins, Associate VP, Innovative Solutions and Platform, at Shure. “Our sponsorship of the IBC Accelerator Programme underscores our commitment to advancing the media and entertainment sector – not only through the launch of cutting-eye products but also by supporting initiatives that empower engineers, creators, and broadcasters to achieve excellence.”

Shure Product Highlights at IBC2025

Studio Installation:

Axient-Digital PSM: Shure’s first digital wireless in-ear monitoring system offers superior audio quality, RF performance, unmatched flexibility, scalability, and low latency. Thanks to its transmission modes and channel expansion capabilities, Axient Digital PSM enables engineers to be more creative than ever before. It will be showcased alongside flagship Axient Digital Wireless System.

ANX4 Scalable Wireless Receiver: Shure’s new wireless receiver features channel scalability, offering up to 16 channels of Axient Digital or 24 channels ULX-D in a single device through channel licenses. This ultimate high-tier, high-channel count wireless receiver delivers flexibility while maximizing efficiency, fitting more channels in a single rack space.

Location Sound:

ADX5D Dual-Channel Portable Wireless Receiver: Offering exceptional RF performance and audio clarity, this portable receiver maintains its reputation as the top choice for film and broadcast location sound.

SLX-D Portable Systems: SLXD5 Portable Digital Wireless Receiver and SLXD3 Plug-On Digital Wireless Transmitter deliver the same scalability, high-performance wireless, superior digital audio, reliable performance, and convenient power management of SLX-D in new durable form factors designed specifically for film, electronic news gathering (ENG), broadcast, and video industries.

Content Creation:

MV7i Smart Microphone and Interface: Featuring a world-first and patented technology, the MV7i introduces a new way to record two channels of audio by enabling users to directly connect a second XLR microphone of their choice and eliminating the need for an external hardware interface.

MoveMic 88+ Wireless Stereo Microphone: Shure’s newest wireless microphone for creators is the first-of-its-kind wireless to direct to phone stereo microphone with selectable patterns. This new addition to the MoveMic portfolio takes versatility to a new level, empowering creators and videographers to record exceptional audio and video.


Panasonic Video And Audio Systems Launches AW-RP200GJ Remote Camera Controller For Multi-Camera Productions



Panasonic Video and Audio Systems North America, a business unit of Panasonic Connect of North American announced its AW-RP200GJ remote camera controller designed to complement Panasonic’s suite of PTZ cameras, which hold the largest market share worldwide, including the AW-UE160W/K, AW-UE150AW/AK and AW-UE150W/K PTZ Cameras for large-scale, multi-camera productions. 

In live event and broadcast environments, operators rarely get a second take. To capture and deliver professional quality content in real time, operators need more versatile and sophisticated tools that allow them to do more with less.

On display at the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) 2025, the AW-RP200GJ gives operators the ability to leverage advanced shooting techniques including robotic arm integration and advanced multi-camera setups to elevate video content value. The controller builds in the trusted performance of its predecessor, the AW-RP150GJ, while introducing new features for macro functionality, dual joysticks, and improved multi-camera shooting.

The AW-RP200GJ is Panasonic’s first remote camera controller to support macros functionality. This enables operators to record and store a sequence of camera operations, like switching presets or controlling multiple cameras simultaneously, and play them back with the push of a button. The AW-RP200GJ can control up to 200 PTZ cameras on a single controller without compromising high-quality video production, even with limited personnel.

Along with the main joystick for pan, tilt, and zoom or focus control, the new AW-RP 200GJ features a second joystick on the left side. This allows operators to perform different Tass simultaneously, like adjusting camera position while cropping video frames, to deliver faster, smoother and more intuitive control during live production.

The AW-RP200GJ features five selectable operation modes: Camera selection, preset selection, and macros selection — all assignable up to 20 cameras – and camera and preset selection and camera and macros selection which are assignable up to ten cameras and ten presets. Each switch has its own built-in LCD to display the assigned mode so that operators can execute tasks accurately and quickly.

In addition, device settings can be conveniently configured via a web browser in a connected PC. This includes batch assignment of IP addresses and camera numbers for multiple units, significantly reducing setup time when building large-scale systems. Operators can also preform menu operations, create macros, and assign functions to user-defined buttons using the web-based interface, streamlining system configuration workflow.

Along with 3G-SDI input, Panasonic’s new controller supports IP video input via NDI High Bandwidth and SRT. Video cameras connected via LAN cables can be monitored directly with the built-in LCD screen and through the SDI OUT, enhancing on-site setup and operational efficiency.


Nikon Releases A New Silver Edition Of The Z F Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras



Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of a new silver edition of the full-frame/FX-format Nikon Z F mirrorless camera. The Nikon Z F combines a timeless design inspired by an iconic Nikon film camera with the superior performance of a full-frame mirrorless camera.

Three new Premium Exterior, color options will be available, providing more choices for users the color of their Z F camera body. Additionally, the Z F will support a new Film Grain feature that adds grain to photos and videos, further expanding creative possibilities.

Designed to resemble the silver plating on film-era cameras like the Nikon F, the metallic texture creates an authentic feel suited to the premium, full-frame retro design. Three new Premium Exteriors color options have been added: Cognac Brown, Teal Blue,  and Mauve Pink — all with an embossed texture. These are subtle, yet elagant tones that complement the silver body, providing more options for customizing the exterior of the camera than ever before. 

In addition to the three colors, Moss Green, Stone Gray, Sepia Brown are available — allowing for six colors variations in total. Additionally, the sophisticated design will help inspire users every time they pick up the camera.

A Film Grain Feature for Film-Like Expression

A future firmware update for the Nikon Z F will offer the new Film Grain feature, which adds grain to photos and videos. Users will be able to achieve more creative imaging expression in accordance with the scene and their intent by adjusting grain size (3 options) and strength (6 options). By combining this feature with Imaging Recipes, and Picture Controls, users will enjoy film-like expression tailored to their personal and creative style. This update is scheduled for release within 2025.

Price and Availability

The new Nikon Z F Silver Edition will be available in late September for a suggested retail price of $2,199.95, or $2,299.95 for the premium exterior options. 


New Flat Patch Cables Join Gator Cableworks’ Composer Series



Tight spacing between pedals calls for a tighter cable approach. Gator Cableworks now offers a space-saving option with the launch of Flat Patch Cables, available as part of its Composer Series collection of high-quality audio cables.

The Composer Series Flat Patch Cables are built for musicians who demand premium signal integrity and efficient pedalboard management. Each cable features slim, compact connectors that fit into tight spaces and adapt to a variety of challenging pedal layouts, helping reduce clutter and maximize usable surface area on crowded boards.

Engineered for high performance, the cables feature 99.99% oxygen-free copper conductors to ensure clear signal transmission. The 24 AWG low capacitance construction helps preserve tone while minimizing interference, and a double-shielding layer delivers a 100% shielding factor to guard against noise and RF disruption.

Each cable includes TS male right-angle 1/4-inch connectors with nickel-plated housing and 24K gold-plated contact tips, providing optimal conductivity and corrosion resistance for long term reliability.

The Composer Series Flat Patch Cable are available in the following sizes and pack options: 3-inch, 6-inch, 12-inch and 24-inch lengths, as well as 3-packs of 3-inch, 6-inch, and 12-inch models. All Cableworks cables are backed by a Limited Lifetime Guarantee.


RhPf Electronics Unleashes Mosteratwo Mosfet Overdrive



RhPf Electronics has unveiled the Mosferatwo, a handcrafted MOSFET overdrive pedal designed for players who want to sculpt saturated sounds with clarity, nuance, and punch.

Built around a 100% original circuit, it delivers everything from clean boost to greasy fuzz through a stack of carefully voiced gain stage and precision EQ shaping — all with the touch sensitivity and harmonic richness of a cranked up tube amp.

Dual-stage Drive control: One knob, two gain stages — for smooth transitions from subtle grit to snarling overdrive.

Interactive Focus control: Shapes both dynamic feel and frequency response — bold and bloomy to tight and articulate.

Heart and Bite EQ: Two turned boost controls with toggleable center frequencies, for sculpting warmth and cut through the mix with precision.

Initially designed with gritty garage-blues in mind – where a single guitar needs to fill the entire sonic spectrum — Mosferatwo has since earned praise from a wide range of players for its amp-like response and bold, characterful voice. It’s already landed on boards across styles, from raw vintage blues to modern fuzzed-out riffing.

Like all RhPf Electronics creations Mosferatwo is not a clone, mod, or tweak — it’s a fresh, fully original circuit built from the ground up.

Street price is $179. They’re available at select retailers and can also be purchased directly from the RhPf Electronics online store at rhpelectronics.com.


Technics Debuts 60th Anniversary Edition Of EAH-100 Earbuds



To commemorate the 60th anniversary, Technics has introduced a new champagne gold version of the award-winning True Wireless Earbuds EAH-AZ100, which have received widespread media acclaim since their January 2025 launch. The elegant new color is now available for purchase and joins the existing silver and black option, giving users more ways to match their personal taste.

The EAH-AZ100, the flagship model of the Technics True Wireless Earbuds, features a newly developed Magnetic Fluid Driver. This creates clean, high-resolution, low-vibration and low-distortion sounds for the most authentic, balanced audio that’s true to the original source. It also incorporates Adaptive Noise Cancelling to efficiently remove noise in accordance with the surrounding environment as well as the newly developed Voice Focus AI, a feature which uses AI to achieve clear, high-quality calls.

Experiencing music as the artist intended

Magnetic Fluid Driver technology enables a new level of low-distortion sound for the EAH-AZ100 earbuds, while an ultra-thin free edge ensures an accurate low frequency response for a rich bass reproduction — and an aluminum diaphragm produces natural high resolution sound separation and details. 

Magnetic Fluid is an oil-type liquid filled with magnetic partials that is injected into the space between the magnet and voice coil that enables low-distortion playback.  This creates a dynamic, rhythmic, detailed listening experience so users can hear their favorite music recordings as originally intended by the artist.

Taking performance even further, the EAH-AZ100 newly integrates with spatial audio optimized for Dolby Atmos to provide that feeling if “live music concert sound.” With Dolby Audio, podcasts, movies, music and games have enhanced clarity of voice content. Plus, Dolby Head Tracking responds to head movements-constantly recalibrating to ensure the listener is at the center of the action — to create a more realistic sound field change and offer a 360-degree immersive audio experience.

For stress-free communication

Voice Focus AI is a unique feature that combines an AI noise reduction chip and three microphones in each earbud to offer exclusive tuning, so that the speaker and the listener benefit from the ultimate call quality experience.

The Voice Focus AI feature not only tackles common call noise frustrations like street traffic or wind, but also analyzes incoming sound and improves the sound of the caller. Whether it’s a work call or a personal conversation, both parties can fully focus on the conversation.

Industry-leading noise cancellation performance

Adaptive Noise Cancellation technology works with the surrounding environment, background noise levels and the individual shape of t ear — adjusting the level of noise cancellation for the best experience at any time and in any situation. No matter the listening situation, the EAH-AZ100 eliminates low to mid-range and human vocal range noises to keep the user concentrated in silence.


PreSonus Reveals Special-Addition StudioLive Digital Mixers



PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. introduces the new line of STUDIOLIVE Series III SE DIGITAL Mixers. The new Line of mixers offers a comprehensive solution for effortless recording and fast mixing workflows with features like Virtual soundcheck, Milan-certified audio networking, Metro remote access and a powerful software suite — including Studio One Pro, Capture, and Universal Control.  These new versatile mixers are available in three models: SE 15, SE 24, and SE 32.

The all-new StudioLive III SE Digital Mixers are designed for professionals and installations where recording playback and remote access are essential – from houses of worship, to small music venues, gigging musicians and audio engineers. PreSonus continues to honor its mission to make professional audio equipment attainable, democratizing the live music and recording processes. With StudioLive SE, users get the ultimate solution for reliable, professional sound on stage and in the studio.

The StudioLive Series III SE Digital Mixers offer capabilities beyond any solution in their class: Third Party Milan Certification ensures reliable, low-latency, time aligned AVB audio networking with guaranteed interoperability – allowing StudioLive to effortlessly route audio anywhere with intuitive control and unshakable reliability.

FlexMixes provide flexibility to individually configure Aux, Subgroup, and Matrix mixes to create over 20 distinct routing configurations, in addition to a dedicated stereo main output.

Flexible Routing accommodates patching up to four sources (analog, network, USB, and SD card) to any channel, plus the ability to switch between them at the press of a button.

Virtual SoundCheck allows sound engineers to recall previous recordings and mix scenes, instantly name channels and engage digital returns — all with the click of a button. The mixers function as 64×64 channel bidirectional audio interface delivering Integrated Recording for effortless uninterrupted performance recording via Capture software or the onboard multitrack SD card. And for those who want to take their recordings further, StudioLive is fully compatible with the awards-winning DAW, Studio One Pro.

Metro remote access gives users full control of settings, routing, levels and effects processing over an internet connection — while delivering low-latency audio monitoring directly from a local device.

Customized Configurations And User Settings let users create tailored fader layouts for quick access to critical channels and lock EQ dynamics, gain staging, scenes, projects and level limits – keeping less experienced operators focused and on track.

“We’re excited to launch the new special edition StudioLive Digital Mixers,” said Adrian Haselhuber, VP of PreSonus Hardware. “We designed these mixers specifically to address the real-world challenges audio engineers and musicians face during live performances. These powerful mixers come packed with innovative features, including an entire software package to get started recording quickly and easily.”


IK Multimedia Announces Brown Sound Limited-Edition Pedals And More



Three custom TONEX ONE pedals to accompany IK’s exclusive three-part series of explosive tones, carefully researched and captured in multiple variations.

IK Multimedia announces the Brown Sound Anthology, which includes three limited-edition TONEX One pedals and two new Signature Collections for TONEX, completing the three-part series of legendary recorded guitar. Covering the Brown Sound’s evolution across six groundbreaking albums in three TONEX Tone Model collections, the anthology fully captures an artist’s tonal journey as he changed rock guitar forever.

A New Vocabulary for Guitar

Few artists had a greater impact in rock music in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s than the Dutch-born guitarist who entered Sunset Sound Studios in 1978 to record what would become known as the Brown Sound. He inspired and influenced countless guitarists to expand their vocabulary and pursue that unique sound, none more serious than the man behind IKs Brown Sound Collection.

Pursuing Perfection

To create a comprehensive anthology of those historic tones, IK collaborated with Brown Sound tone guru Jim Gaustad. The result is 150 ultra-accurate Tone Models that feature both authentic recreations and thoughtful variations, representing different theories about how these legendary tracks were recorded. Every detail was explored, and no expense was spared, with no compromises made during production.

A Genre-defining Moment

Released in May to rave reviews, the initial series collection, Brown Sound 78/79, captures not only the gear but also that attitude, feel and raw sonic essence of a genre-defining moment in rock history. By combining confirmed and rumored setups, including alternative speakers, these Tone Model’s offer exceptional accuracy and creative flexibility. This collection comes with every limited-edition TONEX ONE (a $/€99.99 software value).

The Dark and Moody Tones

Brown sound 80/81 captures a darker swagger and heavier edge that marked a milestone in the guitarist’s development. Carefully crafted to match the recored tones of two albums, this collection features 50 detailed Tone Models, including amp-only captures. With everything from raw rhythm crunch to fiery lead tones, the models faithfully recreate a sound that continues to inspire generations and redefine what the guitar can be.

New Depth and Detail

Brown Sound 82/84 is the third and final installment of the series. This collection features 50 carefully crafted Tone Models, including amp-only captures. As the push for radio-ready hits grew stone, the Brown Sound became tighter, more refined, and more polished without losing its iconic edge. Users will experience firsthand the evolution of the legendary guitarist’s tome during this exciting period of increased studio precision and musical ambition.


Canon Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of EOS 5 Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera Series



Canon U.S.A, Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced that its parent company Cannon Inc. celebrates that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the EOS 5 interchangeable-lens digital camera series. This series has consistently delivered new value to both professional and advanced amateur users with cutting-edge technologies and the latest innovative features.

The 20-year history of the EOS 5 Series

The EOS 5 series was born in September 2005 with the release of its first model, the EOS 5D, a DSLR cameras. The EOS 5D camera was the first in Canon’s line of products for advanced amateurs users to include a full-frame CMOS sensor, which at the time had only been adopted in models for professionals. 

Featuring outstanding resolution, rich color gradation, and a wide ISO sensitivity range, this model contributed to the popularization of full-frame cameras. Canon has also launched a total of eight models in the EOS 5 series as of June 2025.

In November 2008 Canon released the second-generation EOS 5D Mark II camera, the series’ first model equipped with full-HD video shooting functions, which helped to popularize video shooting through DSLR cameras.

Since then, Canon has released several models in pursuit of performance and expressive ability for creating works. These include the EOS 5D Mark III camera (released in March 2012), with heightened AF accuracy and continuous shooting speed; the EOS 5Ds and EOS 5Ds R cameras (released in June 2015), featuring the world’s largest number of pixels (at the time of release) — approximately 50.6 megapixels;  and the EOS 5D Mark IV camera (released in September 2016), which finely balanced specs including a large number of pixels, high-speed continuous shooting, and high capturing sensitivity.

In July 2020, Cannon released the EOS R5, the first full-frame mirrorless camera in the EOS R System to bear the number “5” in its name. Equipped with a high-performance image processor and boasting the world’s first (at the time of release) 8K video shooting function among interchangeable lens cameras, it made significant improvements to basic camera functions for both still image and video.

Additionally, its successor, the EOS R5 Mark II camera (released in August 2024), significantly improved still image and video functions in comparison to previous models, thanks to a newly developed “Accelerated Capture” image processing system and the use of deep learning technology. This model, which combines superb subject tracking with advanced mobility, meets the needs of both professional and advanced amateur users while enabling diverse visual expressions.

The EOS 5 series has led the EOS series by offering cutting-edge technology and delivering innovation.

Canon will continue making contributions to the further development of photography and video culture by pursuing cutting-edge technology and a high level of expressive power through the EOS 5 Series, which has received broad support from both professional and advanced amateur users alike.