Roland Announces Boss Effects Pedals Plug-In

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Roland announces the BOSS Effect Pedals plug-in, the lates classic software effect available on Roland Cloud. Since debuting in 1977, the colorful BOSS compact pedal line-up has been loved by generations of musicians. The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in brings the authentic BOSS compact pedal experience to computer music production for the first time, delivering premium processing for guitar, bass, keyboard, vocals, and beyond.

BOSS, Roland’s guitar products division, is well known for its expansive lineup of compact pedals. They’re used by everyone from beginners to professionals, and numerous legends ha relied on various models for their signature sounds and the creation of the greatest recordings of all time. To date, 140 unique BOSS compact pedals have been produced, well over 19 million units have been sold, and many have remained in continuous production for decades.

The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in can be loaded with one effect at a time from an onboard library. Each delivers the genuine sound and response of the pedal it’s based on, faithfully recreated by the same company that developed the original designs. The friendly interface mirrors the simple operation of the hardware, providing fast access to great tones. Extended features are also available, including input and output controls for dialing in levels and tempo sync for time-based effects.

The initial launch of the BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in features eight of the most famous BOSS pedals: The OD-1 OverDrive, PH-1 Phaser, SP-1 Spectrum, SG-1 Slow Gear, CS-1 Compression Sustainer, TW-1 T Wah, TW-1T Wah, SD-1 SUPER Overdrive, and DS-1 Distortion. Over time the core library will be populated with an ever-expanding selection of models derived from the historic hardware lineup.

The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in is available with Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which new users can try for free with a 30-day all-access trial. Signing up for a free Roland Account provides access to a function-limited demo version for evaluating the plug-in without signing up for membership.

Roland Cloud is also home to a universe of creative tools for computer-based music production, including JC-120 Jazz Chorus, and RE-201 Space Echo plug-ins. Software versions of vintage Roland instruments, ZENEOLOGY, Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, GALAXIAS, Zenbeats, and much more.

The BOSS Effects Pedal plug-in is now available in the U.S. with the Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which users can try for free with a 30-day all-access trial.

Shure Intellimix Room Kits Certified For Microsoft Teams And Now Available

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Shure, a leading manufacturer of collaboration solutions, today announced its new IntelliMix Room Kits for Microsoft Team Room are Certified for Microsoft Teams and now shipping to the Americas (excluding Brazil). The complete scalable meeting room systems features class-leading audio and video performance. They are designed for effortless deployment in small, medium, and large collaboration spaces, ensuring seamless integration and compatibility within Teams environments.

“Our initial test meetings were a great success. The Shure MXA902 Celing Array Microphone and Loudspeaker delivered outstanding sound quality, and the audio processing was exceptional, significantly enhancing our AI-driven meeting experiences,” said Jim Prothe, Director of Marketing at Magnum, a Microsoft Solutions Partner. “We appreciated the clean set-up and was of configuration. The larger touch controller prevented any accidental taps of Teams buttons. It preformed exactly as expected from a Shure solution.”

The IntilliMix Room Kits underwent rigorous testing in both lab and real-world meeting environments to achieve certification for Microsoft Teams. This accreditation for an AI-powered future. When using AI tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot, Intellimix Room Kits provide exceptional audio quality to accurately capture and transcribe every word, thereby enhancing participants’ efficiency, productivity, communication, and interaction.

“Certified for Microsoft Teams is a testament to the reliability and excellence of the IntelliMix Room Kits,” said Sam Sabet, Chief Technology Officer at Shure. “Customers can have confidence that they are investing in technology that meets Microsoft’s stringent standards for compatibility, performance, and security. It underscores our dedication to delivering high-quality audio and video, along with advanced AI features, while allowing teams to collaborate as never before.”

Shure offers four curated packaged solution tailored for different room sizes. Each kit includes a Windows -based Teams Rooms Compute with built-in Shure IntelliMix Room DSP, a Touch Panel, one or two MXA092 Ceiling Array Microphones + Loudspeakers, Huddly Camera Solutions, and all needed accessories for connectivity and power. With zero-touch providing, the audio, video, and compute devices auto-configure out of the box for a streamlined setup experience. 

IT teams can monitor and manage the IoT-ready systems from anywhere via ShureCloud, Teams Admin Center and teams Rooms Pro Management Portal.

To help customers protect their investment and ensure peace of mind, Shure offers an optional three-year extended warranty on top of a standard limited warranty for coverage of up to five years. Warranty extension is available for purchase via Shure channel partners.

Cannon’s EOS R1 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Wins Highest Honor At International Red Dot Award

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Cannon Inc., the parent company of Canon U.S.A, Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced that the company’s EOS R1 full-frame mirrorless camera, intended for professionals, won the “Best of the Best,” the highest honor, at the Red Dot Design Award: Product Design 2025 competition hosted by the Switzerland-based Red Dot Award AG. The awards ceremony will be hosted by held on July 8 in Essen, Germany.

The EOS R1 camera, released in November 2024, is the first flagship model in the EOS R System series. Thanks to a powerful image processing system introduced in this camera for the first time, and the use of deep learning technology, the EOS R1 camera is designed to achieve a high level of photographic performance required by professional photographers. 

Through functions such as Action Priority, which recognizes certain actions including soccer shots by instantly shifting the AF frame, and eye-control AF, the device is capable of persistently tracking target subjects.

Its rubber grip feature a specially designed cross pattern with a strong grip capability that helps improve the camera’s handling performance between vertical and horizontal positions. Additionally, locking mechanisms are installed on moving segments of the camera, including the diopter-adjustment dial and card slot cover, to thoroughly prevent unintended operation. Through comfortable operability and a shape rooted in ergonomics, the camera achieves a design fit for professional users.

The EOS R1 camera has received high praise for its design, earning the iF Design Award 2025 (Germany), which is similarly as internationally prestigious as the Red Dot Design Award. This award is a reflection of Canon’s ongoing commitment to create products that expertly blend performance with design.

About The Red Dot Design Award

The Red Dot Award, established in 1955, is one of the world’s largest design-centered awards competitions. Excellent designs are chosen in three divisions — Product Design, Brand & Communication Design, and Design Concept. This year, entries from over 60 countries and regions were evaluated by internationally renowned design specialists under nine criteria including innovation, functionality, quality, and ergonomics. 

Introducing Fender Studio – Record, Jam, and Create With The Authentic Sound Of Fender Amps and Effects

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Fender Musical Instrument Corporation (FMIC) today announces the launch of FENDER STUDIO, the all-new app for recording, jamming, capturing creativity wherever and whenever it strikes. Available on iOS, Android, macOS, Windows and Linux, Fender Studio is a free tool available for anyone looking to record, practice or just have fun playing along with Jam Tracks.

Compatible with audio interfaces on mobile, tablet, and desktop devices, Fender Studio makes it easy for players to capture guitar riffs, vocals and more, with just one app. Packed with powerful tones, Fender Studio is the only app of its kind with authentic Fender models.

Building on nearly 80 years of sonic innovation, Fender continues to empower musicians by expanding into the digital space with apps like Fender Studio, providing all the tools needed to create. 

As the maker of legendary guitars, basses, amps and accessories that have shaped musicians worldwide, Fender continues to revolutionize how artists create and record. Fender Studio adds to the company’s existing digital apps, including Fender Plays, Fender Tone, and Fender Tune to deliver a complete platform where musicians can learn, practice, and now record their music.  

By providing a signal chain from instrument to recording, Fender Studio makes recording accessible to guitar players and music creators at every level making it faster to capture and share ideas digitally.

“I’ve always said to the team, anyone should be able to just hit a single button on their phone and be able to start recording,” said Fender CEO Andy Mooney. “We’ve built exactly that. We believe Fender Studio will enable more music creation than ever before by serving the needs of today’s creators and that will drive sustained growth for our company and our industry. I’m proud of what the team has created and can’t wait to hear what gets recorded in Fender Studio.”

“Fender Studio represents our continued commitment to providing players and musicians of all levels with great sounding, easy to use recording tools,” said Max Gutnik, EVP & GM of PreSonus, Jackson, Charvel, Gretch and EVH Brands. Whatever you are new to recording or a seasoned pro, Fender Studios delivers authentic Fender tones and intuitive editing capabilities to record, jam, create and inspire, for free. We are super-excited to release Fender Studio and hear all the amazing music it will help bring into the world!”

GTRS Introduces W902, Newest Addition To Wing-Series Intelligent Guitars

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GTRS has introduced the W902, the newest release in GTRS’ Wing-series intelligent guitar lineup, expanding on the series’ cutting-edge features while maintaining an accessible price point.

At its core is GTRS’ upgraded G151 intelligent system, offering 128 onboard effects, MNRS amp and cab sims, and even 17 guitar emulations — exclusive to this model. Everything is controlled via the eye catching Super Knob, which changes color to match your preset, as well as through the Bluetooth-connectible GTRS app.

GTRS’ W902 features select tone woods and construction: an alder body, poplar burl top, and a sleek bolt-on 5-piece neck made from roasted flame maple and rosewood, with satin natural finish and a rosewood fingerboard. 

The fanned fret design features 24 white copper frets and a stainless steel fret. A pair of GTRS Alinico V pickups and an HL-II bridge deliver a resonant tone, made particularly versatile thanks to the 5-way tone switch and tone knob.

The W902 offers a truly innovative choice for tech-savvy guitarists. It features a wireless transmitter, OTG recording, an 80-second looper, metronomes, and a drum machine, the app supported guitar boasts up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge (9 hours with the wireless transmitter in use.)

The W902 is an upgraded version of the original W900 Intelligent Guitar, and the W902 most notably features an upgraded GTRS Intelligent Processor System, the G151, which even offers upgrades over the GTRS SL810’s recently announced G150 system. 

The G151 system comes with a staggering 128 effects pre-installed, along with 10 of both MOOER’s in-house MNRS amp and cabinet simulation profiles. Exclusive to the W902, the G151 includes 17 guitar simulation effects, allowing guitarists to emulate the tonal resonance of some of their favorite guitars.

To activate and browse through presets within the G151 system, which can be connected via Bluetooth 5.0, guitarists can use the guitar’s Super Knob, which lights up in different LED colors depending on which preset is activated.

Of course, users are able to get stuck into and edit the effects chains of presets through the GTRS app, enabling them to craft their own favorites through their mobile device. The guitar still functions without the G151 system; the Super Knob just needs to be turned off, and the W902 is usable as a regular electric guitar

The GTRS W902 is now available worldwide. For more information, visit www.gtrs.tech.

Nikon Releases The Upgraded Firmware Version 2.00 For The Nikon Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

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Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the release of firmware version 2.00 for its full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera, the Nikon Zf.

This is the first major firmware update for the Zf since its launch and the next step in the camera’s evolution, adding new functions from the Nikon Z9 flagship camera and full-frame mirrorless model, the Nikon Z6III. Firmware version 2.00 also adds support for Nikon Imaging Cloud, enabling the automatic transfer of images to third-party cloud storage services, automatic camera firmware updates, and access to a wide range of creative Imaging Recipes.

The Zf now incorporates a dedicated [Birds] subject-detection option, providing more powerful detection and tracking performance to enhance bird photography support. In addition, the Hi-Res Zoom function has been added and functions have been expanded for greater usability when manual-focus lenses are used.

Firmware version 2.00 makes shooting with manual-focus lenses, including vintage lenses, even more enjoyable, with the ability to quickly exit the magnified display simply by half-pressing the shutter-release button and a function that allows users to record the aperture values used when shooting.

Primary Features of Firmware Version 2.0 for the Nikon Zf:

Support for Nikon Imaging Cloud enables more creative imaging expression: Nikon Imaging Cloud is Nikon’s cloud service, accessible via computers and smart devices. It hosts the Imaging Recipes color presets, both those recommended by Nikon and those carefully crafted by established creators. 

Up to nine recipes can be downloaded to the Zf, allowing users to get the look and style of their favorite creators easily. Connection to Nikon Imaging Cloud also facilitates updating the camera firmware without the need for a computer or smart device. Furthermore, the advanced setup enables the automatic transfer of captured images to various third-party cloud storage services when the Zf is connected via Wi-Fi, providing even greater convenience for storing and sharing images captured with the camera.

Dedicated [Birds] subject-detection options enhances support for bird photography: A dedicated [Birds] subject-detection option has been added. It offers better bird-detection and tracking performance than when [Auto] or [Animal] subject detection is selected. It also ensures quicker, more accurate detection and tracking of birds in various shooting scenarios such as when complex, high-contrast backgrounds like rocky mountains or forests are in the frame. 

The [Birds] option satisfies the expectations of those who enjoy photographing birds with a great ability to detect birds whether in flight, at rest, or characterized by a unique size or visual feature such as a long neck or vibrant colors.

Addition of the Hi-Rez Zoom Function enables zooming even when a prime lens is used: With firmware version 2.00, users can zoom-in to up to twice the actual focal length with no loss in resolution in full-HD recording. This enables recording that makes the most of the superior rendering characteristics of prime lenses. Selection from 11 different zoom speeds expands possibilities for imaging expression during video recoding, allowing users to achieve the exact look and feel they want. The Hi-Res Zoom function can also be assigned to the Fn ring or control ring on a lens.

Panasonic Highlights Connected Solutions To Shape The Future Of Visual Storytelling At NAB Show 2025

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Panasonic logoPanasonic Video and Audio Systems North America (PAVNA), a business unit of Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., Ltd, announced its plan to showcase the company’s connected solutions for broadcast and live entertainment to help production teams create unforgettable viewer experiences as they embrace IP-based workflows.

With the growing demand to make every moment live and capture high-quality content, creators need flexible, reliable, and intuitive solutions that cut through the noise to deliver an exceptional viewer experience.

On display at the National Association of Broadcasters’ NAB Show 2025, Panasonic’s new solutions give production teams the freedom to advance workflows at their own pace and achieve greater efficiency. Supporting a range of key markets, from sports broadcast studios, classrooms, and corporate environments to broadcast, live media, production, and connected meeting rooms, the latest additions to Panasonic’s complete AV ecosystem include:

The AG-CX370 Handheld Camcorder, which builds on the advanced capabilities of the AG-CX350 to offer a compact, lightweight design and energy efficient operation for a reliable production, broadcasting, and streaming solution. Specific upgrades include 12G-SDI Output for high-quality streaming GENLOCK input for broadcast-quality synchronization in multi-camera systems, and a 4-channel audio input to support up to four external microphones.

Updates to the KAIROS Live Production Platform, including the latest KAIROS version 1.8, which offers multi-unit control for KAIROS Core, integration with graphics platforms such as Singular.live and Viz Flowics, and expanded support for various resolutions, including 16:10 and 5:4.

The “KAIROS Alliance Partner” network added EIZO to its roster. EIZO’s 30.5-inch HDR “ColorEdge PROMINENCE CG!,” the first EIZO monitor to support SMPTE ST 2110, has been verified to work with KAIROS, making it easier to use the ST 2110 ecosystem for video input and output. This partnership gives production teams a more flexible, higher-quality video production environment and workflow improvements.

New plug-ins enhance Media Production Suite, the software platform that centralize the management and monitoring of Panasonic cameras. Specifically, the Video Mixer Plug-in for Media Production Suite (AW-SF400G Ver. 2) allows for seamless video composting. AI Keying makes it easy to replace backgrounds without a green screen, and Smart Switching provides quick access to multiple composting patterns with a single click. Additionally, the Advanced Auto Framing Plug-in for Media Production Suite supports professional-quality automatic framing with PTZ cameras for on-site workflows with professional-content quality.

Joe Dart And Music Man Introduce The Joe Dart Artist Series

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Sterling by Music Man introduces the Joe Dart Artist Series Collection, featuring the Dart I, II, and III bases. 

The original Dart I features the Sterling-shaped body with a single humbucker and volume knob. The Dart II, featuring the beloved Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice body, swaps the humbucker for two single-coil pickups, each with its own volume knob for precise hum-free control. 

Completing the trilogy, the Dart III is a short-scale StingRay bass with a split single-coil pickup and single volume knob.

A blank canvas, the bass collection embodies the no-frills philosophy of the Ernie Ball Music Man design – everything you need and nothing you don’t. All three bases are equipped with passive electronics, Ernie Ball flatwound strings, and are available in Natural or Black finishes No tone knobs here.

“Jack Stratton and I are thrilled to team up once again with Sterling by Music Man to build affordable versions of the three best basses I’ve ever held in my hands. The Joe Dart I, II, and III represent three different sounds and feels, three different eras of bass, and three different shades of my own work as a bassist,” said Dart.  “The feel of these instruments is incredible, and the quality would be remarkable at any price point.”

This is a special “Timed Edition” release, only available for pre-order on the Sterling by Music Man website for two months. Each bass is made to order, with the window closing on May 31st and shipping starting in September. 

The back of the headstock will be marked with a “2025Crop” stamp to commemorate the harvest year for this special, one-of-a-kind release. A gig bag will be included with each purchase.

All bases are priced at $499.00

Carl Martin Unveils The HeadRoom Mini

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Get premium spring reverb tones in a compact and practical format with the Carl Martin HeadRoom Mini. Featuring two independent reverb channels, mono and stereo I/O, and durable metal construction, this pedal is perfect for musicians on the go.

The Carl Martin HeadRoom Mini is a digital emulation of the beloved HeadRoom spring reverb pedal, offering the same warm, natural tone — plus a little extra — in a more compact and practical format. It delivers everything from subtle room ambiance to deep, cathedral-like reverberation, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

With two independent reverb channels, each featuring dedicated tone and level controls, you can easily switch between two different reverb setting — for example, rhythm and lead. The two footswitches allow seamless toggling between channels or full bypass.

Unlike the original HeadRoom, the Mini also includes both mono and stereo inputs and outputs, providing greater flexibility for stereo rigs. Built to withstand the rigors of live performance, it features a durable metal enclosure, buffered bypass for signal integrity, and a remote jack for external channel switching.

Key Features

Two independent reverb channels with individual tone and level controls

Mono and Stereo I/O for versatile routing options

Buffered bypass ensures a strong, clear signal

Rugged metal construction for durability

Remote jack for external channel switching

Compact and pedalboard-friendly design

Headroom Mini brings premium spring reverb tones in a flexible space-saving format – perfect for any musician looking for high-quality, studio-grade reverb on the go.

You can purchase HeadRoom Mini for $279 directly from carlmartin.com, and, of course, also from leading music retailers worldwide. 

Canon U.S.A. To Unveil Advanced Unit For 4K Field Box Lenses At NAB 2025

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Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announces its new optical unit for 4K broadcasting at NAB 2025. The new optical unit can be integrated into UHD-DIGISUPER 122 and UHD-DIGSUPER 111 field box lenses to help create captivating images- a “Novel Look” – with a shallow depth of field.

These lenses, in combiation with the new optical unit provide high magnification zoom and video expression the make focusing easy and help the subject even in fast aperture.

The demand for impressive footage that highlights the subject with a shallow depth continues to grow in the sports and live production industries. However, keeping focus in fast aperture at a live event can be channeling since subjects can move rapidly and unpredictably. This unique optical unit produces stunning video with a shallow depth of field even at fast apertures and is easier to focus due to the extended focus range.

Lenses with this optical unit installed, allow camera operators to effortlessly shift between traditional broadcast and enhanced shallow depth of field looks. Additionally, the optical design enables users to capture high-quality visuals in a familiar shooting environment, without requiring new cameras, lenses, workflow or additional operating equipment.

The optical unit and lens combination covers a long focal length length that larger format lenses are unable to reach and provides greater versatility in various shooting situations. Users can select between 1x standard, 1x Novel Look, and 2x extender all from the same lens.

Frequently demonstrated at major marquee sporting events and concerts including major football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and auto racing, the Novel Look has already helped capture unforgettable moments during these exciting, fast-paced events.

The UHD-DIGISUPER 122 Novel Look lens will be on display for the first time at NAB, an exhibition of broadcasting and video production equipment, in Canon’s booth #N2103, held in Las Vegas, Nevada from April 6-9, 2025.

Availability

During the third quarter of 2025, the optical unit is scheduled to be available for installation in the UHD-DIGISUPER 122 and UHD-DIGISUPER 111 at Canon Service locations for broadcast equipment. Versions of the UHD-DIGISUPER 122 and UND-DIGISUPER 111 with the optical unit preinstalled is planned for a future release. For additional information, please contact a Canon broadcast representative.

About Canon U.S.A. Inc.

Cannon U.S.A. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean markets. With approximately $28.5 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc., as of 2024 has ranked in the top-10 for U.S. patents granted for 41 consecutive years.