All posts by JenThorpe

Eventide Has Sale On Blackhole and MicroPitch

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As the universe expands, Eventide delivers! Blackhole and MicroPitch Immersive On Sale thru December 31. We are all in on Immersive, through a multi-year investment in developing immersive tools.

The Eventide sound, in a clean and easy to use interface, will make your first explorations into immersive fun and rewarding. Dolby and DAW companies have rolled out renderers for producers to work in and format; yes, including headphones. Creating an immersive experience does NOT require the expense and bother of multiple speakers. Listeners can experience the width, depth, and height of immersive rendered binaurally to their own headphones and ear buds – an experience that surpasses simple stereo.

Make Eventide Immersive plugins the foundation of your workflow and start creating content for all platforms distributing Immersive creations.

Designed from the ground up for immersive, Dolby Atmos, and surround workflows, Blackhole Immersive expands the signature sound of Eventide’s stereo version across your entire immersive mix. Used as a send or insert, Blackhole Immersive remains respectful yet reactive to your carefully chosen track positioning.

From delicate ambience to massive decays, you create and shape the listener’s immersed experience – what, when, and where they feel it. Warning: taking the controls of this cosmic beast of a reverb is just plain fun. The vast range of the original fit perfectly in your mix, but now it’s everywhere!

Owners of stereo Blackhole or MicroPitch (standalone, H9 Bundle, or Anthology XI/XIII) receive discounted cross grade pricing on Immersive plug-ins.

Binaural examples are mixed in 7.1.2, rendered with Dolby Atmos binaural. Stereo versions are rendered down from 7.1.2, which loses some spatial properties but retains positioning of the full mix otherwise.

The clean and intuitive interface seamlessly fits into your projects – whether it be mixing music, post-production for film, or sound design for games. This enhanced workflow gives you full control over the reverb across channels, for an evolving immersive experience – from subtle to radical.

FEATURES

Powerful and flexible reverberation algorithm – create spaces from subtle ambience all the way up to supernatural decays and drones.

Supports LCR, Quadraphonic, 5.0-5.1.4, and 7.0-7.1.4 challenge layouts

Easy-to-use UI optimized for immersive workflows – same core controls for all channel layouts, with no menu diving required

Transparent signal processing – effect always sounds the same across all immersive formats, and always maintains incoming spatial image integrity

Quickly set individual speaker levels using the integrated Levels section

Kill Dry, Kill Wet, and Freeze controls are great for creating drastic effects

Mix Lock allows for scrolling through presets or settings while keeping the wet/dry mix constant

Resizable GUI with Undo/Redo and A/B comparison

Comprehensive Presets Library includes over 150 presets

RØDE Announces NT1 5th Generation Microphone

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RØDE announced NT1 5th Generation microphone. The NT1 5th Generation is a revolutionary studio condenser microphone that fuses the classic sound signature of the iconic NT1 with cutting-edge sound signature of the iconic NT1 with cutting-edge, next-generation technology.

It features RØDE’s groundbreaking (patent-pending) Dual Connect output, offering both XLR and USB connectivity for incredible versatility, a world-first “unclippable” 32-bit float digital output, advanced digital signal processing, and more, all while delivering the same warm, silky character, extremely low noise, and high SPL handling that the NT1 is renowned for.

The NT1 5th Generation is a true studio workhorse that excels on everything from vocals to speech, to guitar, piano, drums and percussion – the ultimate studio microphone.

Our Iconic Original Studio Microphone, Reborn

The NT1 5th Generation os the latest evolution of the iconic NT1. First introduced in 1991, the NT1 is the world’s most popular studio microphone, renowned for its warm, classic sound and incredible versatility. The NT1 5th Generation takes the much-loved and respected core of the NT1 and introduces state-of-the-art feature while preserving the legendary sound quality that made the original the go-to microphone or countless creators. A perfect marriage of tradition and innovation.

Game-changing Connectivity

Featuring RØDE’s groundbreaking, patent-pending Dual Connect output, the NT1 5th Generation can either be connected to an open audio interface or mixer via XLR or directly to a computer via USB for studio-grade, plug-and-play recording. Unprecedented flexibility for any studio setup.

Classic Sound on the Cutting-edge

The NT1 5th Generation delivers the same warm, silky character, extremely low noise, and high SPL handling capability that the original is revered for, with improved circuitry for even lower self-noise – an astonishingly low 4dBA, making it the world’s quietest studio condenser microphone. When using the XLR output, it delivers the rich, classic studio condenser sound you know and love from the NT1. When using the digital output, you get the same sound plus a slew of cutting-edge features to further enhance your audio for recording pro studio sound directly into your computer.

The Digital Studio if the Future

The NT1 5th Generation features a professional-grade audio interface built into the microphone, which is perfectly optimized to preserve its pristine audio fidelity and also offers a range of highly innovative features for enhanced sound, including our ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp, high resolution (`192kHz) A/D conversion and advanced digital signal processing. This is so much more than just a studio condenser microphone, it’s an all-in-one digital recording studio.

The “Unskippable” Microphone

The NT1 5th Generation features a world-first 32-bit float digital output – a revolutionary recording format that allows you to record everything from a whisper to a scream, the softest guitar to the loudest drummer without having to worry about setting your gain – simply adjust your audio after recording and all the dynamics of your performance will be maintained, with zero risk of clipping or distortion.

PreSonus Launches Metro – Revolutionizing Remote Mixing For Audio Professionals

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PreSonus announces Metro, a new feature for StudioLive Series III Digital Mixers that will revolutionize the way audio professionals mix remotely. Included in the Universal Control 4.2, Metro is the first-to-market solution for remote mixing over the internet. Whether creating a broadcast mix across the country, producing a livestream remotely or convenience and flexibility in audio production.

PreSonus Metro is a free, powerful feature update in Universal Control available for StudioLive Series III mixers. The innovative tool empowers users to transcend geographical barriers and tap into the limitless possibilities of remote audio control and monitoring via a secure, peer-to-peer internet connection.

Whether musicians are tracking vocals in a studio in New York, or a live sound editor is fine-tuning a broadcast mix during a concert halfway across the world, Metro ensures a cohesive and streamlined working experience. This groundbreaking software doesn’t just bridge geographical divides; it also fosters real-time collaboration.

In addition to remote control, musicians and audio engineers can remotely monitor both the main mix and the solo bus from a StudioLive mixer in real-time using their local audio device. Metro’s low latency audio enables instantaneous feedback, allowing for precise adjustments and creative input, as if everyone involved were physically present in the same room. PreSonus Metro revolutionizes audio production by making collaborators more accessible, efficient, and dynamic than ever before.

“The past few years have witnessed a transformative shift in the landscape of back-end audio production, with a significant emphasis on remote work,’ explained Adrian Haselhuber, VP of Product at PreSonus.

“While offline remote collaboration, mixing, and mastering have become routine for music creators, the realm of real-time live sound production demands a higher level of precision and reliability. Our new Metro software update not only offers a dependable, low-latency level of precision and reliability. Our new Metro software update not only offers a dependable, low-latency gateway to live sound production environments but also provides an effortless means to mix and monitor from virtually anywhere in the world. Whether you’re engaged in training, troubleshooting, or crafting a broadcast mix for a live show, Metro offers a swift and seamless solution to accomplish your tasks with upmost efficiency.”

RECOMMENDED USE CASES (BUT NOT LIMITED TO):

LIVE STREAM AND PODCAST PRODUCTION: Produce a livestream or podcast from anywhere in the world.

TROUBLESHOOTING: Troubleshoot StudioLive Series III mixers and conveniently from your home or office.

REMOTE RECORDING: Ensure that a remote recording session is property gain staged.

CORPORATE CONFERENCES: Remotely mix an all-day conference panel from the comfort of your couch.

PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE: Dial in a scratch mix remotely for a less experienced onsite FOH or Monitor Engineer to use as a starting point.

GETTING SET UP INCLUDES A FEW EASY STEPS:

Once users have created a free MyPreSonus account they can launch the Metro Workspace and invite any other user to connect remotely.

After a connection has been established, the remote user is given free reign to control the StudioLive Series III mixer that is connected to the host’s computer via either USB or network.

While remotely controlling a StudioLive mixer, users will be able to configure their audio device to not only mix with precision and without lag, but to monitor the audio with pristine playback as well. From there the capabilities are endless – all from the comfort of a personal home office or studio.

BOSS ANNOUNCES KATANA-AIR EX WIRELESS GUITAR AMPLIFIER

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BOSS announces the Katana-Air EX Guitar Amplifier, a powerful new wireless desktop amp for guitar and bass, Katana-Air EX delivers professional stereo sound and acclaimed Katana tomes in a compact footprint, supported by a larger cabinet and other enhancements over the standard Katana-Air model.

Advanced BOSS wireless technology and integrated Bluetooth provide convenient cable-free operation, while the companion BOSS Tone Studio app (iOS/Android) offers deep-sound editing and built-in tools for skill development with YouTube content.

In 2018, BOSS introduced the Katana-Air, the world’s first totally wireless guitar amplifier, Katana-Air EX expands on the original model’s impressive feature set with 35 watts of maximum power, increased fullness and sound projection, and additional recording and performance options.

Katana-Air EX has been engineered to provide an authentic stage-style playing experience in a desktop size. Two custom five inch speakers are loaded into a carefully designed wood cabinet, generating full sound with rich resonance typically only available with performance amplifiers. Punchy, high-definition tones offer an inspiring platform for honing natural techniques, while the tuned bass-reflex port ensures tight bottom-end response for low-tuned guitar riffs and electric bass practice.

Katana-Air EX comes equipped with sounds derived from the Katana stage amplifiers, dialed in for maximum expression with its desktop cabinet. Five unique amp characters provide tones from sparkling clean to high gain, including a dedicated character for acoustic-electric guitar and bass. The amp also features access to 60 BOSS effects, with a wide selection of overdrives and distortions plus mod, delay, and reverb effects optimized for the amp’s stereo speaker system. Six onboard memories allow users to store their favorite amp and effects setups for instant recall.

BOSS’s digital wireless guitar technology is at the heart of Katana-Air EX, providing transparent sound and lightning-fast response with no lag or dropouts. The included transmitter offers up to 12 hours of playing time per change, and the amp features a built-in docking port for charging. The integrated motion sensor and standby function conserve energy when the system is idle, allowing the users to keep the transmitter plugged in between sessions and turn the system on just by picking up the instrument,

With onboard Bluetooth, Katana-Air EX users can wirelessly connect with the BOSS Tone Studio app and play along with songs streamed from a mobile device. It’s also possible to record tracks directly to computer music software via USB and use the stereo line output with mic’d cab emulation for live performances in direct-to-PA setups. Going further, Katana-Air EX does double duty as a high quality portable Bluetooth speaker for casual listening.

The dedicated BOSS Tone Studio app provides complete wireless control of Katana-Air EX from a smartphone or tablet. Users can adjust amp settings, customize effects, and access deeper functions only available from the app. Integrated YouTube support energizes daily practice sessions with the ability to watch videos, create song lists, loop sections, and more. It is even possible to change sound memories automatically during video playback, providing an inspiring hands-free experience when jamming along with popular songs and backing tracks.

The optional EV-1-WL Wireless MIDI Expression Pedal and FS-1-WL Wireless Footswitch provide remote operation of various functions assigned in the BOSS Tone Studio mobile app. Users can control volume and wah, change memories, and trigger the app’s practice tools – all with a cable-free connection.

Katana-Air EX can be powered with the included adaptor or via eight AA batteries or an optional Roland BTY-NIMH/A Rechargeable Amp Power Pack for completely wireless operation.

Availability & Pricing

The new Katana-Air EX Wireless Guitar Amplifier is available now for purchase at authorized US BOSS retailers for $599.00. To learn more about Katana-Air EX and the original Katana-Air.

Roland SPD-SX Pro Earns GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2023 Acolades

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Roland, a leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments and professional video products, announced that the SPD-SX PRO sampling pad has won a GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2023, an award managed by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

The SPD-SX PRO was designed to meet the advanced demands of professional drummers on stage. Featuring nine durable pads with Roland’s latest sensing technology for unparalleled responsiveness and accuracy, customizable trigger LEDs for visibility, increased audio outputs and trigger inputs for seamless integration, massive onboard memory, The SPD-SX PRO helps drummers reproduce intricately crafted music. The SPD-SX PRO sets a new standard for stage drummers and all types of creative performers.

“The compact body is packed with performance that will convince even professional drummers. The intuitive user interface and customizable visibility reflect the feedback from the field. The customizability of the system, which utilizes not only auditory but also visual perception, was highly evaluated,” said the jury members.

For more information, visit Roland.com. https://www.roland.com/

About the GOOD DESIGN AWARD

The GOOD DESIGN AWARD has been the sole comprehensive design evaluation and commendation system in Japan since 1957. Many companies and designers from both inside and outside Japan participate in the activity to enhance the industry or the quality of life through design. “G Mark,” the symbol of the award, has been recognized widely as a mark of representing good design. For more information, visit G-mark.org.

About Roland Corporation

For 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, and electronic percussion to DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland continues to lead the way for gigging musicians producers, and beat makers, providing modem software-based solutions for seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices.

Morph Across The SpaceTime Continuum With Cosmisis

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PIGTRONIX wrote: years in the making and the first of its kind, Cosmosis is a stereo, high-fidelity ambient reverb that allows musicians to tailer three original spaces – Theater, Temple, and Cosmos – as well as manipulate them in real time.

In addition to controls for the size of the reverb, wet/dry blend and filtering, Cosmosis features a unique Morph function that allows musicians to alter their reverb settings in real time by pressing the left footswitch. The three space algorithms found inside Cosmosis are all-original and truly unique.

Theater puts the play in a variable room that ranges from cozy to highly reflective using multiple parallel short reverberators. Temple occupies a dramatic, large indoor space by implementing numerous long reflections in both parallel and series. And Cosmos created an enormous spectrum of heavenly reverb derived from the harmonic content its fed.

The Morph feature found in Cosmosis provides a simple way for players to trigger a gradual change from various reverb parameters over a specified amount of time set by the accompanying Morph Rate knob. Players can set both “red” and “green” values on their Tone, Blend, and Size knobs, then engage the Morph foot switch to oscillate between the two reverbs at their desired rate.

Any combination of knobs can be assigned to morph. Create elegant morphs for subtle movement or sweeping, cinematic morphs for dramatic sound design effects. Save up to four custom reverb presets, including morphing. Cosmos runs on a standard 9VDC power.

KNOB-BY-KNOB

Size: Sets the size of the reverb space.

Blend: Sets that balance between wet (reverb) and dry (clean signal)

Tone: Clockwise from noon, this control applies a high-pass filter, making the reverb sound brighter. Counter-clockwise from noon, this control applies a low-pass filter, making the reverb sound darker.

Morph Rate: Sets the time it takes for parameters to change between “red” and “green” values when the Morph foot switch is engaged.

Morph: Enable morphing for any combination of the 4 on-board knobs. Push to toggle through knobs, press and hold to select. Press and hold again to deselect. 

Preset Select: Push to toggle through 4 pre-loaded presets, press and hold to select. To save a custom preset after making changes, press and hold. Presets can also be toggled and selected using only footswitches (see manual).

Space Select: Push to toggle through 3 available reverb spaces

Three Evocative Spaces

The three unique space algorithms found inside of Cosmosis are entirely original and comprise a combination of primary source impulse responses, imagined reflections, and inspired mathematics. 

Theatre is a vintage-inspired small room sound ranging form cozy to reflective; Temple is a rich and flowing larger space featuring long reflections in both parallel and series; and Cosmos makes use of divine inspiration to create an enormous spectrum of harmonically-informed reverb.

Kill the Size knob in any space to conjure a ghostly, full-wet “reverse” reverb effect.

You can download the Cosmosis manual from the PIGTRONIX website. 

The Cosmosis is priced at $219.00 

Nikon Releases The Upgraded Firmware Version 4.10 For The Nikon Z 9

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Nikon is pleased to announce the release of firmware version 4.10 for its flagship full-frame/FX-format mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z 9.

New dedicated [Birds] and [Airplanes] subject detection options have been added with firmware version 4.10. The [Birds] option increases overall detection performance for birds.

In addition to increased detection and AF performance with complicated and high-contrast backgrounds such as forests and rocky mountains, this option adds the ability to quickly detect birds in various states, including flying, perched, and even those with unique-looking appearances. Tracking performance with rapidly moving birds are also increased for a smooth shooting experience that ensures you will never miss a crucial moment when photographing birds.

Adding the same [Airplanes] option built into the Nikon Z 8 enables reliable detection of airplanes regardless of their size. This option offers increased detection capabilities with dark scenes and those that include busy backgrounds.

Furthermore, in a firmware update planned for release in the first half of 2024 for the Nikon Z 8, the dedicated bird subject detection option will be added, alongside the airplane option available from the camera’s initial release. Other improvements in functionality are also planned.

Nikon will continuously meet users’ needs through firmware updates that expand the functionality of its cameras. The latest firmware and instructions for download and installation can be found here

About Nikon

Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation.

Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z series cameras, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories. Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras and Nikon software products.

For more information, dial (800)NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities.

Leica Introduces SOFORT 2

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Leica introduces a hybrid instant camera with an elegant design, available in three colors.

In the early days of photography, there were hours to days between the moment if capturing an image and actually viewing the result. Since 1947, instant cameras have offered a new photography experience, which gained cult status, especially in the 70s and 80s. 

Back then, the instantly printed photo symbolized acceleration, whereas, in today’s fast-paced world, it represents a moment of caution and relief. It’s no wonder that the fascination with instant photography is thriving once again, and now, with the Leica SOFORT 2, Leica Camera AG is introducing the second generation of their instant camera. This hybrid camera seamlessly combines fleeting digital moments with the enduring analog world.

The modern, minimalist, and elegant look of the SOFORT 2 is a testament to the expertise of the company in industrial design. The Leica brand experience continues consistently with the handling of the SOFORT 2, as its user-friendly menu structure and button layout align with those of other digital Leica cameras. This hybrid camera seamlessly combines fleeting digital moments with the enduring analog world.

The modern, minimalist, and elegant look of the SOFORT 2 is a testament to the expertise of the company in industrial design. The Leica brand experience continues consistently with the handling of SOFORT 2, as its user-friendly menu structure and button layout align with those of other digital Leica cameras. 

What’s new with the SOFORT 2 is primarily the option to permanently save digital images and choose the best shots before printing them. This includes all photos on your smartphone and those taken with other Leica cameras, already stored in the gallery of the seamlessly connected Leica FOTOS App. These photos can be transferred to the camera via the app and printed as instant photos. Simply pull the manual printing lever on the camera, and seconds later, you’ll have the print on Instax Mini format photo paper in your hands. Leica offers exclusive photo paper with a warm-white or golden frame.

Easy to use, minimalist, and stylish. The new Leica SOFORT 2 is available in black, red, and white and presents itself as a camera that will quickly find a permanent place in the family, at events, and during travels, creating special shared experiences. Numerous fun features further assist in creatively capturing moments: the selfie mode with a separate shutter button, the landscape mode with a wide-angle character, the macro mode for close-ups from up to 10cm, as well as 10 lens and 10 film effects to unleash your creativity.

As versatile as the Leica SOFORT 2 itself are its accessories. Stylish wooden picture frames beautifully showcase the prints. Wrist wraps, carrying straps, bags, and other high-quality accessories emphasize the camera’s individuality and creativity – and, most importantly, the individuals who use it to capture and share special moments, whether as analog instant photos or digital moments on social media.

The Leica SOFORT 2 will be available globally at all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and authorized dealers starting on November 9th, 2023. The US retail price will be $389.00

BOSS Announces AC-22XL Acoustic Amplifier

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BOSS announced the AC-22LX Acoustic Amplifier, a compact stereo amplifier for pickup-equipped acoustic stringed instruments.

The AC-22LX presents a new concept in acoustic amplification, delivering a full-immersion playing experience realized through advanced BOSS Air Feel technology.

Air Feel breathes life into the dry, sterile sound of standard acoustic instrument pickups, recreating the detailed tones captured by stereo acoustic microphone setups in world-class studio settings. From acoustic-electric guitar to ukulele, violin, banjo, and other stringed instruments, the AC-22LX and Air Feel deliver the ultimate personal amplification experience for serious acoustic players.

Many elements contribute to the rich, complex sound of acoustic stringed instruments, including the soundboard, body resonances, and more. In recording situations, stereo microphone setups are used to capture this combined sound along with the surrounding room ambience. Unfortunately, instrument microphones are impracticable for most amplified playing situations due to feedback and other issues. Air Feel erases these limitations, bringing authentic studio microphone sound to acoustic amplification for the first time.

The AC-22LX’s compact and attractive cabinet is equipped with two custom twin-cone speakers, providing expansive stereo tones for home playing. Along with Air Feel, the Guitar/Instrument channel features a three-band EQ plus reverb and combined with reverb/chorus effects. The Mic channel supports an XLR vocal microphone and includes selectable phantom power, two-band EQ, and a dedicated reverb for independent processing. With 15 onboard memories, users can save setups for different songs and instruments. The AC-22LX Editor (macOS/Windows/iOS/Android) provides even deeper control with the ability to change reverb types, access parameters, and more.

The AC-22LX also includes a Rhythm Box feature to enhance practice sessions and live performances. Five instrument types include percussion and drum set sounds, all infused with BOSS spatial technology that fills the surrounding space with vibrant rhythmic energy. There are 15 onboard patterns which users can customize with 119 variations in the AC-22LX Editor.

With its versatile analog and USB connectivity, users can send the AC-22LX’s sound output to a PA system, recorder, or livestreaming application, complete with Air Feel processing and spatial rhythm tones. The analog output supports mono or stereo operation, while the USB connection has a convenient Loopback function for monitoring sounds from a computer.

There are a variety of available options to extend the AC-22LX experience. A rear-panel jack supports up to two foot switches, providing access to rhythm start/stop, control of the onboard looper, and the assignable functions in the AC-22XL Editor. Installing the Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor unlocks even more possibilities through wireless connectivity, including the ability to stream and play along with music from a mobile device, adjust settings via the iOS/Android version of the editor, and more.

Availability & Pricing

The new AC-22LX Acoustic Amplifier is available now at authorized BOSS retailers for $399.99. To learn more about the AC-22LX, visit http://www.boss.info/us/

Catalinbread Announces Dirty Little Secret Deluxe

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The Dirty Little Secret Deluxe represents the next logical step in Marshall Plexi emulations, reaching beyond the preamp circuit and adding the rest of the amp for an extremely authentic take on everything inside the chassis. 

Our original DLS circuit has been tweaked and upgraded throughout, now featuring a phase inverter, power amp sim and output transformer as well as some new features and the most requested modifications for the original. 

One such addition is a toggle switch on the outside to select between Super Lead and Super Bass modes, and we’ve also externalized the Presence knob to easily dial in your preferred Marshall flavor. Also added is a piece of the Dirty Little Secret – a single preamp tube simulator – as a built in boost circuit that can be used independently of the main circuit. 

You can run the boost and DLS in any order you like: put the boost before the DLS for a high-powered saturated tone or after to pummel the front end of your amp. A new tightness knob lets you shave off the sub-bass for a little extra clarity or completely attenuate the low end for some cool thrash medal tones. 

A Line Out jack gives you a dedicated +10dB output that you can use with a mixer or DAW, and you can use both outputs simultaneously. Between the Boost, order selector and the external Super Lead/Super Bass modes, the Dirty Little Secret Deluxe is engineered to be a total performance tool that does the line justice.

Manual Overview

If you’re reading this, the secret is out! What started as a fourth version of our flagship Dirty Little Secret ended up as this, the Deluxe version, which I’m sure you’ve already played before reading this. Quite frankly, we don’t blame you, and right up front we want to extend a hearty “hope you enjoyed it,” which you undoubtedly have. If you haven’t, good news! This manual will explain everything in great detail, be you a “play it first, who needs a manual” type or a “whoa there, let’s check the paper first” type.

The Dirty Little Secret Deluxe is dedicated to all things Marshall, featuring an all-discrete circuit with a preamp, phase inverter, power amp sim and output transformer. A built-in foot switchable boost modeled after a clean Marshall preamp and effect order switch gives you a fully-customizable amp-in-a-box experience.

Controls

MASTER: A descriptor that’s normally a formality, this knob occurs before the phase inverter and output transformer rather than at the end of the circuit, just like a real amp. We designed the output stage to be more impervious to input saturation than most power sections, so really cranking it doesn’t alter the tone in an extremely noticeable way. However, those that plan to use the DLS DLX as an always-on can find some subtle sag and gentle compression living within the whole of the volume knob.

PREAMP: We’ve taken the original preamp control and tweaked it to deliver a wider gain range with more cleans on the lower end and more cranked Marshall tones on the higher end.

PRESENCE: Formally an internal trimmer on the original, the Presence control is a powerful low-pass filter that attenuates frequencies by 3dB above 1.59Hz when turned all the way down, and the cutoff point climbs to an indistinguishable frequency by the end of the turn.

BOOST:  The boost circuit is actually one of the tube emulation building blocks that make up the DLS itself. When you run the boost before the Dirty Little Secret, it acts as another “preamp tube” added to the front end of the device for some saturated JCM900 tones. When run after, it makes everything louder without sacrificing the clarity.

Learn more about Catalinbread’s Dirty Little Secret here.