Category Archives: Information

TASCAM Unveils Model 24 Digital Multitrack Recorder

Information

TASCAM has unveiled its Model 24 digital multitrack recorder/mixer/interface. Whether used for rehearsal, live shows, or studio production, this triple-function recording console perfectly meets the needs of today’s working and recording musician.

An excellent choice for live applications, TASCAM’s versatile new Model 24 digital multitrack recorder offers 24 tracks of 24-bit, 48 kHz audio capture (22 channels and a stereo main mix) and 22 playback tracks via either USB 2.0 or to the unit’s onboard SD Card recorder.

The SD Card recorder offers quick, easy one-touch recording and includes transport controls, auto and manual punch in/out, and overdub capability. With color-coded knobs, faux-wood sides, and a retro design, the Model 24 is reminiscent of vintage TASCAM products but it’s based on the company’s industry leading digital Portastudio technology, as evidenced by its LCD screen and digital recording and Bluetooth input features.

Features Include:

  • All-in-One, Multitrack Recorder with 22 channel Mixer and USB Audio Interface
  • WAV 48kHz/24-bit, 24 channel multitrack recording to SD, SDHC and SDXC cards
  • Built-in USB Audio interface to send/receive audio data to/from DAW
  • 22 Inputs (20 Balanced, 12 Monaural, and 4 Stereo)
  • 16 TASCAM Microphone Preamps
  • Input Mode switch on every input channel
  • TASCAM Ultra-HDDA Mic Pre-amp (Channels 1 to 12)
  • 3-band EQ with a sweepable mid-range frequency (Channels 1 to 12)
  • 100kHz Low-cut Filter (Channels 1 to 12)
  • 7-band Graphic #EQ
  • 16 Pre-set Effects
  • 100mm Long-throw Faders for precise adjustment
  • Mute, Main/Sub, PLF switches on every input channel
  • Bluetooth input supporting both AAC and SBC codecs
  • SUB Outputs via XLR Balanced and RCA Unbalanced connectors
  • LINE Inputs via RCA Pin and 1 /8” Stereo Mini jacks
  • 3 AUX Outputs (Monitor 1, Monitor 2, FX)

Blue Microphones Introduced Yeti Nano

Information

Blue Microphones has introduced Yeti Nano. It is the perfect compact mic for streaming and content creating. It is currently priced at $99.99 on the Blue Microphones website.

Yeti Nano is a premium USB microphone designed for broadcast-quality podcasting, YouTube productions, game streaming, Skype/VoIP and voiceover work. Inspired by the #1-selling Blue Yeti microphone, Yeti Nano features 24-bit sound quality, a compact design, and plug ‘n play operation for instant streaming with your PC or Mac. The premium finish looks great on camera and on any desktop. With a no-latency headphone output for headphone volume, mic mute and pickup pattern, Yeti Nano is the essential mic for today’s broadcasters.

Yeti Nano Polar Patterns:

Cardioid Mode: Perfect for podcasters with a single host, game streaming, Skype calls, vocal performances, voiceovers and instruments. Cardioid mode records sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone, delivering rich, full-bodied sound.

Omnidirectional: Record or stream sound equally from all around the mic. Omnidirectional mode is best used in situations when you want to have a conference call with multiple participants in the same room, or a multi-person interview on a podcast.

Features include:

  • Legendary Blue broadcast sound quality
  • Cardioid and Omni pickup patterns
  • Supports sample rates up to 24-bit/48k-Hz
  • No-latency headphone output, headphone volume and mic mute
  • Perfect for podcasting, game streaming, Skype calls, YouTube or music recording
  • Plug ‘n play – Mac and PC compatible
  • Standard threading for optional Radius III shockmount and/or Compass boom arm
  • Blue Sherpa companion app for streamlined control and firmware updates

Nikon Introduces the Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6

Information

Nikon introduced the full-frame Nikon FX-format mirrorless cameras Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6, as well as NIKKOR Z lenses, featuring a new, larger-diameter mount.

The Z 7 and Z 6 are equipped with a new backside illumination, Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase-detection AF pixels, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 6.

The Z 7 has 45.7 effective megapixels, and supports a standard sensitivity range of ISO 64-25600. In combination with NIKKOR Z lenses, the camera achieves an outstanding level of sharpness and detail, all the way to the edges of the image.

The Z 6 is an all-purpose FX-format camera with 24.5 effective megapixels, and supports the wide range of ISO 100-51200 standard sensitivities. With superior performance at high sensitivities and full-frame 4K UHD movie recording with full pixel readout, the Z 6 responds to a variety of needs such as shooting in dimly lit environments, and movie recording.

Primary features of the Z 7 and Z 6 include:

  • Equipped with a new backside illumination Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor with focal-plane phase detection AF pixels
  • A hybrid AF system with focus points covering approximately 90% of the imaging area
  • The new EXPEED 6 image-processing engine for sharp and clear imaging, and new functions that support creative imaging expression
  • An electronic viewfinder that utilizes Nikon’s superior optical and image-processing technologies to offer a clear and natural view
  • An ergonomic design unique to Nikon that enables intuitive operation
  • Movie functions such as 10-bit N-Log that captures a wide dynamic range, and timecoding, responding to professional needs
  • Nikon’s first in-camera vibration reduction with approx. 5.0-stop effectiveness

In addition, Nikon also released three new lenses compatible with the Nikon Z mount system’s full-frame (Nikon FX format) mirrorless cameras, for which a new larger-diameter mount has been adopted, as well as the Mount Adaptor FTZ.

The three new lenses are the standard zoom NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4S, the wide-angle prime NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8S, and the standard NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8S.

They are S-Line interchangeable lenses. The S-Line is a newly designated grade of NIKKOR Z lenses that adhere to a new benchmark in optical performance, creating new definitions of design principles and quality control.

Yamaha Introduced P-121 Perfect Compact Digital Piano

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Yamaha has introduced the P-121 digital piano, the ideal piano for aspiring pianists, as well as gigging musicians looking for an ultra-compact and affordable instrument to take to their next performance.

The P-121 is the first 73-key, weighted action piano from Yamaha, and carries on the tradition of the best-selling P-Series digital pianos, which boast dynamic, high-quality sound along with a premium built-in stereo speaker system.

The P-121 weighs a mere 22 pounds. It is the lightest, most affordable weighted key digital piano on the market, and makes for the perfect musical companion to take along with you wherever you make music. Additionally, its compact size makes it the ideal option for music labs, where the space-saving afforded by the P-121 could mean more keyboards and students in the classroom.

The P-121 is also compatible with the Smart Pianist app for iOS devices, which allows pianists to turn their smart device into an intuitive and rich graphic user interface, making selecting Voices and configuring settings even easier.

The Smart Pianist app also takes advantage of the instrument’s built-in USB audio and MIDI interface and on-board speaker system. This not only enables the user to play along with their favorite artists, but it also allows them to record audio and/or MIDI performances into a computer.

The Yamaha P-121 digital piano comes in both black and spotlight white finishes and will be available in October at $899.99 MSRP.

Zenhiser Introduced Chill Guitars

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Zenhiser has introduced Chill Guitars. It will become your go to pack for versatile, diverse, guitar samples and licks. Endless possibilities at your fingertips.

Culminating a second to none collection of chilled guitars, this uniquely perfect sample pack has the capability to lift any music production to new heights. Packed to the brim with over 1000 guitar licks, strums, progressions and midi recorded using pristine Fenders, Jacksons, & ESP guitars ensures the quality and scope of this pack is unsurpassed.

Chill Guitars is jammed full of sparely beautiful patterns, sultry tones, emotive licks and a wealth of next level chords. Everything has been recorded using renowned classic amplifiers and stomp boxes to deliver a unique feel across the board. Fusing elements from both the analogue and digital side of Chill & Downtempo, you’ll be hard to find a collection this broad and exemplary.

Start with the 100 chords in a variety of options, including Open, Major/Minor Bar, Dominant Bar/Major/Minor Seventh, and Major/Minor Ninth Chords.

Next, a massive chunk of highly usable licks in 90bpm, 120bpm & 140bpm, perfectly suited for a broad range of productions including Downtempo, Chill, Chillwave, and Rnb. Soaked in reverb, rhythmically inspired and ready to capture the chilled flavour of your tracks. We’ve also thrown in a great chunk of strums, a huge bundle of Midi and 3 song starters/construction kits to complete one of the most iconic guitar packs to date.

Roland Offers DJ-808 / Serato Promotion

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Roland is currently running an exclusive promotion where any U.S. customer who purchases the flagship Roland DJ-808 will receive a limited edition, TR-808 Serato vinyl pressing, a highly collectible double-pack release featuring 808 beats from legends Just Blaze, Marley Marl, Machinedrum, Egyptian Lover, DJ Qbert, Salva, and more.

This stunning three-color vinyl includes 15 rhythm tracks and four locked grooves on one side, and control tone on the flip for use with Serato’s Digital Vinyl System (DVS). Serato’s DJ Pro DVS Expansion Pack is also included at no charge with the vinyl, extending a $150 value to all Roland customers who purchase DJ-808s during the exclusive promotional period.

With its phono inputs, standalone mixer capability, and pro-grade crossfader, the DJ-808 is perfectly suited for use with the TR-808 pressing either playing the 808 rhythm tracks or using the control tone to manipulate music in a Serato library. Personally created beats can be added with the DJ-808’s TR-909/ 808 / 707 / 606 hardware drum machine to maximize the performance potential connection to Roland’s rhythm legacy.

Visit the Roland website to fill out the DJ-808/Serato redemption form. This offer is good on new products purchased through September 30, 2018, through an authorized Roland U.S. dealer.

Tracktion Software Offers T7 DAW for Free

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Tracktion Software is offering its T7 DAW for free. To get yours now, all you need to do is fill out a form on the Tracktion website. TheT7 DAW is compatible with Mac, Windows, or Linux operating systems.

This is no ‘Lite’ version, we do not impose track limits, plugin limitations, or other such constraints commonly found in other low cost offerings. Why? – we think you will enjoy using the app so much, you will discover the value in investing in our latest versions and the expanded features we are voraciously adding. Innovation and creativity is what drives us – join the ride today and download T7 for Mac, Windows, or Linux operating systems.

System Requirements:

Mac

  • macOS 10.9 or later
  • Intel Core i5 2GHz Processor
  • 4GB RAM (8GB is recommended)

Windows

  • Windows 7,8,10
  • Intel Core i5 2GHz Processor
  • 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)

Linux

  • Tested on Ubuntu 16.04
  • Intel Core i5 2GHz Processor
  • 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)

Like all Tracktion DAW applications, T7 features an intuitive, single-screen interface, input, waveform and mixer – including EQ, level, pan, and plugins – are laid out from left-to-right. Simply drag-and-drop additional features and automation on any track as needed. Unlimited numbers of audio and MIDI tracks, combined with a professional feature set, allow you to compose, record, edit, mix and share your music with ease.

Zoom has Summer Rebates

Information

Zoom has Summer Rebates that are going on now and will end on August 20, 2018. You can save up to $100 rebate on many best-selling Zoom products.

The Summer Rebates include:

  • H1n: Regular price $119.99 – Rebate $20.00 – Price after instant rebate $99.99
  • H5: Regular price $269.99 – Rebate $20.00 – Price after instant rebate $249.99
  • H6: Regular price $349.99 – Rebate $50.00 – Price after instant rebate $299.99
  • L-12: Regular price $599.99 – Rebate $100.00 – Price after instant rebate $499.99

There are some things to know about before you start shopping. The H1n rebate offer is valid in the US, only. The H1n is available through participating, authorized, Zoom dealers.

The rest of the products that are part of the Zoom Summer Rebates are valid in the US and Canada. Zoom says Canadian residents should contact their authorized Zoom retailer for prices. The Zoom website has a link that can show you where to buy the products that are part of the Summer Rebates.

H1n Handy Recorder features include:

  • 1.25” monochrome LCD display
  • Built-in stereo condenser microphones in 90” X/Y stereo format
  • Stereo 1/8” Mic/Line In mini phone jack
  • Stereo 1/8” Phone/Line Output jack with dedicated volume control
  • Supports up to 24-bit/96kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats
  • Records directly to SD and SDHC cards up to 32 GB
  • Loop playback with user-defined start and stop points
  • Micro USB port for data exchange to and from computer and use as audio interface.

H5 Handy Recorder features include:

  • Uses a system of interchangeable input capsules that can be swapped out as easily as the lens of a camera
  • Includes detachable X/Y capsule (XYH-5) with extended signal capacity and shockmounted mics for reduced handling noise
  • Compatible with all Zoom input capsules
  • Four-track simultaneous recording
  • Records directly to SD and SDHC cards up to 32 GB
  • Up to 2 24-bit/9g kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats

H6 Handy Recorder features include:

  • Interchangeable input capsules that can be swapped out as easily as the lens of a camera
  • Six-track simultaneous recording
  • Four mic/line inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors
  • Gain controls, -20 dB pads, and phantom power for each input
  • Large full-color LCD display, angled so its easy to read in all environments
  • Records directly to SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards up to 128 GB
  • Up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats
  • Built-in effects, including low-cut filtering, compression and limiting

L-12 features include:

  • 12 discrete channels (8 mono plus 2 stereo) with XLR or ¼-inch connectivity
  • 14-track simultaneous recording, 12-track playback
  • 14-in/4-out USB audio interface connectivity
  • 5 powered headphone outputs, each with a customizable mix
  • Record to an SD card and computer simultaneously

Diety Microphones Introduces the S-Mic 2

Information

Deity Microphones introduced the S-Mic 2 shotgun microphone. The new S-Mic 2 has remarkably ultra low off-axis coloration. With it, you have nothing to worry about if an audio source moves slightly in and out of axis with the S-Mic 2. Even a novice boom operator can pick up rich full sounds on a film set with this shotgun microphone.

The construction of the mic body is computer machined from solid brass inside and out. No plastic is used anywhere in the construction to hold it together or mount the PCB unlike other microphones that sell for similar prices.

The S-Mic 2 uses a high-end capsule, computer designed circuitry, and features a gold coated PCB (printed circuit board). The PCB is also sprayed and coated with a clear epoxy which allows the microphone to preform without issues even in the most humid environments. This coating gives the microphone a water resistance level that allows it to work in the rain without being damaged.

The body of the microphone has been sprayed with a black speckle paint to give it an ultra durable finish, so it looks professional in front of clients for years of ownership and makes it less reflective on set.

The S-Mic 2 features a super cardioid polar pattern, offering -18dB off axis reject.

The S-Mic 2 has an ultra low noise floor at 12dB (A-weighted), 24dB (CCIR 268-3). Combined with its anti-RF interface build, the S-Mic 2 is able to be boosted with gain with a lot less background noise than some microphones on the market.

Sennheiser will Introduce Memory Mic for Smartphones at IBC 2018

Information

Sennheiser will introduce the wireless Memory Mic for smartphones at IBC 2018. The Memory Mic is an absolute must-have for mobile journalists. This small, lightweight wireless microphone not only offers excellent, broadcast-quality sound, but also works at any distance from the smartphone. The mic and the accompanying app for Android and Apple are available now.

Senior Project Manager, Professional Audio at Sennheiser, Tobias von Allwoerden, said: “The benefits for the mobile journalist include audio pick-up in broadcast quality via the free Sennheiser app, one-touch synchronization of audio and video via Bluetooth, no issues at all with range, up to four hours of operating time and convenient recharging via USB.”

The Memory Mic is simply synchronized with the smartphone app and attached to the clothing via the magnetic clip. The 30g microphone replaces much heavier equipment while still allowing the journalist to deliver excellent audio quality for the job at hand.

When recording with the Memory Mic, the integrated microphone of the smartphone is also active and works to concurrently pick up the ambient sound. Using the dedicated audio mixer of the Memory Mic App, the user is able to select the optimum balance between ambience and the audio captured with the Memory Mic at a later point in time.

As the wireless Memory Mic does not occupy any input on the smartphone, journalists can still employ additional accessories such as a gimbal or connect an additional wired microphone for interviews.

The Memory Mic features a high-quality Sennheiser condenser capsule with omni-directional pick-up pattern. The omni characteristic is particularly resistant to wind noise and very forgiving if a speaker changes the angle and/or distance at which he or she is talking to the microphone.

The Memory Mic is available now and comes with a USB charging cable and a quick guide; the free Sennheiser app is available in the Apple App Store or from Google Play. For outdoor recordings in windy conditions, a windshield will soon be available.