DJI Mic 2: Elevating Professional Audio Recording Excellence

Information

DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, announced the launch of the new DJI Mic 2, setting a new benchmark in audio recording solutions. With DJI Mic 2, creators can expect an exceptional experience, marked by high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and remarkable stability.

“DJI Mic 2 represents a leap forward in audio recording technology. We’ve combined high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and noteworthy stability to empower content creators with the tools they need to capture extraordinary audio, no matter where their creativity takes them,” said Paul Pan, Senior Product Line Manager at DJI.

Pro Audio Recording Functions in Pocket-Size

At the heart if DJI Mic 2 lies the promise of capturing brilliance in different sounds. It’s equipped with omnidirectional recording capabilities, thoughtfully optimized for vocal clarity, ensuring that the audio content of users shines in various scenarios. Whether content creators are producing engaging vlogs, conducting insightful interviews, or recording in diverse environments, DJI Mic 2 guarantees that their audio is of high quality.

DJI Mic 2 features intelligent noise-canceling technology, a game-changer for content creators working in bustling urban areas of crowded rooms. This innovative feature effectively reduces environmental noise, delivering clear vocals and uninterrupted audio recordings. Regarding windy or fast-moving scenarios, DJI Mic 2 has included a windscreen to lower wind noise, ensuring clean sound capture in windy outdoor scenarios.

As an added layer of protection for the user’s audio, DJI Mic 2 offers the Safety Track feature. It allows content creators to record a second track a -6dB alongside the primary audio track, safeguarding against unexpected audio level spikes. Even in the midst of audibly complicated environments such as rock concerts, DJI Mic 2 delivers balanced results with remarkable ease.

User-Friendly Design for a Seamless and Intuitive Experience

DJ Mic 2 is not just developed with technical advancement, but also designed with users in mind. It’s sleek and smart aesthetic is elevated by a premium metal charging case that not only has a minimalistic appearance but also offers a newly added locking latch, which provides secure and reliable solution to prevent accidental drops for peace of mind during use.

To suit the style and preferences of different users, DJI Mic 2 is available in two transmitter colors: Shadow Black and Pearl White. Shadow Black adds a discrete, high-tech appearance to the Mic 2 setup, while Pearl White offers an elegant alternative for those seeking a light-tome colorway.

When it comes to getting started, DJI Mic 2 simplifies the process. The system is ready to use anytime, anywhere. Users can just open the charging case, and DJI Mic 2 will then spring to life, automatically pairing the receiver and transmitters while charging them. Additionally DJI Mic 2 can be seamlessly connected to DJI Osmo Action 4, DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and smartphone devices via Bluetooth, while also offering hassle-free compatibility with various recording devices through USB-C, Lightning Adaptors, as well as 3.5mm TRS analog output.

Pricing and Availability

The DJI Mic 2 is available to order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners. The DJI Mic 2 costs USD $219.

BOSS Announces VE-22 Vocal Performer

Information

BOSS announced the VE-22 Vocal Performer, the latest model in the company’s long-running series of Vocal Performer products. With the portable VE-22, performing singers can take charge of their live sound with an XLR microphone preamp and a diverse range of premium sonic tools, from basic vocal enhancements to dramatically processed effects. A real-time harmony function is also included, along with versatile features for practice, recording, and online streaming.

The VE-22 is packed with the latest enhancements on BOSS’s acclaimed Vocal Performer technology. Studio essentials like compressor, EQ, and de-esser provide core sound support, and there’s a wide selection of delays and reverbs for adding space and ambience. Users can explore a universe of electronic colors and aggressive textures to go with auto pitch, distortion, lo-fi, modulation and other cool voice-transforming effects. Preset memories offer 50 ready-to-go sounds, while 99 user memories are available for storing custom setups for different songs and styles.

The VE-22’s powerful harmony and doubling functions enable users to create head-turning ensemble effects from a single voice. It’s easy to set the song key, change up the harmony, voicing, adjust levels, and more with panel knobs. It’s also possible to assign the harmonies to an onboard switch and bring them in and out while performing.

The uncomplicated VE-22 interface encourages users to get creative with vocal sounds. Harmony, Effect, and Echo sections feature multi-function knobs for fast navigation, while the color display and knob LEDs offer a clear view of the current status. Three customizable switches support both foot and hand operation. There’s also a jack for connecting an expression pedal or external footswitches for additional live control.

The VE-22 provides a XLR input and integrated preamp for a professional stage microphone, plus phantom power for high-end condenser types. A high/low gain switch, rear-panel sensitivity knob, and level meter enable the user to optimize the input signal for nearly any mic. USB-C, an analog aux input, and a headphone jack support a variety of vocal activities, including daily practice, computer recording, music playback from a smartphone, and live-streaming on social media.

Availability and Pricing

The new BOSS VE-22 Vocal Performer and CB-CE22 Carrying Case will be available for purchase at authorized US BOSS retailers in January for $349.99 and $69.99.

NIKON and APF Collaborate To Verify The Implementation Of An Image Provenance Function

Information,

Nikon Corporation (Nikon) will collaborate with Agence France-Presse (AFP), a news agency based in Paris, France, to commence practical verification of an image provenance function that Nikon has been developing in the field of journalism.

Nikon is committed to developing an image provenance function that supports confirmation of image authenticity, aiming to protect individuals and enterprises in the imaging industry from any unfavorable results caused by falsification and/or unauthorized use of images, especially in the field of journalism, and to realize a society in which creative and business activities can be conducted with more peace of mind. 

Ensuring the authenticity of images, especially in field of journalism, is an important challenge. In order to implement this function in cameras, Nikon will begin the practical verification of its functionality within APF’s workflow. This involves enabling the attachment of information such as sources and provenances from the moment of image capture. The objective is to improve the reliability of news photos and streamline fact-checking process.

Nikon has newly incorporated electronic watermarking technology into its image provenance function, and is developing a feature that would generate images with embedded watermark data, directly within the camera system. With this electronic watermarking technology, even if the relationship with the original image can be determined, enabling the construction of a more robust authenticity system, thereby contributing to higher-quality image verification.

Nikon will continue to incorporate new elements of the evolving C2PA specifications and conduct development and verification. This function is planned to be included in upcoming products. The timing of this incorporation will be announced separately, one determined.

AFP Comment:

AFP is proud to unite our strengths with Nikon to address the critical matter of image provenance. Together, we aim to elevate the standards of professional journalism and foster a renewed sense of trust within the public sphere. Through this partnership, we are poised to develop the way images are sourced, verified, and shared, ensuring an unwavering commitment to authenticity and transparency. Together, we work towards a future where the truth matters, empowering individuals and institutions with accurate and reliable information.

About AFP

AFP is a leading global news agency providing fast, comprehensive and verified coverage of the events shaping our world and of the issues affecting our daily lives. Drawing from an unparalleled news gathering network across 151 countries, AFP is also a world leader in digital verification.

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 mirrorless 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.

Earthquaker Devices Announces Blumes Low Signal Shredder

Information

Blumes is an all-analog, trio-mode soft clipping bass overdrive that carries the torch of the classic steamer circuit but has a voice all its own. While embodying most of the characteristics and features of our beloved Plumes Small Signal Shredder, this modified circuit has double the gain and a deeper bass response to retain all the low end.

It utilizes internal bipolar power, which gives you more dynamics and all the headroom you could ever desire. The end result is a three-dimensional tome with added clarity that really pushes a nice tube amp over the edge.

Controls

Gain: This controls the amount of drive.

Tone: More bass to the left, more middles in the middle and more treble to the right.

Level: This controls the output volume.

Clipping Modes (3-Way Toggle):

Symmetrical LED clipping: more crunch and compression.

No clipping: wide open OPAmp drive for clean boost.

Asymmetrical silicon diode clipping: more transparency with a loose feel.

Design Notes

As a bass player, we understand that you often feel neglected within the hierarchy of band constructs, despite the fact that you hold down the rhythmic foundation and make everyone sound better. So that’s why this marvelous yellow box was created specifically for you. But, fear not, 6-stringers, this is also the perfect pedal for all of your deep overdrive needs, especially you drop-tuned masters. We see you.

This all-analog tri-mode overdrive with soft clipping carries the torch of the classic screamer circuit but has a voice all its own. And thanks to its bipolar power, you’ll get more dynamics, clarity, and all the headroom you could ever desire. The end result is a more three-dimensional tone with the added clarity that really pushes a nice tube amp over the edge.

While embodying most of the kick ass characteristics and features of the Plumes, we went ahead and modified this circuit with double the gain and a deeper bass response to retain all the low end. At lower gain settings, you’ll get all of the crunchy tone you love about the original, but once you get above noon on the Gain control, that’s where the similarities stop.

Now you’re in bass country, baby! Get ready to shake some walls and field some angry calls from your neighbors (just sent them to voicemail).

And much like Plumes, this pedal Ofers three different clipping options for your desired low end face melting needs.

Mode 1 is symmetrical LED clipping that utilizes a pair of light emitting diodes. This is the crunchiest setting the Blumes has to offer. This signal is less compressed and way more open with tons of output for when you really want to go wild.

Mode 2 is a clean, pure OpAmp gain boost mode. This eliminates the soft clipping diodes altogether and leaves you straight OpAmp drive. This will be he loudest output with the fullest frequency response, and can be used as a clean boost when the Gain control is set below 11 o’clock.

Mode 3 is an asymmetrical silicon diode arrangement similar to the stock screamer but with more output and clean clarity, which provides more transparent tone. Using this mode gives a warmer low-end response and is the most compressed. If you like the fuzzy ends of distortion with a clean undertone, you’ll love this setting. We guarantee it.

Donner Music Announces HUSH-1 Guitar

Information

Donner Music announced the HUSH-I. It is described as “a small body with a big resonance.” Although HUSH-I is as light as a laptop, its original wood body pickups greatly produce the resonance with a warm and full sound you could never imagine.

Features include:

Headless Design and Bottom Tuners: The traditional headstock is easily hit by accident, resulting in out-of-tune or even damage. HUSH-I switches the tuners to the bottom of the body, which keeps the guitar from slipping out of tune.

Removable Upper and Lower Frames: You can still install the ergonomic upper and lower frames to convert HUSH-I into a traditionally shaped guitar, allowing you to switch between different usage scenarios freely.

Hidden Tuning Keys: With a hidden storage feature, anti-drop magnet design, HUSH-I will be equipped with the neck and turning key. This design ensures you won’t lose this small but important accessory.

Plug and Play with Long Battery Life: HUSH-I is equipped with a headphone output, MP3 output, an 6.35 port output allowing you to perform on stage or practice quietly at home. The pickup has a built-in lithium battery providing 50 hours of usage with earphones or one month with guitar amplifier. The ultra-long-lasting battery life means you don’t have to worry about running out of battery during the performance.

50 hours usage with earphone

30 days usage with guitar amplifier

Asymmetrical guitar neck: The asymmetrically guitar neck of HUSK-I can satisfy both beginners and guitar virtuosos. The gradual next curvature can help players to perform better in higher or lower neck position; furthermore, it helps reduce wrist fatigue even with long practice hours.

Activate the Phase Button: Acoustic guitars are prone to feedback to the excessive gain of external equipment (large speakers or PA systems), the anti-phase button on HUSH-I inverts the output signal by 180 degrees, eliminating feedback and allowing the guitar to purer sound.

Volume and Tone Buttons: With the 2-stage EQ and Volume knobs, you can fine-tune your desired tone any way you want. Whether strumming chords for your singer or playing a dedicated guitar solo!

Rounded frets: Our customized round frets prevent finger cuts during practice and are very beginner-friendly.

2 in 1 Guitar Strap: HUSH-I comes with a 2 in 1 guitar strap that works on both guitar and bag, and the quick release buckle keeps the strap from falling off.

Neural Introduces The Morgan Amps Suite

Information

Neural introduced the Morgan Amps Suite – a legacy of vintage modern amplifiers revered for their warmth and responsiveness.

In the world of guitar amplification, few names shine as brightly as Morgan Amplification. For over a decade, this illustrious company has sculpted soundscapes and shaped musical journeys, earning a place of honor in the pantheon of amplifier legends.

Founded by the visionary amplifier builder and guitarist Joe Morgan in 2009, Morgan Amplification emerged as a beacon of craftsmanship and innovation in the industry. Drawing inspiration from the era-defining vintage tones, Joe set out to create amplifiers that not only paid homage to the classics but also pushed the boundaries of sonic possibilities. The result? A legacy of amplifiers revered for their meticulous attention to detail, exceptional build quality, and incredible tonal artistry.

Pre Effects

CMP: A very responsive compressor pedal, based on the circuits found in high-end recording desks, with an additional blend control for increased transparency. The attack switch provides two different compressor tone. The fast setting is snappier and more suited for funk playing, whereas the Slow setting mimics the behavior of more traditional guitar compressors that is perfect for slow phases or slide playing.

OD1: An iconic overdrive, loved by many for its warm midrange capable of driving any amplifier.

OD2: A higher gain pedal, with a transparent and responsive overdrive that respects the characteristics of the guitar and amplifier.

TRM: Inspired by the analog tremolo circuits vintage US amplifiers with sync ability added.

Amplifiers

Inspired by classic designs, modernized and made more reliable, these amps were born out of a desire to provide the most touch-sensitive and responsive sound possible while also providing an unparalleled pedal platform.

AC20: The Morgan AC20 is a single-channel, 20 watt amplifier based on a vintage Vox AC30. Provide very rich, thick tones at high gain settings.

PR12: The Morgan PR12 is a single-channel, 12 watt amplifier based on a vintage Fender Princeton Reverb. It offers bright, super clean tones to saggy overdrives. The PR12 features a distinctive Spring Reverb that has become a hallmark of its success.

SW50R: The Morgan SW50R is a single-channel, 50 watt amplifier based on a Dumble clean channel with the addition of a tube-driven reverb tank. Entirely hand wired and built to order, this amp encapsulates everything Morgan Amplifiers does best. At full volume, the amp breaks up drastically, producing killer tones for grunge and stoner rock.

Crazy Tube Circuits Announces Hi Power Pedal

Information

Crazy Tube Circuits announced HI Power, our next endeavour in pedal + amp-in-a-box overdrive inspired by the sonic combination of two British tone machines that helped shape the sound of Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here album.

On the right side of the pedal, you will find a recreation of the Colorsound Power Boost featuring the true-to-the original spec BC184 transistors running on the 18V DC (via an internal voltage booster circuit) and the ultra-flexible 2-band Baxandall EQ circuit. We’ve aded extra features, like a bypassable master volume control, a reverse-log gain control to ensure better sweep and transition from clean to mean (compared to the original’s linear taper) and a toggle switch the engage the latter higher gain / lower headroom version of the original boost circuit called Overdriver.

On the left side of the HI POWER you will find an all-analog circuit set out to emulate the sound and feel of a Hiwatt app. Following the path of the famed British tube amplifier our circuit offers authentic amp tone and feel. From the big bold high-headroom clean sounds to the face-melting crunchy tones.

True to the last detail we have included the full EQ section along with a presence control located at the negative feedback of the power amp simulation circuit. A headroom toggle switch selects between the high headroom 100w power section provided by a quartet of EL34s or the lower headroom and compression provided by a 50W power section with a pair of EL34’s when hit hard. Similar in operation to the original amp design the master volume control was designed to produce more gain at higher settings.

We’ve taken our design a step further by adding a switch to select between input channels. You can select between the full frequency response of the normal channel of the amplifier, the increased presence and tight low end of the bright channel input or the enhanced frequency response and added gain of those inputs linked together.

Like our other dual overdrive/amp-in-a-box designs we have also included a passive effects loop to give you the option to connect your beloved pedals between your booster/overdrive and amp in a box or use two two sections as separate and independent effects when using an external bypass switcher/looper.

HI POWER also features a power-up bypass/engage pre-set function for the onboard footswitches. That way you can select which state your pedal will go to when you plug the power supply. This function comes in especially handy to people that use remote pedal switchers / loopers as they only set the power-up state of the pedal once and then operate from the controller.

WARNING: This unit was designed for 9V DC input only. Do not use a higher voltage power supply.

Price: €279.00

Availability: in stock (ships in 2-3 business days)

 

 

BOSS Announces IR-2 Amp & Cabinet Pedal

Information

BOSS announces the IR-2 Amp & Cabinet pedal, the latest addition to the company’s long-running effect pedal series. The IR-2 features 11 premium guitar amp types and cabinet IRs from Celestion Digital, giving players a powerful solution for achieving consistent, high-quality sound while performing, recording, and practicing.

The versatile IR-2 also offers wide-ranging connectivity, including a headphones output for sound monitoring and USB-C for interfacing with music production software and loading user cabinets IRs.

Packing the inspiring sounds of classic tube amps and mic’d speaker cabinets in a standard stompbox footprint, the IR-2 provides easy access to studio-grade tones on quiet stages, fly dates, recording gigs, and practice sessions. Backed by decades of BOSS tone expertise, every selection delivers the same expressive nuance and dynamic touch response of a real amp and cabinet. Audio quality is also top-notch, thanks to advanced DSP, 32-bit floating point processing, and a 96 kHz sampling rate.

The IR-2 is equipped with 11 solid platforms that dish up every guitar amp flavor, from famous tube combo to vintage and modern stacks. There are several original BOSS amps as well, including a high-gain Brown type derived from the Katana series. Every amp is paired with a curated Celestion Digital IR for ready-to-play results. If desired, third-party IRs can be swapped in via the dedicated IR-2 Loader app.

Sound creation is fast and easy with the IR-2’s intutitive interface. Familiar amp-style controls are available for gain, level, and tone-shaping, and there’s an onboard Ambience effect to add natural spaciousness and depth. The player can connect their other pedals to the IR-2’s input, just like they would with an amp. Using the send/return loop, it’s possible to path mod, delay, and reverb effects into the chain after the amp sounds. The TRS return jack supports stereo operation for passing the sound of stereo effects to the IR-2’s audio outputs.

Along with IR loading, the USB-C connector on the IR-2 allows the player to send the sound of their complete rig directly to music recording software on a computer or iOS device. Audio can be monitored from the software through headphones, eliminating the need for a separate interface. General audio playback is supported for practice sessions, perfect for jamming with songs from a music library, and following along with lessons from YouTube and other sources.

For more information, visit www.boss.info.

BOSS Introduces RV-200 Reverb

Information

BOSS announces the RV-200 Reverb, the latest addition to the popular 200 series of advanced effect pedals. The RV-200 delivers inspiring reverbs and exceptional sound in a streamlined, pedalboard-friendly design.

Twelve versatile reverb types – including the newly developed Arpverb – provide everything from subtle spatial color to complex, dreamy textures for ambient explorations. Users can quickly dial in sounds with the fast-access interface and save favorites in 127 memories. The RV-200 also features flexible onboard foot switches, deep external control support, and a range of expressive tools to take performances to new levels.

The RV-200’s powerful reverberation engine offers class-leading sound quality, backed by custom BOSS DSP, 32-bit AD/DA, 32-bit floating point processing, and a 96 kHz sampling rate. Every algorithm offers true studio-grade performance with detail and definition. From essentials like Room Hall, and Plate to deeply immersive sounds like Shimmer, Slowverb, and the new Arpverb, the RV-200’s 12 distinctive reverb types provide ambient colors for every song and style.

Like all 200 series pedals, the RV-200 offers a powerful yet intuitive panel that makes it easy to shape great sounds. Core controls include reverb time, effect level, pre-delay, and variable high and low filters. There’s also a density control to adjust the weight of the sound, plus a parameter knob that provides access to multiple sound-shaping tools unique to each reverb type.

The RV-200 incudes memories for storing 127 reverb sounds. Two onboard foot switches pack a lot of performance versatility, with numerous options to reassign their targets for different needs. Users can bypass the effect, scroll through memories, and activate a Hold function to carry on the reverb effect for as long as the switch is pressed. It’s also possible to assign powerful performance effects such as Warp, Twist, and Fade.

The RV-200 supports numerous options for external operation. Many assignable parameter targets can be controlled via foot switches or an expression pedal, and MIDI I/O is provided on space-saving mini TRS jacks. Via MIDI, users can chain multiple 200 series pedals and select memories on all of them at once. It’s also possible to control various functions from external MIDI controllers and devices like the BOSS ES-8 and ES-5 effects switchers.

Availability & Pricing

The new BOSS RV-200 Reverb is now available for purchase at authorized US BOSS retailers for $269.99.

Jackson And Jeff Loomis Unleash Metal Mayhem With Third Signature Model

Information

Jackson launches the Limited Edition Pro Series Signature Jeff Loomis Kelly HT6, the latest collaboration between Modern Metal legend Jeff Loomis and the iconic heavy metal guitar brand. Loomis’s relationship with Jackson brand has spanned over two decades and reached an exciting milestone in 2020 with the release of his signature Kelly and followed up two years later by the release of a robust signature seven-string Soloist.

Now, Loomis returns with another onslaught to the metal community with another prized machine, enthralling both Loomis fans and players searching for a modernized take on the Kelly shape alike.

Jackson caters to the guitarist who is in pursuit of greater speed, power, and accuracy in their playing. This pursuit of excellence in performance has been at the core of Jackson’s philosophy since its inception. In a parallel journey that spans back to 1995, Jeff Loomis has been a prominent figure on the world’s stages, consistently embodying this very sentiment.

His distinctive, exacting and technically-driven playing style has left an indelible mark on various subgenera of metal. Loomis’s musical journey has been notably marked by his presence in globally acclaimed bands like Nevermore and Arch Enemy, though which he has propelled his artistry to new heights.

Through the decades, dedicated fans have had the privilege of witnessing Loomis continuously refine his signature playing style, taking it to unprecedented levels. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of the metal genre has been a source of inspiration for many and his collaboration with Jackson embodies this shared commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of metal music.

“It’s a seriously metal looking guitar,” said Jeff Loomis. “My favorite feature is the heel mount truss rod wheel. As a touring musician, it’s perfect if I need to adjust the next on the fly. The playability is truly superior and the single volume and pickup toggle switches make it simple yet effective. I’ve played Jackson’s from an early age so working with them again to create this signature model has been incredibly fulfilling. I just really love how this guitar turned out and I know fans will too.”

This new Signature model is built to reflect Loomis’s deep knowledge of what makes a guitar perfect for playing metal. His decades of experience taught him that the 25.5” scale length he chose is ideal for intricate fretboard skills and impeccable intonation. The through-body, graphite-reinforced neck with 12”-16” compound radius bound ebony fingerboard makes for a light and agile playing experience.

The Seymour Duncan Jeff Loomis Signature Blackouts Hipshot HardTail Bridge will handle the rigors and ravages of the road, while a heel-mount truss rod adjustment wheel makes for quick and painless neck relief tweaks. Luminlay side dots on the neck allow for playing on the darkest of metal stages and the black sandblasted ash top finish with white binding gives the Loomis Signature Kelly a distressed and menacing look.

“The Jackson team has delivered a guitar that perfectly encapsulates Jeff’s identity as a musician: the intersection of technical mastery and raw power,” said Jon Romanowski, Vice President of Product at Jackson. “Following the success of the last two Jeff Loomis signature models, it was clear that fans would be ecstatic to see his unique take on the Kelly model that embodies his preferences and specifications that set an industry standard.”

The Limited Edition Pro Series Signature Jeff Loomis Kelly HT6 originated in conjunction with Jackson’s world class design and production teams to capture the iconic artist’s signature sounds.