Gretsch Unleashes All-New Players Edition Hollow Body Guitars

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Gretsch announced an update to their flagship electrics series with the launch of all-new Players Edition Hollow Body guitars. Available in different styles across five distinct models – FalconTM, Country Gentleman, NashvilleTM, Tennessee RoseTM, and AnniversaryTM – the state-of-the-art guitars in the collection feature the authentic Gretsch sound and style while incorporating cutting-edge features that are designed to instill complete confidence in the instrument.

The Players Edition Hollow Body line was crafted for both gigging players and studio recordists and contains modern features that still hold true to its vintage roots. Each model pays homage to its vintage predecessor by preserving the sound and style of classic Gretsch while adding performance-centric features for the player craving a recognizable big-body sound.

On stage, they can be played for an entire set across a variety of genres – from worship and neo-soul to rock and roll, country and hard rock. In fact, many major recording artists have historically utilized variants of these electric guitars during their own sets.

The Falcon model guitars can be heard in the dark sultry sounds of Orville Peck as well as the pop rock melodies of Tori Kelly while the Country Gentleman’s electric range can accommodate the fashion-art rock style of Palaye Royale’s guitarist Sebastian Danzig. The Tennessee Rose’s ability to integrate into any musical mold, from country to alt rock, has been leveraged by singer songwriter Brandi Carline and the Anniversary model has grace rock and roll stages by the likes of We the Kings and War on Drugs.

“These new Players Edition Hollow Bodies represent the pinnacle of Gretsch performance and give players full control over a powerful sound that lasts every song, every night,” said Jason Barnes, VP Category Management-Gretsch. “With incredible features like our all-new FT67 Filter’Trons, these guitars drive a robust and vibrant voice with control sets that allow tone shaping possibilities and maximum versatility. These models are dedicated to Gretsch pros and enthusiasts seeking the best of the best.”

These guitars feature classic Gretsch tone and cutting-edge features for maximum power, comfort, and versatility. At the intersection of innovation and tribute, these Players Edition features include best in class mechanics such as ML or Parallel bracing options for classic hollow body tones, all-new FT-67 Filter’Tron pickups for a powerful body and open chime, rolled fingerboard edges, Luminlay side markers, String-thru Bigsby vibrato for uncompromising stability and much more.

Images of the various Players Edition guitars can be found on the Gretsch website.

Sony Unveils VENICE 2 Digital Cinema Camera

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Sony Electronics Inc. introduced the VENICE 2, the new flagship model and latest addition to its lineup of high-end digital cameras. The VENICE 2 builds upon the strength of the original VENICE with new features including a compact design, internal recording and the option for two different sensors: the newly developed full-frame 8.6K sensor or the original 6K VENICE sensor. The VENICE 2 also inherits popular features from the original VENICE including color science, Dual Base ISO and 8-stops of built-in ND filters.

Paired with a newly-developed 8.6K full-frame CMOS image sensor, the VENICE 2 offers excellent image quality with 16 stops of total latitude to capture beautiful images with excellent color separation and shadow detail. The camera also inherits its color science allows filmmakers to capture incredibly clean, film-like images under a wide range of lighting conditions. It supports everything from full-frame, full-frame anamorphic to Super35 all at a minimum of 4K resolution, resulting in an outstanding and versatile camera system for cinematographers and productions.

To illustrate the strength of the VENICE 2 and its new 8.6K sensor, Sony worked with the industry’s top cinematographers to test the camera’s image quality on a few separate film shoots without using any professional movie lighting.

With the 8.6K sensor providing ample oversampling, images shot on VENICE 2 will benefit from less noise and enriched information in a 2K or 4K production. It also means the camera is well suited for VR, in camera VFX and Virtual Production setups, delivering an immersive experience and realistic images especially in combination with Sony’s high-contrast and large-scale Crystal LED displays.

The VENICE 2 maintains many of the features which made the original VENICE a success including Dual Base ISO, 8-stops of built-in ND filters, compatibility with a wide range of lenses, including an all PL mount and Sony’s native E-mount which enables adapters for a multitude of lenses.

Thanks to feedback from the production community, the VENICE 2 was designed with a smaller and more lightweight body than the original VENICE while keeping its intuitive operability. Despite being 44 mm smaller and approximately 10% lighter, the VENICE 2 chassis allows internal recording of X-OCN and Apple 4K Pro Res 4444 and 422 HQ without the AXS-R7 recorder, offering advanced usability in a compact and lightweight body.

The VENICE 2 camera with 8.6K image sensor is scheduled to start shipping in February 2022 and VENICE 2 camera with 6K image sensor in March 2022.  

In addition, the VENICE 2 6K can be used with the existing VENICE Extension System and a next-generation Extension System for VENICE 2 8K is planned to be released by early 2023.  

Fujifilm Launches Hybrid Instant Camera “instax mini Evo”

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Fujufilm Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the hybrid instant camera “instax mini Evo” (mini Evo), which supports card-size films. The new “mini Evo” is a flagship model of the “instax” series of instant cameras, which allow users to enjoy photo prints on the spot. The new “mini Evo” launched in stores in Japan on December 3, 2021 and in the other countries and regions from December or later.

With a hybrid instant camera, users can review photos captured on the device via the LCD monitor on the rear panel of the camera and choose images they want to print. This convenience has led to global popularity of Fujifilm’s hybrid instant cameras including “instax mini LiPlay”. The new “mini Evo” is a hybrid instant camera that features more advanced functions, operability, print quality and apps than ever before.

Versatile shooting effects available on the “mini Evo” can be freely combined to deliver 100 combinations of effects for users to express and convey their emotions through instax prints. The new model, designed with a premium and classical touch, is the first instax camera equipped with a print lever, lens dial and film dial. These allow users to choose shooting effects with the dials and print by pulling the lever, offering the joy of creating photographic arts with analog operations.

To be released on the same day is the mini-format film “Stone Gray,” which has a gray frame accentuated with metallic silver to give off a sense of luxury, adding an exquisite touch to photos taken with the “mini Evo.”

The “instax” series of instant cameras, launched in 1998, is affectionately called “Cheki” in Japan, where it has enjoyed wide popularity for over 20 years. Today, it is sold in over 100 countries and regions around the world, including Europe, the United States, China and Southeast Asia. It has been globally embraced as a communication tool or a tool of self expression for its ability to capture those precious moments in life in the form of photo prints, and convey emotions that go with them.

The “mini Evo” comes with ten lens effects including “Soft Focus” and “Light Leak” as well as ten film effects including “Monochrome” and “Retro.” These two types of effects can be combined freely to create 100 different shooting effects so that users can express their emotions through instax prints. Furthermore, resolution of exposure*1 has been doubled compared to the previous models to achieve greater print quality. The “instax-Rich” mode for rich colors and the “instax-Natural” mode for softer touch can be also chosen according to personal preference
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The camera’s main body sports a classic design with a sense of luxury. The use of silver coating on its body results in sophisticated presence. The print lever, lens dial and film dial are designed with attention to the finest details including operation sound to create an operational feel similar to analog cameras.

Using the smartphone app “instax mini Evo” will significantly broaden the enjoyment of photography with instax. The “DIRECT PRINT” function allows the use of the “mini Evo” as a smartphone printer, printing pictures taken with a smartphone. The app also has the “SAVE PRINTED IMAGES” function for the first time, allowing users to save a photo, printed with the “mini Evo,” in a smartphone as an image decorated with an instax frame, making it possible to share pictures with popular instax frames on social media with ease.

Leica D-Lux 7 Vans x Ray Barbee Edition

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Leica Camera AG has teamed up with two stars of the skateboarding scene – the fashion label Vans, and the skater, musician and photographer Ray Barbee: an extraordinary camera that encapsulates the spirit and lifestyle of skateboarding culture. Ray Barbee summarizes the venture’s core emotion: “The joy is in capturing the journey.”

Vans has been creating skate shoes and clothing for more than five decades – staying true to its underground essence whilst gaining global renown. The multi-talented Ray Barbee not only counts as a pioneer within the skateboarding scene, but is also known as a successful musician and Leica photographer. “I am very honored tone working with both Vans and Leica – not just to respective fields. The coming together of these two brands represents a truly special collaboration.”

The Leica D-Lux 7 Vans x Ray Barbee Edition is covered Vans’ iconic checkerboard pattern. The top plate of the camera features Ray Barbee’s signature, as well as the Vault logo – a sub-brand which Vans reserves for particularly high-end products and exclusive collaborations. The set includes a specifically designed carrier strap and matching dust bag, both in petrol blue. One side of the bag is adorned with Barbee’s quote, “The joy is in capturing the journey,” which has become the motto of this joint venture and its resulting products. The other side of the dust bag shows the famous words of Ernst Leitz II: “Icon entscheide hiermit: Es bird riskiet” (“I hereby decide: the risk shall be taken”) – which marked the go-ahead for the production of the Leica I in 1924.

The limited-edition Leica D-Lux 7 Vans x Ray Barbee has the same technical specifications as the serially produced model, distinguished by a large Micro Four Thirds sensor and fast zoom lens with a full-frame-equivalent range of 24-75mm. Vans complements the collaboration with specially designed T-shirts as well as shoes (including a petrol-colored model with red eyelets and checkerboard lining) adorned with the afore-mentioned quotes by Ray Barbee and Ernst Leitz II.

The Leica D-Lux 7 Vans x Ray Barbee Edition is priced at € 1495 incl. VAT.

Roland Announces Vocal Designer Model Expansion

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Roland announces two powerful creative tools for all JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm synthesizer owners. The Vocal Designer Model Expansion brings the company’s acclaimed vocal synthesis technology to the JUPITER-X range, opening up a new world of expressive possibilities with the dynamic character of the human voice. Roland Cloud Connect unlocks instant access to an ever-expanding universe filled with thousands of iconic sounds and expansions using just a mobile device.

Vocal Designer Model Expansion

The most expressive instrument in the world is the one inside us all – the human voice. With the Vocal Designer Model Expansion, players can add the warmth and expression of their voices to synthesized sounds, complete with deep customization options to craft unique and memorable tones. Roland has a long history in vocal synthesis, including the famous VP and V-Synth keyboards. Now, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion brings the pinnacle of this powerful technology to the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm.

After connecting a microphone to the rear panel of the JUPITER-X/-XM, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion allows all types of synthesizer sounds to be controlled and modulated with vocal input. This enables the performer to create otherworldly textures that blend the organic expression of the voice (the modulator) with a synthesized tone or instrument sound (the carrier). The Vocal Designer Model Expansion includes 26 different vocal synthesis algorithms with a wide range of customizable options. And any ZEN-Core tone – even from other Model Expansions – can be used as a carrier, offering a staggering number of sonic possibilities.

In addition to all-new sounds, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion offers classic vocoder sounds derived from the legendary VP series, including choir and ensemble tones, robot voices, and more.

And despite its name, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion isn’t just for voice. It’s possible to use nearly any analog audio or USB input source as a modulator, including drum machines, guitars, circuit-bent toys, DAW audio tracks, or anything the user can imagine.

Roland Cloud Connect

Roland Cloud Connect is a powerful new system that revolutionizes sound expansion for the JUPITER-X and JUPITER Xm, providing wireless access to new sounds on demand. After plugging the included WC-1 wireless adapter into their instrument, owners can use the iOS/Android mobile app to browse, audition, and install Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, Model Expansions, and more from Roland Cloud. There’s a comprehensive search engine for compatible content, and selections automatically synchronize with the user’s Roland Account and Roland Cloud Manager software on a desktop computer.

The purchase of Roland Cloud Connect provides an entire year of the Pro membership tier of Roland Cloud. Included is unlimited use of over 30,000 sounds, plus the Vocal Designer Model Expansion and other Model Expansions for hardware of software instruments.

Support for the Vocal Designer Model Expansion and Roland Cloud Connect is included with the free Version 2.0 update for the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm.

Line 6 has a Gear Up for the Holidays Sale

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Line 6 is having a “Gear Up for the Holidays” sale. You can save on some of their most popular products this holiday season. These deals are for U.S. customers, only. The sale ends on December 31, 2021.

Here is some of the gear that is included in this sale:

Custom-Designed POD Go Shoulder Bag

Get a POD Go Shoulder Bag FREE for a limited time with purchase of POD Go or POD Go Wireless! The POD Go Shoulder Bag features a nylon exterior, foam padding, water-resistant zippers, a front zipper pocket, and padded carry handles. Now, purchase a Line 6 POD Go or Relay wireless-equipped POD Go Wireless by December 31, 2021 and get a POD Go Shoulder Bag – a $69.99 value-absolutely free!

Ultra-portable POD Go and POD Go Wireless amp and effects processors boast intuitive plug-and-play user interfaces, rugged multi-function expression pedals, and pro-level amp, cabana effect models drawn from the HX family of processors.

Custom-Designed HX Messenger Bag

Get a HX Messenger Bag FREE for a limited time with purchase of HX Stomp XL amp and effects processor. The HX Messenger Bag boasts luggage-grade construction and protective foam padding, along with rugged Fidlock magnetic buckles and pocket closures. An internal divider makes it easy ad convenient to also carry additional items. Now, purchase a HX Stomp XL amp and effects processor by December 31, 2021 and get a HX Messenger Bag – a $79.99 USD value – absolutely free!

HX Stomp XL was created for musicians seeking pro performance and sound quality in a compact pedal. The HX Messenger Bag is a custom-fitted carrying bag specifically designed for the HX family of instrument processors.

$50 Instant Rebate on DL4 Delay Stompbox Modeling Pedal

Instant Savings on DL4 Delay Stompbox Modling Pedal. Containing 16 models based on legendary echo and delay boxes from the storied Maestro EP-1 Echoplex to the awesome T.C. Electronic 2290, the DL4 has in turn become a classic in its own right, as popular with guitarists as it is with singers, drummers, bassists, keyboardists, and anyone who wants a pure 24-bit true stereo signal path in the service of delays that run the gamut from gritty and psychedelic to pristine and heavenly. Offer valid through December 31, 2021.

HOFA Xmas Mix Contest has Started!

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The annual HOFA XMAS MIX CONTEST began on December 1, 2021! For the 13th time now, HOFA is organizing this mixing and remixing contest for all those who want to spend some quality time in their home studio. The download of the tracks can be found on the HOFA website.

As every year, the contest song was written by HOFA CEO Jochen Sachse. The song is called “You & Me & Them”. For the production of this Christmas excursion into electronic dance music, he teamed up with Tim Segewitz and Joel Christ, who have already been the producers behind a number of chart hits. Tim Segewitz has also held several workshops about electronic music at the HOFA-College.

The music video features the mix of Christoph Thiers and Jochen Sachse. The video is viewable on the HOFA website. HOFA is looking forward to your mixes and remixes.

This year there will be prize money of €1,000 twice – for the best mix and for best remix of our contest song – and also attractive special prizes from iZotope, KORG, Focusrite, Novation, Toontrack, Image Line, Spectratronics, ADAM Audio, Ableton, PreSonus, Sonarworks, Akai, Soundtoys, Sennheiser, M-Audio, beyerdynamic, Steinberg and HOFA.

Those who want to enter the contest can enter their email address on the HOFA website. Doing so allows HOFA to use your personal information for the sending of HOFA’s newsletter. You can upload your finished mix/remix via the upload portal at hofa-contest.com. There, you can also listen to the submissions of the other participants.

The closing date for entries to the annual HOFA XMAS MIX CONTEST is January 31, 2022.

RØDE Introduced the AI-Compact Dual-Channel Audio Interface

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introduced the AI-Micro Ultra-compact Dual-channel audio interface for recording high-quality to a mobile device or computer.

Featuring two auto-sensing input for connecting virtually any microphone with a 3.5mm output, headphone monitoring, a universal USB output for use with smartphones, tablets and computers, and compatibility with RØDE apps for super charged sound, the AI-Micro allows you to record without limits.

Key Features:

  • Ultra-compact dual channel audio interface for computers and mobile devices
  •  Compatible with virtually any microphone with a 3.5mm output, including RØDE VideoMics, lavaliers, wireless systems and stereo microphones
  •  Auto-sensing inputs for connecting TRS or TRRS microphones
  • High-quality headphone output for zero-latency audio monitoring and playback
  •  Connects seamlessly to computers, smartphones and tablets via the universal USB output (USB-A, USB-C and Lightning cables supplied)
  •  Compatible with the the RØDE app suite for expanded features and functionality, on-the-go configuration and broadcast-quality recording on any device.

The AI-Micro allows you to capture high-quality audio on your mobile or computer with ease. It features two 3.5mm inputs for connecting a wide range of microphones, including RØDE VideoMics, lavaliers, wireless systems like the Wireless GO. These are auto-sensing inputs that detect whether a TRS or TRRS microphone is connected and automatically adapt to accommodate – no adaptors needed. Input 1 can also be configured as a single stereo TRS input for use with stereo microphones.

High-quality microphone preamps and high-resolution (24-bit/48kHz) recording ensure crystal-clear audio capture on any device, with a headphone output for echo-free audio monitoring and playback. Whether you’re interviewing, podcasting, presenting, or livestreaming, record incredible audio anywhere with the AI-Micro.

Roland Introduced Free Zentracker Audio Recording App

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Roland introduced Zentracker, a free audio recording app for iOS and Android mobile devices. Ideal for singer, songwriters, and instrumentalists, the app turns the device in everyone’s pocket into a professional-level multitrack recorder with advanced audio production tools. Zentracker puts the focus on getting ideas down while they’re still fresh with an easy-yet-powerful way to record, edit, and mix music anywhere.

Recording music doesn’t have to be complicated, and a complex home studio full of expensive gear is not required to get great results. Zentracker is simple to use and designed to capture inspired moments with a friendly, pick-up-and-go approach to recording and mixing. A complete studio is never further away than a smartphone or tablet, and a simple finger tap is all that’s needed to begin a new project.

Zentracker can be a musical scratchpad or the starting point of a professional production – or both. Creators can quickly record new ideas or build complete songs, all within the app. Over 200 audio loops are also included to jumpstart the creative process and fill out productions. And by saving Zentracker projects to Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive, it’s easy to share and collaborate with friends, bandmates, and other artists.

With unlimited tracks to work with, Zentracker puts no bounds on musical creativity. Users can craft complex, layered textures and overdub as much as needed to complete a project. The integrated mixing console provides touch control of each track’s level and pan position, and 16 audio effects are available for pro results that don’t require a degree in audio engineering.

The free version of Zentracker is mighty powerful, but users can unlock even more creative options by upgrading to a Roland Cloud Core, Pro, or Ultimate membership. Additional Zentracker features include expanded audio effects, unlimited track sends, stem export support, timeline automation, over 20 Loop Packs, and much more. Membership also provides access to all the other wonders on Roland Cloud, like authentic Roland virtual instruments and effects, expanded sound content, additional mobile apps, and many other powerful production tools.

Spaceman Released the Delta II Harmonic Tremolo

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Spaceman released the Delta II. It is a powerful optical harmonic tremolo with extensive tone shaping and rhythmic capabilities. The novel LFO enables its pilot to craft harmonic, and traditional tremolo sounds that stagger, hop, buzz, ripple, and swirl with unparalleled variety using a brilliantly simple interface.

Soar through the sonic scenery as evolving rhythms throb and pulse through your consciousness like stars flickering across the cosmos.

The Delta II is a small form factor harmonic tremolo, with smooth organic tone. Harmonic tremolo is achieved by splitting the input signal into high and low frequency bands, and amplitude modulating them in opposite directions. As the low frequencies pass, the highs are cut, as the highs fade back into the mix, the lows sink below the horizon. Since one of the frequency bands is always passing, its less choppy than typical for a trem.

Morph between harmonic and traditional tremolo with the innovative LAG control, which introduces a variable offset between the LFO’s dual outputs. Combined with the Delta II’s unique voices, this makes for great swirling, phasey tones with endless rhythmic possibilities.

Delta II Features

Smooth and lush all analog signal path, with 3 distinct voices

Harmonic or traditional tremolo with a twist of the LAG control

Wide-range LFO capable of slow pulsation to audio-rate madness

Flexible filtering for deep and expressive tones

18V capable for high headroom use cases

Selectable Expression / CV control of Depth or Rate

Internal VOLUME trimpot for precise level matching

Fixed Filter for tone shaping with DEPTH at minimum

Hand-wired and built in Portland, Oregon, the Delta II features true-bypass relay switching with soft-touch footswich. On top of the cast-aluminum enclosure sits a durable, engraved vinyl faceplate and jewel indicator light. This pedal is built to last a lifetime, both on Earth or in the vacuum of space.