HOFA’s Produktions and Song Check Contest Returns

Information,

HOFA SongCheck LogoGerman audio-production software company HOFA has launched its second Produktions and Song Check Contest. The contest asks songwriters and producers to submit one original song in exchange for a chance to win different prizes:

The PSC is a competition especially for songwriters and producers. Our declared goal is the provision of a common platform and the promotion of outstanding talents.

Who can join in?
Any solo artist, team, band etc. can join in with a song of their own (!). Each participant can submit ONE track; remixes and coversongs are excluded. Send us your song if you believe it‘s a brillant piece of songwriting and production. The participation is free!

HOFA’s contest allows producers to submit songs in these main genres:

  • Pop
  • Electronic Music
  • Hip-Hop/R&B/Soul
  • World Music
  • Rock/Heavy Metal
  • Traditional Music

Each main genre has attendant sub-genres that allow participants to select the category that works best for their songs.

Winners of the song contest will be eligible to receive prizes from a number of different audio-production companies:

  • 500 € Main Prizes for each category
  • 100 € vouchers for HOFA plugins
  • 1 pair of KSD-C5 audio monitors
  • 1 Shure KSM-42 microphone
  • 4 software prizes from Steinberg
  • 1 pair of Adam F5 audio monitors
  • 500 € voucher for Thomann

HOFA’s song contest runs until July 31st and is open to anyone submitting original music. Click any of the links above to learn more about the contest.

Live 6 Having Flash Sale on Modeling Packs

Information,

Line 6 LogoMusical instrument and equipment manufacturer Line 6 announced it is holding a flash sale on software modeling packs. The sale will expire at 11:59PM (Pacific Time) on Monday, June 12th. The sale features different modeling packs for some of Line 6’s effects processors.

Modeling packs include:

  • HD Metal
  • HD Vintage
  • HD Bass
  • HD Fully Loaded Bundle
  • Bass Expansion Pack
  • Power Pack
  • FX Junkie Pack
  • Collector Classics Pack
  • Metal Shop Pack
  • Triple Pack Bundle

These Line 6 model packs focus heavily on electric guitar and electric bass processing. But these packs could be used for a wide range of applications, including processing of acoustic instruments and vocals.

The descriptions for each model pack indicates which Line 6 products are compatible with the packs. A quick survey shows that most packs are compatible with older Line 6 product lines like POD HD (all models), Guitarport, PodXt (all models), Pod Studio (all models), and TonePort (all models), Unfortunately, there isn’t anything here for newer Line 6 products like the Helix or Firehawk lines.

These model packs from Line 6 range in price from $29.99 to $99.99. All model packs can be purchased and downloaded directly from the Line 6 website. Most model packs can then be installed and authorized using the appropriate management software from Line 6.

BOSS Acoustic Singer Pro Amplifier is a Compact Powerhouse

Information

BOSS’s Acoustic Singer Pro acoustic amplifier takes the acoustic state amp to new levels of sound quality and creative versatility. Incorporating BOSS’s latest advancements in amplifier research, this compact powerhouse produces rich, vibrant sound with unmatched punch and clarity.

Independent channels are provided for acoustic guitar and vocal, and each is equipped with discrete analog input circuits and three-band EQ for studio-quality sound. And with additional features such as Acoustic Resonance, looping, automatic vocal harmonies, effects, and more, the Acoustic Singer Pro gives acoustic musicians everything they need to deliver inspiring and impactful live performances.

Features include:

  • Professional acoustic amplifier with premium sound and features
  • 120-watt bi-amp design with custom-designed 8-inch woofer and dome tweeter
  • Dual channels with discrete analog input electronics and three-band EQ
  • Dedicated guitar channel with Acoustic Resonance to restore natural tone to stage guitars with piezo pickups
  • Mic channel with phantom power and ¼ inch/XLR combo input for connecting a vocal/guitar microphone or second instrument source
  • Chorus effect on guitar channel, delay/echo effect on mic channel, and independent reverb on both channels
  • Harmony function automatically creates smooth and accurate vocal harmonies via real-time key/chord analysis of the guitar input
  • Built-in looper for practicing, developing ideas, and enhancing live performances
  • Independent anti-feedback controls on each channel
  • Dual XLR DI jacks assignable to outputting individual channels (direct or post-effects) or both channels mixed together
  • USB output for direct recording to a computer
  • Control looper, harmony, and effects with optional footswitches

Size and Weight:

  • Width: 417 mm or 16-7/16 inches
  • Depth: 330 mm or 13 inches
  • Height: 358 mm or 14-1/8 inches
  • Weight: 14.5 kg or 32 lbs oz

AVerMedia USB Microphone AM310

Information

AVerMedia has introduced the AM310 USB Microphone.  It is a plug and play microphone that lets you record high quality sound for podcasting, streaming, gaming and more. Immerse your audience with clearer, richer, and warmer recorded sound.

AVerMedia AM310 is designed for music performers and live streamers who long for studio-quality sound. The built-in cardioid condenser records sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone, delivering detail, accurate, full-bodied sound.

With its driver-free and plug-and-play design, installing AVerMedia AM310 is easy. Simply plug it into a USB port on your PC or Mac, and you are ready to record.

AVerMedia AM310 comes equipped with a 3.5 mm headphone jack that enables you to either listen to what you’re recording in real-time or what’s playing on your computer, all at the toggle of a switch. A headphone volume knob with mic mute function is also included for easy control.

Specifications:

  • Type: Uni-directional condenser microphone
  • Polar pattern: Cardioid
  • Sample rate: 48 kHz
  • Bit rate: 16-bit
  • Power required: USB (5V DC)
  • Sensitivity: -60 +/- 5dB (at 1kHz, 0dB = 1V/u bar)
  • Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
  • Dimensions: (mic) (W x D x H): 74.2 x 74.2 x 155.3 mm
  • Weight: (mic) 486 g +/- 5g (1.03lb +/- 0.17 oz)

System Requirements:

  • Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7 or Mac OS 9 / X
  • USB 2.0 port or newer

Spark Camera Remote is on Kickstarter

Information,

Spark Camera Remote is the easiest way to control your camera. It can help you to take better photos. Spark Camera Remote is on Kickstarter now and has been fully funded. The Kickstarter ends on May 19, 2017.

Spark is the most versatile camera remote on the market. With three different modes of control, Spark was built to adapt to whatever situation you are shooting in. Whether you’re taking a fun group photo, capturing a long exposure of the stars, or settling down and setting up a time lapse, Spark gives you instant control. With your phone or without it.

Spark has three control modes: Infrared, Wired Trigger and App Control. You can point Spark at your camera’s infrared receiver and press the button to take a photo. No more trying to out-run your camera’s self timer.

You can use Spark as a traditional wired trigger and take photos, long exposures, and bursts without accidentally shaking your camera. You can also plug Spark into your camera and control it from your phone. You get a 100ft Bluetooth range and access to the complete set of Spark features.

Features include:

  • 200+ hours of battery – Spark automatically goes to sleep when you aren’t using it.
  • Weighs 0.75 ounces
  • Free Spark Camera Control app will be available for both iOS and Android
  • Bluetooth 4
  • External triggering
  • Long exposures
  • HDR – Bracket images to maximize dynamic range in the harshest conditions
  • Photo Booth – Capture portraits, selfies, and candid photos without any fuss
  • Time Lapses

Litepanels Astra 3x and 6X LED Panels have been Upgraded

Information

Litepanels, a pioneer in LED lighting for the film, photographic, and broadcast industries and a Vitec Group brand, announced significant upgrades to its professional LED lighting range. Building on the quality and popularity of the innovative Astra 1X1 panel, the next-generation Litepanels Astra 3X and 6X LED panels now feature a significant increase in output and a decrease in power consumption.

The Astra 6X Daylight panel and the Astra 3X Daylight panel build on the popularity of the Astra 1×1 Family. Following the Litepanels tradition of one square foot form factor, the Astra series is designed with select premium quality, high CRI, surface mount LEDs and paired with custom optics that provides the Astra 6X and Astra 3X with high color quality that’s perfect for lighting talent.

The Astra 6X is now 50% brighter than the first generation Astra and 6 times brighter than the original 1×1. The Astra 3X is 50% brighter than the Astra EP and 3 times brighter than the original 1×1.

Features Include:
* Premium selected LEDs paired with custom optics
* Flexible, modular concept
* Optional communications module allows the intensity to be controlled via DMX or Bluetooth
* Optional yoke mounted Gold Mount or V-Mount batter plates
* Field replaceable external power supply
* Modern fixture design
* Easily identifiable and ergonomic manual controls for dimming and power status
* Aluminium I-beam core construction to provide maximum durability and superior thermal management
* Integrated smooth dimming from 100% to 0 with no cover shift
* Flicker-free at any frame rate or shutter angle
* Aluminium accessory mounting points and lens/filter rails
* End cap exhaust vents angle downward to direct air flow away from the fixture and help prevent foreign material from entering

Fender Links Mustang GT Guitar Amplifier with Fender Tone App

Information

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the dual introduction of the brand’s second free mobile app, Fender Tone, in conjunction with the launch of the new Mustang GT Amplifier Series, that work in tandem to deliver accessible guitar tones catered to any player’s musical creativity.

Fender Digital has dubbed the new iPhone and Android application the “ultimate companion app” to the addition of three new Mustang GT amplifiers: Mustang GT 40, Mustang GT 100 and the Mustang GT 200. Known as one of the best-selling series in Fender amplifier history the new Mustang GT offerings provide enhanced signal processing for better fidelity and flexibility in a new easy, user-friendly interface.

Utilizing Fender’s first Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled amplifier, consumers will have the ability to manage thousands of presets created by Fender sound engineers, notable artists and guitarists, as well as players from the Mustang community. Users can edit effects, share their own presets, create set lists for performances, access easy to download upgrades via Wi-Fi and stream music through the Mustang GT amplifiers via Bluetooth technology.

With a total of three amplifiers in the new Mustang GT series, the variety of offerings allow players at any stage to access a multitude of gear and tones in one easy-to-operate package. Models include: The Red Dot Award-winning Mustang GT 40 ($249), the perfect table-top workstation for learning and recording, as well as the Mustang GT 100 ($399) and the Mustang GT 200 ($599) – both which bring stage-worthy power packed in a light weight package. Premium feature highlights are a user-friendly control interface with color display; Bluetooth wireless streaming of audio tracks utilizing the Fender Tone app or other sources, such as Spotify or Apple Music; USB output for recording; a “setlist” feature; and Wi-Fi capabilities. The new models also offer more than 60 Fender amplifier models, multiple effects and a looper, providing endless sound options and room for creativity.

The Fender Tone app is available for download now in the App Store and on Google Play Store, while the Mustang GT amplifier series is available for purchase now.

Pond5 Stock Video Comes to Adobe Creative Cloud

Information, , ,

Pond5 LogoIt’s not always possible to gather all of the footage yourself for a video project. Or, maybe you just need a cool bit of video to spruce up that latest video package. Having access to stock footage in these cases can be a real lifesaver for busy video producers. But it can be a challenge to find good stock footage, and when you do find it, you may have to clear multiple levels of licensing, which can be a real hassle.

Adobe recently partnered with stock video company Pond5 to make it easier for Adobe Creative Cloud users to get access to Pond5 content:

…we are excited to announce our partnership with Pond5 to further expand our video offering. Pond5 offers a diverse library of videos, motion-graphics and more, sourced from an international community of artists. The collection spans across a mix of modern, highly sought after content themes such as lifestyle, recreation, sports, cinematic, and aerial footage.

And:

Our partnership will bring a large and growing segment of high-quality footage clips from Pond5’s collection. Our customers will have access to this wide range of video and motion graphics content at their fingertips, thanks to Adobe Stock’s native integrations into Creative Cloud applications.

Adobe goes on to note that this partnership will also be beneficial to Pond5 contributors, as their creations will now be easier to access for Creative Cloud users.

Apple Wants You to Be a Better iPhoneographer

Information, ,

Apple logoPhone-based photography is really becoming an accepted way to take everything from snapshots to professional-grade photos. It wasn’t all that long ago that camera phones were shunned for their poor image quality and lack of features. But most people don’t even own point-and-shoot cameras anymore because the cameras on their smartphones are good enough to be the only cameras they need.

Apple made a serious step up in its own camera phone technology with last year’s release of the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. The cameras built into these phones contain the most advanced imaging hardware ever made by Apple (and some have argued, ever made for smartphones). I’m not sure if Apple is so thrilled with these cameras that they really want to make sure people know how to use them, or if they’re attempting some clever marketing to clear out old stock ahead of the release of a new iPhone later this year. Regardless, the company has released a series of short videos on YouTube to help iPhoneographers get the most out of their hardware.

This tutorial series is called How to Shoot on iPhone 7 and it contains five parts:

  • How to shoot a great portrait on iPhone 7 Plus
  • How to shoot a close-up on iPhone 7
  • How to shoot a vertical Pano on iPhone 7
  • How to shoot without a flash on iPhone 7
  • How to shoot action on iPhone 7

You can watch the entire playlist in under three minutes. These videos are quick and to the point. But they still contain plenty of that somehow-casual-but-still-well-produced vibe Apple is good at.

If you’d like to expand your skills with your iPhone 7/iPhone 7 Plus’s camera, this is a good place to start.

Facebook Debuts Open-Source 360-Degree Video Camera

Information,

Facebook Surround 360 CameraWhen you think cutting-edge video, Facebook isn’t usually the first name that comes to mind. But the ever-growing, ever-present social-media behemoth is trying its hardest to push into new territories when it comes to video. Facebook has gotten a lot of attention recently (for better or for worse) over its live-streaming video service. And the company isn’t stopping there.

At last month’s F8 developer conference, Facebook showed off its new Surround 360-degree camera, and announced that the software developer kit for the camera would be open source. Facebook is obviously hoping that the open-source approach will lead to quick adoption of the camera’s features, allowing Facebook app developers to implement the camera in intriguing ways.

The camera itself is round and is equipped with 24 individual cameras that cover the Surround 360-degree spectrum. The camera’s circular design will allow it to be mounted on a pole or stand that’ll keep it from taking video of itself (none of the cameras will be able to “see” each other), creating a pure 360-degree video experience. Presumably, Facebook apps will allow users to turn, pan, and tilt 360-degree videos, similar to how Facebook’s current panoramic photo feature works.

No word yet on when the Surround 360 camera will be available for purchase, or how much it’ll cost. But if the camera hits the market with a hefty price tag (which seems pretty likely), it’s doubtful 360-degree video will take off as fast as Facebook would like.