HC News

Oxnard, CA – Michael Tobias Design (MTD) has entered the electric guitar market and is very proud to offer the Kingston Rubicon series of electric guitars. Like all Kingston instruments, the Rubicon has the great MTD tone and design features at a very affordable price point. The Rubicon 6-22 frets version has a fixed GraphTec ResoMax bridge and the 6-24 fret has the patented TremKing trem. ●Ergonomically designed and carved alder body with flamed maple top – incredible tone, light weight, boutique guitars looks. ●The renowned MTD asymmetrical one-piece maple neck for faster playing and less hand strain ●Compound fingerboard radius for clean string bends ●Buzz Feiten Tuning System for consistent intonation all over the fret board ●USA Service and Support and a commitment to excellence Michael Tobias is a global icon for his bass guitars and has been involved in both bass and guitar consulting work for the last 40 years. The design and development of the Rubicon guitar has been simmering for years. Michael Tobias says “I was a guitar player first and I am very, very proud of the Kingston Rubicon’s superior tone, sustain, playability and value.” Retail Price: Rubicon 6-22 $999 Rubicon 6-24 $1,099 For More Info: http://www.mtdkingston.com/

Berlin, August 5, 2013 – Native Instruments today released DRUM LAB, a first-of-its-kind instrument combining advanced drum layering techniques with an intuitive workflow designed for fast results. DRUM LAB's combination of acoustic and electronic drum samples is the secret of professionals worldwide – a powerful production technique for creating punchy, present drum tracks. An included groove library provides over 900 patterns for fast groove production with uncompromising sound quality. DRUM LAB is available now from the NI Online Shop for $99 / 99 € / ¥ 9800. DRUM LAB combines the organic, expressive sound of acoustic drums with the weight and punch of electronic samples. This 'hybrid' layering technique is the secret weapon of countless industry professionals to give drums presence and clarity in sonically dense mixes. DRUM LAB's acoustic layer comprises 38 carefully chosen individual drums. Each was recorded in three different rooms with high-end vintage and modern equipment on analog tape. The drums are pre-processed for instant, professional sound and feature all the warmth and subtly acoustic drums bring to top-quality recordings. What sets DRUM LAB apart from other software-based drum instruments is its electronic component: 380 drum hits were sampled from a range of classic and modern drum machines, then expertly matched, phase aligned, faded, and pitched to perfectly blend with the acoustic samples. This crucial step saves producers hours of time, allowing them to focus on their music. DRUM LAB's clear interface provides all necessary sound shaping controls directly on the front panel. Producers can choose individual acoustic and electronic layers, blend them to taste via a convenient slider, and quickly adjust fine details with some of Native Instruments' most sought-after studio effects. A streamlined set of controls for TRANSIENT MASTER, SOLID EQ, G COMP, an optimized drum compressor, and a rich convolution reverb are all located on DRUM LAB's main panel, allowing quick and easy sonic adjustments. Users can dial in a variety of sounds from detailed and rich to saturated and gritty without spending unnecessary time switching through multiple page menus or negotiating complex effect parameters. This creates an intuitive way to create completely individual drum sounds. Alongside its extensive sound shaping possibilities, DRUM LAB also delivers authentic performances. A new set of patterns were recorded by a professional drummer, then converted to MIDI files and arranged by genre in DRUM LAB's groove library. Users can quickly drag-and-drop these patterns into their sessions, accelerating production time without sacrificing human feel. A unique visual display lets producers see where grooves line up in their tracks for added visual reference when creating beats. DRUM LAB is available from the NI Online Shop for $99 / 99 € / ¥ 9800. Additional information on DRUM LAB is available at: www.native-instruments.com/drumlab

Prime Loops Release 'DubTech' Sample Pack Dub and Minimal Tech have been bumping shoulders for a while, both attempting to take control of the studio at the same time. From hot new names on musical terrain such as Pulshar, Headhunter and Dublicator this deep new genre is causing some severe turbulence! Here’s your opportunity to assemble your very own Dubtech brand and enter the scene. [attachment=141903:name] Channelling over 530MB of highly refined digital samples in your sample stash, Dubtech will load up your download folder with over 240 loops & 334 individual samples created in pristine 24-bit High Definition quality! Arranged for your convenience into various folders of Drum Loops, Drum One-Shots, Basslines, Pad Loops & Synth Chords & Leads Dubtech features equal measures of Dub and Tech samples at their very finest. [attachment=141904:name]From the chemical doused thump of Drum Loop ‘Fumed’ to the chilly shift of Synth Loop ‘Freeze’ and lowdown gasps of Bass Loop ‘Breathe’ to the epic collection of Claps, Hats, Kicks, Snare, Percussion & FX in the One-Shot folder, there’s an extensive array of options to infuse your productions. Drag any of these brand new samples straight from your download folder and direct into your mix. You can literally just drop it into any major DAW and it will sync without any prompt! Need to take that tempo to another level? Adjust it whist it’s in the mix with a super simple drag. Just click the end of the stem and adjust the sample length to match the BPM you have in mind. So if you wanna build a beast that spits cold steel beats and speaks in deep-down wavering warbles among other radical reverberations, invest in Dubtech to assist you with the logistics! This diverse digital toolkit comes to you totally royalty free, so you can feed those exasperating sample clearance forms to your hungry waste paper bin. Product Link: http://primeloops.com/loops-samples/dubtech.html Prime Loops Release 'EDM Synth Loops' Sample Pack It's stormy here in London and the recent heatwave is partially to blame but the biggest lightning flashes have been traced to the heavily modified sound lab of sample pack pioneers Prime Loops in the build up to their latest release EDM SynthLoops! [attachment=141905:name] EDM Producers looking to capture that electric lightning touch needn't look any further - this comprehensive synth sound library is designed with them in mind. Delivering a massive collection of Arpeggios, Basslines, Chords and Leads, EDM SYNTH LOOPS is an essential purchase for anyone looking for the ultimate, ultra-modern synth injection to lift their productions into high-powered, preeminent momentum. Spanning various tempos, [attachment=141906:name]EDM Synth Loops is divided into folders of 126, 128, 132, 136 and 140BPM and each of these folders contains a sub folder of Arpeggios, Basslines, Chords and Leads to appease your audio requirements. There's a hugely diverse variety of assorted moods, vibes and atmospheres to introduce to your productions, from space-age sci-fi inspired leads to intense hypersonic riffs, luminous, scintillating edges and light, airy ambient touches. Incorporating these elements into your productions is a simple, fluid process; simply choose your sample the download folder and drag it over your DAW to drop in in for autonomous syncing with any pre-existing mix. This 355MB pack is primed to work with any major audio software and you can ater and edit these samples as much as you like without affecting the incredible 24-bit High Definition clarity in which they arrive. If EDM SYNTH LOOPS doesn't offer the tempo that's right for you, you can simply alter it your own chosen BPM by adjusting the length of the stem when its in your mix! EDM SYNTH LOOPS is delivered 100\% royalty free, so you needn't worry about those painfully time consuming sample clearance forms! Product Link: http://primeloops.com/loops-samples/edm-synth-loops.html

The Bullseye is laser etched deeply into both sides of this pick. Making for a wonderful tactile experience. It is quite grippy. The pick is a bit wider than our Chicken Picker. A very familiar and comfortable shape and size. 1.5mm- 15/16" wide- 1 1/8" long- Good for Rock, Blues, Jazz, Country and Acoustic work. http://v-picks.com/productdetails.php?q=252&page=picks

Future Loops has just released 'Future Bass Chill' a Royalty-Free collection of samples & loops in WAV/REX formats. With over 3GB of content, 'Future Bass Chill' dives deep into the world of Garage, Dubstep, Ambient, Chill Step and features Full Drum Loops, Top Loops, Music Loops, No-Kick Loops, Synths, Bass, Pads, Chords, Vocals, FX, Drum One Shots & more. With over 650 samples, 'Future Bass Chill' has an introductory Summer discount of 25\%. For more info, free samples and demos check out their website at: http://futureloops.com/product-future-bass-chill.php

Westfield, NJ, July 29, 2013 - Karma-Lab, the developer of the KARMA interactive music technology featured in Korg Workstations, has released a major update to four of its Korg-related software applications: • KARMA Kronos Software - for the Korg Kronos • KARMA M3 Software - for the Korg M3 • KARMA M50 Software - for the Korg M50 • KARMA Oasys Software - for the Korg Oasys Version 2.2.9 of each program is available for both Mac and Windows. The update is free to registered users and available for purchase directly from Karma-Lab (US $169 to $199). The new Mac versions are now Universal applications, and will run on Mac OS X 10.4 and higher, including 10.7 Lion and 10.8 Mountain Lion, PPC or Intel. They've also been tested on the Developer Preview of 10.9 Mavericks without any major issues. Furthermore, some enhancements such as the ability to import and export .KGE files between all four applications have been incorporated, along with a lengthy list of reliability enhancements and bug fixes. The new Windows versions include all of the same enhancements and bug fixes as the Mac versions, and runs on XP, Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8 (32 and 64 bit). KARMA Kronos, KARMA Oasys and KARMA M3 software allow the in-depth editing of the many hidden KARMA parameters of the keyboard, and allow for the creation and editing of user GEs which can then be uploaded to the keyboard. KARMA M50 software provides all of the KARMA features, grooves and sounds of the Korg M3 to users of the Korg M50. More information can be found at karma-lab.com

There’s a lot to love about a rich, complex acoustic sound. That said, a guitar’s tonal personality should fit comfortably into its playing context, and sometimes complexity can get in the way, like when other instruments are in the mix. When a more focused, direct tone is desired, a guitar with a tropical hardwood top, such as koa or mahogany, will often make a good choice. We’re excited to renew our commitment to the all-mahogany guitar sound with the addition of mahogany-top models to the 500 Series, in every body shape, including the Grand Orchestra, as well as a 12-fret edition of the Grand Concert. The mahogany tops will be designated with a “2” as the second digit of the model name, so the naming conventions for the models will look like this: Dreadnought: 520 Grand Concert: 522 Grand Auditorium: 524 Grand Symphony: 526 Grand Orchestra: 528 Extensions of these base models include versions with electronics (e.g., 520e) and those with a cutaway and electronics (520ce). All-Mahogany Tone: Fundamentally Strong Any sort of hardwood-top guitar tends to produce a natural compression, so it won’t yield as quick a response as a spruce-top guitar will. As Andy Powers explained with the recent introduction of the all-koa Grand Orchestra K28e, there tends to be more of a subtle “roll-in” effect to a note. “To put that into a more practical context for the player, it sounds like it’s a really long, sustaining, very controlled attack,” Andy says. Compared to a spruce-top mahogany guitar in Taylor’s 500 Series, an all-mahogany steel-string produces a distinctive flavor. “It still has the fundamental, strong, direct sound you can expect out of a mahogany guitar with a spruce top — that dry, woody quality,” he explains. “But the mahogany top will make it even more controlled, to where it starts to accentuate its unique sustain a little more.” “Punchy” is a word that’s often used to describe the character of mahogany, particularly in the midrange. “It’s punchy in the sense that the notes you play are the notes you get,” Andy elaborates. “That’s what people mean by ‘dry’ tone. Many players will hear the response and say, ‘Oh, it’s right in my face. I hear just the notes that I played. I’m not hearing this sharp attack, or a long, ringing complex overtone mix.’ So, the common description is a focused midrange punch.” That focused midrange character highlights some of the tonal differences between mahogany and rosewood, which tends to feature a more scooped midrange and ringing overtones. Bob Taylor spoke to the sonic contrast in an interview for Acoustic Guitar magazine back in 2010, describing a hardwood-top guitar like mahogany as “typically lo-fi, great for strumming and blues, but no church bell tones.” In ensemble playing, those differences actually can work together nicely to create a complementary acoustic sound, as mahogany’s strong midrange and rosewood’s scooped mids fit together well without competing. Playing Applications Considering mahogany’s strong fundamental focus, an all-mahogany guitar will fit a number of playing scenarios. “Like koa, it’s a fantastic wood for recording or stage use,” Andy notes. “Because of its unique response, an all-mahogany guitar really flatters its pickups. And since its sonic imprint isn’t a mile wide, it’s a guitar that plays well with others. On a track with other guitar parts you don’t want interference between players.” Depending on the body style, an all-mahogany guitar also makes a great option for players with an aggressive attack, due to the natural compression effect of the wood. “I can play these guitars as hard as possible with the thickest pick in the world, and they sound great,” Andy shares. “You don’t have to play them that way, but they can take it. A mahogany-top guitar basically takes that huge abundance of raw energy and helps control it. That focused sound comes in handy. That’s why some bluegrass players might prefer a mahogany Dreadnought over one with rosewood back and sides. The rosewood one might have too much ring for playing their rhythm parts on fast fiddle tunes.” Another big-body all-mahogany option, the Grand Orchestra 528, will produce a husky, burly voice that would also respond well to lively strumming. “It’s a guitar I would have loved to have seen Johnny Cash play,” he adds. “I could see him playing ‘Folsom Prison Blues’ and just wailing on it. Or Elvis Presley. He was a fine rhythm guitar player. He would have sounded great on that guitar.” Smaller bodies like the Grand Concert 522, particularly the 12-Fret, yield a smooth, balanced, easygoing character that will work well for blues, country and ragtime picking, and the hardwood top can easily handle the kind of gritty, snappy plucking that adds funky tonal color to roots music. Give the wood a little time to open up and you’ll have a guitar with serious mojo that injects a dark, warm, sweet and surprisingly dynamic vibe into a tune. All-New Appointments The addition of mahogany-top models literally changed the complexion of the 500 Series, inspiring a design overhaul that helps express the identity of these guitars. With the mahogany top’s rich, saturated color and prominent grain front and center, Taylor’s development team, led by Andy Powers, embraced the old-school aura that reflects mahogany’s guitar heritage. He relates it to Taylor’s recent neo-vintage treatment of the rosewood 700 Series. “After we re-designed the 700 Series with all-ivoroid appointments, players really flocked to it,” he says. “The sentiment was like, “This isn’t my dad’s guitar, this is more like my granddad’s guitar,’ but with all the refinements of modern guitar-making techniques. So we brought more of that aesthetic to the 500s.” A black pickguard adds a bold visual counterpoint to the mahogany tops (spruce- and cedar-top models will retain the faux tortoise shell version). Other new appointments include ivoroid binding, an ivoroid rosette, and an ivoroid Century fretboard inlay design that comes from the same family as the 700 Series Heritage Diamonds inlay motif. First Editions Like Taylor has done with the launch of new Grand Orchestra models, the mahogany-top 500s debuted with 100 First Edition models for each body shape. Premium features include an additional Century peghead inlay, CV bracing, and a custom First Edition label and case plate. Once the guitar is registered, the owner will receive a custom First Edition guitar strap, a numbered certificate of authenticity, and a special commemorative booklet. After the First Editions are produced, the models will officially join the 500 Series. To sample an all-mahogany guitar, visit your local Taylor dealer.

August 1, 2013 - IK Multimedia, a pioneer and global leader in music-creation software, mobile apps and music-making hardware, announces a new version of AmpliTube Custom Shop (version 3.11), its full-featured guitar-and-bass multi-FX application and plug-in for Mac/PC. The new release includes new gear models from several of the hottest boutique manufacturers on the market today, including Dr. Z Amplification, Fulltone, and Z.Vex effects, which will be available for à la carte purchase from the online store integrated in AmpliTube Custom Shop. The new version also adds 64 and 32-bit AAX (Avid Audio Extension) compatibility. As a result, AmpliTube now integrates seamlessly with the latest versions of Avid Pro Tools®. Boutique and New Gear The new models include two amps from Dr. Z Amplification. One is the MAZ 18 Jr., which was originally designed as a plug-in-and-play amp for studio musicians who wanted a quick way to dial up fabulous tone. It features a perfectly balanced design with an all-tube preamp along with power and rectifier sections that harmoniously produce a smooth top end and tight bass response with tons of headroom. A model of its matching 1x12 MAZ cabinet is available as a separate purchase. Also from Dr. Z is the Z Wreck amp, a collaboration with the late Ken Fischer of Trainwreck Circuits and country superstar Brad Paisley, who has used one for years. It provides an unmatched level of touch response and tone, and can deliver everything from Liverpool to rock to twang. Its all-tube design gives it warmth, crunch and growl at different volume levels, and provides voicing like no other amp in its class. The 2x12 Z Wreck, a model of the amp's matching cabinet, is available for purchase, as well. The Fulltone OCD® overdrive pedal was designed to give players exactly what classic all-tube amplifiers provide when cranked up: sweet, full overdrive complete with multiple complex harmonics and overtones. The touch response rivals what you'd get on a tube amplifier - alter your attack or back off on your volume and you'll hear the OCD respond. The OCD lives up to its name when it comes to full attention to detail, and can truly be called the king of overdrive pedals. Also new are two officially certified creative effects from Z.Vex Effects: Seek Wah™ and Seek Trem™. These two stomps offer full control over the timing and level of wah and tremolo effects, respectively, over a sequence of 4, 6 or 8 steps, providing players with a new sonic palette of rhythmic effects, and non-traditional control over classic effect types. Each effect has eight "control" knobs, which allow players to adjust the amount of the effect at the marked position, and offer full control over tempo, number of "slices" and blending. Tempo can be controlled by the host clock or adjusted independently giving players creative flexibility. About the Custom Shop AmpliTube Custom Shop allows for purchase of individual gear models or collections for the AmpliTube platform. It's stocked with over 275 models from the world's top gear manufacturers including Fender®, Ampeg® Orange® Soldano™, Seymour Duncan™, Jet City™, Carvin®, Morley®, T-Rex™, Gallien Kruger®, among others - and now Dr. Z® Amplification, Fulltone® and Z.Vex®. Players can demo fully functioning models for a period of three days, making the Custom Shop the ultimate "try before you buy" experience. For new users AmpliTube Custom Shop is a fully functional free download available at the IK Multimedia site. Plug and Play Plugging a guitar or bass into a Mac or PC is a breeze with IK's range of audio interfaces designed specifically for guitar/bass players: The new iRig HD provides high quality D/A conversion for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac. The StealthPedal audio interface and MIDI controller is a wah-style controller pedal and interface that allows players to control software knobs, buttons and parameters from the floor with familiar ease. The StealthPlug is a 1/4"-to-USB interface cable for Mac/PC. Pricing and Availability To access the new gear models in the AmpliTube Custom Shop, users need to download AmpliTube version 3.11, which is a free update for current AmpliTube 3 owners, and is available for Mac/PC. The gear models in the Custom Shop are sold using Gear Credits and are priced between 5 and 30 credits each. Gear Credit Packs start as low as $19.99/€15.99 (for 20 credits) and go up to $499.99/€399.99* (for 1000 credits).

Over the years, Marshall has produced limited edition amps for some very special artists and occasions. Hanwell Limited Heritage Colourways pays tribute to that tradition, with three colourways dedicated to those vintage collectors’ items. Available in Cream, Purple and Green, this version of the Hanwell is available in John Varvatos stores and other select retailers for $800. While the colour of the vinyl varies, every Hanwell in this collection features a gold script logo and gold piping on the front of the cabinet, which is draped with a vintage-inspired fret grille cloth. All Hanwells feature an analog power switch, volume knob, and bass and treble controls for custom tuning. Each comes complete with a coiled double-ended stereo cable with two 3.5mm plugs for easy connection to your music device. These limited edition products are intended to be standout pieces in your Marshall collection, with only a handful produced in each colour. Each item in this line comes with a commemorative badge celebrating Marshall’s 50th anniversary.

8/1/2013 Seattle — Behringer introduces the X32 Compact 40-input digital mixer with a feature set and host of connectivity options that are sure to appeal to audio professionals in need of advanced live sound and recording solutions. Because of its advantageous footprint, the X32 COMPACT fits in spaces that larger consoles can't, making it ideally suited for small to mid-size venues or for any larger venue wishing to add a side-stage monitor console. It also excels in applications where space and agility count, such as mobile recording and broadcast trucks. [attachment=141985:name] The X32 COMPACT's local connectivity includes 16 XLR inputs, 8 XLR outs, 6 Aux I/O and expands to its full 40-input, 25-bus capacity when used with BEHRINGER's optional S16 Digital Stage Box. The mixer also features an ULTRANET port for sending 16 channels of audio via Cat 5e cable to BEHRINGER's optional P16 Personal Monitoring System. Packed with processing power, the X32 COMPACT removes the need for outboard gear with its world-class 8-slot, stereo FX engine. It also entitles the registered owner to a free copy of Tracktion 4 audio production software to take advantage of the included 32 x 32 channel USB 2.0 recording interface. Additionally, the onboard 2-track USB recorder can record any two channels of audio assigned to it in the routing menu. The end-result of true collaboration, X32 COMPACT's MIDAS-designed, programmable mic preamps and renowned KLARK TEKNIK's AES50 networking technology all combine at a groundbreaking price point that only BEHRINGER could offer. MUSIC Group's Marketing SVP, Costa Lakoumentas said, "Our new X32 COMPACT console puts full-scale digital recording and live sound mixing within the grasp of an entirely new market. Now houses of worship, concert venues and the like can benefit from the X32's amazing technology and intuitive workflow, even if space or budget constraints prohibit a larger console. The addition of free Tracktion 4 Music Production software provides a complete live sound and studio solution." The BEHRINGER X32 COMPACT is available through authorized dealers and online retailers at an estimated MAP of $2499.99 USD, and is covered by MUSIC Group's 3-Year Limited Warranty Program.

While SABIAN has on occasion produced graphic cymbals for high-profile artist tours and special events, they have not been available for consumers to purchase. Until now, that is! While quantities last, Sabian will offer a limited release of the Neil Peart 22” Paragon Steampunk Ride and the Chad Smith 19” RHCP-Edition Holy China in North America only. The cymbals will be well-known to fans of Rush and the Red Hot Chili Peppers alike – they received a huge burst of fan attention during both the Rush “Clockwork Angels” and the Red Hot Chili Peppers “I’m With You” Tours, during which SABIAN social media sites were inundated with fans asking where to buy the unique graphic models. As a result of the huge demand, SABIAN will produce a limited run of 300 of each cymbal in 2013 for Canada and the US. Although both are current production models, these cymbals are printed with an original, eye-catching graphic, and each one is hand-numbered under the bell and packaged in a deluxe custom bag with certificate of authenticity. For more information, please visit www.sabian.com. Product Information SKU Model Graphic 21916CSBCP 19” AA Holy China Red Hot Chili Peppers logo NP2214BSP 22” Paragon Ride Neil Peart-design Steampunk graphic

Tech 21 has begun shipping a deluxe version of their popular Blonde pedal from the SansAmp Character Series through their Private Stock division. Last year, a deluxe version of their Liverpool pedal sold out quicker than anticipated, and caused a flurry of requests to create a Blonde Deluxe next. Quantities are limited and available directly through Tech 21 only. The SansAmp Blonde Deluxe features a combination of an all-analog signal path and convenient digital recall. Super simple to operate, changes can easily be made on the fly. You just turn the knobs to a setting you like, double click on a footswitch and it’s saved in that channel. You can tailor and program any six sounds, from sparkly clean to lead boosted tones. The Character control gives you the ability to travel from the ‘50s Fullerton through the tweed, blonde, blackface, and silverface family of amp styles. Dual inputs allow you to have two instruments on-line and ready to go. With 6 program locations, you can create three custom tones for each input or use all six for a single instrument. There are four independent, pop-free footswitch actuators and the same controls as its sibling --Drive, Character, Low, Mid, High and Level. The SansAmp Blonde Deluxe can be used as a pre-amp or stomp box with any amp/combo, power amp and speaker cabinet, or direct into any mixing console. There’s a 1/4-inch instrument level input, as well as 1/4” and XLR outputs with selectable levels, and an effects loop. The SansAmp Blonde Deluxe is phantom power operable, or utilizes an optional 9V DC power supply (Tech 21 Model #DC2), or 9V battery.

Framingham, Massachusetts, July 30, 2013 – The new line of ControlSpace® ESP engineered sound processors from Bose® Professional Systems Division consists of three models of networkable digital signal processors, each configured, controlled, and monitored using Bose’s acclaimed ControlSpace Designer™ software. With over 115 dB dynamic range and ultra-low noise/distortion, single-rack ControlSpace ESP engineered sound processors deliver studio-quality analog and digital audio to the installed sound marketplace. [attachment=141657:name] The Bose ControlSpace ESP-880 (a fixed 8x8 analog I/O configuration), ESP-1240 (12x4 analog I/O) and ESP-4120 (4x12 analog I/O) engineered sound processors all include a rear-panel expansion slot that accommodates optional networking cards including Dante™ and AVB network audio. Networking cards support combined audio and control connectivity with third-party products, other Bose ESP processors, and Bose PowerMatch® amplifiers. In addition, an integrated ESPLink optical output provides low latency, uncompressed 48 kHz audio to same-rack Bose PowerMatch amplifiers. All ESP processors include control input and output capabilities, as well as built-in RS-232 serial and Ethernet ports, allowing integration with industry-standard control systems. Any of the elegant Bose wall-mounted user interfaces, including the programmable CC-64 and CC-16 controllers and three simplified zone volume interfaces, can be used to control all Bose Professional networked devices. These three new processors join the newly refreshed ControlSpace ESP-00 Series II engineered sound processor which provides flexible I/O configurability via an 8-slot card frame and a range of analog and digital option cards. Whether fixed or flexible channel I/O is needed for your design, Bose ESP processors provide powerful and creative solutions for nearly any engineered sound application.

Oxnard, CA – The RMI Basswitch has been snapped up by almost every professional bassist that has played through it and is coveted by all. It has opened up new dimensions in pre-amplification and signal routing. Key features include: ●A/B Switcher ●Parametric EQ ●High end pre-amp ●FX Foot Switcher ●Clean Booster ●High quality DI Signal Routing German engineering, manufacturing and best brand components provide maximum reliability and optimal treatment of the electrical signal. The Basswitch has uncompromising sound, build quality and flexibility for any situation in live performance or recording sessions and is endorsed by Marcus Miller and many other artists. Dana Teague, president of Dana B. Goods says “The Basswitch is built on behalf of Ruppert Musical Instruments by Lehle in German. Lehle is well known for the durable engineering and construction of its switchers and the purity of their signal routing. It is designed for professional bassists using more than one bass when touring or recording and serves as the “brains” for many signal routing configurations!” Suggested Retail Price is $799 For More Info: http://www.rmi.lu

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA, July 29, 2013 — Guitar Center Professional (GC Pro), the outside sales division of Guitar Center that focuses on the needs of professional users, is pleased to announce that the RAVEN MTX Multi-Touch Production Console by Slate Pro Audio has begun shipping to market. Originally shown at the 133rd AES convention by Slate Pro Audio, the RAVEN MTX has been acclaimed by leading engineers, producers and journalists worldwide as the next-generation audio console. “We are thrilled that the long-awaited RAVEN MTX Console is now shipping, and we have begun fulfilling our initial orders to our customer base,” stated Rick Plushner, GC Pro Vice President. “In order to support and meet the demand for hands-on demonstrations, GC Pro will have the RAVEN at select GC Pro facilities around the country, including Los Angles, New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Washington D.C., Nashville, Miami and Chicago. For a limited period of time, the Surround version of RAVEN MTX will include the Penteo 3 Touch Stereo-to-5.1 Surround Plug-in, the world’s first multi-touch plug-in for the Raven MTX which transforms any stereo recording, soundtrack, DJ mix or live television broadcast into perfect surround sound. It’s a very comprehensive package for the pro audio and post-production markets.” “We’re aware The RAVEN marks a significant moment in time and perhaps in audio history,” stated Alex Oana, RAVEN co-creator and product manager. “The sheer size of this realization has been driving us, the Slate Pro Audio development team, since the public’s first reactions to the RAVEN prototype. We fully intend the product we ship to live up to the buzz and most importantly the expectations of our discerning customers, our peers and friends.” The RAVEN MTX Multi-Touch Production Console is the ultimate centerpiece for the modern studio, combining a state-of-the-art multi-touch display, feature-rich multi-touch DAW control software, and a world-class analog monitor section. The console features a 46-inch touchscreen that provides direct touch access to every aspect of the production process, from recording, editing, plugin control, MIDI composition, and final mixing. The console’s RAVEN MIXER software is a powerful multi-touch mixer that can control all major DAW’s, and the RAVEN TOOLBAR provides intuitive control familiar to slick mobile computing devices. The console facilitates quick navigation through any virtual production environment. Raven’s high-quality digitally-controlled analog monitoring section delivers multiple inputs and outputs, plug-and-play integration with digital audio interfaces and multichannel artist cue mix systems, 7.1 surround capability, and on-board Laptop Reference™ speakers. UPDATE: For information related to the new MTI multi-touch mixer/controller, please see below: Slate Raven MTI at Guitar Center Slate Raven MTI at Musician's Friend For more information, please visit www.gcpro.com and www.slateproaudio.com.

(Los Angeles, CA) – Guitar Center, the world’s largest retailer of guitars, amplifiers, drums, keyboards, recording, live sound, DJ and lighting equipment, marked a major milestone in its corporate growth on Thursday, July 11, 2013, with the grand opening of its 250th location, in Waco, Texas. The opening of Guitar Center’s 250th store emphasizes the company’s ongoing plans for growth and long-term expansion while assuring customers throughout the country that they will get the widest selection of musical instruments and professional audio products at the best possible prices sold by an experienced and knowledgeable sales staff. The store, located at 4314 W. Waco Dr. Waco, TX 76710, is also part of a new wave of Guitar Center retail stores that feature lesson spaces, which allows GC to offer additional music lessons, special programs and expanded opportunities for local musicians. WACO STORE LOCATION BACKGROUNDER: Vast Product Selection and Low Prices – Guitar Center Waco brings an unprecedented selection of products to Waco, all backed by Guitar Center’s guarantee and available at attractive prices. The store features the latest in guitars, amplifiers, percussion instruments and keyboards, as well as live sound, DJ, lighting and recording equipment. Guitar Center Studios – Deeply vested in expanding and enhancing the local music scene, Guitar Center Waco also brings Guitar Center Studios to the new location. The fully-equipped, in-house lesson space is giving area residents of all ages and skill levels access to affordable music lessons. Sourcing locally trained store employees as certified instructors, courses will be offered on guitar, bass, keys and drums, as well as vocals and recording techniques using Pro Tools and Logic Pro and GarageBand. Guitar Center Garage – Guitar Center Waco includes GC Garage, the store’s on-site guitar repair service, offering a host of services, including electronics repair, hardware customization, fretwork, structural repairs, cosmetic enhancements, setup and maintenances. Guitar Center Waco: Additional In-Store Programs and Opportunities Include: Guitar Center’s “Endless Aisle” – Waco customers can now shop from Guitar Center’s new multi-channel “endless aisle,” which extends the in-store inventory to over $400 million in new and used products from across the nation. Shoppers will be able to purchase in-store, online and via phone, with the option to have products shipped to their home or to the store for convenient pick up. At: Guitar Center Programs – Throughout the calendar year, Guitar Center Waco will host an array of free events, such as artist workshops, lessons, product launches and performances, as a part of the company’s ongoing commitment to educating and assisting unsigned artists. These programs aim to provide musicians with the opportunities and exposure essential to achieving their music goals. Recording Made Easy – Available at all Guitar Center locations, the Recording Made Easy program is a four-week, user-friendly series of weekly classes occurring Saturdays from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. In addition to special programs at the new Waco store, Guitar Center offers year-round programs designed to spearhead creativity and highlight promising undiscovered talent. Waco residents will now be able to participate in these ongoing events from their hometown. Programs have included Your Next Record, Guitar Center On-Stage, Guitar Center Singer-Songwriter, Guitar Center's Battle of the Blues and Guitar Center’s Drum-Off. Guitar Center Waco Store and Studio Hours Mon-Fri: 11 AM-8 PM Sat: 10 AM-7 PM Sun: 12 PM-6 PM

Fremont, Calif. – July 29, 2013 –NuForce, Inc., a leader in professional and consumer audio gear, announces the release of its Icon DAC digital audio converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier. NuForce Icon DAC delivers the latest in mobile device connectivity by supporting USB audio for Android (4.1* and beyond with OTG), Mac and PC (with advanced PCM and DSD). It also features a very high-powered headphone amplifier, linear volume control and genuine audiophile construction. “With the advent of Smartphones and their enormous storage capabilities, a great many audio enthusiasts have been longing for a quality DAC/headphone amp they can simply plug directly into in order to experience their favorite music delivered with vivid clarity,” said Jason Lim, NuForce CEO. “We’ve created a solution for Android users that we believe is comprehensive and fills the void.” Icon DAC is a diverse device that can be used in the home or office. The Icon DAC can be used as a DAC, a headphone amp or a preamp utilizing the secondary analog input for stereo signals from most home-audio and mobile sources. The DAC is packed with the latest technology and accepts PCM sample rates up to 96kHz. This 32-bit DAC supports 24-bit asynchronous operation while also providing Direct-Stream Digital (DSD) decoding capability. The discriminating headphone listener is also bound to be satisfied as the Icon DAC includes a proprietary headphone amp stage that drives the most demanding 600-Ohm headphones with ease. Comprising of a linear up-conversion topology, the Icon DAC delivers an incredible 24V rail-to-rail supply voltage to the amplifier circuits resulting in ultra-fast transient reproduction and uncompromised peak dynamic performance. As a control center/preamplifier for use with external amplifier and speaker arrangements, audiophile-grade circuit design and parts ensure that the Icon DAC always delivers the ultimate in clarity to its stereo RCA outputs. A coaxial S/PDIF output is included for added system flexibility. The innovative design goes several steps further to include a linear power supply that provides only pure DC power to all circuits, a TOCOS high-resolution linear volume control for accurate rendering of critical low-level information, and quality construction throughout. Specs & Features: • High-precision 32-bit DAC • Supports Windows 7, 8, Mac OSX, Android 4.1.1* • USB Input from Android devices** • Supports PCM and DSD over USB playback (DSD support on PC only) • Powerful 8V output headphone amplifier • 6.3 mm headphone output jack • 3.5 mm analog input and RCA analog output • Audiophile TOCOS volume pot • Multiple stage filtering and regulated up-converted 24V rail power supply • High-quality aluminum chassis The Icon DAC is available now for $325 from several online stores and Nuforce dealers. For more information on this or any other NuForce products, contact PR representative Jessica Darrican at 305-374-4404, extension 116. *Android compatibility is limited to smart phones running Android 4.1.1 that enables support for USB OTG Audio features. **HTC ONE X and newer version, Samsung S3 and newer version, SONY Xperia Z and newer version, and other mobile devices.

LOS ANGELES — (For Immediate Release) – ADJ’s new Pixel Pulse Bar will have entertainers and lighting designers thinking “outside the bar” when it comes to visual effects. Although this linear strobe/wash LED fixture looks like a color bar -- and in fact produces brilliant washes and uplighting effects with 15 x 3-watt 3-in-1 RGB TRI LEDs – it can do so much more. That’s because the Pixel Pulse Bar comes equipped with the added feature of 5-zone pixel chase effects. Users can highlight five different colors on the fixture and create a striking spectrum of energy-driven chase effects for a thrilling high-velocity lightshow. As a result of its 5-zone pixel control, the Pixel Pulse Bar allows entertainers and designers to be more creative and gives them the power to enhance and broaden the scope of their lightshows without adding multiple units to their lighting arsenal, said Alfred Gonzales, national sales manager for ADJ. “The Pixel Pulse Bar is a very unique and versatile LED color strobe/wash fixture because of its ability to create 5-zone pixel chase effects,” said Gonzales. “It pulses, it washes, it chases. You can do radically different things at different times—depending on what your lighting needs are at any given moment.” For example, the Pixel Pulse Bar’s extreme flexibility makes it ideal for DJs and clubs who need to set different lighting moods over the course of an evening. You can use the color wash function to create an elegant ambience, say, during a ceremony, cocktails or dinner, then ramp up the energy with fast-paced strobing and a full chasing 5-color pixel-controlled lightshow once the dance floor starts to heat up later on. You can also display the fixture horizontally or vertically, which gives added versatility and better coverage options when the chasing feature is engaged. Whether used as a wash, strobe or chase effect, the Pixel Pulse Bar will generate rich, brilliant, RGB colors. Its 3-watt 3-in-1 (red, green and blue) LEDs utilize advanced Tri-Color technology for smoother color blending, more vibrant tones, and the elimination of “fuzzy” RGB shadows. From a user’s standpoint, the Pixel Pulse Bar is designed to accommodate a full range of applications. The fixture offers DMX-512 operation with three DMX channel modes (1, 4 or 7 channels), and 3-pin and 5-pin DMX In/Out. DMX addressing can be changed on the fly via the 4-button LED display located on the unit. Users can also run the Pixel Pulse Bar in Sound Active Mode using its numerous exciting built-in programs, set up multiple units in a Master/Slave configuration for wider coverage, or operate it remotely with the easy-to-use ADJ UC3 hand-held controller (sold separately). The unit includes 0-100\% dimming, plus strobe and chase speed control. Maintenance-free and cool-running, the Pixel Pulse Bar’s LEDs have a long life rating and draw just 61 watts at maximum use. The energy-efficient fixture also offers multi-voltage operation: AC 100V–240V, 50/60Hz. Multiple Pixel Pulse Bars (up to 6 units at 120 volts, or up to 10 units at 230 volts) can be daisy-chained together using the IEC AC In/Out connectors located on the rear of each unit. The Pixel Pulse Bar includes a dual scissor yoke and safety hook, so it’s easy to install the unit securely at virtually any event or establishment. It’s also incredibly easy to transport, weighing only 8 lbs./3.2 kg. and measuring 15.5"L x 7.25"W x 3.5" H/ 388 x 178.5 x 82mm). The MSRP of the Pixel Pulse Bar is $559.95.