HC News
-
Posts
8,723 -
Joined
-
Last visited
Content Type
Profiles
Articles
News
Expert Reviews
Forums
Everything posted by HC News
-
Today, Eventide began shipping its newest addition to its stompbox line, the H9 Harmonizer®. The H9 delivers Eventide’s acclaimed sound and can run all of Eventide’s stompbox effects. It features a simple, one-knob user interface and also connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to iPods, iPhones and iPads for creating and managing presets, live control and in-app algorithm purchases. “The H9 is designed to pack all that you need by way of delay, modulation, pitch, and reverb effects, ninety-nine factory presets, and an integrated tuner, all in a small footprint. We’ve also created a feature-rich remote control app, H9 Control, for controlling the H9 from an iPhone or iPad, wirelessly via Bluetooth,” said Ray Maxwell, Eventide’s VP of Sales and Marketing. “As always, our prime directive is to deliver the Eventide sound that our users have come to rely on. Never before has that sound been packed into such a compact package,” he added. The H9 includes a set of the most popular algorithms taken from Eventide’s stompboxes: Liquid Chorus, Organic Chorus, Shimmer Chorus, Classic Chorus, Phase XO Chorus, Bias Tremolo, and Opto Tremolo from ModFactor; H910, H949, and Crystals™ from PitchFactor; Tape Echo and Vintage Delay from TimeFactor; and Hall and Shimmer from Space. The H9 also includes the first in a series of new algorithms, UltraTap Delay™. All of Eventide’s stompbox algorithms and their associated presets are available for audition and in-app purchase. While the H9 is fully controllable via its front panel, a free iOS app, H9 Control (http://bit.ly/14q3Oee ), can be downloaded to your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch for live real time parameter manipulation, creating and managing presets, and changing system settings wirelessly via Bluetooth. An OS X editor/librarian app is also included. The H9 features stereo audio I/O, MIDI I/O and Expression Pedal or Auxiliary Switch inputs. -
What do you get when you cross the steady half-time rumble of Dubstep with the frantic atmospheres of Drum n Bass? The answer is Drumstep Revolt, and this latest release from sample pack producers Prime Loops perfectly encapsulates every element of this conflicted hybrid genre! [attachment=141991:name] Spawning from the sounds of artists such as Dub Foundation, Heist, Hazard, Original Sin and Taxman, Drumstep takes the half-time beat structures of Dubstep and fuses them with the faster elements of Drum n Bass. Elements of this subgenre are often present in Dubstep and DnB remixes, instantly recognisable by the standard 140BPM tempo, creating a satisfying contrast with the frenzied fundamental elements of Drum n Bass. [attachment=141992:name] Combining 5 folders of Bassline Loops, Drum Loops, Drum One-Shots, SFX Loops and Synth Loops, DRUMSTEP REVOLT delivers over 190MB of brand new audio to your sample library. Take your pick from over 170 individual samples that have all been engineered to sync with any major software! Simply select a sample from the download folder, drag towards your DAW and drop it straight into the mix. Each of these samples is delivered in pristine 24-bit high definition clarity and is yours to use completely royalty free! Whether you're constructing your own half-time patterns from the expansive One-Shots folder or laying the foundations with one of the 35 pre-constructed Drum Loops included, there's a huge variety of Bass, Synth and SFX to add in to the mix; expect to find sounds ranging from sonorous sci-fi, heavy chopped-up fuzz to wildly sporadic with a smattering beeps and bleeps! If you're ready to get involved, this pack is available via direct download from PrimeLoops.com now . Prime Loops Release 'Trap Snare Rolls' Sample Pack We're back in the Trap, where the bass kicks chunks out of the wall and the snares roll deep! Yes, the Prime Loops production team have been hard at work creating sounds that are bound to elevate any Trap beat into a certified Club Banger. Trap Snare Rollsis an essential addition to any Trap Producers arsenal of sounds. [attachment=141993:name]Featuring 40 loops of solid snare sonics, you'l be sure to find the right sound to suit your production style. And with BPMs ranging from 57 to 75, it won't matter if you want to groove with pace or slow things down to a smouldering stomp, we've got it covered. [attachment=141994:name]We know Trap. Well. And we have used this knowledge to create the most up to date collection of Trap Snare Rolls on the Market. Pulling inspiration from some the biggest names in the Trap game, such as Gucci Mane, Rick Ross, Baauer and Hucci, these syncopated grooves are packed with avalanches of energy capable of smashing some real swing into any beat. We've used a host of different classic and modern drum machines to help us programme these rhythms, so there are plenty of genre-defining sounds and raucous patterns to choose from, all delivered in 24bit and completely royalty free. This select bunch of sounds is a must have for anyone looking to make it in the Trap Scene. -
Native Instruments today introduced the latest installment of their DISCOVERY SERIES – the range of KONTAKT Instruments based around specific musically vibrant locations. DISCOVERY SERIES – CUBA celebrates the sounds of the master musicians of Havana – rich, varied, and joyful music that encompasses the melodic and rhythmic traits of son, rumba, salsa and merengue. KONTAKT users can now add the special flavor of Cuba to almost any production style – from house and techno to pop, indie, and world styles. DISCOVERY SERIES – CUBA delivers a host of meticulously-sampled instruments arranged into melodic and percussive ensembles. Its eight melodic and nine percussive ensembles are organized into authentic instrument combinations, expertly compiled to reflect the varied styles of Cuba’s musical landscape – suitable for traditional projects as well as contemporary pop and dance productions. CUBA offers a library of rhythmic patterns and harmonic progressions – all easily tweakable to fit specific productions using the powerful, built-in sequencer. A more human feel can be applied via the Groove and Feel knobs. Users can also adjust microtiming at the instrument level for an added level of rhythmic nuance. The Intensity knob adjusts the overall velocity of the performance, and 6/8 or 4/4 timings can be selected depending on the production style. Also included is a mixer section featuring studio quality effects, including Solid EQ, convolution reverb, tape saturation and compression. -
Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH has released Cubase Elements 7, the newest addition to the Cubase 7 line-up. Cubase Elements 7 is state-of-the art technology and quality provided in a moderately priced music production software that throws its doors wide open to the fascinating world of Cubase. “Cubase Elements 7 is the choice for aspiring producers and musicians looking for a complete package which doesn’t break the bank while offering a whole lot of features right out of the box,” said Carlos Mendoza Rohde, product marketing manager at Steinberg. After unveiling Cubase 7 and Cubase Artist 7 to great acclaim at the end of last year, Cubase Elements 7 now completes the latest Cubase range, offering new sounds, new effects and many other features that easily turn any Mac or Windows computer into a music production system. The new mixing facilities feature the MixConsole including scalability plus uncompromising 192 kHz audio quality and routing flexibility. The newly developed channel strip comes with high and low-pass filters, noise gate, four-band EQ with spectrum analyzer, three compressors, Envelope Shaper, tape and tube saturation as well as brickwall limiter and maximizer modules. The Channel Settings window is redesigned to provide easy access to all channel parameters, including metering and routing assignments. The Remote Control Editor facilitates customized mapping of plug-in parameters to external controllers. Musical highlights in Cubase Elements 7 include Chord Track, dedicated to providing chord and scale information to the project. All MIDI tracks can automatically follow any harmonic adjustments made in Chord Track in real time. Hermode tuning provides pristine tuning when compared to traditional tunings, while remaining aligned with well-tempered scales. The VST Amp Rack guitar tone suite has been added as well and features seven different amp models, 16 stomp boxes and a collection of 73 signature presets. The three-band DJ-EQ and MorphFilter provide great filter effects and smooth transitions. More features and enhancements focus around the performance of Cubase. ASIO-Guard improves stability and prevents data dropouts, while the-start mode disables user preferences temporarily. Finding effects and instruments is expedited through the keyword-oriented search engine. MemZap stores positions and zoom factors within the project at any particular time. Easy Audio Driver Setup assistance is provided to users connecting Cubase Elements 7 with audio hardware. The Steinberg Hub comprises an enhanced Project Assistant plus additional information services, such as news and a regularly updated list of video tutorials. ReWire 64-bit compatibility, SoundCloud connectivity, FLAC compression and over two hours of high-definition online video tutorials round out the outstanding feature set in Cubase Elements 7. Availability and pricing The full retail version of Cubase Elements 7 is available through authorized Steinberg resellers and the Steinberg Online Shop. The suggested retail price is $99.99. The Cubase Elements 7 update from Cubase Elements 6 is available through authorized Steinberg resellers and the Steinberg Online Shop. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $130.99. Customers who purchased a copy of Cubase Elements 6 from April 15, 2013, are entitled to the free Grace Period update to Cubase Elements 7. Features at a glance Supports 64 MIDI and 48 simultaneous audio tracks with up to 24-bit/192 kHz Award-winning 32-bit floating-point Steinberg audio engine with flexible routing and fully automatic delay compensation Includes outstanding instruments: HALion Sonic SE workstation, MPC-style Groove Agent ONE drum machine, Prologue synthesizer Comes ready with 44 audio effects, including Pitch Correct for vocal intonation correction, MorphFilter and the extraordinary VST Amp Rack guitar tone suite. All-new MixConsole provides the stellar mixing experience with full flexibility and integrated EQ/Dynamics channel strip modules for epic pro-console sound Chord Track for easy chord management and re-harmonizing within project context Real-time pitch-shifting and time-stretching Project Assistant with dozens of common templates 2 hours of online HD video tutorials Cross-platform 32-/64-bit for Windows and OS X Intel -
Impact Soundworks, LLC released today “Forest Frame Drums”, a new collection of authentic sampled hand percussion for the Kontakt platform. The library features three traditional hand-crafted instruments from the Ojibway tribe with meticulous depth, playability, and an intimate sound with natural ambience. The three drums recorded for the library include the Forest Drum, a well-rounded sound with a bright reverb tail on loud hits, the Deep Drum, an earthier, lower-pitched instrument ideal for bass accompaniment, and the Small Drum, with a higher pitch and straightforward playing style. In total, nearly 40 articulations were recorded between all three drums, with extremely detailed sampling (up to 15x RR variations / 6x dynamic layers). Impact Soundworks was founded in 2007 by composers Andrew Aversa and Will Roget, II with the goal of creating innovative, affordable and unique sample libraries “designed with composers in mind.” Its critically acclaimed catalog of instruments has been used by thousands of composers around the world in film, television, video game and other music productions. “With this library, we wanted to capture the sound of the frame drum in a more traditional style and natural setting,” said Aversa, lead designer of the library. “You can still create an epic sound with these drums, but you can also write very intimate and emotional pieces at a softer dynamic.” In addition to over 2,000 WAV-format samples, Forest Frame Drums includes three advanced patches for Kontakt 4+ sporting a beautiful custom interface and script. Composers can easily adjust tone, reverb ambience, stereo width, and other parameters with a single click, or set up and customize ensemble playing with the unique ensemble builder. -
Swar is excited to announce the release of the latest version of their Indian virtual instruments plugin. SwarPlug now runs natively on 64 bits hosts, and is fully compatible with Pro Tools 11 (AAX). But this is not all; they have also embedded the Librarian directly in the plugin so you can now audition your loops in sync with the DAW and then simply drag & drop them on your tracks!.. If you already own a SwarPlug XE (or greater) license you'll get a free update to version 3!
-
Jointly created by Stefan Stenzel (audio algorithms), Rolf Wöhrmann (iOS development), and Axel artmann (graphic design), Nave transforms any iPad into an advanced wavetable synthesizer fit for truly mobile 21st Century composition, performance, and sound design! Speaking of which, Nave comes complete with over 500 presets from highly acclaimed sound designers like Richard Devine, Sacha Dikiciyan (of Sonic Mayhem fame), Laurence Rapaccioli (Arksun), David Boldini (7 Skies), and Fletcher Kaufman (Sunsine Audio), amongst many others. All seriously showcase the depth and diversity of this impressive and inspirational iOS synthesizer — so much so, in fact, that Richard Devine was suitably moved to create no fewer than 95 presets alone, all of which are included for free! For the benefit of those who want to indulge in some serious sound design of their own making, Nave does not disappoint. Its powerful sound engine includes two trailblazing wavetable-based oscillators, leaving all previous attempts at wavetable synthesis severely wanting. While the sound spectrum can cleverly be transposed independently of pitch, the waves can be rendered from perfectly periodic to very noisy and anywhere in between. Nave’s clear-cut GUI invites both beginners and advanced users alike to experiment both sonically and musically while the hosting iPad’s generous display helps make wavetable creation and editing a blast! Besides integrated speech synthesis, wavetables can also be formed from analysing audio files. Furthermore, stretching, rotating, and shifting in the spectral domain allows wavetables to be refined or distorted in the fullscreen Wavetable Edit Mode. Here users can edit and fine-tune the wavetables using several 3D views that are as easy on the eye as they are to use. And in a reverential nod to Waldorf’s illustrious past and present, factory wavetables from the breakthrough Microwave, mighty Wave, and price barrier-breaking Blofeld synthesizers are all present and accounted for, complemented by an abundance of tasty new ones that make extensive use of those enhanced possibilities! And if that’s not enough to get your creative juices flowing then Nave additionally includes a classic oscillator with an ultra useful selection of basic waveforms, plus a super-fat-sounding Überwave function for beefing up sounds by up to eight individually detuned oscillators a la Waldorf’s recently released Rocket synthesizer. Nave is, indeed, truly a sound designer’s dream machine! But, Waldorf being Waldorf, that’s not all: Nave’s flexible Filter section delivers that high-quality synthesizer sound recognisable right away by anyone at all familiar with Waldorf’s noteworthy name, and, as such, features LP (low-pass), BP (band-pass), and HP (high-pass) filter types with either 12 dB or 24 dB slope settings. Its neighbouring Drive section offers contrasting characteristics by being positioned Pre Filter or Post Filter or as a summing overdrive Pre EQ or Post EQ — perfect for those who prefer harsh and screaming sounds rather than delicate wavetable sweeps. Yet more flexible fun is to be had on the FX & Arp page with pro-quality ModFX (Phaser, Flanger, Chorus), Delay, Reverb, parametric Equalizer, and a highly effective Compressor all adding to Nave’s sound and performance possibilities, as does a full-featured Arpeggiator. And last, but by no means least, the Tape & System page plays hosts to an old school, four-track recorder — replete with virtual tape spools. Use it to record complete compositions or simply sketch some musical ideas inspired by the superlative sounds of Nave!
-
Their largest and deepest volume in more than five years, the new "Shuffle City" drum loop library from Drums On Demand features exclusively shuffle drum beats. A staple in virtually all styles of contemporary music, Shuffle City features more than 2,200 drum loops and single hit samples in 25 easy-to-use Song Sets. Shuffle drum beats are a staple in pop, rock, country and R&B. You hear them everywhere. That's why "Shuffle City" drum loops is a must-have for songwriters, producers and recordists. For previews and full information visit the Shuffle City page. (http://www.drumsondemand.com/products/shuffle-drum-loopsP "Our users have been requesting a collection like this for several years now and we're really happy with the way it turned out," said Quint Randle, co-founder of Drums On Demand. "Start looping any of these shuffles and you're inspired to write a great song." With tempos ranging from 70 to 155 beats per minutes, Shuffle City ($79.95) is available in all major formats for PC and Mac-based recording. These include Acidized WAVs, Apple Loops and REX format. A multitrack WAV format is also available for $129.90. What sets Shuffle City apart from other drum loop libraries is Drums On Demand's patented organization system. Each Master Loop is available in a BPM folder with matching fill, intro, chorus, verse, bridge and other loops. Users just drag and drop the loops into their favorite recording software or DAW to quickly create a session-player-like drum track.
-
The industry-leading digital audio workstation that redefines music and audio production for today’s workflows is now available. Pro Tools 11 enables you to take on the most demanding sessions and maximize your creativity—without holding anything back. Plug into epic processing power with the all-new Avid® Audio Engine Turbocharge sessions with 64-bit performance Deliver mixes up to 150x faster with offline bounce
-
The BEHRINGER B207MP3loudspeaker is now arriving in stores around the world, combining convenient MP3 playback with a powerful, compact 4-channel mixer/PA. Driven by 150 Watts of efficient, lightweight Class-D amplification, this system punches well above its weight class, and the B207MP3's small 6.5" loudspeaker will amaze discerning listeners with its clarity and wide, balanced range. [attachment=142068:name] This unique combination of compact power, flexibility, and quality sound means the B207MP3 can fulfill multiple roles. For karaoke or other backing audio, load a memory stick directly into the USB input and play MP3 files directly by using the B207MP3's specialized MP3 control section. For personal monitoring, performers can mount the B207MP3 on a microphone stand and perfectly control their own level, whether onstage or in the studio. In meetings or presentations, the B207MP3 delivers narration or multimedia audio to the audience with power and clarity. “The B207MP3 updates our bestselling B205D monitor and takes it to the next level” said Jan Duwe, Product Manager for MUSIC Group Germany. “With an extra channel, larger speaker for even better frequency response, and an MP3 playback section, the B207MP3 delivers the level of flexibility and power usually found only in much larger systems.” -
EASTWEST is proud to announce the newest version of their Complete Composers Collection, the popular customizable bundle which allows users to individually select a minimum of 7 award-winning EASTWEST/QUANTUM LEAP Virtual Instruments and save over 70% off the list prices of the items chosen. Complete Composers Collection 2 is perfect for music, film, TV, and game composers: a choice of 20 award-winning virtual instruments that cover virtually every musical genre, including seven new additions: The Hollywood Gold series with Strings, Brass and Woodwinds The Dark Side Ministry of Rock 2 Spaces Quantum Leap Solo Violin Each of these virtual instruments is a veritable masterpiece with truly authentic sounds, and the incredible detail and sound options are unprecedented. Anyone familiar with EASTWEST knows that all their sounds are recorded with today’s top talent in their world-class studios with the best equipment available, and are used and endorsed by some of the most successful composers in the world. With Complete Composers Collection 2, any musician has access to these ultra-professional instruments and articulations at a fraction of the price of buying them individually. For those customers who already own the original Complete Composers Collection, Complete Composers Collection 2 is the perfect opportunity to expand their collection with completely new instruments. The massive library comes on a 1TB pocket-size “Plug 'n Play” external hard drive. All samples are installed for quick and easy access. Every instrument included is powered by EASTWEST’s PLAY 3 software, and will be easily updated to PLAY 4 when it is released this July.
-
Korg's original Mono/Poly, released in 1981, was a monophonic/polyphonic behemoth that was popular worldwide. It provided four oscillators, a resonant filter, dual EGs and Modulation Generators, plus 4-way Synchro and Cross Modulation capability for creating aggressive and signature tonal effects. Mono/Poly was reborn as software as part of Korg's Legacy Collection - Analog Edition 2007. The new Mono/Poly for Reason is a software version specially developed for Propellerhead's Rack Extension Plugin format for Reason. In addition to faithfully replicating the original sounds, the Mono/Poly for Reason also adds enhancements such as 128-voice polyphony (max), up to 16-voice unison, Mono/Poly up to date for use in modern music production. Beyond perfectly reproducing the original, this version of Mono/Poly also greatly extends its sound-creating potential. An eight virtual patch matrix lets users route 159 modulation sources to modulate 35 destinations for creating complex, diverse sounds. Two integrated multi-effects and an arpeggiator deliver modern performance power and flexibility. The software interface provides reorganized knobs and switches that resurrect the MonoPoly in a contemporary "rack-mountable" form for intuitive operation and sound-creating versatility. -
After 6 months of hard work Cluster Sound are very proud to present Drum Cluster, a monolithic collection of sculptured drums, construction patterns and drum kits for Maschine, an instant groove toolbox designed for every form of electronically generated music. Inside this cutting-edge package you will find everything a producer needs to create stunning, solid, pristine sound quality music. Drum Cluster brings tons of rugged kicks, sturdy snares, deep lofills, esoteric vocoder FX, bubble glitches, noises, one shot basses, and the list could go on and on. Part of the included 6000 samples have been organized into 374 category kits and 100 drum kits. Short Specifications : • 6000 samples • 100 drum kits • 374 special kits • 850 patterns • Native 24bit / 96Khz • Intuitive sample tagging • 1.2 gigabytes The included 850 sequences are designed to provide surpassing customization and immediate results. Just think about this: by layering the modular patterns you can choose among 170 Millions of combinations. The patterns have been built by keeping in mind the same sample mappings used for the Maschine official stuff, so they can also be used for giving additional life to your existing drum kits. Drum Cluster is a multi-style oriented, inspiring, unconventional sounding tool created by taking the best from both genuine analog and proudly digital sources. A brilliant array of high definition drums that achieve maximum impact at the highest possible quality. -
Vancouver BC - based Radial Engineering Ltd is pleased to announce the StageDirect - a unique direct box that combines all of the standard features one would find in a DI with the added convenience of being able to mute the signal using a footswitch for silent on-stage tuning or to quietly switch instruments without having to turn down the PA system or put the stage amp on standby. According to Radial's Eastern Regional Sales Manager Phil Coelho: "As a gigging bassist, I was immediately struck with the StageDirect and how I could see it solving a number of problems on stage. The obvious one is being able to quietly tune without having your signal feed into the PA system. As an audience member, hearing the band tune up can be really annoying. But for me, the real biggie is being able to switch from my 4 string passive bass to my 5 string active without having to put my amp on standby and frantically wave to the FOH engineer to let him know I am about to switch basses. All too often, he forgets to turn me down and then you get a huge pop in the PA. The StageDirect solves the problem as it gives me the freedom to decide when I want to change instruments." As with all Radial direct boxes, the StageDirect is made from 14 gauge steel and finished in baked enamel for maximum durability. Connections include a ¼" input for the instrument, a ¼" output for the stage amp, and a standard XLR male output to feed the PA system. A separately buffered ¼" tuner output is always on. When the footswitch is depressed all of the outputs other than the tuner are muted to enable quiet on-stage tuning. The mute feature also makes it easy to switch instruments on stage without having to turn down the PA channel or set the stage amp on standby in order to avoid loud popping in the audio system. Top panel switches include a -15dB pad to handle extra high output instruments like an active bass, a high-pass filter to eliminate excessive bass and resonance, and a 180° polarity reverse to help tame acoustic hot spots on stage that can cause feedback. These features combine to make the StageDirect the perfect stage hand for busy musicians who want to be in control of their sound at all times. The StageDirect begins shipping in June 2013 and will retail for $250 USD. -
Future Loops has just released MC Darrison - Vocal Sampler, a collection of urban vocal loops & one shots by UK MC/Lyricist/Singer/Producer, MC Darrison. MC Darrison - Vocal Sampler features samples grouped into different categories and tempos: adlibs, expressions, rhymes, harmonized phrases, acapellas & drops, with a range of performances that ensures compatibility with a wide variety of music genres and styles. With samples in WAV format and tempos going between 70Bpm and 175 Bpm, MC Darrison - Vocal Sampler is 100% Royalty-Free.
-
KEYFAX NewMedia, the company that invented the concept of MIDI samples in the 1990s, announces its 25th library of MIDI loops, Dubstep MIDIKit, custom-made for producing dubstep. ‘Everything comes full-circle eventually,” says KEYFAX chief Julian Colbeck. “Many years ago we recorded a ton of players in the UK working in the drum ‘n’ bass, garage and 2-step scenes and these styles were very much the genesis for dubstep.” Dubstep MIDIKit contains more than 300 individual loops, phrases, and effects, with the main focus understandably being on the rhythm section. More than 100 full kit drum loops are not only supported by fills but also several tricky individual hi-hat patterns. Bass wobbles (48), synth pads, sweeps, arpeggios, stabs, skanks, and some new gates—KEYFAX was the first company to create ‘MIDI gates’ back in 1995—round out the collection. As ‘pure MIDI,’ Dubstep MIDIKit can be loaded into any platform that can load a Standard MIDI File, then voiced and applied as you wish using VSTs or connected hardware instruments. Dubstep MIDIKit was initially voiced on the Yamaha Motif XS platform and several additional file formats are included in the package for Motif XS, XF, MOX, and Motif ES. The Motif versions even come with a specially programmed bass wobble voice from Motif guru Dave Polich of DCP. -
Following nearly a decade of success of Stormdrum 1 and 2, EASTWEST offers up a new collection of superb percussion samples in Quantum Leap Stormdrum 3 (SD3). This virtual instrument sets a new standard in percussion sound quality and performance, and it is a must for film, TV, and game development. Stormdrum 3 is produced by Nick Phoenix, the creator of the Stormdrum 1 and 2 epic percussion collections, and this latest instrument is the culmination of all things percussion, musicality and big scores. Phoenix collaborated with Mickey Hart, the Grateful Dead’s “rhythm devil” and one of the most iconic drummers in rock history, as well as Greg Ellis, Chalo Eduardo, and Remo from Remo Drumheads. Together, the group captured over 90 gigabytes of all new percussion sounds for SD3. Recorded in famed EASTWEST Studio A, Phoenix had access to two exquisite private collections of instruments when producing Stormdrum 3: He used the best instruments from Mickey Hart’s private collection, and instruments hand-picked by Remo himself from his personal collection. All performances are by Mickey Hart and master percussionists Greg Ellis and Chalo Eduardo. Ellis, who has worked with world class artists such as Beck, is a highly sought-after session musician for film and television, and has left his musical stamp on movies such as The Matrix: Reloaded, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Chronicles of Narnia and many more. Eduardo is a preeminent percussionist who has worked with Carlos Santana, Sergio Mendes, Stevie Wonder, Ricky Martin, and many others. Stormdrum 3 features 5 user-controllable mic positions for each instrument (excluding performances), and includes Tempo Synced Percussion performances directed and performed by Mickey Hart, with Greg Ellis, Chalo Eduardo and Nick Phoenix. Storm Drum 3 includes: Big Drums: large, deep and booming sounds, some more complex in nature. There are some real gems in here from Mickey's magical warehouse of one of a kind hand drums. Highlights in the epic genre here are The Beast, Double Headed Tree Drum, Lord Of Toms Ensemble and Dragon Ensemble. Gongs Clocks Waterphones: These instruments provide the iconic sounds of several gongs and waterphones, some played underwater! The "Clockworks" patches are the result of Nicks field recordings in 6 antique clock shops. Metals: This group includes bells, deep bowls, chimes, and cymbals collected by Mickey on his world travels. Some are well known like the Brazilian berimbau (which is played on a metal wire), others are unusual, such as hammered copper pots and handmade doorstop drums. Shakers: The instruments in this group include several made from naturally occurring objects, such as snake rattles, seed pods, and deer hoofs, in addition to the more common ganza, modern shakers and Mickeys mighty rainsticks. Playability here is key. Small Drums: a very large collection of smaller drums such as bongos, frame drums, and tambourines. Many of the Indian drums in this category are particularly special, such as the tuned tablas and madal. Performance techniques are stellar. Taiko Family: taiko drums ranging from huge to small, many of the sampled instruments came from the collections of Mickey Hart and Remo, others came from the top taiko builders in Japan. They are played both individually and in ensembles. Woods: In this group you'll hear unpitched sounds from wooden resonators; tuned chromatic instruments, such as a gourd marimba and a balaphone; the mighty gourd drum, a playable 12 ft. long redwood tree branch and wonderful scraped sounds, such as the Thailand frogs. Stormdrum 3 is the first virtual instrument to include EASTWEST's new PLAY 4 software. In PLAY 4, EASTWEST replaced some third party components; added Avid’s new AAX format that will allow Pro Tools 11 users to use EASTWEST’s virtual instruments 64-bit, greatly improving performance; added new time-stretch software optimized for loops (with sync to sequencer); added a new mixer page (with sub-channels for mic positions), and other new features. To top it all off, EASTWEST now offers SSL FX from Solid State Logic, the industry leader in mixing technology; and an upgraded EASTWEST reverb. The new FX section is available as an optional upgrade for all legacy EASTWEST PLAY collections, but will be included FREE for SD3 users. Customers who place a pre-order for SD3, scheduled to ship July 15, will be able to use the FX section for other PLAY collections as an additional bonus. The FX section includes a SSL EQ and Dynamics Channel Strip, Transient Shaper, and SSL’s legendary Stereo Bus Compressor; plus an upgraded "true stereo" reverb from EASTWEST, and new features. Now, with it’s combination of the new PLAY 4 software, the best sound processing tools available, and world class percussion instruments, Stormdrum 3 is the most advanced percussion virtual instrument to date and a must-have.
-
DR Strings is proud to announce NEON™ Hi-Def WHITE guitar and bass string sets, which are White in color and UV and Black Light active. DR NEON™ Hi-Def WHITE strings are super bright coated strings that will sound clear, bright and musical as well as provide unparalleled string performance and longevity. All strings in the sets are completely protected and white in color. Super bright in daylight and under stage lighting, DR’s NEON™ strings are so bright in appearance they look like they are on fire. DR’s NEON™ Hi-Def WHITE strings are 100\% black light active so they glow strongly under UV lighting. DR’s K3™ coating has been proven to last at least 9 times longer (by documented factory tests) than previous DR coatings. The new, durable K3™ coating will NOT strip away, peel or come off under any playing condition we have put it thorough in numerous, stressful factory tests. NEON™ Hi-Def WHITE Strings are available in standard electric guitar 9-42, 10-46 and 11-50 sets. Acoustic guitar string sets come in 11-50 and 12-54 gauges. Bass strings in medium 4 string gauge (45-105) and 5 string gauge (45-125) will also be available. -
Brian Spaun, President & CEO of both Scymtek and Spaun Drums has this to say about their newest B20 bronze beauties – “Our Vintage Series is a great choice for those seeking lush dark tones with increased stick definition. They offer a perfect blend of both high-definition sticking with just the right amount of warm undertones. A great choice for jazz, funk, R&B, and studio.” The cymbals are unlathed, with aggressive hammering and a raw finish, which all work together seamlessly to create the dark, dry, articulate voice of the Vintage Series. Available sizes are- 20” Ride, 21” Ride, 22” Ride 13” Hi Hats, 14” Hi Hats -
Today Propellerhead announces the immediate availability of Thor for iPad. Reason's flagship synth makes a leap to the iOS platform and offers a custom mobile interface, expressive playing features and the same great sound as in Reason. Thor is a comprehensive synth app for the iPad. Designed for mobile music making, it features a responsive interface optimized for hands on control, an innovative keyboard and the same massive synthesis engine as its desktop cousin. It's the same semi-modular synth with the same set of selectable oscillator and filter types and the same advanced routing of audio and modulation. Aside from a regular piano style keyboard, Thor features a keyboard that can be locked to specific keys and scales, making it impossible to hit a wrong note. This is particularly useful on a mobile device when playing directly on the screen. More than just helping the player to stay in key, this musically aware keyboard is a source of endless inspiration and experimentation. Thor is a synth enthusiasts best friend, with six oscillator types and four filter types to choose from and virtually endless ways of routing and manipulating audio and modulation, this is a very powerful synth to bring on the road. It’s an ultra portable instrument for playing or a synth workshop for just having fun. Aside from the built-in keyboard, Thor can also be played via MIDI from an external keyboard or sequencer. With support for Audiobus, Thor’s audio can mixed in other music making apps on the same iPad. A Thor patch created on the iPad can be transferred to a computer for use in Reason. Instead of starting from scratch, a user can quickly load a patch from the built-in sound bank. Thor comes with more than 1000 expertly crafted patches from artists and sound designers such as Richard Devine, Vengeance, Kill the Noise and many more. Pricing and availability Thor is available in Apple's App Store now for $15.99 -
Positive Grid (www.positivegrid.com), the developers of JamUp Pro XT for iOS, announce a major update to its rockin’ Guitar/Bass iPad and iPhone Amp-Effect Processor. JamUp Pro XT 2.4 features the 12 Metal Signature Model Pack—a collaboration with three metal masters: guitarists Jeff Loomis (Nevermore), Ola Englund (Six Feet Under, Feared) and Keith Merrow—all are certified and carefully developed by both the artists and Positive Grid exclusively for JamUp Pro XT 2.4. Now you can rock Jeff, Ola and Keith’s six signature amp models and six signature guitar pedals—from ultra clean to trash metal; delay, chorus, four-band parametric EQ to distortion and overdrive—right in JamUp! Also included is a collection of their guitar tone preset settings, provided as starting points for your own tone-tweaking or playing along. In addition to the signature pack offerings, JamUp 2.4 also packs a host of extra onboard bells & whistles, adding new tackle to your mobile toolbox. Plus, the new update now offers the world’s the first and only in-app ToneSharing platform, allowing you to explore, share and download over 5,000 artists and users presets with our growing JamUp community. JamUp Pro XT retails for $19.99 and is available for download at the iTunes App Store. Metal Signature Pack ($9.99) and Bass Expansion Pack II ($9.99) are available as in-app purchase. -
Snowflake 2 contains leads, basses, pads, and fx, as well as complex time locked patches utilizing the deep modulation possibilities of Arctic Key's sequencer. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch (3rd generation), iPod touch (4th generation) and iPad. Requires iOS 5.0 or later. 64 Arctic Keys presets 1 .arcticbank file 100\% Royalty Free Includes Easy Installation Instructions -
Nady recently introduced a new addition to their line of portable PA systems—the handheld WLPA-35. This versatile loudspeaker/microphone unit is lightweight, easily portable, and ideal for numerous public address applications. The WLPA-35 includes a high-performance VHF wireless microphone, 35 watt amplifier and 5” speaker, and features bass/treble tone control and rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. The WLPA-35’s ergonomic design includes a carry handle and convenient shoulder strap which allow easy transport and portability. You can bring the WLPA-35 virtually anywhere with ease and rely on its clear, powerful audio to deliver your message effectively. The WLPA-35 is ruggedly constructed and perfect for use in the classroom, on the field, and at business meetings and other public gatherings. The WLPA-35 will be available July 2013.
-
Extreme players demand extreme tone! Introducing the new V-Pick EXTREME. Great for extended range guitars and bass. A lot of requests came in for the Psycho Shredder as thick as an Insanity. They laughed at first until they made a couple. This pick is SICK! This is the thickest, sharpest of the V-Pick line-up. -
The Isotope is a fixed wah. Many classic lead tones were recorded with a wah left in one position instead of being rocked back and forwards. This is commonly referred to as ‘fixed’ or ‘parked’ wah. This ‘Sweet Spot’ tone adds a special character to chords and lifts lead guitar solos right out of the mix. This sound has been used in some of the most famous recordings of all time by such great artists as Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Mark Knopfler, Mick Ronson, Michael Schenker and Marc Bolan to name just a few. The Isotope allows you to access those classic tones in a small, more convenient pedal! Unlike a traditional, large Wah Pedal where you have to move the pedal around to find the exact tone you are looking for when playing, the Isotope allows you to dial in the ‘Sweet Spot’ using the Sweep Control. You can then access this tone by simply turning the pedal on and off using the foot-switch.
