Latest News & Articles
New Sounds and Samples on Sample Saturday
These are the releases we have encountered this week on the Loops and Samples front. Just like the quality of the audio software we use these days the quality of the content we use (loops and samples) equally matches the high standards of this software. Below is this weeks selection.
Something for the weekend: Mind Control Synthesizer
Sometimes you think you have seen it all but then … there it is something amazing again. Well what is it then? Below is a video of Robert Schneider (Apples in stereo singer/producer), who is using the Teletron, a modified Mattel MindFlex toy that uses EEG sensors, to play a Moog analog synth with his thoughts. His MIND!!!
VMX Activ8 Midicontroller from Codanova – Video
CodaNova is known for their midicontrollers VMX Studio 1 and 2 and the VMX VJ. On their website they have now announced the VMX Active8 controller. A Multi Touch, Tactile, but above all, a Beer Proof controller. They have posted a teaser video which explains some questions but then again, a video that raises a lot of questions as well. Well just take a look!
Alphatron VSTi – New Synth from H.G. Fortune
Alphatron was inspired by the idea of creating a synthesizer for bass & high sequences which can serve as an
companion to Avatar ST synthesizer’s pads, athmos and soundscapes. Alphatron is not just a simple VA synthesizer instead in using a 3rd oscillator with digital waves of single cycle type it does offer a lot more variation.
SONiVOX VOCALIZER – Vocal Production Synthesizer
SONiVOX today offered a pre-release preview complete with MP3 and Video examples of the first instrument from their new NEMESYNTH Audio Research Group, VOCALIZER – Vocal Production Synthesizer.
Sugar Bytes complete guitar solution – Guitarist
Sugar Bytes have released the perfect Guitar emulation! With Amps, Effects and different guitars. And the guitar player is included as well, represented by a step sequencer system which makes it easy to create the most impressing riffs and licks on the fly! Guitarist comes as standalone and VST/AU plugin for mac and pc.
The BOSS Pedal Sketch app for iPhone is here – FREE!
BOSS Pedal Sketch app for iPhone is here! The easy-to-use applets you save the connection order and knob positions of your BOSS compact effect pedals. You can also import pertinent sounds and photos from your iPhone mic and camera as Memo data. BOSS Pedal Sketch is useful for recreating your pedal settings at live performances. Download free from the Apple App Store.
Dangerous Music Releases the Stereo BAX EQ
Dangerous Music announced today that it has begun shipping its new stereo ‘Dangerous BAX EQ‘ to international distributors and US dealers in quantities. The new one-rack space unit is ideal for use in mastering and as a final mix buss shelving EQ.
New Native Instruments Effects for your DAW
Native Instruments not only released serveral new instruments and updates today but they have also released new effects to be used in your DAW. Firstly they released Traktor’s 12, a collection of Traktor effects that now can be used outside of Traktor. And then there are Reflektor and Rammfire, two effects based on the Guitar Rig 4 Pro engine.
Native Instruments Updates and New Instruments
Today Native Instruments have released several new products and the long-awaited update for Reaktor. Next to version 5.5. of Reaktor they released a new reaktor instrument called Prism. For Kontakt Native Instrument have released Vintage Organs.
James Zabiela shares his thoughts on DJM-2000 – Video
In this brief chat he lets rip about all things 2000, including the brand new DJM-2000 and the CDJ-2000s. Hear how he now organises his music and utilises the incredible functionality and connectivity of the DJM-2000. He explains how he can connect up to four CDJs into the DJM-2000 so that no additional hub is needed and also plug his laptop straight in via USB to use Ableton, not forgetting the touch screen to control midi functions. How the DJ landscape is changing as he explains how his whole DJ set just fits on his key chain. He only carries two 2GB SD cards! James was originally involved this time last year with the seminal Dawn of a New Species campaign that launched the CDJ-2000s, which you can watch here on DJsounds.
Novation Launchpad Overview – Video
Jointly designed by Ableton and Novation, Launchpad places Ableton Live at your fingertips. Whether you’re a DJ, performing musician or studio producer, Launchpad gives you all you need to truly ‘play’ Live. Launchpad is ultra-portable. It is USB bus powered (no need for power sockets), and weights in at just 717gms (one third the weight of a macbook!). With a multi-colour 64-button grid and dedicated scene launch buttons, Launchpad is purpose built for triggering and manipulating clips in Live, it also offers a totally new way of controlling Ableton Live’s mixer.
Limited Colors for Korg Wavedrum and SP-170RD Piano
Korg announced two limited color editions of thier products. Now the Wavedrum is available in a limited edition black color with a solid black metallic rim and an exclusive BLACK SUEDE Remo drum head – projecting a different vibe than the aura of the original silver. Korg also announces the limited edition SP-170RD, a vibrant red color option for the SP-170 Digital Piano, further expanding the striking visual style of this popular model.
Loopmasters adds Deep and Soulful House to Mixtools Series
Recently, Loopmasters introduced the first three sample packs in the Mixtools series (check them out here). Today they introduced the new Deep and Soulful House edition of the Mixtools series. In-house Loopmasters producer ANDY LEE who is know internationally by his CENTRAL AVENUE alias is one of the UK’s foremost DEEP & SOULFUL HOUSE producers is proud to bring a selection of four brand new royalty free tracks which are broken down into progressive stems allowing you to mix, remix, loop and add that ultra-cool groove element to your set.
KORG intros new microKEY USB Powered Midi Keyboard
The microKEY features 37 velocity-sensing mini keys, using the same Natural Touch keybed found on the Korg microKORG XL Analog Modeling Synthesizer/Vocoder and microSTATION Music Workstation. This keybed has been designed with careful attention to the touch and feel. The proportions of the black keys and white “waterfall” keys have been adjusted for optimal playability, and the key touch makes it easy to play chords, glissandos, and rapid-fire phrases. The microKEY accurately conveys the dynamics of your performance to any software package.