Sound Technology Ltd is closed from 12 noon on Tuesday 24th December, reopening on Thursday 2nd January.
We'd like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year from everyone at Sound Technology.
Friday, 20 December 2013
Nord release Wurlitzer 2 Amped for Electro, Stage and Piano Series'
Welcome our latest addition to the Nord Piano Library! The new Wurlitzer 2 Amped was recorded through a custom built tube amp and some magical vintage outboard gear, and has a nice crunchy bite in the top as well as rougher barky personality.
Head on over to the Electric Piano section to download the new Wurly!
Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/nordkeyboards/wurlitzer-2-amped-demo
The Nord Piano Library is compatible with the Nord Stage, Nord Stage EX, Nord Stage 2, Nord Electro 3, Nord Electro 4, Nord Piano and Nord Piano 2.
Tuesday, 17 December 2013
Soundcraft Vi4 provides O2 Academy Bristol with digital monitor solution
The 1600 capacity O2 Academy Bristol has moved entirely into the digital sound domain, with the purchase of a new Soundcraft Vi4 from Adlib Audio as its dedicated monitor mixing desk.
The decision was taken to retire the long-serving Soundcraft MH3 40-channel analogue desk in the main room — and after reviewing the complete Vi Series, with intuitive Vistonics II™ interface, Technical Manager, Mickey Spillane, and Assistant Technical Manager, Matt Royston-Bishop, opted for the Vi4 for a number of reasons.
Principle among these was the fact that the latest 4.7 software update enable bi-directional show file compatibility with Vi6 and increases the Vi4 channel count from 72 to 96 channels to mix. With the same high quality preamps and sonic performance as the larger Vi6, the only difference between the two is the number of inout faders - 24 on the Vi4 and 32 on the Vi6.
According to Matt Royston-Bishop the reduced frame size, with one less fader bank than the Vi6, enables it to be ideally accommodated in Monitor World.
He added, “There are now so many people touring with IEM’s that we needed much more I/O capacity — mainly outputs, for the stereo in-ear as well as wedge mixes. The MH3 only had 12 auxes and we now have 32 so nothing is an issue. From an investment perspective all these factors are important, as the desk has to last a long time.”
On top of that, he says, the analogue console, with its associated outboard racks, was becoming less and less acceptable as maintenance costs rose.
One of several MH3’s owned by Academy Music Group (AMG), Matt says that they will retain their larger analogue desk for the odd rider that still states ‘no digital’.
A frequent user of the entire Vi range, the O2 Academy Bristol technician was well aware that this user-friendly platform makes it the easiest desk on the market for a sound engineer to familiarise himself with. “We were looking for something that would be that easy to use, as it’s important all our freelancers can walk up to it quickly. The Vi4 provides us with tremendous flexibility.
“It is also a great sounding desk — something that we noticed straight away on stage; it’s a lot cleaner when compared with the inserts on analogue desks, and both the Vi6 and Vi4 use the same output stage and high quality preamps.”
Acceptability is another important issue, he says, and the Vi6 and Vi4 are increasingly being listed on tour riders.
He believes the investment will be future-proofed by Soundcraft's continual development of the platform, the next update being the imminent v4.8 software release which enables all existing 32 mono busses to become stereo making it even more suitable for high count IEM systems. Along with that is the fact that mix engineers no longer have to edit their show file when stepping down to a Vi4.
And Adlib Audio sales manager Nick Turner adds, “Vi’s are becoming the console of choice. They operate on the same platform across all venues and having a desk that anyone can walk up to is what’s needed for tours that are going through the O2 Academy circuit. It’s a desk that anyone can use.”
Soundcraft mixing consoles, and all Harman Professional brands, are distributed in the UK and Ireland by Sound Technology. For more information please contact us on 01462480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/soundcraft
Further Links
Monday, 16 December 2013
Frameworks by Gator accessory line now shipping in the UK
Sound Technology Ltd is pleased to announce immediate UK availability of the new Frameworks by Gator brand of stands and accessories, suited to the MI, pro audio and AV markets.
For over a decade, Gator Cases has been providing top quality, heavy-duty case solutions for a vast array of music and audio related products. With the release of Gator’s new Frameworks line, the company breaks new ground with a full offering of high quality, innovative stands and support systems for Microphones, Speakers, Keyboards, Guitars, Sheet Music, and Tablet devices.
With the launch of this new series, it was important to Gator that Frameworks was not ‘just another stand company’. The Frameworks line was designed from the ground up with a sleek and modern look while also being compact and feature rich. Improving upon the current offering in the stand market was also a key factor of the release.
The initial Frameworks launch include over 50 stands and mounts across a broad spectrum of categories including Microphone, Speaker, Music, Guitar, LCD, Keyboard, and Tablet devices. The line will include the patent pending ID Series, featuring groundbreaking design and advanced ergonomics.
Frameworks Catalogue August 2013
For full information regarding the line please visit www.soundtech.co.uk/frameworks or call Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000. The Gator Frameworks catalogue can be downloaded here.
Ends
Friday, 13 December 2013
HARMAN Wins 2014 Technical GRAMMY® Award for Lexicon Audio Brand
Harman International announced today that its Lexicon® brand has won a Technical GRAMMY® Award, which is presented to individuals and companies that have made contributions of outstanding technical significance to the recording field.
The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences announced their Special Merit Awards earlier today. Recipients are determined by vote of The Academy's Producers & Engineers Wing Advisory Council and Chapter Committees, as well as The Academy's Trustees. This year’s Technical GRAMMY Award recognises Lexicon’s contributions to the art and science of music recording and reproduction through innovation and excellence in product design. The Lexicon brand is in rare company: the only other such award is being presented posthumously to Emile Berliner, who invented and patented the “Gramophone” sound recording device in 1887.
Dinesh C. Paliwal, HARMAN Chairman, President and CEO; Blake Augsburger, President - Professional Division; and Noel Larson, Market Manager - Recording, Broadcast, Portable PA and Tour, will accept the award during the 56th Annual GRAMMY weekend festivities in Los Angeles January 24-26, 2014.
“We are deeply honoured that yet another HARMAN brand has been recognised with a Technical GRAMMY Award,” said Paliwal. “Lexicon products have long been admired both by recording industry professionals and the discriminating audiences they serve, and we are proud to be the only audio systems company to have received this prestigious validation multiple times from the Recording Academy.”
Founded in 1971, Lexicon is one of the world's premier manufacturers of digital effects processing electronics and home theatre systems. The company was among the first to produce commercially-available digital reverb systems which is used by 80 percent of recording artists, and was also an early pioneer in the hard disk recording sector. Lexicon also markets premium amplifiers for luxury cars, home theatre and distributed audio applications, featuring the brand’s exclusive Logic 7® surround sound processing algorithm.
“Earning this GRAMMY is a testament to the remarkable passion that Harman puts into the science of recording and reproducing great sound,” said Augsburger. “I am very proud of the contribution that our Lexicon team has made in creating some of music’s most memorable impressions, and congratulate my colleagues on this milestone achievement.”
HARMAN is the only manufacturer to earn multiple Technical GRAMMY Awards. The Company’s AKG microphone and headphone brand was honoured in 2010 for its more than 60 years of contributions to the art and science of sound. The JBL brand earned a Technical GRAMMY in 2005 for its state-of-the-art advancements in music recording, loudspeakers, and audio systems integration expertise. HARMAN Professional audio systems are used in the studio and on the road by leading performing artists, and are installed in thousands of performance, sporting and commercial venues worldwide.
Lexicon is distributed in the UK & ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please visit www.soundtech.co.uk/lexicon or contact us on 01462 480000.
Wednesday, 11 December 2013
Richard Divine bank added to free Nord Lead 4 Program Library
Nord Keyboards are pleased to announce the addition of a new premium sound bank to the free Nord Lead 4 Program Library - a sensational set of Programs and Performances from legendary sound designer Richard Divine.
Richard Devine is somewhat of a super star in the sound design universe and we've been so lucky to have him have a go at the new Nord Lead 4.
Richard has created 50 Performances and 99 Single Programs and as a nice bonus even a drum bank with 25 drum sounds (perfect for using with the pattern feature and more).
Listen to his amazing demo song here and head over to the Nord Lead 4 Program Library to download the new sounds!
Soundcraft Vi1 for Epstein Theatre
Soundcraft became associated with the famous name of Brian Epstein, the Beatles’ legendary manager, when a Vi1 digital mixing desk was recently installed in the Liverpool Theatre that bears his name.
Ever since 1913 this landmark venue in Hanover Street — formally known as Cranes Music Hall, Cranes Theatre and most recently The Neptune Theatre — has provided live entertainment to the city’s residents.
Following a £1.2 million refurbishment — and rebrand as The Epstein Theatre — it has celebrated its centenary by commissioning a permanently installed sound reinforcement system, courtesy of locally-based installer/distributors Adlib Audio, who had previously been supplying on a long-term rental basis.
With the capacity to seat 410 on its two levels, and a new Soundcraft Vi1 at front-of-house, technical manager Tony Carter is delighted that audiences will now be treated to a consistent sonic experience.
“We had been hiring in from Adlib Audio and using desks like the Soundcraft Si Performer and Si Compacts — which I loved. But we needed to step up and have now purchased our own system,” he confirmed.
Tony was already familiar with the Vi1, having used it at various festivals. He discussed the idea with Adlib Audio MD, Andy Dockerty, who has worked closely with the theatre since the beginning, and the order was placed.
“I always knew the Vi1 was the right desk for us,” he says. “Because we present such a variety of performance — from tribute bands, comedy, serious theatre, kids events etc — the desk needed to be versatile and intuitive.”
Tony Carter recalls last Christmas panto season — featuring a Big Brother winner — when they used a giant analogue desk and wishing he had been able to programme the mutes as cues to excise some of the graphic language. “That was when we realised we needed to go digital to take us to the next stage.”
The Vi1 package enables 32 channels of analogue input to 27 analogue outputs, plus six digital inputs, four stereo FX returns and six digital outputs in a compact chassis. “This enables us to assign six channels of monitors from FOH, which is extremely easy to do,” continues Carter. “We’ve never needed a separate monitor desk.
“In addition, being able to store presets for different performances — such as the panto season — makes the job a lot easier. The desk is so intuitive and it’s easy to programme cues so there is a lot less to go wrong.”
Although Adlib Audio provided the Soundcraft solution — as well as a premium PA system — hands on training was scarcely needed. “We generally set a generic patch and then tweak it according to the event. With longer runs like panto we will use snapshots but with a one-off event we will mix on the fly. It’s an easy desk to walk up to.”
Finally, he states that the venue has never sounded so good. “It’s a 100 year old theatre — a nice acoustic building which is sonically now even better. The sound of the desk, is fantastic; the I/O count is more than adequate and we've not had a show yet in which the capacity has been stretched!
“As a result, we now have a little AV area in the stalls, including the lighting desk, which can double as a stage management position — and with the Vi1, it frees up about a third of the old analogue desk space required.”
In conclusion, he says, “I can’t speak highly enough of this desk and everyone who has used it says the same.”
And Adlib Audio sales manager, Nick Turner, who processed the sale, adds, “Customers also like Soundcraft for its reliability — which has been tried and tested over the years. It’s one of the most reliable desks we’ve got and the back-up we receive from Soundcraft and Sound Technology [the exclusive UK and Ireland Harman Professional distributors] is second to none. This, in turn, means that we can support [the desk] a lot easier.”
Soundcraft is distributed in the UK/ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/soundcraft and www.soundcraft.com
Related Links
Andy Theakstone joins Crush Drums artist family
Crush Drums and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd are pleased to announce Andy Theakstone (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly., Paolo Nutini) as the latest addition to the ever-growing Crush artist roster.
Photo credit - Peter Killingbeck
Andy Theakstone has played around the world as a session drummer since 2006 - most notably with Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly. Paolo Nutini, Liam Bailey, Amadou and Miriam and Py.
You can hear his playing on every Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly record since the debut album, ‘Chronicles of a Bohemian Teenager’ released on Atlantic records. His involvement in the Africa Express concerts, curated by Damon Albarn, has seen Andy perform with musicians from around the world including Baaba Maal, Amadou and Miriam and Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers).
Photo above: Andy Theakstone with the Crush Acrylic kit on stage at Glastonbury Festival 2013
Andy has toured extensively throughout UK, Europe and America as part of headline tours and has played on the main stages of Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds, T in The Park and Bestival festivals.
Aside from session drumming Andy is also an accomplished recording studio engineer and producer. He founded Unit Studios in 2006 which focuses on recording bands and developing singer songwriters along with sound design and composition for computer games.
Photo credit - Peter Killingbeck
Andy is currently using the Crush Limited Reserve Mahogany kit, Crush Acrylic kit and a 14" Crush Hand Hammered Copper snare.
Crush Drums are distributed in the UK and Eire by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/crush and www.crushdrum.com
Further Links
Tuesday, 10 December 2013
DigiTech Element and Element XP guitar multi-effects pedals now shipping
DigiTech and UK distributor Sound Technology Lts are pleased to announce immediate shipping of the latest DigiTech guitar multi-effects pedals, the DigiTech Element and Element XP.
The elements of perfect guitar tone start here. The new DigiTech Element and Element XP are two versatile guitar multi-effects pedals that offer hundreds of sounds, effects, amps and cabinets, drum machine and much more.
The DigiTech Element XP features an expression pedal and offers 38 effects, while the Element provides 34 effects. The Element XP and Element both deliver state-of-the-art effects processing with six classic overdrive and distortion stompboxes, 12 amps and cabinets and 28 pedals. The Element XP and Element both feature a pedalboard-style control layout that is simple to use and lets players quickly adjust and save their settings to fit their personal styles.
Photo above: DigiTech Element guitar multi-effects pedal
Photo above: DigiTech Element XP guitar multi-effects pedal
“Our new Element XP and Element multi-effects pedals bring an incredible array of classic and contemporary guitar sounds to players everywhere, at prices that offer outstanding value,” said Scott Klimt, marketing manager for DigiTech. “We spent a great deal of time and effort getting everything right, to give guitarists an affordable yet high quality guitar effects processor that is not just useful, but inspiring.”
Overdrive and distortion are elemental to every guitarist’s sonic arsenal, and the Element XP and Element offer stompboxes inspired by the legendary Ibanez® TS-9 Tube Screamer™, DOD® 250 Preamp/Overdrive, Boss® DS-1 Distortion, DigiTech Grunge, DigiTech Death Metal and Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi™. The amplifiers include many of the classics that defined the sound of rock and roll, like the ’57 Fender® Tweed Deluxe™, ’65 Fender “Blackface” Twin Reverb™, ’68 Marshall® Super Lead “Plexi” with slant Celestion® “Greenback” 4 x 12 cabinet, ’83 Marshall® JCM800™, ’63 Vox AC 30™ Top Boost with “Blue Back” speakers, ’01 Mesa/Boogie® Dual Rectifier™ and other all-time greats.
The Element XP and Element provide a dazzling array of effects: compressor, 3-band EQ, flanger, phaser, tremolo, vibrato, chorus, rotary simulator, envelope filter, step filter, spring reverb, room reverb, noise gate, an acoustic guitar simulator and many others. The Element XP adds four expression pedal-based effects including the Dunlop® Cry Baby™ wah wah, Vox® Clyde McCoy™ wah, a full-range wah and a volume pedal – even DigiTech’s dramatic Whammy™ pitch shift and YaYa™ and AutoYa™ wah effects.
Guitarists can choose from 100 factory presets that encompass a host of musical genres, and create and save 100 more custom preset sounds. 45 different drum tracks are available to jam and practice along with, and both models include a built-in tuner. The Element XP and Element feature a 1/4-inch guitar input and a 1/4-inch stereo output jack that can be connected to either an amplifier or a mixer for direct recording using the Amp/Mixer mode switch. The Element XP and Element have a dedicated headphone jack and an Aux input to jam along with favourite songs. Both pedals include a power supply so no batteries are needed.
The DigiTech Element and Element XP multi-effects pedals are available now at £69 and £89 RRP inc VAT respectively.
DigiTech is distributed in the UK/ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call 01462 48000, email info@soundtech.co.uk, or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/digitech
Ends
New Nord Piano Library and Stage 2 demo with Jim Watson
We recently met up with Jim Watson (Katie Melua, Manu Katché, and BBC Strictly Come Dancing Band) who was kind enough to record a series of demos of the Nord Piano Library on the Nord Stage 2 HA88. This second instalment features the Grand Upright piano.
The Nord Piano Library is a free library of expertly recorded pianos and electric pianos compatible with the Nord Stage 2, Nord Stage EX, Nord Electro 4, Nord Electro 3, Nord Piano and Nord Piano 2.
The Grand Upright offers a remarkably full and even sound. It has a rich, woody tone that gets a brilliant glassy bite when you lay some force into the keys.
This is a rather ambient piano that sings beautifully with the sustain pedal pressed down (thanks to its huge resonant body) that makes additional reverb somewhat unnecessary.
The audio in the video is recorded directly out of the Stage 2 with no external processing.
More Nord Piano Library info here:
http://www.nordkeyboards.com/main.asp?tm=Sound%20Libraries&cllibr=Nord_Piano_Library
Listen to more audio clips for the Piano LIbrary here: https://soundcloud.com/nordkeyboards/sets
With huge thanks to Jim Watson.
Crush Drums wins "Percussion Product of the Year 2013" at MIA Awards in conjunction with Rhythm Magazine
Crush Drums created quite a stir at the UK’s Music Industries Awards last week by winning “Percussion Product of the Year 2013” in conjunction with Rhythm Magazine. The Crush Sublime E3 maple kit beat off some of the biggest names in the drum world to win the coveted award - a clear indication of the public’s enthusiasm for Crush and recognition of its quality and value.
A company launched just 3 years ago, Crush Drums have arrived in the UK only recently. The Sublime E3 kit delivers the full and warm tones of much sought after vintage drums with the advantages of modern shell hardware design. Bearing edges and shell construction were carefully chosen for each individual drum. All shells are hand selected 100% North American Maple, which is known for its extremely warm tone.
This is what Rhythm magazine had to say when they reviewed the Sublime E3 kit in September:
"This review set has a beautiful shimmering orange/red wrap, shown to great effect on the deep bass drum with its colour matched rims. Once applied, the bearing edges are double cut to 45° on the toms and bass drum and a single, sharp 45° trim for the snare. The edges are then triple-sanded, resulting in possibly the smoothest surfaces of any drums I have reviewed - so smooth, a peach would seem rough in comparison".
You can read the full review at MusicRadar.com here:
http://www.musicradar.com/reviews/drums/crush-sublime-e3-kit-585756
The Crush Sublime E3 Drum Kit is available in the UK now priced at just £1049 RRP inc VAT for the 4-piece kit with 22” kick configuration.
Crush Drums are distributed in the UK and Eire by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/crush and www.crushdrum.com
Nord releases new software update for Nord Lead 4
OS v1.22 now available - includes bug fixes as well as adding a number of new features.
Nord are please to announce a software update for the Nord Lead 4 performance synthesiser. The OS v1.22 is an important update that both fixes some bugs in the Nord Lead 4 as well as adding a number of new features, including:
- Performances are now organised in 2 Banks, A and B with 50 slots in each.
- When the Ladder M filter is selected, the filter and amp envelopes is switched into a more vintage like mode.
- Nord Sound Manager Program Bundles are now supported - requires Nord Sound Manager 6.34 or newer.
For complete details of all changes in v1.22, see the Nord Lead 4 Update History page.
The update is recommended for all users and can be downloaded in the Download section on the Nord website.
About the Nord Lead 4
The Nord Lead 4 is a 4-part multi-timbral synthesiser sporting a brand new 2-oscillator virtual analogue sound engine with 2x oversampling. In addition to the classic analogue waveforms there’s a Wavetable mode with unique new Formant Wavetables. Frequency Modulation and Hard/Soft sync options are available for mutilating your sound further and the True Voice Unison mode can stack up to four oscillators per voice for really thick, beefy leads and pads. The filter section boasts Low Pass (12/24dB), High Pass, and Band Pass filters and also stunning new simulations of two transistor and diode ladder filters capturing the squeaky, dirty character of the originals. A dedicated filter overdrive can distort your sound before it passes through the effect section.
The new 'Impulse Morph' buttons let you override multiple parameters of the synthesiser, instantaneously. Ever wanted to change LFO speed, Modulation routings and reverb amount - all at once, in the middle of a sound? With the Nord Lead 4 you can! With 7 assignable Impulse Morphs per program Nord Lead 4 gives you creative freedom to warp and improvise your sound live, both rhythmically and sonically and thanks to the Master Clock Synchronisation, it can be done in perfect sync to other layers or an external MIDI Clock.
Wednesday, 4 December 2013
TesseracT choose AKG for in-ear monitoring system
2013 has been a year to remember for progressive metal band TesseracT. Following the release of their second album 'Altered State' (recently voted by critics as the No.2 album of the year in PROG magazine), they have toured North America with Katatonia, Cult of Luna and Intronaut, then headlined their own tour of the US, Canada and Mexico. Upon their return to the UK they were main support for Karnivool on their UK tour. Prior to this touring cycle the band, in conjunction with AKG UK distributor Sound Technology, designed an AKG IVM4500 in-ear monitoring system with full HiQnet network remote control and monitoring.
Before setting off on a tour of Europe with Protest The Hero and The Safety Fire, the boys also found the time to record a live session at the legendary BBC Maida Vale studios for the BBC Radio One Rock Show - a perfect time to catch up with bass player Amos Williams, to find out how they have implemented the AKG IVM4500 in-ear system and what it has brought to their live set.
TesseracT recording their Radio One live session at BBC Maida Vale Studios (photo credit - Kristell Gathoye)
Looking back on the past five months Amos says, "TesseracT have gone through a bit of a metamorphosis over the last cycle of touring. We've gone from a band struggling to replicate the studio recordings in a live scenario, to a band that is not only able to equal the quality and production level of our studio recordings on stage, but also improve upon these. We put this largely down to the new In-Ear Monitoring system that we designed with AKG and Sound Technology".
AKG IVM4500 in-ear monitoring system rack-mounted components (photo credit - Kristell Gathoye)
He continues, "This system not only allows us to eliminate any stage noise, thus giving our FOH engineer, Aidan O'Brien a level playing ground when reinforcing our sound at gigs, but has had the added bonus of improving our level of playing. We can literally hear every little defect and bum note, as well as details in the tracks we had forgotten about from the studio production. It's like we can now deliver as close to the album production as possible, almost like the audience is in the studio with us, but with the added energy, atmosphere and euphoria of a live show.".
TesseracT at BBC Maida Vale studios - note the AKG IVM4500 rack behind Guitarist, Acle Kahney (photo credit - Kristell Gathoye)
AKG is distributed in the UK & ROI by Sound Technology Ltd, contact us on 01462 480000 or visit http://www.soundtech.co.uk/akg
Further Links
Wednesday, 27 November 2013
First look at SSL Matrix 2 in the UK at Music Production Show London this week
Solid State Logic and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd will present the new SSL Matrix 2 for the first time in the UK at this week's Music Production Show in London (Sound Technology Ltd Stand number 38). Don’t miss the chance to get hands on with Matrix 2 - and the new SSL Sigma Remote Controlled Analogue Mix Engine - at the show which takes place at Emirate Stadium on Friday 29th November and Saturday 30th November.
Photo above: SSL Matrix 2 (click for hi-res)
Since its 2008 launch the SSL Matrix console has established a high profile clientele who value its unique capabilities as a genuinely hybrid production platform. Its combination of SSL analogue summing, streamlined integration of boutique analogue outboard mic pre's & processing (via its software controlled analogue patch system) and advanced DAW control surface, provides production power and flexibility like no other console. This new version of the Matrix takes feedback from customers and provides a collection of powerful new features.
One of the unique and much praised features of Matrix has always been the integrated software controlled patching of analogue channel inserts and this has been significantly upgraded in Matrix2. Hardware device inserts can now be loaded directly from the console hardware controls (previously this was done only via the remote browser software) with an intuitive new interface that facilitates loading individual processors, A/B comparison of different processors and building processor chains. The Matrix remote browser software has also been re-designed to provide a new ‘drag and drop’ style interface for loading processors and building chains.
The A-FADA (Analogue Fader Accesses DAW Automation) summing system used in Duality, AWS and the new SSL Sigma rack has been introduced to enable the analogue faders of Matrix2 to be driven by automation data from your DAW. A-FADA enables channel automation to be performed entirely in the analogue signal path but with the advantages of DAW automation data editing. The addition of A-FADA to Matrix2 facilitates project portability between different SSL products.
A powerful 'Fader Linking' system has been added to the console which allows two or more faders to be grouped, to facilitate stereo or 5.1 channel control or subgroup style mixing. And the previously optional 5.1 output card will now be included as standard pre-fitted in all units.
A collection of smaller new features have also been added including; 'partial TR setup save & import' which allows selected parts of the console setup to be saved and imported as setup templates, new Preset insert matrix 'scenes', Preset insert naming tools, "automatic dB readout" for Pro Tools users (allowing the scribble strip to automatically display fader values upon touch), modifier key 'press and hold' functionality for Cubase/Nuendo users and new DAW templates for Presonus Studio One and Ableton Live!
Matrix 2 will ship in Dec 2013.
All of these new features (excluding the 5.1 output card) will be available to existing customers as a free upgrade.
SSL is distributed in the UK by Sound Technology Ltd. Please call 01462 480000 for more information.
Find out more and buy tickets for the Music Production Show here.
Thursday, 21 November 2013
Washburn Parallaxe series guitars now shipping
Washburn Guitars and Sound Technology Ltd are proud to announce immediate shipping of the new Washburn Parallaxe series of electric guitars.
Utilising 130 years of guitar building experience, Washburn have created their most advanced rock and metal guitars yet. The Washburn Parallaxe series of electric guitars include, as standard, the most player-requested features in a guitar, forgoing the need for any after-market modifications.
Washburn Parallaxe guitars are designed specifically to meet the demands of the modern guitar player. No corners have been cut and no compromises have been made in design or features.
Washburn Parallaxe PXM10FRQTBLM
The Washburn Parallaxe line consists of three different body shapes currently totalling 16 different models. The PXM and PXS Series are both double-cutaway guitars. The PXL Series has a single-cutaway design.
Washburn Parallaxe PXS10FRDLWB
Every Washburn Parallaxe guitar is loaded with an arsenal of unique features for exceptional stage and studio performance. Washburn Parallaxe features include a Stephen’s Extended Cutaway (on PXM and PXS models) or full access set neck joint (on PXL models), Original Floyd Rose bridge, tremolo spring silencers, over-sized 36mm brass tremolo block, Grover 18:1 locking tuners, Seymour Duncan or EMG USA pickups, series/parallel switching (on Seymour Duncan's), the Buzz Feiten Tuning System, super jumbo frets, and full contact Babicz bridge (on PXL20 models).
Washburn Parallaxe PXL20EB
The Washburn Parallaxe series are shipping now starting at £559 RRP inc VAT. To view or download the Parallaxe brochure please click here.
Washburn is distributed in the UK by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please visit http://www.washburn.com/parallaxe or www.soundtech.co.uk/washburn or call 01462 480000.
New Nord Stage 2 video demo by Jim Watson (Katie Melua, Manu Katché, and BBC Strictly Come Dancing Band)
We met up with Jim Watson (Katie Melua, Manu Katché, and BBC Strictly Come Dancing Band) who was kind enough to record a demo with the new Italian Grand piano from the Nord Piano Library on the Nord Stage 2 HA88.
The Nord Piano Library is a free library of expertly recorded pianos and electric pianos compatible with the Nord Stage 2, Nord Stage EX, Nord Electro 4, Nord Electro 3, Nord Piano and Nord Piano 2.
The Italian Grand is the latest grand piano to be added to the library. It's a medium sized Grand Piano brimful with character. It can be described as slightly ambient, brilliant and boasts an amazing dynamic range.
The audio in the video is recorded directly out of the Stage 2 with no external processing.
More Nord Piano Library info here: http://www.nordkeyboards.com/main.asptm=Sound%20Libraries&cllibr=Nord_Piano_Library
Listen to more audio clips for the Piano LIbrary here: https://soundcloud.com/nordkeyboards/sets
With huge thanks to Jim Watson.
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
Crush drum kits now shipping
Crush Drums and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd are pleased to announce immediate shipping of Chameleon Ash, Sublime Maple E3, Limited Reserve Mahogany, Limited Reserve Wenge and Limited Reserve Birch kits.
Already proving most popular with retailers is the Chameleon Ash kit, with the majority of the first shipment of these kits being pre-sold. The 5-piece kit, available in gorgeously finished satin Trans Red, Trans Blue, Trans Green, Trans Black and Trans Orange, is priced at just £929 RRP inc VAT.
The Sublime Maple E3 kit is the newest kit in the Crush product line, reviewed recently in both Rhythm and iDrum magazines. This kit combines the best features from Crush's previously acclaimed Sublime Maple and Sublime Maple Tour series to create the ultimate maple drumset.
The Crush Limited Reserve kits are available in strictly limited numbers, featuring stunning natural satin finishes and complimentary satin finished drum hardware. These three kits are the flagship of the Crush product line.
A list of UK retailers is now published here - please call them for availability.
Crush Drums are distributed in the UK and ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information on Crush visit www.crushdrum.com, or connect with us at facebook.com/crushdrumsuk and twitter.com/crushdrumsuk.
Larrivée featured twice in Acoustic Class of 2013
The new issue of Acoustic magazine includes a feature on the 'The Greatest Gear of 2013". Two Larrivée Guitars are included - the Larrivée OM-02E and the Larrivée 000-03E Vintage.
"Their can be little doubt that the OM-02E is a spectacularly good guitar for the money. Finding such immaculate, all-solid construction and shimmering, detailed tones for under a grand is not an easy thing to do, but Larrivée has managed it. This guitar is deliriously close to perfection. The OM-02E remains a stellar instrument and one that fingerstyle players in particular absolutely must try out. You won't regret it".
"The Larrivée 000-03E is, quite simply, one hell of a guitar. If you've even the slightest leaning towards vintage-inspired six stringers the combination of that spectacular finish, retro tuners and rootsy parlour body will be nigh on impossible to resist. The selling point here is the the sheer quality of the construction,and the masterful way in which the concept of a vintage-themed showstopper has been realised to absolute perfection".
The full round-up can be found in the latest issue of Acoustic magazine (December, Issue 86) on sale now. The Larrivée OM-02E and 000-03E Vintage are also available now at £999 and £1899 RRP inc VAT respectively.
Further Links
Tuesday, 19 November 2013
Sandown Park converts to BSS Soundweb London
RaceTech extends racecourse upgrade to superior digital platform
A little over a decade ago, RaceTech’s Head of Audio Engineering, Robin Dibble, systematically started placing the UK’s racecourses onto a BSS Soundweb digital audio network. However, with the improvement of algorithms, sampling rates and processing speed, the trusty old Soundweb SW9088’s, affectionately-known as the ‘Green’ boxes, slowly made way for a sleeker, supercharged series, with greater I/O flexibility, known as Soundweb London. The most recent high profile racecourse to benefit has been Sandown Park.
Photo above: Sandown Park, now equipped with a BSS Soundweb London audio network
“We had already quoted for the upgrade back in 2010, when we knew the ‘Green’ boxes were going to become obsolete, but we were only recently given the go-ahead to proceed,” said Dibble.
From the installer’s point of view it offers a number of advantages, he says. “Soundweb London devices provide increased processing power and more flexibility. They are easier to use and have better EQ. From the client’s point of view they run over Crestron touch screens which makes it much easier than the old system.”
In a straight swap-out, Robin Dibble has specified four fixed-format BLU-100’s, offering 12 inputs and 8 outputs. These are used with a BLU-120 and BLU-BOB break-out, which provides an additional eight outputs. This gives the facility a matrix capacity of 48 inputs and 48 outputs.
Photo above: BSS BLU-100 network audio processor
Sandown will depend heavily on that hub as they operate a thriving multi-purpose venue. Aside from the paging system and race day sound coverage they also host conferences, corporate entertainment, exhibitions and other events (including wedding receptions).
Photo above: Multi-purpose space at Sandown Park
Robin Dibble confirms that all the premier racecourses (where the BSS DSP solution was fitted) have now been converted to the Soundweb London backbone.
BSS Audio is distributed in the UK/ROI by Sound Technology Ltd.
Monday, 18 November 2013
Soundcraft introduces ViSi Remote 2.0
HARMAN’s Soundcraft is announcing Version 2.0 of its tremendously successful ViSi Remote iPad app, which allows remote control of Soundcraft Vi, Si Compact, Si Performer and Si Expression mixing consoles wirelessly from an iPad device. ViSi Remote 2.0 requires no additional hardware other than a wireless access router connected to the HARMAN HiQnet® Ethernet port of the console. With ViSi Remote 2.0, engineers are free to roam the venue and adjust mixes and other audio parameters directly from an iPad.
With 2.0 comes the ability for Si Compact, Performer and Expression users to adjust channel strip settings per channel including settings such as Gate, Compressor and EQ along with Pan, LR/Mono routing and phase invert switches. This functionality will be added to Vi consoles in a future update.
Soundcraft ViSi Remote 2.0 provides a variety of benefits for engineers including: optimize the front of house mix from anywhere in the room; adjust monitor levels while standing next to the artist; adjust channel strip settings remote from the console; extend the fader count of an existing control surface; use in standalone mode for familiarization with console functions; control a network of consoles (e.g. FOH and Monitor); provide a separate surface for DMX functionality (Si Performer only); and allow multiple users on the same console to control their own mixes.
App Store, Apple, iPad and iTunes are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.K. and other countries.
Software updates for Soundcraft Si Compact and Si Expression/Performer
Si Compact V3.0 software and Si Expression/Si Performer V1.5 software are now available for download.
Version 3.0 of Si Compact software provides several upgraded features including: six (6) stereo busses, stereo matrices, pre/post selection per channel per bus, and fully customisable fader layers. Version 3.0 also brings full show compatibility with Si Expression and Si Performer shows.*
Version 1.5 of Si Expression and Si Performer software includes software improvements and support for the upcoming release of V2.0 of the ViSi remote app. Si Compact V3.0 also includes support for ViSi V2.0.
All console software updates are accessed from the appropriate product page of the Soundcraft web site: www.soundcraft.com. To access the software downloads, go to www.soundcraft.com/downloads/software.aspx and select the appropriate console.
* Old Si Compact shows created on version 2.3 and earlier will not be compatible with version 3.0.
Dante Interfacing for Soundcraft Si Series Consoles
The Soundcraft® Dante™ option card is now available for Si Compact, Si Performer and Si Expression Series consoles. The card provides a 64 x 64 interface to any Dante compatible device from Harman or other 3rd party manufacturer.
Dante provides a digital audio network that uses standard Internet Protocols over both 100Mbps and 1 Gigabit Ethernet. Dante uses audio independent, high accuracy network synchronization standards to ensure all Dante devices are synchronized at all times. Dante runs on inexpensive off the shelf computer networking hardware, and does not require dedicated network infrastructure.
The Audinate® Dante Virtual Soundcard software allows connection of a PC/Mac to a Dante audio network. This system allows the computer to record from and playback to the Dante network using most common DAW packages. Dante Virtual Soundcard uses the Ethernet port on the computer to communicate with the Dante network; all that is required is the installation of the Dante Virtual Soundcard software.
Additional information about the Dante system including the latest software set-up and tools may be found on the Audinate® web site http://www.audinate.com/.
New Soundcraft® Multi Digital card now available for Si Compact, Performer and Expression Consoles
With the Soundcraft® Multi Digital card installed in a console, live recording couldn't be simpler! Standard mic/line input sources can be recorded through an Si Compact, Performer or Expression Console via the multi-digital card to a DAW or similar. This simple yet powerful solution is suitable for recording live gigs but is equally at home in the studio.
The Multi Digital card offers digital audio connection between an Si Series* console and Apple® Mac® enabled with Firewire (1394), or PC enabled with USB or Firewire. Audio capability across the Firewire or USB link is 32 channels in and 32 channels out at 48KHz. In addition to the Firewire/USB ports, the Multi Digital card provides 8 further channels of ADAT in and out at 48KHz. These additional channels expand the connectivity further for functions such as input or output expansion with any ADAT-compatible I/O device.
Connection and setup of the card to a PC is made simple with the use of the Soundcraft digital audio driver and associated control panel which can be downloaded from the Si Expression webpage at http://www.soundcraft.com/products/product.aspx?pid=191.
Firewire connection to a Mac requires no software or drivers.
*excluding Si1,2,3 or '+' plus variants
JBL Professional Introduces 9320 Large-Format Cinema Surround Loudspeaker
HARMAN’s JBL Professional today announced the introduction of its 9320 Cinema Surround loudspeaker, a large-format loudspeaker designed for high power handling, extended bass response and wide dynamic range in professional cinema applications. The 2-way JBL 9320 features a 12-inch MB12-8 low-frequency driver and 2408H-1 high-frequency compression driver. The large JBL Progressive Transition™ rotatable waveguide ensures superior 120 x 60 degree coverage and smooth frequency response with the loudspeaker mounted horizontally or vertically.
“The JBL 9320 is ideal for cinemas, auditoriums, and venues where higher volume and a larger coverage area is needed from the surround loudspeakers, especially in a multichannel system,” said Chuck Goodsell, Senior Manager, Cinema, JBL Professional. “The 9320 delivers clear, powerful and articulate sound, to create an immersive movie theater listening experience. “
The high-excursion, heavy-duty MB12-8 low-frequency driver provides high power-handling capability and bass extension. The proven, industry-standard 2408H-1 high-frequency compression driver delivers exceptional clarity and resolution and is mated with JBL’s Progressive Transition Waveguide, which provides constant beamwidth and directivity across a 120-degree horizontal/ 60-degree vertical coverage pattern, along with smoother frequency response and a more seamless blend with the woofer. The waveguide is rotatable, enabling the 9320 to be used a vertical or horizontal mounting position.
The JBL 9320 enclosure is fitted with M10 threaded mounting points on the top and on the sides to facilitate U-bracket mounting. In addition, four M10 mounting points are located at the rear, arranged in a standard pattern to accept a variety of multi-mount brackets. The speaker terminals are located on top of the cabinet for easy access. The 9320’s enclosure is constructed of multi-ply birch coated with JBL’s rugged DuraFlex™ finish and is heavily braced to maximize low-frequency performance. A steel grille protects the drivers and gives the 9320 an understated, professional appearance.
Soundcraft Vi1 Speeds Up Training Times for Royal Holloway University of London
The Student Union at the Royal Holloway University of London host a variety of events at a multifunctional venue, which include live music, clubs, conferences, theaters, trade shows, etc. Its technical crew is responsible for approximately 10 different productions a week, and recently purchased a HARMAN Soundcraft Vi1 in order to train more students in front of house (FOH) audio mixing.
Photo above: Soundcraft Vi1 at Royal Holloway University of London
“I purchased a different brand of digital console 18 months ago for our FOH training. My staff here consists of students and it was taking them quite a while to learn on that console, so we started looking at the Soundcraft Vi Series for a replacement. After working with the Vi1 I knew instantly that the user interface was far more straightforward and more intuitive for the crew to learn,” said Karl Travers, Technical Manager of the Students Union, who purchased the console through UK-based Arc Sound.
The highly praised Vi1’s UI became popular due to its widescreen Vistonics™ interface, which retains the same ‘walk-up’ user-friendliness of the other Vi consoles. It displays all parameters for 16 channels side by side, on a single 22-inch Vistonics touchscreen. Also, the Vi1 includes built-in Lexicon effects as well as GEQ’s on all output busses, eliminating even more hassles such as additional sound equipment.
“I’ve found that the console UI is very user-friendly with a short learning curve, which has enabled me to get my staff trained in a short amount of time. This in turn leads to quick and confident operation during shows,” said Travers.
The Soundcraft Vi Series is the ultimate console for people who need a fast setup and an easy-to-use experience. It is the perfect solution for running shows with multiple acts or back-to-back events such as those that Travers is responsible for.
“In the last few weeks we’ve done about seven club nights, a few bands, live PA acts with MC’s and several conferences. So far, the Vi1 has performed extremely well, and the user-definable pages make setup for different shows very easy. On top of that, its gain structure is sweet and requires little work to achieve the desired results,” Travers added.
Soundcraft is distributed in the UK by Sound Technology Ltd.
HARMAN's dbx® introduces DriveRack PA 2 Loudspeaker Management System
HARMAN’s dbx today announced the introduction of its DriveRack® PA2 Loudspeaker Management System, which enables a loudspeaker system to be quickly and accurately optimized for the best-possible sound quality. The PA2 is ideal for bands, musicians and artists who carry their own PA and for a wide range of installed sound applications.
Photo above: dbx DriveRack PA2 loudspeaker management speaker (click for hi-res)
The Original DriveRack PA revolutionized audio for bands all around the world by providing all of the processing you needed between your mixer and amplifiers to optimize and protect your loudspeakers. The DriveRack takes this to a whole new level. A brand new Wizard allows for faster and easier set-up, new AutoEQ and AFS give you professional touring quality room EQ and incredibly accurate Advanced Feedback Suppression (AFS™), and finally all can now be controlled on the fly with your mobile device or laptop using Ethernet control via an Android®, iOS®, Mac®, or Windows® device. The DriveRack PA2 continues the DriveRack legacy of great-sounding, powerful, and affordable loudspeaker management processors for a whole new generation.
The DriveRack PA2 can be set up and operated from a compatible tablet or smartphone. An all-new Wizard utility makes setup easier and faster than ever, and users have access to a host of configuration menus and on their mobile device, with full-color graphical displays that give ready visual indications of the parameters being adjusted. The DriveRack PA2 can also be operated via its front-panel controls and display.
The DriveRack PA2 provides a comprehensive suite of system tuning and optimization tools. Its improved AutoEQ™ enables automatic and precise equalization of the loudspeakers to the venue in which they’re installed to achieve smoother, more accurate in-room frequency response. A new AFS™ Advanced Feedback Suppression feature automatically finds and dials out any problematic feedback-producing frequencies.
The PA2 offers numerous additional system-tuning and sonic optimization capabilities, including dbx compression, graphic and 8-band parametric EQ, dbx’s exclusive Subharmonic Synthesis for enhanced low-frequency response, a built-in loudspeaker crossover (for full-range, 2-way and 3-way systems), limiting, loudspeaker time alignment and time delay and many additional features.
“Setting up a PA can be challenging even under the best of circumstances, and with the introduction of the DriveRack PA2, local musicians, weekend warriors, semi-pro players, wedding bands and even established artists and venues now have a remarkably effective tool for getting better live sound than ever before,” said Noel Larson, Market Manager, Portable PA, Tour, and Recording at HARMAN Signal Processing.
The dbx DriveRack PA2 will be available in December 2013 at a suggested RRP of £549 inc VAT.
Friday, 15 November 2013
Rhythm Recommends - Crush Drums Acrylic kit
"A beautiful kit with an incredible sound to match - and all at a suprisingly wallet-friendly price".
The Crush Drums Acrylic drum set is built with high quality seamless shells and is the most affordable of its kind on the market. It is reviewed in the latest issue of Rhythm magazine where it receives the magazine's 'Recommends' award.
"On unpacking we can see that these are gorgeous drums...bearing edges are double 45º, and closer inspection shows that these are crafted with pinpoint precision".
"What first strikes us about the Crush kit is its simple beauty. The shells are seamless and crystal clear, and the hardware is sympathetic to the overall aesthetic".
"On putting stick to head, the kit's quality becomes abundantly clear. First off, the rack toms ring out a sweet ping, but they are also capable of incredible depth to their tone. Rolls between the 10" and 12" racks are beautifully articulated and with minimal tuning you really can make these drums sing".
The full review can be found in the latest issue of Rhythm magazine (Issue 223, December 2013) on sale now. The Crush Drums Acrylic kit will be available from December at £949 RRP inc VAT.
Further Links
Nord Lead 4 review in Future Music magazine
"...the Nord Lead 4 is inspiring to play and is very much a player's instrument - it draws you into its world without you noticing and that alone speaks volumes".
With innovative new performance features, advanced layering and synchronisation possibilities, new filter types and on-board effects, the Nord Lead 4 is a synthesiser dream come true. It is reviewed in this month's Future Music magazine where it receives a 9 out of 10 overall rating.
"...the Nord Lead 4 is a raw yet polished-sounding synth, with plenty of sound and feature enhancements. The new filter types and Impulse Morphing are especially notable (along with the versatile new effects)..."
"It's certainly one of the nicest VAs around and gets very close to real analogue. It will appeal to those looking for a synth that can do authentic analogue emulation (both for live and in the studio), yet it can go way beyond into futuristic digital sonic mayhem and back in a snap with the ingenious new morphing implementation".
"The legend continues with their best Lead yet".
The full review can be found in the latest issue of Future Music magazine (Issue 272, November 2013) on sale now. The Nord Lead 4 is also available now at £1549 RRP inc VAT. A rack version, the Nord Lead 4R, is also available at £1349 RRP inc VAT.
Further Links
Monday, 11 November 2013
SSL Sigma product tour video
A short tour of Sigma, the Remote Controlled Analogue Summing System from SSL. Covers what it is, how it can help bring sonic depth and tone to your mixes and how it fits into your studio workflow.
Friday, 8 November 2013
Sound Technology to exhibit at The Music Show
Sound Technology will be exhibiting at The Music Show held at Manchester Central on the 15th and 16th of November 2013.
The Music Show is a brand new national exhibition that aims to promote the benefits of music making and showcase the latest products and services to musicians, educators and industry professionals. Sound Technology will be on hand to demonstrate the latest products from Nord Keyboards and Propellerhead Software.
Propellerhead Reason 7 is one of the leading software applications for music education. In the classroom, Reason has many distinct advantages over other music software programs, allowing students to focus on music creation and production, not system maintenance and software incompatibilities. Students can freely experiment and find solutions to audio problems while maintaining creative flow during music production, invariably spending more time on their projects and assignments.
Reason's studio simulation metaphor allows students to configure (and reconfigure) a complete sound studio, selecting and wiring audio processors and generators while the large format console model provides a rare chance for students to prep for work in large, professional studios.
The Nord Stage 2 HA88 is the flagship keyboard in the Nord product range and will also be available to try out at the show. The Nord Stage 2 HA88 has Nord Sample Library-compatibility, the B3 and transistor organ engine from the popular Nord C2 Organ and MIDI over USB, all in an amazingly user friendly interface where all vital features are only button away.
Sound Technology will be exhibiting from stand number D4. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit: www.music-show.co.uk
Further Links
Sound Technology to exhibit at the Music Production Show
Sound Technology will be exhibiting at The Music Production Show held at The Emirates Stadium on the 29-30 November 2013. On show will be the latest products from Sound Technology brands - Nord, Propellerhead & SSL.
Solid State Logic's Nathan Hernando will be on-hand to demonstrate the new SSL Sigma, a remote controlled analogue summing engine, the SSL Nucleus and the latest Alpha-Link MX I/O.
SSL Sigma (click for hi-res version)
The stand will also feature the Nord Stage 2 HA88, the flagship of the Nord product range, and the new Nord Lead 4, an award-winning performance synthesiser.
Nord Lead 4 (click for hi-res version)
The Music Production show is also the perfect opportunity to try Propellerhead Reason 7 first hand. To coincide with its presence at the show James Wiltshire, one half of the UK production and remix duo The Freemasons, will be holding a Reason masterclass in Seminar Hall 2 on the Saturday at 3pm. His talk , 'Parallel processing secrets in Reason 7', will cover parallel compression, EQ and even distortion using a completed Freemasons track for demonstration.
Sound Technology will be exhibiting on stand number 38. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit: http://www.musicproductionshow.co.uk/
Further Links
Thursday, 7 November 2013
Larrivée Guitars at the Acoustic Avalon acoustic guitar exhibition this weekend
Sound Technology will be exhibiting Larrivée Guitars at the Sheehan's Acoustic Avalon acoustic guitar exhibition at Leicester Racecourse this weekend 9-10 November 2013.
Photo above: A Larrivée OM-03E Vintage - one of the guitars appearing at the Sheehan's Acoustic Avalon exhibition this weekend.
An annual event run by Sheehan's of Leicester, Acoustic Avalon provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to see, play and buy a huge selection of the world's best acoustic guitars. The show attracts visitors from all corners of the UK and beyond. Now in its 20th year, the show has become a landmark event in the acoustic guitar world, regularly featuring world class artists as well as world class instruments.
Larrivée models on display include the best-selling all-solid 02 Series at £899 RRP inc VAT, the brand new Larrivée D-40 dreadnought with Jean's new bracing pattern that delivers vintage tone and volume combined with exceptional clarity, the simply gorgeous (looks and sound!) 03 Vintage Series, and the limited edition -03 Series upgraded to Solid Walnut back and sides at no extra cost.
Drew Elliot of Spycatcher and Dirty Leaves will be demonstrating the guitars on the stand, together with DigiTech JamMan looper and Vocalist Live vocal harmony pedals.
Wednesday, 6 November 2013
Soundcraft Vi1 speeds up training times for Royal Holloway University of London
The Student Union at the Royal Holloway University of London host a variety of events at a multifunctional venue, which include live music, clubs, conferences, theaters, trade shows, etc. Its technical crew is responsible for approximately 10 different productions a week, and recently purchased a HARMAN Soundcraft Vi1 in order to train more students in front of house (FOH) audio mixing.
“I purchased a different brand of digital console 18 months ago for our FOH training. My staff here consists of students and it was taking them quite a while to learn on that console, so we started looking at the Soundcraft Vi Series for a replacement. After working with the Vi1 I knew instantly that the user interface was far more straightforward and more intuitive for the crew to learn,” said Karl Travers, Technical Manager of the Students Union, who purchased the console through UK-based Arc Sound.
The highly praised Vi1’s UI became popular due to its widescreen Vistonics™ interface, which retains the same ‘walk-up’ user-friendliness of the other Vi consoles. It displays all parameters for 16 channels side by side, on a single 22-inch Vistonics touchscreen. Also, the Vi1 includes built-in Lexicon effects as well as GEQ’s on all output busses, eliminating even more hassles such as additional sound equipment.
“I’ve found that the console UI is very user-friendly with a short learning curve, which has enabled me to get my staff trained in a short amount of time. This in turn leads to quick and confident operation during shows,” said Travers.
The Soundcraft Vi Series is the ultimate console for people who need a fast setup and an easy-to-use experience. It is the perfect solution for running shows with multiple acts or back-to-back events such as those that Travers is responsible for.
“In the last few weeks we’ve done about seven club nights, a few bands, live PA acts with MC’s and several conferences. So far, the Vi1 has performed extremely well, and the user-definable pages make setup for different shows very easy. On top of that, its gain structure is sweet and requires little work to achieve the desired results,” Travers added.
Soundcraft is distributed in the UK by Sound Technology Ltd.
DigiTech makes iStomp indispensable for iOS users at just £49 and free e-pedals
DigiTech has repriced its iStomp FX pedal - a stomp box that can be totally reprogrammed using an iOS device - to an ultra low price of just £49 inc VAT. Alongside the price reduction of the unit itself, all available e-pedals (with the exception of the Adrian Below artist e-pedal) are now free. The flexibility - and sound quality - of the iStomp makes it an indispensable additional pedal to have in your gig bag to use whenever required, for whatever required.
The DigiTech iStomp works just like a traditional stompbox but can be completely reconfigured by loading it with any one of 47 e-pedals available via its iOS Stomp Shop App. Connect the iStomp to an iOS 4.3+ device using the included DigiTech Smart Cable to totally change effect in the iStomp. (Note a Lightning adaptor is required for use with Lightning-equipped iOS devices.) Disconnect the Smart Cable and you’re ready to use your iStomp just like you would any traditional pedal.
Available e-pedals include various overdrives, distortions, pitch shifters, delays, an acoustic simulation - even a Lexicon® Hall reverb.
For more information please visit:
DigiTech is distributed in the UK/ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. Please call 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk for further information.
Ends
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)