Altsounds - Studio Talk, Tips and How-To's

WIN OVER �1200 OF PRO TOOLS STUDIO EQUIPMENT WITH SANDY RIVERA AND TRAXSOURCE!

jack s — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:56:08 GMT

Want to produce like a pro but don�t have the right tools? Well give it up for Sandy Rivera because with his help you could change all that.
Known around the world as one of the most legendary producers of all time, Sandy is behind some of biggest tracks ever to hit the dance floor: Finally, Don�t Stop, Come Into My Room, Lollipop, Persuasion, Escape and Dirty Sax to name just a few.

As prolific as ever with his revitalized Blackwiz imprint, some may be surprised to know that Sandy almost exclusively uses Pro Tools in his home studio.

�It�s got everything I want and it gives me everything I need, from the back-end programs to the plug-ins to mastering the track and bringing live and digital together. It�s slick, quick and easy to master � and it doesn�t cost a fortune,� he said.

Now the Brooklyn-born artist is putting his money where his mouth is, joining forces with Pro Tools and leading download site Traxsource to offer you the chance to snap up over a grand�s worth of home studio equipment � a Pro Tools Digidesign MBox2 Pro Interface, Pro Tools 8 software, Music Production Toolkit2 option with plug-ins, and to top it all off, a pair of M-Audio CX5 monitor speakers.

To win, just put your own twist on one of Sandy�s most recent dance floor destroyers, Persuasion. Featuring Rae on vocals this killer house track has had clubbers and music fans moving for months. Now the parts are exclusively available on Traxsource to remix in this massive competition.

Once you�ve made your edit, log on to Blackwiz - DropBox - SoundCloud and drop off your track in before the closing date of December 16th. Then simply send your name, track mix and a contactable email to blackwiz@mn2s.com. Sandy and his team will listen to all entries submitted and the winner will be notified by December 21st.

Good luck!

Audio-Technica Scoops Audio Pro Customer Service Award

altsounds — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:50:49 GMT

The inaugural Audio Pro Industry Excellence Awards has seen Audio-Technica collect the award for Best After-Sales Support in the Studio & Broadcast category. Announced in the November issue of the magazine, the Award recognises the effort that Audio-Technica has made in continually improving customer service in 2009.

While the company was lauded in an anonymous survey (conducted by Music Tech magazine) for its customer service earlier in the year, Audio-Technica has consistently worked to raise the bar in this area of its business. In response to customer needs, improvements have included extended opening hours for Audio-Technica�s customer service department, opening of the sales office over the Christmas period, the introduction of a lifetime warranty for 40 Series, Artist and Artist Elite microphones and investing in NVQ Customer Service training for all sales staff.

Harvey Roberts, Audio-Technica�s senior UK marketing manager, said, �"We were extremely pleased to learn of Audio-Technica's award for Best After-Sales Support. It's very gratifying to have the effort that we put into staff customer service training noticed and appreciated.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted for us in the API Awards, and indeed to the magazine for instigating a well-conceived and meaningful awards competition. We look forward to the challenge of retaining the crown in future."

Photo caption: from left to right: Jeanette Langstaff (Area sales coordinator � Northern England & Scotland), Logan Helps (Training and Product Support Specialist), Adrian Rooke (Managing Director), Claire Timmins (Area sales coordinator � Midlands & Northern Ireland), Sarah Styles (Area sales coordinator � MI & Southern England)

Audio-Technica Introduces Ribbon Microphones For First Time

altsounds — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:47:29 GMT

Audio-Technica has unveiled two exciting new additions � the company�s first ever ribbon microphones � to its popular 40 Series mic range. The AT4080 and AT4081 feature groundbreaking Audio-Technica design, with no less than 18 patents pending on the new models. Created from the ground up, the AT4080 and AT4081 convincingly solve the problems of fragility and low output that have traditionally plagued ribbon mics, in part through the use of a proprietary MicroLinear ribbon imprint for excellent durability.

The AT4080 features dual ribbon construction for pronounced sensitivity, while the single ribbon AT4081 is of a low-profile stick design to allow for flexible positioning options. A significant degree of hand production, including ribbon corrugation, imprint and assembly, is involved in the construction of the new mics.

While ensuring increased ruggedness, the design of the new microphones also retains the sought-after ribbon mic tonal character. Both the AT4080 and AT4081 deliver smooth, articulate tone for recording, broadcast and sound reinforcement applications, with powerful N50 rare-earth neodymium magnets employed for high output. A classic figure-of-eight polar pattern is common to both phantom-powered models, as is the ability to handle high SPL, making them suitable for a wider range of situations than is typical of ribbon microphones.

As part of the 40 Series, the AT4080 and AT4081 are covered by Audio-Technica�s unique Lifetime Warranty, and also qualify for a free two-week trial under the Company�s First Impressions scheme. For details see Audio-Technica - 404

The AT4080 and AT4081 are available from late December with retail prices as follows:

(Euro pricing excludes VAT, GBP pricing includes VAT at 15%)

AT4080: �890 / �890
AT4081: �690 / �690

Model AT4080
Element Ribbon
Polar pattern Figure-of-eight
Frequency response 20-18 000Hz
Impedance 100 ohms
Max input sound level 150dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% THD
Noise 22dB SPL
Dynamic range 128dB, 1kHz at Max SPL
Signal-to-noise ratio 72dB, 1kHz at 1 Pa
Phantom power requirements 48v DC, 3.0mA typical
Weight 474g
Dimensions 177.5mm long, 53.4mm max body diameter
Output connector Integral 3-pin XLRM-type

Accessories furnished AT8449/SV shock mount, microphone dust cover, protective carry case

Model AT4081
Element Ribbon
Polar pattern Figure-of-eight
Frequency response 30-18 000Hz
Impedance 100 ohms
Max input sound level 150dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% THD
Noise 25dB SPL
Dynamic range 125dB, 1kHz at Max SPL
Signal-to-noise ratio 69dB, 1kHz at 1 Pa
Phantom power requirements 48v DC, 3.0mA typical
Weight 152g
Dimensions 155mm long, 21mm max body diameter
Output connector Integral 3-pin XLRM-type

Accessories furnished AT8471 isolation clamp, windscreen, protective carry case

sE Electronics release 4 new products leading up 2010 and their 10th Anniversary

altsounds — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:42:48 GMT

�After a year of planning and researching the very best competitor deals and bundles, we think we�ve come up with 4, literally unbeatable, products in terms of performance to strategic price points� says MD James Ishmaev-Young

�While other companies scramble to bundle slow selling and overstocked products to bolster ailing sales of their key products, we have deliberately targeted the most important price points for customers and designed and built new products and bundles from scratch which best suit the end-users needs on an increasingly tight budget�

sE X1 � the aptly named X1 large diaphragm condenser is one of the coolest, sexiest new mics for the MI market in years. The mic is hand built in sE�s own facility in Shanghai like all their products, and boasts a 10dB pad and bass cut to add to the hand crafted capsule. There is not another brand on the market today building high quality, hand made mics anywhere near this price point. All are either OEM or mass produced on machines. The X1 is a new benchmark in quality of build and performance estimated to sell at only �99 and shipping in December!

sE Project Studio Reflexion Filter � drawing on the massive success of the industry standard Reflexion Filter, sE have released a new entry level version in response to a raft of cheap and ineffective imitations coming from OEM brands onto the market. None are able to match the performance of the original RF since they have to omit key elements of design which are fundamental to the proper function of the product due to the patents sE have pending on the original RF; in other words they may look similar but that�s where it ends!

sE are not encumbered in the same way, and so have managed to produce a Reflexion Filter, which though cut down from the Pro version, performs far better than the cheap copies, and allows the project studio owner to get closer to the pro performance of the RF, which itself has sold more than 50,000 units in the EU alone since its release!

The Project Studio RF uses the same basic design, omitting the multiple layers and acoustic boundaries of the pro version and replacing them with the same, patented, polyester acoustic board that graces the RF. The new baby RF is then lined with a high grade, high density crystal foam with a unique curved ridge cut which performs far better than standard acoustic foam. The result is a true Reflexion Filter product, designed and built by sE, which does the job and is estimated to hit the streets at a stunning �99 in December

sE are also releasing 2 new Super-bundles:

sE X1 and Project Studio RF bundle at �169 inc vat � a true, hand built, LDC and Reflexion Filter product expected to sell for only �169 including vat; less than key competitors sell a mass produced mic with a pop shield for!

sE2200a and Reflexion Filter Bundle

The No.1 selling mic at its price in the UK, with the best selling portable acoustic product on the market today bundled with the shock mount in one box and expected to sell for under �300. This is a star buy since they are 2 of the best selling products on the market right now which retail at �440 and currently street at about �360 from most UK dealers, meaning this bundle effectively gives the end user a real 20% off the current best selling price! A sure fire winner�

For more information please visit Welcome to sE Electronics

Contact info:
Welcome to sE Electronics

FabFilter announce Pro-Q

altsounds — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:54:12 GMT

Combining power with precision, the latest addition to FabFilter�s Pro plug-in range is an EQ that delivers the cleanest sound and an uncompromising feature set, all behind a great looking, intuitive and clutter-free interface�

FabFilter�s software instruments and effects have won the company many awards and fans across the globe thanks to their simple philosophy � to develop plug-ins that sound every bit as good as they look. The Pro-Q precision EQ is no exception, combining a clean and accurate sound and a never-before-seen feature set that has none of the sacrifices you normally have to make when choosing an EQ. And with all of this power crammed behind a great looking interface, Pro-Q could easily become your �go to� plug-in for every EQ application � be it musical, surgical or creative.

With Pro-Q it�s easy and intuitive to create and edit up to 24 EQ bands with multiple curves. Pro-Q has a zero latency mode, but � unlike so many other EQs � greater transparency and precision is possible with the option to switch to a linear phase mode with adjustable latency. There�s also a built-in, real-time frequency analyzer that gives instant visual feedback of your signal�s frequency content � be it pre- or post-EQ.

With total control of the frequency curve and unparalleled visual feedback relaying instant analysis of the signal processing also comes superb sound quality. Pro-Q�s groundbreaking filter algorithms offer precise analog modeling and unlimited internal headroom. There�s also a mid/side EQ option for the ultimate in sparkle and width for your mixes.

Such a comprehensive feature-set would usually impact on ease of use but Pro-Q�s intuitive interface makes precise editing a breeze. The plug-in also incorporates FabFilter�s clutter free �what-you-use-is-what-you-see� feature so only displays the curves that are in use with their associated controls. Never has precision EQ-ing looked so good!

Ultimately, then, Pro-Q offers the best of everything: functionality and usability with a feature-set and sound you�ve always asked for behind an astonishing interface that will enhance your creativity and give you precise control over your EQ every time.

Key features:

� A great sound from state of the art filter algorithms with precise analog modeling and unlimited internal headroom (no clipping)

� Operates either in zero latency mode, or in linear phase mode with adjustable latency

� Incredible interface that is ideal for easy and precise editing

� What-you-use-is-what-you-see to minimize screen clutter and maximize usability

� The ability to create new EQ bands just by dragging the frequency curve

� Select multiple curves to drag and edit in parallel

� Up to 24 EQ bands

� Filter shapes: Bell, High/Low Shelf, High/Low Cut with 6, 12, 24 and 48dB/oct slopes

� Each band can operate on the stereo signal or on the left or right channels independently for per-channel EQ-ing

� Mid/side mode to EQ the mid and side signals separately

� Built-in real-time frequency analyzer with Pre- and Post-EQ modes

� Ability to double-click for text entry of parameter values

� Different display ranges: 6dB range for mastering use, 12dB, and 30dB for sound shaping during mixing

� All the usual FabFilter quality you�ve come to expect: perfectly fine-tuned knobs and controllers, interactive MIDI Learn, undo/redo and A/B switch, Smart Parameter Interpolation for smooth parameter transitions, an extensive help file with interactive help hints, sample accurate automation, and AltiVec and SSE optimization

Price & Availability
FabFilter Pro-Q is now available for EUR 139, USD 199 or GBP 124. It can be used on Windows and Mac OS X in VST and VST 3, RTAS and Audio Units plug-in formats. Bundles with FabFilter Pro-Q and other FabFilter plug-ins are also available. See FabFilter Online Shop.

Existing FabFilter customers can purchase Pro-Q with great discounts by logging in to their online user account:

www.fabfilter.com/myaccount.

System requirements
Either Windows Vista, XP, 2000, 98, Me, or 2003, SSE-capable processor, and a VST 2 or VST 3 host or Pro Tools, or Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger) or higher, Intel or G4/G5 processor, and an Audio Units host, VST 2 or VST 3 host, or Pro Tools.

Further information from

FabFilter Software Instruments - Audio effect and synthesizer plugins AU VST RTAS

Specimen Products Reveal Little Horn Speakers In New Colors

jack s — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:04:20 GMT

Specimen Products� Little Horn Speakers are a stunning pair of high-fidelity horns in bookshelf format that provide an utterly unique audio experience while also complimenting any home or office d�cor. Specimen Products are pleased to announce a new wide range of colors for their Little Horn Speakers. Additionally, their design is now Patent Pending. Say goodbye to �box� speakers, heavy, inelegant and incapable of enhancing your environment. Say hello to the Little Horn Speakers and listen to the beauty.

Little Horn Speakers color options:
-- Dark Walnut horns with Gold interior, Dark Walnut bases
-- Dark Walnut horns with Red interior, Dark Walnut bases
-- Blue horns with Opalescent White interior, Blue bases
-- Opalescent White horns with Red interior, Red bases
-- Opalescent White horns with Red interior, Natural birch bases
-- Dark Green horns with Gold interior, Dark Green bases
-- Black horns with Opalescent White interior, Piano Black bases
-- White horns with White interior, Piano White bases
-- White horns with White interior, Natural birch bases

Specimen also creates horns in custom colors to match any d�cor.

Owned by Ian Schneller, Specimen Products has been making superior custom guitars, tube amplifiers and horn speakers for over 20 years. Specimen customers include Andrew Bird, Franz Ferdinand, Jeff Tweedy, Death Cab for Cutie, My Morning Jacket, Neko Case, The Hives, Deerhoof, Lenny Kravitz, Low, Tortoise, and more. Specimen is also the home of The Chicago School of Guitar Making, the only school in Chicago where one can learn guitar repair and building from a professional luthier, and the only school teaching the craft of tube amplifier building. For more info: http://www.specimenproducts.com.

For more information on the Little Horn Speakers visit: http://www.littlehornspeakers.com

As previously announced a private listening party event for the media will be held at Specimen Products in Chicago (1240 N. Homan Ave. Chicago, IL 60651) Thursday, December 3 from 7 to 10 PM. Snacks and drinks will be provided. See and experience the Little Horns among an exclusive group of musicians, audiophiles and artists. Little Horns will be available for purchase at a specially discounted preview price of $1500! Additionally, one pair of Little Horns hand-painted for Specimen Products by Chicago artist Rob Funderburk will be auctioned off to benefit the non-profit organization Rock for Kids. For more information visit http://www.robfunderburk.com and Rock for Kids. RSVP � Nadine@specimendproducts.com.

In December, Andrew Bird will be performing a series of solo shows in Minneapolis (Dec. 10 � 12 at Saint Mark�s Episcopal Cathedral) and Chicago (Dec. 14 � 17 at the Fourth Presbyterian Church) with his full coterie of Specimen horns including the spinning Janus horn and the new quartet of eight feet tall XL Horns, Specimen is making specifically for the tour. These new XL Horns will also be on display at the Listening Party and are the inspiration for the Little Horn Speakers.

TC Electronic gives everyone the chance to add studio-quality reverb to their music

altsounds — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:54:00 GMT

TC Electronic � leaders in the world of signal processing and effects � is giving everyone the chance to download a professional TC Reverb� but hurry � the offer only stands for 72 hours!

TC Electronic has been at the forefront of effects development for decades, and their reverb algorithms can be found in the best recording and mixing environments in the world.
But from Monday 16th November the sought-after sound of one of the finest reverbs on the planet will be yours to download. TC Electronic�s M30 is a small yet great sounding reverb, and for 72 hours it can be downloaded for free.

M30 is VST and AU compatible, making it the perfect addition to any DAW � Apple Logic and Garageband, Steinberg Cubase, Ableton Live, Cakewalk Sonar�
The M30 will be available after this 72 hour period from the TC online store for a mere US$79, but why pay for the sound of the M30 when you can download it for nothing?

The Catch?
The catch? There is no catch. This is a non-expiring and fully functional plug-in ready to be used with your music. To qualify for a free download of the amazing M30 plug-in all you have to do is register for the TC Electronic newsletter at tcelectronic.com/freeTCreverb. And that�s it. Simply submit your details on the TC Electronic M30 Free Download page and you could be applying the studio-quality sound of the M30 Reverb plug-in to your audio today.

More about the M30 Reverb:
The M30 Studio Reverb is a simple to use, great sounding reverb that is powered by AlgoFlex� � a new high-definition TC technology that enables hardware quality and predictability to be ported to native software.

M30 is derived from the popular M40 reverb that ships with TC Electronic audio interfaces. The sound of M30 takes the same Hall reverb algorithm that�s found in the M40 (alongside Room and Plate algorithms).

The M30 reverb algorithm lets you adjust a number of parameters to tailor M30 to your sound. Adjustable parameters include Pre Delay, Decay, Hi Color and Mix.
With its great sound M30 is a unique addition to any VST- or AU-compatible application.

Whether you work with vocals or instruments, the M30 Studio Reverb will add a broad and warm reverb to your sound. M30 preserves the natural characteristics of the original source, which gives you an incomparable and authentic large sound.

The sound of M30 is perfectly suited to vocals, but it can also be used with a wide variety of instruments and audio material. For more details on M30 and to sign up for the TC Electronic Newsletter:
tcelectronic.com/freeTCreverb
If you simply want to know more about the M30 reverb, go here:
http://www.tcelectronic.com/m30.asp

SONiVOX Announces Worldwide Distribution of Way Out Ware Products

altsounds — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:18:29 GMT

SONiVOX [Somerville, MA], manufacturer and distributor of award winning virtual instruments and sample libraries, today announced that they have acquired exclusive distribution rights to Way Out Ware�s existing product set as well as all future Way Out Ware products.

Way Out Ware, widely known for its faithful recreation & emulation of classic synthesizers, first drew industry wide acclaim in 2004 with their flagship release, �TimewARP 2600,� which still is to date the only ARP 2600 virtual instrument emulation to be endorsed by the original ARP 2600 creator Alan R. Pearlman.

SONiVOX will sell and market Way Out Ware�s existing products through its worldwide distribution channels as well as collaborate with Way Out Ware on a creative level. Moving forward in this partnership, Way Out Ware will shortly unveil the first of many new innovative products being designed for the computer based musician / producer.

Way Out Ware�s current product set, including the TimewARP 2600 and KikAXXE, will be available immediately at www.sonivoxmi.com as well as from any SONiVOX dealer.

About SONiVOX

SONiVOX provides a multi-tiered suite of premier sound products that give voice to consumers ranging from professional musicians to over 100 million cellular users worldwide.

For years, SONiVOX, formerly Sonic Implants, has provided leading musicians and composers in the film and television industries with the tools needed to create world-class audio content for chart-topping movie, music and television projects.

Whether it�s high-end sound libraries & virtual instruments for leading Hollywood film composers, home-studio musicians, or millions of cell phone users, SONiVOX enjoys a worldwide reputation as a company producing "sound that rocks." For more information: 617 718-0202 | info@sonivoxrocks.com.

About Way Out Ware:

Way Out Ware has developed a reputation for producing the virtual instruments of uncompromised audio quality and functionality. TimewARP 2600 and KikAXXE are in common use by some of the best-known artists in the world, as well as by many Hollywood film composers and analog synth enthusiasts.

Way Out Ware�s mission is to make tools for musicians and composers that deliver the best possible quality for an affordable price.

The Rogue Element Twisted Electro

altsounds — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 01:54:06 GMT

Loopmasters are very proud to announce our latest artist sample pack, a collection of twisted funk, electro, breaks and minimal eccentricity from one of the leading lights of the current dance scene, ladies and gentlemen, let us proudly introduce �Twisted Electro� by The Rogue Element!

The Rogue Element is award-winning producer and DJ Ben Medcalf, whose work receives plaudits and support from such varied luminaries as James Zabiela, Etienne de Crecy, Meat Katie, Elite Force, James Lavelle, the Plump DJs, and the Crystal Method. In addition, Ben is one half of Disco of Doom with Tom Real, a project dedicated to all kinds of disgusting house, techno, and general electronic depravity.

Twisted Electro is a filthy collection of blips, tweaks, fades, builds, and other chemical electro material which has been processed and filtered beyond recognition, then sprinkled with a twist of funk and regurgitated into a surprisingly palatable plate of tempting sonic ingredients which discerning electro, tech funk, breaks, and even minimal house and techno producers will find most inspirational!
The Rogue Element has provided us with a huge collection of fresh and contemporary sonic ingredients including over 500 samples, 291 single sounds and 209 Loops. You can expect to find over 137 Drumloops in 125 and 127 Bpm, 32 Snarling Bass Lines, over 250 Single Drum sounds, 40 Musical Loops, 19 SFX, 11 Pads, 3 Multisampled Bass sounds, and 4 Instrument Patches. Soft Sampler users also get 30 Ready to play patches including Drum kits and instrument sounds.
If you are looking for a slice of the sounds fuelling the current dance crossover scene, then sample the sounds directly from the studio of one of the current leading lights with Loopmasters and the Rogue Element �Twisted Electro�.

IDJ Magazine 'Hypnotic brilliance - with Rogue Element the standard is always of the highest quality�

Deadmau5 "one of the most original producers I�ve heard all month!�

Click Here to view product : The Rogue Element Sample CD, Twisted Electro Samples, Tech Funk Samples, Electro Samples, Glitch Samples

Live event: Final Cut Studio and Logic Studio in action.

jack s — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:22:29 GMT

Manchester, 24 November. Odeon Cinema. Join us for one session or both. Join us in Manchester and experience the latest advances in video production and audio creation on the Mac. This exclusive event will showcase the new versions of Final Cut Studio and Logic Studio, along with the expanding ecosystem of solutions that make the Mac the creative platform of choice.

Final Cut Studio Session
The Final Cut session will demonstrate many of the 100+ new features in the new Final Cut Studio and Final Cut Server. We'll show you how the products in the suite integrate to enable you to work faster and more efficiently through the entire post-production workflow.
Reserve your seat Tell a friend

Logic Studio Session
The Logic session is ideal for guitar players, live performers or musicians who record, edit and mix their own music. Learn more about the most advanced creation and production tools in the industry and find out why your Mac is the best live rig you'll ever have.
Reserve your seat Tell a friend

Dark Skies: Cinematic Ambiences

altsounds — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:31:39 GMT

Packed full of ambiences, soundscapes, drones and FX, Dark Skies is the perfect accompaniment for any professional film, TV or video game producer and sound editor looking for something extra..

Including everything from huge, luscious, panoramic soundscapes to the mysterious, eerie and downright scary and everything in between, this enormous library is made for people who are serious about their sound design.

Dark Skies contains over 1000 instruments in EXS24, Kontakt and NN-XT format as well as standard Acidized Wav files and Apple Loops all recorded in stunning 24bit using top of the range equipment by one of the world�s leading sound fx producers.

Over 50 construction kits present sounds within the context of a short musical/sound design piece under the general headings Ambient Score, Dark Score, Science Core and Textural.

There is also a themed collection of individual samples, ranging from beautiful washes of ambient bliss, to harsh digital blasts and granular FX.

This is state of the art sound design.

Includes:
940 Acidized WAV files � 940 AIFF Apple Loops � 1027 Kontakt Instruments
1027 EXS24 Instruments � 1027 NN-XT Instruments

Full product details and demos at:
Dark Skies: Cinematic Ambiences - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP: �89.95 / �99.00

WaveMachine announces iGOG for the iPhone

altsounds — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:09:47 GMT

We are proud to announce the release of iGOG for the iPhone. iGOG is a full featured drum machine with an iPhone first: true velocity sensitive pads. iGOG uses WaveMachine Labs own patent pending VelAUcity technology to accurately measure how hard the pads are hit. iGOG's drum sounds are impressive. It plays standard Drumagog gog files, providing up to 384 multisamples per drum. iGOG also features a mic trigger mode which works like Drumagog, allowing you to trigger drum sounds using the iPhone's built-in mic.

iGOG is available for $4.99 at the iTunes app store:
iTunes Store

Video demos:
YouTube - iGOG Mic Trigger Mode Demo

For more information: WaveMachine Labs

SONiVOX Announces Sampla � Hip Hop Production Sampler

altsounds — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 01:17:08 GMT

SONiVOX, Boston based virtual instrument manufacturer today announced the availability of Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler, an innovative new virtual sampler plug-in for MAC and PC designed for fast and professional quality sampling, and beat creation for hip hop producers everywhere.

Sampla�s unique design bridges the gap between MPC style sampling and the computer based virtual instrument environment. Sampla allows users to easily record, slice, loop, and assign (keymap) their own recorded samples as well as any of their own wav, acid, aiff, and mp3 samples. In addition to the flexibility provided by Sampla�s sampler engine, Sampla�s �Learn Mode� allows users to interface their MIDI pad controllers and controller keyboards directly with Sampla. Whether the user is using a midi keyboard, MPC pad controller, or just their computer by itself, Sampla is designed to put serious control in the producer�s hands.

Sampla�s innovative design and functionality doesn�t stop with the application itself. Additionally Sampla is packed with a diverse and extensive factory sound bank, all recorded and programmed by SONiVOX�s award winning sound design team, with over 250 high end instrument presets and pad layouts. Included are acoustic and electronic drumkits, basses, keyboards, leads, guitars, strings, brass, pads, vocals, symphonic construction kits, scensorship bleeps and blips, as well as a selection of loops from the SONiVOX LoopLine series, all designed to deliver superior sonic and stylistic versatility.

Sampla�s Key Features At a Glance:

MPC style editing & slicing for easy instrument & beat creation
Imports Wav, Acid, Broadcast Wav, Aiff, & MP3 Format Files
Easy to use record functionality for real time sampling
Over 250 factory preset instruments and pad layouts
16 user assignable pads
Tempo Sync Stereo Delay, EQ, and Chorus Effects
Assignable filter section with 10 filter types
Graphic waveform display with zoom, click, and drag functionality
Midi Learn & Save functionality, Sampla is instantly compatible with any MIDI keyboard or pad control
Pad-Specific Variable Resolution Note Repeat and Pattern Arpeggiation Mode
PC Standalone, VST and RTAS Compatibility.
MAC Standalone, AU, VST, and RTAS Compatibility.

Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler is a part of SONiVOX�s Hip Hop production line of products that also includes Playa: Hip Hop Virtual Instrument, and Playa: Aggro Electro Boom. Sampla is available now with a MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.

To find out more about Sampla or any other SONiVOX products please visit www.sonivoxmi.com

Universal Audio lights up Friendly Fires

altsounds — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:59:56 GMT

Mercury Prize nominees Friendly Fires' eponymous debut album is an intriguing blend of skittish nu-rave dance beats, shoegaze textures and pop melodies. The album was largely self-produced, with the exception of the opening track Jump In The Pool, which was produced by in-demand UK producer Paul Epworth.

Lead singer Ed MacFarlane gave us the rundown on recording the album and the equipment he used to do it, which includes Universal Audio's 6176 vintage channel strip and the UAD-2 Solo Laptop DSP plug-in system.

Stripped down
Ed's an advocate of minimalist setups, claiming too much equipment can detract from the creative process. The latest album was recorded in his garage using a R�de NT-1A microphone, which is a huge step up from the Shure SM58 with which the band recorded their previous long player. The mic signal was then routed through the Universal Audio 6176 channel strip to an Apogee Ensemble, and on into his laptop running Apple's Logic 8. Processing was carried out in the box using the UAD-2 Solo Laptop and a suite of Universal Audio plug-ins.

Initially sceptical of plug-ins, Ed was converted to the quality of the UAD plugs after going into the studio with Epworth, and has since started using them as his go-to treatments on every track.

In the toolbox
He's particularly keen on the FATSO plug, which re-creates the qualities of analogue tape compression, class A transformer saturation and valve circuitry. Electronic drums are treated with Universal Audio's VCA VU plug � an emulation of the dbx 160 VCA compressor, the very first commercially available VCA compressor.

For the fast funky guitar lines, Ed uses the Dimension D plug, which creates a thick stereo chorus, which he likens to the Talking Heads sound. He's also keen on the UAD Plate 140 plug. It emulates an EMT 140 plate reverb, based on plates from Plant Studios.

Aside from drum processing, one of the other key areas where Friendly Fires have used the UAD-2 Solo Laptop is for creating the synth pads that are a staple of the bands' signature sound. To create the lush shoegaze pads, Ed has been using the UAD's flagship DreamVerb reverb plug.

Talk the talk
"All I really used was the 6176 as my preamp and compressor, and I've been using the UAD plug-ins in Logic 8 once the track's in the computer," explains Ed.

"I've never thought compression plug-ins would actually do anything, but I've been proven absolutely wrong by Paul Epworth, and I've ended up using the FATSO plug-in on all of my drums as a buss-compressor," says Ed. "I really like what it does � it can change the whole timbre of the drum kit."

"I really like the VCA VU plug-in, and it's really simple to use. There aren't many knobs to play around with, but it beefs up the sound and makes the dry signal from an 808 or 909 more interesting," says Ed.

"We usually record toms separately, and to get that big washy Serge Gainsbourg sound we've used the UAD Plate reverb on them," explains Ed. "I've never had the money to try this stuff out in hardware, but now I'm really intrigued to find out if there is a difference from the plug-in version."

"If you record a simple synth stab and put it through DreamVerb with the decay up to max, you can change the EQ of the reverb, creating huge washes that are very Brian Eno-esque," says Ed. "I've been using that for creating odd drones, washes and spatial sounds."

Hear it
While the new album is in the works, you can hear the fruits of Friendly Fires' recent experimentation with the UAD-2 Solo Laptop on a new split single coming out in association with the New York band Holy Ghost. For the single, Friendly Fires are covering Holy Ghost's Hold On, while Holy Ghost will be covering Friendly Fires' On Board.

Look out for Friendly Fire on their up-coming tour, which will be taking place around the UK, the US and Canada throughout November and December. Visit www.wearefriendlyfires.com for dates.

Have you been using your free EZdrummer Lite software?

jack s — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:23:13 GMT

The award winning EZdrummer has become the first choice of drum sampler for thousands of musicians of every level - from computer music-making novices at home to top class record producers based in the world's best studios.

EZdrummer Lite is bundled free with various hardware packages including products from Korg, Presonus and ESI. If you've been using your free copy of EZdrummer Lite and have yet to upgrade to the full version of EZdrummer, now's the time to do it...

Until 31st October, you can purchase the EZdrummer Upgrade for just �49 - that's a 30% saving off the normal RRP of �65!

The full version of EZdrummer adds many more features and functions to your product plus also allows you to use Toontrack's range of EZX expansion packs covering an array of genres from Jazz and Funk, to Heavy Metal and Country, and not forgetting the eagerly awaited Electronic EZX due for release in November...

RRP: �49.00 / �55.00

Click here for more details

DON'T FORGET to enter Toontrack competition! Click here for details

TRILIAN - the countdown has begun!

jack s — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:21:10 GMT

Spectrasonics' long awaited successor to the award winning Trilogy bass module is due for release on Monday 26th October.

TRILIAN has a much larger core library and features highly detailed new acoustic, electric and synth basses as well as enhanced versions of the classic Trilogy sounds.

Sporting a brand new user-friendly interface with numerous software innovations, TRILIAN is the first 64-bit native software based on Spectrasonics� STEAM engine and is the first virtual instrument to feature full library integration with the company�s flagship Omnisphere synthesizer.

Trilogy has been used for numerous film and tv scores including Bourne Ultimatum and Heroes. What's more, Spinal Tap are one of an abundance of recording artists who have raved about the high quality killer bass sounds. There's no doubt that TRILIAN is on the wish lists of composers, producers, artists and hobbyists worldwide...

Watch Spectrasonics' founder Eric Persing demonstrate TRILIAN via the link below.

RRP: �209.00 / �229.00

Click here for more information about Trilian

Vienna Imperial continues to receive rave reviews!

jack s — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:22:12 GMT

SL's Vienna Imperial was released back in June of this year and has picked up a wealth of great reviews over the past few weeks including a Performance Award from Computer Music magazine.

The sampled B�sendorfer 290 Imperial was outfitted with CEUS technology, enabling the most precise and by far most extensive piano sample recordings ever conducted in the history of music technology.

Here's what the magazines had to say...

"...this is probably the best all-round sampled piano I've heard [...] and though its strength is classical repertoire, it will sound good in any setting, from jazz, pop and rock to orchestral." - Sound on Sound

"It's difficult to find fault with a virtual instrument as impressive as this. It's a brilliantly authentic virtual piano suitable for both studio and live performance." - Music Tech

"Sonically, Imperial is very impressive, exhibiting amazing consistency both from note to note and in terms of velocity." - Computer Music

"...Vienna has done a great job with capturing the spirit and essence of the 290 Imperial. The sound is full, rich and expressive from end to end..." - Keyboard Player

Click here for more information about Vienna Imperial

Don't forget! VSL are offering students and teachers 35% off all VSL products throughout October! Click here for details

Big Fish Audio delivers something for the remixers!

jack s — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:20:25 GMT

Remix Revolution brings you the goods from one of today�s most in-demand remix producers.

With remixes that have reached the top of the Billboard dance charts, Jack D. Elliot has produced remixes for Britney Spears, Nick Lachey, N�Sync, Christina Milian, Backstreet Boys, Ashley Tisdale and more.

Now he�s giving you the tools to make that pounding remix you've been looking for. Remix Revolution includes 38 construction kits ranging from 122 to 142 bpm, with remix-style drums, bass, synth and more. This new gem gives you the loops and samples perfect for your next remix jam.

3GB of content (1.25 GB of WAV files).
848 acidized WAV files
848 Apple Loops
605 REX files

RRP Inc: �71.95 / �82.50

Click here for more information about Remix Revolution

Experience the soul and musicality of the Grand Piano Collection...

jack s — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:17:59 GMT

UltimateSoundBank's Grand Piano Collection features some of the best sounding sampled pianos in the market. A good sounding piano is a rare alchemy between the instrument, the acoustic in the recording studio, the microphones and above all, the engineer�s taste.

Grand Piano Collection highlights five wonderful instruments:

-Steinway D Concert Grand
-Fazioli F278 Concert
-Erard Baby Grand Piano
-Seiler Upright Grand
-Japanese Upright

For each piano, USB selected a different set up to give different colours for every one of the five instruments. And thanks to UVI Engine�s advanced keygroup layers and rule switching, the sustain pedal and release samples perform and "feel" like a real piano.

The result is five excellent sounding pianos, with soul and a musicality.

RRP: �209.00 / �249.00

Click here for demos and full details

Dubspot: New Fall Courses, Ableton Live 8 Tour

jack s — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:43:04 GMT

Dubspot, New York�s premier DJ and electronic music production institute announces new Fall courses with the introduction of the Ableton Certification Program & Advanced Ableton Classes.

The new advanced Ableton modules are part of a complete update and expansion of our world-renowned Live curriculum.The new EMP Package AA (Levels 4-6) covers important skills such as advanced performance techniques, rhythmic analysis, complex composition, sound design and generation strategies, ground up creation of instrument and effects racks, and so much more. Upon completion of this exciting new course (and EMP Package A) you will receive a Dubspot Producers Certificate in Ableton Live.

Ableton Live 8 U.S. Sessions Tour : Los Angeles
November 7th - 8th

Dubspot has teamed up with Ableton to present the �Ableton Live 8 U.S. Sessions Tour.�Now on the third stop of its maiden voyage, the tour will be in Los Angeles onNovember 7th - 8th. Join us for a unique series of interactive workshops, Q&As and live performances from a diverse pool of world-class artists, Dubspot's top-notch instructors and established musicians. Experience five daily "sessions," each specially designed to develop a diverse range of your production and performance, while enhancing your creative abilities. The tour will cover a wide-variety of production and performance topics, including drum-programming, instrument and effect rack management, sequencing, automation, creating melody, harmonic awareness, mixing and mastering principles, sound stage management, synth programming, DJ hybrid setups, controllers, live instruments in Ableton, efficient set management, and much more, in addition to general production and performance strategies which will help professionalize the methods of almost any producer and performer, thus increasing their ability and the quality of their music.
For more info on the tour, please go to: www.live8tour.com.

Ableton Live 8 U.S. Sessions Tour : Austin
November 14th - 15th
Immediately following Los Angeles, the Live 8 tour continues its trajectory across the U.S. with a stop in Austin on November 14th - 15th @ The Parish Room (214 E. 6th St. www.theparishroom.com), featuring: Francis Preve, Jon Margulies, Daniel Wyatt, Michael Hatsis, Barry Cole, and some special surprise guests.

Dubspot's Ableton Live 8 Tour : NYC (June 2009) - watch the video re-cap here:

LA FunkAid Album Release Party - October 16th
@ The Dakota Lounge
DJ sets by Glenn Red, Jeremy Sole, J.Boogie, DJ OBaH
Bands performing: Simple Citizens, Pleasuremaker
www.funkaid.com

@ The Dakota Lounge
1026 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310.393.8200
www.dakotalounge.com

Dubspot Records � New Mixing & Mastering Service
The new Mastering & Mixing Services will professionally master your music by world-class, platinum engineerDaniel Wyatt. Now your compositions will have the competitive edge you need to be heard around the world. Dan Wyatt has been trusted by world-class musicians like Norah Jones, Curtis Mayfield, Thievery Corporation, The Roots, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Elephant Man, Killah Priest, and many others.

Dubspot
348 West 14th Street
New York, NY 10014
212.242.2100
info@dubSpot.com
www.dubspot.com

New Fall Courses
Ableton Live Tour : Los Angeles on November 7th-8th
Ableton Live Tour : Austin - November 14th-15th
LA FunkAid Album Release Party - October 16th
New Mixing & Mastering Services

Zero-G drop a dancefloor grenade with Electro House

altsounds — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:48:39 GMT

UK-based sample pioneers Zero-G have released a storming selection of the best electro house samples around taking its inspiration from the sounds currently igniting club floors across the globe.

Electro House lays on thick, surging, uptempo rhythms, hooky samples, and masterfully managed production. Shot through with that filthy analogue sound, sidereal synthloops, relentlessly hip-moving beats and thrusting basslines, FX, percussion and lots more besides. It really does the business for any dance producer!

There�s lots of heavy electro house here but the library also goes beyond the standard electro house genre to bring in elements of techno, breakbeat, minimal, tech house and nu-disco to really give your mixes something unique and special.

Equipment Used:
Software: Logic Studio, Ableton Live, Propellerhead Reason.

Additional Plug ins: Ohmforce Ohmicide & Hematohm, Prosoniq Orange Vocoder, Izotope Ozone, Spectron & Trash, Native Instruments Guitar Rig, Massive, Absynth & FM8. Waves plug ins.

Hardware: Roland Juno 106, Roland JP8000, Roland Jupiter, Roland SH101, Moog Little Phatty, Fender Jazz Bass, Line 6 Pod, Behringer Ultragain, M Audio Firewire 410.

RRP: �59.95 / �79.00 / �99.95

For full product spec and demos, visit:
Electro House - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

Toontrack Music adds Groove Player, MIDI Nodes and more to Superior Drummer� 2.2

altsounds — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:26:44 GMT

Toontrack Music is very pleased to present the most significant update for Superior Drummer� 2 to date.

Version 2.2 includes features that radically take users workflow to the next level.

The refined controls over the instruments response and creative possibilities provided by the new MIDI nodes feature, as well as the much requested integrated Groove Player to supplement EZplayer pro's unique features, are sure to make an impression. Best of all, this is once again a free update available to all Superior Drummer� 2 users.

New features:

Integrated Groove player
Superior Drummer� now includes an integrated MIDI player, complete with drag and drop capabilities. Combine kit pieces patterns from different grooves to create totally new material that are nonetheless completely consistent with how a drummer would approach it.

Full control over the instruments response
Use the comprehensive (and greatly expanded) Velocity Controls to access the sound libraries most intimate technical and musical aspects.
Change the response curve of any instrument, or change the response for one of the available articulation only.

MIDI nodes
Associate any combination of instruments - from multiple snare drums to more creative combos to be triggered simultaneously from your MIDI drum track - assembling your dream instrument in entities called MIDI nodes that can be triggered effortlessly from your sequencer.

New Pedal correction presets
Thanks to the improved velocity controls available in Superior Drummer� 2.2, e-drummers will be please to find additional pedal correction profiles designed to correct all the most common foot controller hardware shortcomings.

CC7 control of master volume
Users are now able to automate the Superior Drummer� master volume via MIDI Continuous Controller messages (CC7)

iMap* note mapping preset
Superior Drummer 2.2 includes a new note mapping preset derived from the very popular iMap format.
* iMap is a drum map protocol created by Dave Kerzner & Sonic Reality

Library Version info
The Sound library version can now be clearly identified from within the Help menu, making it easier for users to know if they are up-to-date.

Superior Drummer� 2.2.0, as well as up-to-date documentation, is now available from the My Products section of your user account.

Toontrack Music announces the Custom and Vintage SDX

altsounds — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:54:54 GMT

The Custom and Vintage SDX is a re-release of the award winning Toontrack Music sample packs Superior Custom and Vintage and Superior Vintage Add-on (both released for the original Superior Drummer software) and they have now been combined to form the The Custom and Vintage SDX for Superior Drummer 2.0.

Apart from extensive stick and brush recordings of a unique collection of drums and cymbals it also features mixer presets by producer Peter Henderson and custom MIDI by drummer Chris Whitten.

The SDX gives everyone from top producers down, access to the cream of custom and vintage drums, built by craftsmen from the 1920's right up to the exceptional instrument makers of today, like Johnny Craviotto.

The Custom and Vintage SDX is played by Chris Whitten. The drummer on classic hits like 'What I Am' by Edie Brickelland The New Bohemians and 'The Whole Of The Moon' by The Waterboys, Paul McCartney's 'Flowers In The Dirt' album.

The Custom and Vintage SDX is produced by Peter Henderson a key figure in producing Supertramp�s 20 million selling album 'Breakfast In America', for which he won a Grammy. He has also worked with Paul McCartney, Rush, Frank Zappa, Jeff Beck, Tina Turner and Ringo Starr.

The Custom and Vintage SDX will be available as an upgrade with a special price from the legacy products and one regular SDX version for newer customers. Both with the same content.

The Custom and Vintage SDX will be available in stores around the world at the end of October 2009. Find out more about the product here.

/Toontrack crew

Automap Pro & Standard: Updated to v3.2

altsounds — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:58:41 GMT

The world's best DAW-control software gains full compatibility with Propellerhead Reason and Record, and much more!

Both versions of the longest established, most powerful and best implemented DAW-control application, Automap from Novation, have been updated to bring full integration with Propellerhead's brand new Record software. On top of this, the v3.2 revisions of Automap Pro and Automap Standard feature enhanced support for Reason, plus other workflow optimisations, for unrivalled MIDI control.

Commenting on the update, Propellerhead's Product Manager Mats Karl�rf said, "We at Propellerhead are very happy and grateful for all the hard work that Novation has done in the field of integrating hardware and software. Novation was the first hardware manufacturer to explore the deeper possibilities of Propellerhead's Remote protocol and the result is one of the best examples of integration that we have seen."

Both versions of Automap now feature the following:

� Full support for Novation's Automap product range with Propellerhead's Reason & Record.

For the first time, users of Propellerhead Reason and Record can have full Automap control of their software. Now, unlike before, parameter names and values are reported back to Novation hardware controllers, and the mapping of hardware controls changes when the user switches between, say, the mixer and a Combinator rack. Previously, mappings using Reason's 'Remote Override' function were static. Now, individual Reason Rack and Mixer parameters can be learned to any hardware control, wherever the user desires.

� Control-range editing

The range of the controls in Automap can now be edited. This means that instead of covering an arbitrary range of between 0 and 1, Automap knobs and sliders can be programmed to operate over a restricted range that doesn't include the whole of the parameter's available values. In practice, this can be applied to a soft synth's filter cutoff parameter, where the user only wants to vary the frequency over a limited range, not its full span.

� New Button & Control types

There's a number of new, easy-to-use Button types: Normal, Momentary, Toggle and Step, which help the user quickly set up the way they want to command their software without having to manually configure complex button characteristics. There are also new features to invert a controller's behavior, reversing the direction of control in a simple click.

� Support for Automap for iPhone & iPod Touch

Automap v3.2 is the first to support the Automap for iPhone/iPod Touch App (available now from Apple's Appstore), which gives users of the handheld devices complete control over their music software.

� Enhanced Plug-in Manager

Automap's plug-in manager is where users can select and deselect the plug-ins that they wish to control. In version 3.2, this has been streamlined to allow multiple plug-in selection and deselection, and there's a search tool to help track down specific software instruments and audio effects.

� Cursor-driven Navigation

Users can use the cursor keys on their computer keyboard to scroll through the settings in the Automap Edit window, making it quicker and easier to navigate than ever before.

� Improved Factory Restore function

An embedded function for restoring the factory settings of Automap-compatible hardware is now included. Just in case users get really carried away with the finer parameter tweaks in Automap and want to return their controller to its box-fresh state!

� Home Page Icon

There's now a 'Home' button in the Edit window to return the user to the Startup view.

The Pro version (available to buy now for �19.99/$29.99/�25 from www.novationmusic.com) has the following new features, alongside those already mentioned:

� QWERTY Keyboard Control

Users can now send ASCII (QWERTY) keyboard shortcuts from their Automap-comptible Novation hardware, for ultimate control over their music software.

Both Standard and Professional versions of Automap v3.2 are available to download now, from www.novationmusic.com.

ASK Video releases one of the first tutorial DVDs for Propellerhead's brand new Recor

altsounds — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:19:51 GMT

Record gives you unlimited audio tracks, world class effects and mixing gear, and a whole new take on music recording. This is recording done right, and we want to make sure you have the knowledge to get the most out of this great piece of software. The tutorials are by Morgan Pottruff, aka Morg (author of the Live, Reason and Melodyne Tutorial DVDs).

This DVD is packed with tons of information. Morg will walk you through everything this program has to offer in an easy to follow, step by step manner. If you own or are thinking about getting Record, then you have to get this DVD!!!

45 Videos
Over 3.5 hours of instructional video
Extremely high quality tutorial videos
Easy to use interface
DVD-Rom - Mac OS X & PC compatible

Full content list and example videos available at:
Record Tutorial DVD - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP: �35.96 / �39.99

Cakewalk Announces the V-Studio 100 is Snow Leopard Ready

altsounds — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 21:30:56 GMT

Cakewalk, the world's leading developer of powerful and easy to use products for music creation and recording, announces immediate availability of new Snow Leopard Mac Operating System (version 10.6) device drivers for the V-Studio 100 portable music production system.
Also now available are Snow Leopard hardware drivers for the UA-1G audio interface and UM-1G, UM-2G and UM-3G MIDI Interfaces. More Snow Leopard hardware drivers will be announced soon.

The introduction of the SONAR V-Studio 100 and other hardware drivers for Snow Leopard furthers Cakewalk�s commitment to making its products compatible with the Macintosh.

�Mac users are loyal, and very much looking forward to the new version of their OS,� said Michael Hoover, vice president of products and marketing for Cakewalk. �In turn, Cakewalk is loyal to its Mac customers and supporting them means staying ahead of the development curve and anticipating customer�s needs. These new drivers are just the first step in our planned support for Snow Leopard and our Mac-based consumers.�

Availability
The new Snow Leopard drivers are available for the following hardware products, and can be downloaded from the Cakewalk website at their respective links:

SONAR V-Studio 100:
Cakewalk Support VS-100 drivers

UA-1G Audio Interface: Cakewalk Support UA-1G drivers
UM-1G MIDI Interface: Cakewalk Support UM-1G drivers
UM-2G MIDI Interface: Cakewalk Support UM-2G drivers
UM-3G MIDI Interface: Cakewalk Support UM-3G drivers

Introducing Morphestra from Sample Logic

altsounds — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 20:58:22 GMT

In association with Kirk Hunter Studios, Sample Logic�s award-winning team presents a powerful collection of creatively new and inventive organic ensembles derived entirely from true orchestral recordings and psycho-acoustic sound design. Powered by Native Instruments Kontakt Player 3, Morphestra is an epic collection of over 23Gb and 1,100+ instruments and multis. Rather than reinventing the traditional orchestra, Sample Logic has created a modern day virtual instrument that goes above and beyond any orchestral/effectual sample library geared for film, TV and game composers.

Morphestra sets the trend for the future, not only in sonic quality, but also with its plug-and-play delivery system that streamlines installation. Pre-installed on a reliable and portable 80Gb Glyph hard drive, Morphestra is small enough to fit into a pocket and powerful enough to support high track-count audio sessions.

Morphestra�s scripted sound-sculpting interface breaks new boundaries, giving users unprecedented control achieved through Native Instruments� Kontakt Player. With 5 full tabs of more than 40 onscreen effects and performance parameters, morphing and sculpting has never been easier. Whether in the studio or on stage, this production-ready sample library inspires and delivers on demand. Not to mention we have collaborated with many of the world�s leading composers to provide a massive variety of multis created by composers, for composers.

Atmosphere/ambient soundscapes and stinger construction kits.
Traditional and morphed woodwinds, brass, strings, synths, mallets, bells, solo and ensemble pads and melodic instrument.
Melodic and rhythmic tempo-synced loops, loop construction kits, and arpeggiated/gated melodic and impact sequences.
Single impacts, cinematic impact ensembles, and percussive kits.
Swipes, scrapes, and reverse transitional effects.
Performance-ready multis (playable interactive presets templates made from multiple instruments)
Many multis have been designed by world-class award winning film, TV, and game composers.

RRP Inc: �439.00 / �529.00

For more information and demos visit:
Morphestra - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

Time+Space announce Jordan Rudess competition

altsounds — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 20:30:27 GMT

For most Prog Rock and Synth fans, the name Jordan Rudess is instantly recognisable. A world-renowned progressive rock keyboardist for Dream Theater who is also enormously successful in his own right, Jordan�s playing technique is enthralling to listen to and purely hypnotic to watch with a level of excellence that also extends to his compositional and arranging abilities.

Fans of Jordan will know he is also a long-time fan and friend of Synthogy � one of the world�s leading developers of virtual piano software. Their Ivory product line which includes Ivory Grand Pianos, Ivory Italian Grand and Ivory Upright Pianos, has become the industry standard for music producers and composers all over the world. In fact, Jordan loves the sounds so much he recorded his recent solo album �Notes on a Dream� entirely with Ivory!

We�ll be interviewing Jordan Rudess in October for a special Time+Space online feature and we�re giving you the chance to ask the questions!

Send your question/s for Jordan to us and we�ll pick the ten best for the interview. The entrant for each question that is picked will receive a special Time+Space 25% discount code and the winning question (picked by Jordan) will win all three Ivory products plus a copy of Notes on a Dream signed by the man himself!

So, get your thinking caps on � what questions have you been dying to put to Jordan that other interviewers have neglected to ask? We�re looking forward to receiving some original and imaginative entries!

For full details visit:
Help us interview Jordan Rudess and win! - Competitions - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

Unleash the explosive power of Aggro-Electro Boom

altsounds — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 17:36:59 GMT

Danger! Afraid of blowing your speakers apart and reducing the world around you to a throbbing puddle of smoking goo? If so this is NOT the virtual instrument for you!

SONiVOX follows up its ground breaking Hip Hop virtual instrument Playa with Aggro Electro Boom.... a Playa style virtual instrument that serves you up some seriously aggressive, electronic, and boomin� hip hop instruments. Sounds that give you the power to easily create and compose earth-quaking, body shaking tracks. Whether you�re using a midi keyboard, MPC pad controller, or just your computer desktop, Playa: Aggro Electro Boom will have you busting some serious contemporary beats.

With over 4GB of sounds, 450 different instruments and pad layouts, and utilizing the most intuitive virtual instrument interface known to man, Playa: Aggro Electro Boom will unleash the explosive power you need to rain your creative fire down upon the powerless masses. Got Boom?

Full details and demos available at:
Aggro Electric Boom - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP Inc: �99.00 / �119.00

To order, please contact sales@timespace.com or call +44 (0) 1837 55200

Chris Mayes-Wright joins Focusrite

altsounds — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 17:00:37 GMT

Starting at Focusrite on the 1st September 2009, Chris will be liaising with artists and members of the press, as well as directly with the Focusrite/Novation customer base, to ensure the brands are well represented in all areas.

Chris will also be responsible for maintaining the clarity of in-house marketing documents, so that the organisation and its sales channel have a sound base from which to market Focusrite and Novation products.

Having held the title of News Editor at Sound On Sound Magazine for over three years, Chris has a wealth of industry knowledge, and has built up a strong relationship with the Focusrite team.

Focusrite Marketing Manager Giles Orford states:

"We have got to know Chris and we've experienced his exemplary attitude to work first-hand. We look forward to welcoming him to the team. We've no doubt he'll play a key role in making 2010 Focusrite's most successful year to date. He'll help to bolster messaging communications at Focusrite, boost our presence on community sites, and provide a single point of contact for Artists and Press. More importantly, he's a damn sight better writer than I'll ever be!"

Sound on Sound's Ian Gilby comments:

"Chris has been a highly enthusiastic and professional member of the SOS editorial team, and whilst we're obviously sorry to see him leave, I know that he will be a very safe pair of hands to help Focusrite further enhance their centralised communications strategy. I'm pleased to be able to add that SOS has already appointed an equally capable News Editor, Jules Harding, to whom Chris will be able to send Focusrite press releases."

feedBack PR, former PR agent for Focusrite, will continue to disseminate all Focusrite and Novation press releases up until the end of the calendar year. They will also be continuing their fantastic work in terms of writing and video creative on a free-lance basis.

From January 1st 2010, Focusrite will handle dissemination of press releases directly worldwide.

The end of a �Red� audio legend

altsounds — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 16:57:36 GMT

The Red 3 was launched in 1994, secured a TEC award in 1995, and went on to become an industry standard worldwide. Almost every major studio owns, or has at some time hosted, a Focusrite Red 3, famous for its ability to retain a natural, unobtrusive sound even when significant compression is being applied. Red 3s are frequently placed over the mix bus, applying an effect that Tom Lord-Alge describes as, �kissing the Focusrite�.

It could be said that Focusrite invented �boutique� rack-mount hardware. The Red range brought �sex appeal� to the racks of professional recording studios. All Reds boast 1/2� thick burgundy red anodised aluminum fascias. The front panel features engraved section grooves and styling motifs, (sculpted with diamond-tipped cutters), porthole meter windows, anoprinted silver control text, silver-anodised, custom-designed, turned rotary switch knobs and firm-response illuminated push-button switches.

The Red 3, as with all of the Red range modules, is hand-built, using the same circuit topology as the original ISA130 module from the Focusrite Fort� console. All Red products feature relays using gold-plated silver contacts, sealed in an inert gas. The precious metal means that all contacts are low resistance and the gas prevents any kind of corrosion of the surface of the contacts, creating the most pristine audio switching device ever designed � utterly passive, zero-distortion caused and no FETs required.

The Red 3 features a proprietary Class A VCA design, fully discrete and balanced, offering musical harmonic characteristics. In order to separate compression and limiting, the side-chain electronics contain three VCAs in series to generate compression and limiting control voltages, which drive the main VCA. The result is true compression followed by limiting, rather than the more common characteristic of compression that turns into limiting. The side-chain electronics are a feed-forward design ensuring superb transient response without ringing or modulation. This allows effects such as �over-compression� to be achieved; what Focusrite have described as �infinity and beyond�.

Phil Dudderidge, Focusrite�s chairman, comments;

�The Red range radicalised the world of outboard signal processing with the novel use of sculpted, extruded red-anodised metal work, encasing classic Rupert Neve-designed microphone pre-amplifiers, Equalisers and Compressors, bringing colour not only to the racks of elite studios around the world, but more importantly to their musical output. It will be a sad day to see the last of these classics leaving the factory, but it can be safely said that the Red 3 will continue to play a vital role in elite studios for decades to come.�

The last few remaining Red 3 units are available from authorised Focusrite Pro dealerships across the globe.

Classic Focusrite VCA- based compression is still available in the form of the ISA 430 MkII and ISA 220 mono channel strips, both of which can operate as stereo pairs. Red 1, 7 and 8 units will be discontinued in 2010.

Experience the magic of MOJO � now at Time+Space

altsounds — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 15:53:38 GMT

MOJO: Horn Section, offers the most flexible and innovative approach to pop, funk, jazz, and big band horns ever created in a virtual instrument. Inspired by legendary groups like Tower of Power and the big bands of decades past, MOJO is capable of emulating everything from a sultry sax solo to a screaming full big band playing at the top of their lungs.

Pushing the boundaries of sampling and scripting technology far beyond traditional sample libraries, MOJO offers a simple but feature-packed interface. No need to decide in advance which articulation you want to play. Simply load the instrument, turn the Ensemble knob to specify how many players you want playing that instrument (from a soloist to a dectet) and begin controlling the instrument from the keyboard.

More than a dozen articulations are instantly loaded and intelligently handled via performance features and keyswitches. Behind the scenes, a humanizing function, smart release layers, and custom legato and vibrato tools assist the player in reproducing the ultimate dimensions in realism. Crescendos and swells sync instantly to host tempos and can be triggered in real time.

Included in the instrument collection are: soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, trumpet (open, muted, and piccolo), flugelhorn, trombone (open and muted), bass trombone, and clarinet. The articulation list varies for each instrument, but generally includes sustains, stabs, staccatos, trills, slurs, shakes, octave runs, rise to hits, falls (including four different lengths), doits, bends, stylistic riffs, special effects, and tempo-synced swells and crescendos.

All samples are recorded in 24-bit stereo using the finest preamps in the world, including a vintage Neve 1073 and a LaChapell Audio 992EG, and mics by AKG, Neumann, and Coles.

MOJO is powered by the popular Kontakt engine, offering total integration into all major sequencers via its AudioUnit, VST, and RTAS plug-ins, as well as standalone operation..

RRP Inc: �349.00 / �389.00

For demos please visit:
MOJO: Horn Section - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

To order, please contact sales@timespace.com or call +44 (0) 1837 55200

DubSpot Certificate Courses: Ableton Live 8 | Richie Hawtin Video

jack s — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 08:59:03 GMT

DubSpot announces the implementation of a massive Ableton Live 8 curriculum update.Included are 3 new advanced levels (4.5.6) of Live 8 training, plus an overhaul and update of Levels (1.2.3), injecting the APC40 on Day 1.Most significant, the school is proud to introduce the DubSpot Certificate Program, which awards a DubSpot Producers Certificate in Ableton Live after the successful completion of all 6 levels.The new certificate program affirms DubSpot�s commitment to the high-quality educational experience they provide their students.

The most recent update is also DubSpot�s most expansive to date, involving hundreds of hours and half a year of development by their top-notch instructors, including Head Architect Jon Margulies, (Ableton Live 7 & 8 Power!/ Hobotech), along with DJ Kiva (founder of Adios Babylon), Chris Petti (former Propellerhead mainstay), Mike Hatsis (founder of Track Team Audio) and Heinrich Zwahlen (synthesis guru and Ableton Certified Instructor).This talented team of experts allows DubSpot to provide the highest quality of Ableton instruction available.

DubSpot Certificate Courses: Ableton Live 8
Upcoming Start Dates:
9.16.09 � Wed,Fri / 6:15-9pm (6-months, 2x per week)
9.17.09 - Thu / 9:15pm-12am (Full-Year, 1x per week)
11.09.09 � Mon,Wed,Fri. / 3:15-6pm (3-months, 3x per week)
11.10.09 � Tue,Thur / 10:15am-1pm (6-months, 2x per week)
More Info Here>>

Additional Announcements:
Live 8 U.S. Session NYC: Richie Hawtin & Ambivalent Video: To celebrate the success of the DubSpot�s Live 8 U.S. Session Tour stop in NYC, they are releasing a series of videos featuring Richie Hawtin and Ambivalent in one of the many great presentations that occurred over the weekend.They discussed various aspects of their careers, from production and performance techniques to finding new motivation and more.See Videos Here>>

Live 8 U.S. Session LA Dates Announced: The 3rd leg of the tour will be Los Angeles, over the weekend of October 17th & 18th.Kid Beyond is already confirmed to present, as well as Barry Cole (Spot Music, Blue Mountain Publishing) with many more to come soon.The 4th stop will be in Austin, Texas on November 14th & 15th.As usual, a selection of DubSpot�s expert instructors will be on hand for both events.A new tour website is coming as well.

New Ableton Live 8 Video Tutorial: - Dynamic Dubstep Drums & Beats

Back home in New York, DubSpot instructor Mike Hatsis has continued upon the success of his Dubstep wobble video tutorial to present a second installation, this time detailing drum and beat creation in the genre. Experience It Here>>

The school is also announcing the creation of an entirely new class, called Essential Music Foundation (EMF).Masterminded by DubSpot instructor DJ Kiva, in association with Mixing & Mastering instructor Daniel Wyatt and DubSpot associate Samuel Buonaugurio Jr., the new course aims to give students a rock solid foundation for a career in composition and production by examining the fundamentals of good musicianship.This class is an incredibly valuable addition to the DubSpot curriculum; more information is available on the blog.See More Here>>

Additional Certificate Course start Dates:
01.13.10 � Wed.Fri / 6:15-9pm (6-month course, meets 2x per week)
02.10.10 � Mon.Wed.Fri / 3:15-6pm (3-month course, meets 3x per week)
Note: Packages taken separately are still eligible for the certificate. See start dates below.
Ableton Live 8 Levels 1.2.3
08.18.09 - Tues & Thurs 10:15am-1:00pm (3-month course, meets 2x per week)
09.16.09 - Weds & Fri 6:15pm - 9:00pm (3-month course, meets 2x per week)
09.17.09 - Thurs 9:15pm-12:00am (6-month course, meets 1x per week)
11.10.09 - Tues & Thurs 10:15am-1:00pm (3-month course, meets 2x per week)
Advanced Levels 4.5.6
09.14.09 - Mon/Wed/Fri's 3:15-6:00pm (2-month course, meets 3x per week)

For more info on these Ableton classes and more, please go to: www.dubspot.com.

Zero-G delivers a taste of Brazil - bossa nova style

altsounds — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:59:29 GMT

Welcome to BRAZIL CHILLOUT � from the producer of the best-selling Classic Disco and Satin Grooves comes a sample library packed full of the classic sounds of Brazilian bossa nova and samba fused with a modern style and contemporary feel...

Brazil Chillout explores a genre that has had a huge influence on modern music. The 32 construction kits give you a wide choice of styles ranging from classic Jobim to smooth Ivan Lins, from acoustic to electric and with tempos from a soothing 60bpm to a house-y 115bpm. In addition there are extra guitar riffs and drum & percussion loops to add even more of that Brazilian flair to your music productions.

Cool, sexy, silky smooth and relaxing yet vibrant and funky this library has it all. So sit down by the pool with your shades on, a cocktail in your hand and chillout to the coolest sample library ever made.

Includes
680 Acidized WAV files
680 AIFF Apple Loops
700 Stylus compatible REX2 files
37 Kontakt Instruments
37 EXS24 Instruments
37 NN-XT Instruments

Featured Sounds
32 Full Construction Kits
Stereo Guitar Loops
Bossa Style Drumloops
Samba Style Drumloops

For demos and more information visit:
Brazil Chillout - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP Inc: �59.95 / �79.00 / $99.95

To order please contact sales@timespace.com or call +44 (0) 1837 55200

Joe Barresi Evil Drums for Superior Drummer 2.0

altsounds — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:27:04 GMT

For the first time since the start of the company Toontrack Music have agreed to allow a 3rd party producer to independently produce and sell an audio expansion for a Toontrack software platform.

Platinum Samples are one of the worlds leading producers of sampled drums, and quoting Toontrack Music CEO Andreas Sundgren, "Their products are cutting edge recordings. We are excited about and are looking forward to a long term collaboration with Platinum Samples"

Platinum Samples owner, Shivaun OʼBrien says �The symbiotic relationship of our samples with Toontracksʼ drum software is very exciting and weʼre honored.

This collaboration is a natural extension of both Toontrack Music and Platinum Samplesʼ product lines, and we look forward to a long and rewarding relationship.�

The first joint release, planned for Q4 2009, is the well-known title "Joe Barresi Evil Drums" as an SDX expansion pack for Superior Drummer 2.0.

About Toontrack Music

Toontrack Music is the worldʼs premier developer of percussive virtual instruments, with an unrivaled line of drum and percussion tools for playing, composing, and producing in Digital Audio Workstations.

About Platinum Samples

Platinum Samples has over 30 years of experience in the recording industry and have garnered acclaim for their Master Engineer series of drum samples recorded by multi-platinum awarded producer/engineers.

Rob Papen's new reverb plug-in has arrived at Time+Space

altsounds — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:36:48 GMT

You�ve spent hours on your track � working and reworking every part to bring your musical vision to life. And you know that the quality of your reverb can be the difference between the rich sounding mix you�re after and one that comes off as flat and artificial.

Face it: When it comes to pristine, authentic reverb, it�s the algorithm that counts. RP-Verb is the fruit of Rob Papen�s decades-long study of reverb and endless hours of exploring, testing, and tweaking by Rob and Jon Ayres. The result is exactly what you would expect: a stunning, musical reverb that brings unmatched dimension and fullness to your mixes.

But if you�re thinking that this sound quality must come at the cost of usability, fear not � RP-Verb has a straightforward, intuitive interface that puts all the most essential parameters right at your fingertips. And like all Rob Papen plug-ins, it inspires right out of the box with spot-on presets that range from intimate venues to abstract, surreal spaces.

RP-Verb is the reverb you�ve waited years to have in your setup. Try it out for yourself and see why pros describe it with one word: �amazing�.

Full details of RP-Verb's features can be found at:
RP Verb - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP Inc: �129.00 / �149.00 / $179.00

Logic Studio:Basic Tips - Looping

jack s — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:51:48 GMT

Another fundamental technique for the budding music producer is looping samples and midi. There are a number of ways to go about this but I will show you two of the most efficient and easy ones.

The way I�m teaching these techniques aren�t necessarily the best or most efficient, these are just things that work for me. So it is really important that you find the right style for you, as this makes you more comfortable with Logic and makes it easier for you to get creative.

Continuous looping: This is a useful tool when maybe practicing a drum beat or just coming up with a melody. Extremely handy for drum samples.

I have taken just a simple bass kick from my sample folder (I will explain in another tutorial on how to do this if you have absolutely no idea.) Pop this sample up in your arrange window on an audio track.

Like so:

Above the kick sample you will see �1 2 3 4 � � . This is in basic terms the number of sample bars if you like. So to loop a 4 bar beat, simply click in one of the light grey numbered bar boxes:

This in turn will turn green. Now press play (shortcut default is spacebar) and you have a four bar continuous loop. The amount of bars can be adjusted by using the mouse to drag the green bar.
The second way I�m going to explain is very helpful when structuring your work. Move your mouse curser over to the top left corner of the sample box. The curser will change into a vertical line with an arrow. Just click and drag to the appropriate size.

There are other ways to go about this like I said, but these are better for my work flow. Happy looping!

Announcing arguably the finest Trance sample collection ever

altsounds — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:01:08 GMT

Trance Elevation Volume 1 is a massive construction kit sample library that features everything required to produce top-level Trance tracks. It includes 10 HUGE construction kits (300MB per kit) suitable for use in all sequencers on both Mac and PC. MIDI files have also been provided for intermediate and advanced users.

The collection was produced for ProducerLoops.com by Jonathan Blakoe of Static Blue (Jonathan Blakoe / Static Blue on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads). Static Blue�s remixes for Armin Van Buuren, Sunny Lax, Kamil Polner and Adam Szabo have earned him much respect from all of the major players on the Trance scene.

The construction kit elements within Trance Elevation Volume 1 have been broken-out into separate files. Each part has been isolated so you can choose which parts you want to use in your own track. All parts are looped perfectly, so you can simply drag and drop the desired parts into your music sequencer.

MIDI files have been provided for the melodic synthesizer riffs (including leads, pads and basslines). Therefore, if you want to put these melodies through your own synthesizers or plug-ins, then no problem, simply import the MIDI file into your sequencer then select your own synth or plug-in as the output.

We have included dry and processed (wet) versions of the loops for most parts, to give you ultimate flexibility when mixing these into your tracks. Beginners will want to use the wet versions, whereas the intermediate and advanced users will find the dry versions and MIDI files particularly useful.

Up-filters, Down-filters & Flat-filters
For most synthesizer leads (and some pads) we have provided an up-filter, a down-filter and a flat-filter. So, you can build the huge anthem sound up to a climax, then let it roll for a while, then filter it back down again. Obviously, we understand that advanced users may want to use the MIDI riffs instead, but producers of all levels can use the audio parts exactly as they are without compromise.

Unlooped Riffs for Pro Producers.
We have included audio riffs that include reverb and delay tails for the professional producers out there. These do not loop because the reverb/delay tail can be up to 2 bars in length. These have been provided because sometimes you want the synthesizer lead part to fade out during a breakdown, for example.

Ideal For:
Great Trance � simple as that! Trance Elevation Volume 1 has been constructed from the ground up with usability in mind. It has been designed to appeal to beginner, intermediate and professional users alike.

Content:

3 GB total data (1.5GB each format),
574 files (each format),
ACIDized Wave Files,
Apple Loops / AIFF Files,
MIDI Loops (for melodies), and Key and Tempo in file names.
Samples include Basslines, Clap Loop, Crashes, Drum Loops, Kick Loops, Kick Samples, Hat Loops, Pad Loops, Plucked Synth Loops, Reverse Cymbals, Snare Loops, Synth Leads, Synth Arps, Sound Effects

Price and Availability:
Trance Elevation Volume 1 is available for instant download exclusively at ProducerLoops.com for �34.95 / 42,06 EUR / $40.12 USD.

More information is available at:
Download Pro Audio Sample Packs, Loops, Beats, MIDI & Wav Samples | ProducerLoops.com

MP3 Demos:
http://www.producerloops.com/files/a...20Demo%201.mp3
Plays Constructions 1-5

http://www.producerloops.com/files/a...20Demo%202.mp3
Plays Constructions 6-10

ABOUT PRODUCER LOOPS
Producer Loops is the World's largest distributor of downloadable sample packs. The company's objective is to help producers achieve their musical ambitions by providing them with first-class support alongside the world's largest resource of instantly downloadable samples, loops and construction kits. The Producer Loops in-house music production division creates sample packs that are both exciting and inspirational. They cater for styles from Electro, House, Dubstep and Hip Hop to Hardcore, Breakbeat and more. Most of their Sample Packs are mastered through Pro Tools HD (TDM) and prices start from just �14.95. You can download Producer Loops sample packs instantly, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Specifications for all collections:

ACIDized Wave Files
Apple Loops / AIFF Files
REX 2 Loops
Loops sync to BPM
44.1 kHz / 24-Bit
PC/Mac Compatible
Royalty-Free � no exceptions Once purchased, you can use these audio loops and MIDI files in your music releases, both commercial and underground, with no restrictions.

Compatible with:

ACID
Ableton Live
Apple Final Cut
Apple Garageband
Apple Logic 7/8
Apple Soundtrack
Cakewalk Sonar
Cubase SX
Cubase 4
Cubasis
Emagic Logic
EXS24
FL Studio
Fruityloops
Garageband
Gigasampler
Gigastudio
Halion
Kontakt (all versions)
Motu Mach Five
Nuendo
REASON
Stylus RMX
and many more....

SAGE Xpander bundle shipping now from Time+Space

altsounds — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 14:55:24 GMT

Enhance the variety of choices for your Stylus RMX virtual groove instrument. S.A.G.E. Xpanders on DVD-ROM are based on award-winning collections from ILIO and can be easily added to Stylus RMX�s already massive core library. Now all ILIO Xpanders are available together in a specially priced bundle.

Libraries included are;

Ethno Techno
A masterpiece of groove innovation. Bashiri Johnson (Whitney Houston, Miles Davis, Madonna, Saturday Night Live) applies his amazing talent for feel and sonic discovery to this entirely original groove library. Ethno Techno features rare instruments and unheard of rhythms and textures. From broad and spacious ambient explorations to radical heart-pounding beats, all have a unique organic flavor that sound great on their own, or as added spice to grooves from any of the other S.A.G.E. Xpander titles. Produced, mixed and remixed by Eric Persing.

Stark Raving Beats
Fast and Furious! This library features aggressive live drums, wild percussion and tricked-out remixes. The original groove tempos start at 105 BPM and accelerate to a heart-pounding 170. Each groove is split out into several isolated multi-tracked elements, a first for live drum grooves! Swap snares, kicks, hats, and toms between grooves at will. Great for remixing, producing, film scoring, and creating your own amazing �live� grooves from scratch!

Skippy�s Big Bad Beats
A complete barrage of unique, Hi-Fi, funkified drum loops. Skippy uses his wacky imagination to create Hip Hop, Trip Hop, and dance grooves that come in a variety of flavors, including smaller mixes, no-kick, no-snare, and even breakdown versions! Whether you�re looking for some clean Hip Hop styles with massive low-end, or sensational funk-inspired beat to move your feet, Skippy delivers with this mega-hit wonder.

Skippy�s Noizbox
Welcome to John �Skippy� Lehmkuhl�s big box of Xtreme grooves. Hot techno-club beats, a hard driving Euro attitude, innovative and cinematic sounds and textures. An explosion of sonic fireworks with a huge variety of hits, textures, and beats make this groove library a total blast! Amazing sounds turbo-charged by RMX.

For demos and more information visit:
ILIO Xpander Bundle - 4 pack - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

RRP Inc: �99.95 / �119.00

To order please contact sales@timespace.com or call +44 (0) 1837 55200

Sample Magic's 'Sunrise Sessions' now shipping

altsounds — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 14:53:23 GMT

The sequel to Sample Magic's best-selling chillout release Sunset Sessions, featuring 950+MB of...

Drums > Dusty beats, lo-fi grooves and vinyl-infused breaks and fills. Beat variants for added flexibility.

Keys > Cinematic Rhodes, sultry-smooth piano and lazy Wurlitzer licks � all key and tempo-labeled.

Instrumentals > Sparkling guitars, driving live bass, rustic violins, shady sax and jazzy trumpet. Pure melodic bliss.

Glitches and noise > Spurious synths, re-wired percussion and misty background elecphonica.

Music cuts > Ready-mixed melodies, soundbeds and orchestral one-shots. Instant inspiration.

Drum hit archive > Battered kicks, sleazy snares and cracked hats � all laden with our trademark analogue warmth.

FORMAT: 2.70GB CD/DVD multipack (2,771 files), includes 24-bit Wavs (982MB, 982 files), Stylus-RMX compatible Rex2 files (413MB, 579 files), Apple Loops (712MB, 581 files) plus EXS24, Reason NNXT, Kontakt II, Kontakt Monolith and Halion patches.

RRP Inc: �59.95 / �77.95 / $119.95

For demos and more information visit:
Sunrise Sessions - Time+Space | Virtual Instruments, Sample CDs, DVDs, Hardware and Software

New Product Alert! Cakewalk Announces New Line of Studio Hardware

altsounds — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:57:02 GMT

Here�s the latest news from your friends at Cakewalk:

Cakewalk announces the newest additions to the growing line of affordable, high-quality hardware products, designed in conjunction with Roland. These three new USB audio interfaces, the UA-4FX, UA-25EX, and UA-101 provide a simple solution for the mobile musician and/or recording studio to connect and capture audio to Mac & PC.

Cakewalk UA-4FX
Cakewalk UA-25EX
Cakewalk UA-101

Cakewalk also announces a new line of powered stereo monitor speakers. The MA-7A Stereo Micro Monitors and MA-15D Digital Stereo Micro Monitors deliver superior audio in a myriad of settings; the home recording studio, classroom or media lab, college dorm room, even in your living room entertainment system without stressing your budget.

Cakewalk MA-7A
Cakewalk MA-15D

Cakewalk� announces update to SONAR V-Studio 100

altsounds — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:39:21 GMT

Cakewalk�s SONAR V-Studio 100 music production studio is taking the recording world by storm offering, as it does, a compact and easy to use solution for a whole variety of studio tasks. It integrates a 24-bit/96 kHz USB 2.0 audio interface together with a DAW controller, digital mixer and SD recorder, and also comes bundled with a fantastic software suite called the VS Production Pack. This includes a powerful set of high quality instruments and effects for Mac and PC plus SONAR VS for PC users just getting in to digital recording.

Cakewalk has just announced that SONAR V-Studio 100�s software has been updated to version 1.20 which includes a number of workflow improvements in response to customer feedback. Notably the Track Control feature has been improved for all DAWs making track selection quicker in your chosen application. The update demonstrates Cakewalk�s ongoing commitment to constantly improve its products and will be free to all users.

SONAR V-Studio 100 features in full

High speed USB 2.0 interface featuring:
� 8 in + mix / 6 out, 24-bit/96 kHz quality
� 2 mic pre-amps w/phantom Power, hi-z guitar input; MIDI I/O
� ASIO, WDM, WASAPI, Core Audio support
� Compatible with DAWs such as SONAR, Logic, Live, Cubase, and Digital Performer

Universal DAW Controller:
Supports all popular digital recording software for Mac and PC via Mackie control protocol, including Logic, Live, Cubase, and Digital Performer. Additionally, V-Studio 100 provides extended control capabilities over SONAR through the implementation of Cakewalk�s Active Controller Technology (ACT). The controller features:

� 100 mm motorized, touch-sensitive fader
� 5 rotary encoders, 11 buttons and transport control
� Use with any DAW through Mackie Control protocol
� Advanced control of SONAR through Active Controller Technology

Personal Digital Mixer:
SONAR V-Studio 100 is an ideal digital mixer for small groups, solo performers, DJs, MCs, and any electronic musician who needs to mix multiple sound sources. All users can enhance their live sound with the pro-quality on-board effects which offer easy routing and accessibility.

� Ideal for mixing small bands, solo musicians, DJs, home studios
� 8 inputs, 6 outputs plus headphones
� 4 types of reverb and 6 channels of EQ and compression

Mobile SD Recorder Live Player:
Capture that creative moment whenever inspiration strikes! SONAR V-Studio 100 provides high quality digital recording that can be used without being connected to computer. Record directly to the VS-100�s SD-card to capture song ideas, rehearsals, or live performances. Create backing tracks on your DAW of choice and transfer them to the VS-100�s SD-card for playback during live performance (even while recording). Likewise, recorded performances can be easily transferred from the VS-100�s SD-card for additional editing.

SONAR V-Studio 100 Software Pack
VS-100 Production Pack (Win/Mac) suite of effects and instruments includes:

� VX-64 Vocal Strip � a seven-stage processor for shaping and sculpting incredible sounding vocal tracks.
� Dimension LE � a streamlined version of the acclaimed Dimension Pro instrument from Cakewalk which also includes a special edition of Garritan Pocket Orchestra.
Rapture LE � is a special version of the award winning Rapture wavetable synthesizer.
Cakewalk Studio Instruments � a collection of four virtual instruments that provide a fast and easy way to create backing tracks.

SONAR VS digital recording software (PC only) �a special entry level DAW based on the powerful SONAR 8 audio engine but offering a streamlined user interface.

Audio-Technica introduces improved ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint� noise-cancelling headphones

altsounds — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:24:29 GMT

Audio-Technica has announced the introduction of its ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint� active noise-cancelling over-ear headphones, which have the same 85% noise-cancellation but incorporate a number of improvements from the previous model to offer even better sound quality, comfort and convenience.

The ATH-ANC7b delivers superior audio performance, with a smoother, richer and more natural tonal balance. The headphones provide clear, high-resolution sound, with a high impact bass, a detailed midrange, extended treble and accurate imaging within an immersive soundfield.

The ear-cups have been redesigned for greater comfort, and feature generously cushioned padding and a shape that fits easily over any ear. In addition, the ATH-ANC7b is supplied with two 1.6 m (5.2') and 1.0 m (3.3') detachable cables, and offers easier battery access.

The ATH-ANC7b employs exclusive QuietPoint� active noise-cancellation technology that eliminates up to 85% of outside noise. A miniature microphone in each ear-cup detects environmental noise, and a corresponding sound-cancelling signal is applied. The headphones are ideal for use with the Apple� iPod�, iPhone� and iPod touch� portable music and DVD players, laptop computers, in-flight entertainment systems and other devices.

The ATH-ANC7b utilizes large-aperture 40 mm neodymium-magnet drivers for a wide 10 � 25,000 Hz frequency response. The headphones have extremely high 109 dB sensitivity to provide generous volume levels from any music source. The ATH-ANC7b also works when the noise-cancelling function is turned off, and operates in passive mode without batteries.

The headphones fold flat for storage and come with two detachable 1.6 m (5.2') and 1.0 m (3.3') cables, a full-size �-inch adapter, an airline adapter for connection to in-flight entertainment systems, and a hard, durable carrying case.

These very desirable headphones are available immediately from Audio-Technica�s e-retail site, Audio Technica Headphones for Professional & Everyday Use and will be available from mid August at selected retailers at a suggested price of �184.00 inc VAT in the UK and �189 ex VAT in Europe.

Toontrack solo 1.2.1 available now

altsounds — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 22:40:26 GMT

Toontrack solo 1.2.1 is now available from
OpenDNS

It fixes a number of faults with the new Metronome feature as well as
expand the game controller support launched as part of version 1.2.0.
The changes in a nutshell:

- added support for Mad Catz XBox Rockband� drumkit on PC
- metronome should now work as expected on PC
- click sounds are correctly recalled/found regardless of the project
location on PC
- default metronome settings are remembered
- fixed a bug when opening save files with incorrect paths on PC
- Open/Save/Save as/New combinations should remember the filename
- some minor graphical issues in the mixer have been fixed

For reference, please find below the important bugfixes of the previous
version as well as the new features introduced starting with Toontrack
solo 1.2:

Bugfixes

- failure to load the WDM under some circumstances should no longer
occur
- EZplayer should no longer be removed from the audio/midi chain when
re-loading a project

New Features

- graphical interface has been rebuilt, main drummer is treated as any
other
- re-organization of the application menus for a cleaner, more OS
compliant experience
- convenience toolbar for common application components and EZplayer
- new Master mute button to supplement existing shortcut
- new metronome feature, with time signature setting and volume control
- support for multiple MIDI interfaces and ports (to be used at the
same time)
- support for MME audio drivers on PC
- support for Rockband� and Guitar Hero� drum controllers

Rock Band� is a trademarks of Harmonix� Music Systems, Inc.
Guitar Hero� is a trademark of Activision� Publishing, Inc.

Toontrack has no rights to any of these trademarks. Toontrack solo is
not supported, recommended or endorsed by any of these companies.
Toontrack has tested their products with select software platforms and
hardware to verify compatibility. The current compatibility chart can
be downloaded by clicking the link below.

Toontrack updates Superior Drummer to version 2.1.1

altsounds — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:45:01 GMT

This update contains many bug fixes essential for the now-shipping Metal Foundry SDX. This new expansion pack will not function properly with previous versions of Superior Drummer and is therefore required. It also features a number of improvements to preset management and comes therefore highly recommended to all users (with and without SDX in their arsenal).

New Features:
- support for alternating kicks (Metal Foundry SDX)
- on-screen warning when total Mem exceeds the Memory Usage Limit
- new factory presets for layer limits, Default can be recalled

Bugfixes
- AmbCorr now works for individual Mics and is saved and restored
- bug that caused occasional crashes when applying a layer limit preset on a multi-core CPU
- various changes regarding the loading of sounds as a consequence of a GUI action
- X-drum pictures are now reset when projects are loaded
- routing a Bus to another Bus to its left should no longer lead to issues with the right channel
- fixed a bug in MIDI Alias reading that mainly affected reading of X-Drum presets
- more of the MIDI mapping should now be restored when applying a X-Drum preset
- the preset naming pop-up no longer acts on Return. Pressing OK is required (avoids crashes)
- sidechains from pre 2.1 projects are now restore properly
- setting the path to Sounds should now works using the root or Sounds folder on PC too
- having an unauthorized Sound Library as default should no longer cause authorization issues

Free Audio Conversion Tool [WAV MP3 WMA]

altsounds — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 22:03:21 GMT

Just a quick one here about finding a Free WAV to MP3 converter. I always have the need to transfer files between formats and always found it hard to trawl through all the available software to find a truly Free WAV to MP3 converter. Well now using the Free Audio Converter you can easily transfer files from WAV to MP3 or WMA and best of all it is Freeware.

Quote:

Free Audio Converter - Completely free audio converter for Windows Sound file converter for Windows. Convert audio files from many different file formats to mp3, wav or wma. For example convert wav to mp3, mp3 to wav, wma to mp3 or many other formats

It's only 5MB so it's a quick download and you will be using your Free WAV to MP3 converter before you know it. Usage is really self explanatory too. A handy tool I thought I would share with anyone looking for a Free WAV to MP3 converter.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Reason 4 Tip - Exporting Multiple Reason Instruments as Seperate WAV files

altsounds — Sat, 23 May 2009 18:43:18 GMT

Technology is awesome but sometimes it is just a little much. Trying to get your head around Reason is one thing but then trying to get your head around Re-wire and integrating that with your DAW is a completely different beast altogether.

Why would you want to do this anyway you may ask? Well Reason is great for what it is, but you can't really mix within reason. Sure there's a mixer and mastering tool, but compared to the flexibility of VST FX within a DAW it is rubbish.

If you are the sort of person that just wants to get it done now then this quick tutorial will show you how to get separate audio files out of Reason for each instrument for later import into your DAW of choice. And it's way easier than you thought.

As Propellerhead haven't put this functionality in themselves you have to do it the ghetto way. Simply start with the first instrument and click the S next to it to solo it. Check all you hear is that one instrument and then in Reason click File > Export Song as Audio file and name the file appropriately i.e. Bass1

Repeat this for each instrument, and in some cases each multiple track of an instrument. If you've used Re-drum you might want to do this for every entity i.e. Kick, Snare so that you can have full control of these items at a later date in your mix. When working with lots of Re-drum entities this can take a while but it is well worth it afterward for the mix control you have.

Once all of your instruments have been exported as separate files open up your DAW and then import those audio files into a new project there. Make sure you make the DAW project the same BPM as the Reason project so that everything can stay on grid. Now you can add vocals and whatever else on top and get yourself a really banging new tune! Simple as.

Who needs re-wire?

Logic Studio:Basic Tips - Speeding Up Logic's Performance

jack s — Sat, 23 May 2009 11:55:28 GMT

Here are a few simple tips for increasing the speed of Logic, there is nothing more annoying that a slow music program! This does obviously depend on what speed your computer is, but these will help the overall performance.

Close all widget and and programs that are of no use

Logic does have a tendency to run a lot the RAM up, so having any extra programs running that aren�t needed will speed the performance up a little.

Disable any antivirus software

Usually these programs are constantly performing checks and scan taking up much needed bandwidth for recording, close these utilities as they are not need, and anyone concerned with the lack of protection; well if airport is not running, then there is no internet!

Turn Airport and Bluetooth OFF

These utilities both run in the background and hog up processing power.

Logic Studio:Basic Tips - Using Logic without MIDI keyboard

jack s — Fri, 22 May 2009 10:18:04 GMT

One the of the essential pieces of equipment for working with MIDI is a MIDI keyboard. I personally don�t own one, as my music is mainly created from manipulating samples. But from time to time I do need the synth, and when traveling this is very helpful as you don�t want to be lugging your great big keyboard everywhere.

There are a couple of ways to work around this, but I will show you no frills easy peasy pudding a pie one that Logic has kindly in-built in the software.

With the main work flow open simply press the �Cap�s Lock� key and this will provide an on-screen keyboard:

By using the �W � �� keys, Logic allows you play as if you would on any keyboard.

Now this isn�t stuck to one octave, in the top left of the onscreen keyboard you can see �Octave: 2�, this is the default setting. By pressing the �1,- 0� number buttons you can change octaves.

Velocity can be a problem, as the keypad is not sensitive to this, but the ability to change the velocity is possible by using the �z-.� keys. Left being the lowest velocity.

Another handy idea that has been well though out is the transparency button in the top right. This allows you to neaten your workflow a little more by making the box transparent:

The final feature is the space bar. This can be used as a sustain pedal if you want to get a more natural flowing sound with maybe a simple piano chord or jingle. The sustain is NOT preset, this has to be done manually within Logic, here is how to do it:

Firstly you need to bring up the �Gobal Settings� by going to �. Logic Pro > Preferences > Global

Within the Global preferences box there will be a tab named �Caps Lock Keys�, select this then you will find the un-ticked box named �Space Bar Acts As Sustain Pedal�. Job done.

Keep checking back for more FREE exlcusive hints and tips @ Altsounds.com

Calling all Engineers, Producers, Music Makers

altsounds — Tue, 19 May 2009 23:20:52 GMT

This Studio Talk section on Altsounds is a fairly new edition but is something I have been wanting to add for a while. We already offer Gear Reviews and News so it was the next logical step for us. I will be putting together a whole host of How-Tos, Tips and Tutorials over the coming months for some of the software that I use on a regular basis.

What I am looking for is other like minded music makers to also get involved and to put some of their knowledge down to help the next generation better themselves. The more people that can get involved the better really and if you have been making music seriously for at least one year then you will have a wealth of knowledge and tricks that you could be showing.

This thread is just here to show the intent of what this will become so that others can get involved early on.

Thanks and I look forward to speaking with you all.