Apogee Introduces New Special Edition 2x6 I/O Module for Symphony I/O Mk II
Apogee Electronics is pleased to announce the new 2x6 Special Edition AD/DA module for their flagship Symphony I/O Mk II. Designed specifically for mastering engineers, whose critical work demands ultimate sonic performance, Symphony I/O Mk II 2x6 SE offers the highest quality AD/DA conversion of any Apogee converter ever.
Symphony I/O Mk II 2x6 SE takes advantage of the latest advancements in digital and analog audio technology offering two line level inputs with 124 dB (A) of dynamic range, THD+N of -116dB and six line level outputs with 131dB (A) dynamic range and an astonishingly low THD+N of -118dB. Lucas Van Der Mee, Apogee’s Senior Hardware Engineer, comments “These are real measurements, taken with our lab test equipment and not just ‘data sheet’ specs. The new 2x6 SE will outperform just about anything in the market...at any price.”
The D/A stage incorporates the latest DAC technology, carefully optimized to offer mastering engineers the ultimate transparency to make critical adjustments with confidence. Whether you’re working with analog outboard gear or digitally in a DAW, the 2x6 SE retains every bit of warmth, punch and image in your recordings and signal processing chain.
Highlights
- Highest Quality Apogee AD/DA converter, exceeding any AD/DA converter available.
- A/D = 124dB (A) dynamic range, -116dB THD+N
- D/A = 131dB (A) dynamic range, -118dB THD+N
- Available in Thunderbolt or HD configurations
- Also available as expansion module for existing Symphony I/O Mk II
- Inputs
- Analog IN: 2 balanced inputs on 2 female XLR connectors
- AES IN: Stereo input on 1 female XLR connector
- Optical IN: Supports ADAT, SMUX & S/PDIF
- ADAT: 8 channels 44.1-48 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- SMUX: 4 channels 88.2-96 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- S/PDIF: 2 channels, up to 96 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- S/PDIF Coax IN: 2 channels, up to 192 kHz on 1 RCA connector
- Outputs
- Analog OUT: 6 balanced outputs on 1 DSUB 25-pin connector
- AES OUT: Stereo output on 1 male XLR connector
- Optical OUT: Supports ADAT, SMUX & S/PDIF
- ADAT: 8 channels 44.1-48 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- SMUX: 4 channels 88.2-96 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- S/PDIF: 2 channels, up to 96 kHz on 1 Toslink connector
- S/PDIF Coax OUT: 2 channels, up to 192 kHz on 1 RCA connector
- Full calibration of analog inputs and outputs via front panel or Apogee Control software
Configurations
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 2x6 SE Thunderbolt
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 2x6 SE Pro Tools HD
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 2x6 SE Module
New Icon Platform B+ Controller and OneHub at NAMM Show 2018
We would like to announce two exciting new additions to the Icon Platform family of modular DAW controllers. The Platform B+ is an upgrade module designed to instantly make any controller-based workflow more powerful with 50 illuminated function buttons specifically designed for your favorite DAW. Now you can quickly manipulate plug-ins, tracks, busses, automation, display, markers and more. Connect the Platform B+ unit to your Platform M+ for greater flexibility and functionality.
The OneHub Icon Power Center powers up to four Icon Pro Audio devices on a single plug while also acting as a specially designed USB hub for up to four Icon Pro Audio MIDI DAW controllers like the Platform series and QCon Pro X series.
Icon Platform B+
- 50 illuminated function buttons for controlling different DAW functions
- Supports more than 10 different popular DAWs
- Independent USB connector is equipped for use as a standalone device
- Expansion connector is equipped for direct connection to Platform M+
- Different DAW silicon overlays are included – Cubase/Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, ProTools, Sonar, Audition, Ableton Live and User define
- Class-compliant with Windows XP, Vista (32-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit & 64-bit), Windows 8 (32-bit & 64-bit), Windows 10 (64-bit) and Mac OS X (IntelMac)
- USB 2.0 high speed connectivity
- Mackie control build-in for Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason and Abelton Live.
- Mackie HUI protocol build-in for Pro Tools
- iMap – Self midi mapping software is provided for user-defined mode (MIDI Learn)
- Firmware upgrade available simply via USB connection and iMap software.
- Superior build quality and robust metal casing with Kensington lock port
- 12V/2.5A power adapter included
Icon OneHub
- 4 USB Port expansion especially for Icon controllers
- 4 Power ports for Icon controllers
Product page Icon Platform B+
Product page Icon OneHub
Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II for Waves SoundGrid - Now Available
Symphony I/O Mk II, Apogee’s flagship AD/DA converter, is now available with connectivity to Waves SoundGrid® network. With a simple ethernet connection, Symphony I/O Mk II’s industry-leading sound quality can be easily accessed from your computer, shared between multiple rooms, multiple computers and supercharged with almost infinite real-time DSP power via Waves SoundGrid servers. Symphony I/O Mk II SoundGrid integrates seamlessly with all DAWs, providing endless possibilities for setups of every size for studio, live and post production workflows.
“We’re very pleased to be working with Waves to bring a SoundGrid-enabled Symphony I/O Mk II to Apogee and Waves customers”, commented Sean McArthur, Director of Marketing for Apogee. “Symphony I/O Mk II is a flagship product that reflects more than 30 years of our expertise in making superior digital audio recording interfaces and it’s a platform we are still building on. Adding SoundGrid connectivity to Symphony I/O MkII offers customers the best of both worlds in professional audio quality and ultra-low latency plugin processing over a network. It’s an ideal solution for studio recording and live sound production.”
Mick Olesh, Waves EVP of Sales & Marketing, comments, “We are delighted to collaborate with Apogee and offer Waves SoundGrid technology and the use of Waves plugins to the Symphony I/O Mk II, thus augmenting its capabilities and offering users, whether in studio or live, a substantial increase in its ability to network easily, a valuable high channel count per connection and extremely low latency.”
Symphony I/O Mk II SoundGrid is now available in one of three standard I/O configurations: 8x8, 16x16 or 8x8+8 mic preamps. These configurations can be expanded with additional I/O modules to accommodate up to 32x32 simultaneous inputs and outputs.
About Symphony I/O Mk II
Symphony I/O Mk II is the most advanced and flexible multi-channel audio interface available. Featuring Apogee’s newest flagship AD/DA conversion, modular I/O (up to 32 simultaneous inputs and outputs), and intuitive touchscreen display, Symphony I/O Mk II offers direct connectivity to one of three different platforms - Thunderbolt, Pro Tools HD or Waves SoundGrid network.
About SoundGrid
Waves SoundGrid® is an innovative networking and processing platform for real-time professional audio applications. Ideal for studios, live sound, broadcast, post-production and more, SoundGrid provides an extremely low-latency environment for high-precision audio processing. Together with a server, a Mac or PC host computer and Symphony I/O Mk II, SoundGrid lets you run, in real time, a multitude of award-winning reverbs, equalizers, compressors, and other mixing tools by Waves, as well as any other SoundGrid-compatible third-party plugins.
Highlights
- Connect Symphony I/O Mk II via Ethernet cable to computer(s) and/or SoundGrid compatible devices
- Sync audio between multiple computers, DAWs and rooms (Mac or PC)
- Near-zero latency recording with any SoundGrid compatible plugins (Requires Waves SoundGrid server)
- Mix with nearly unlimited plugin power (Requires Waves SoundGrid server)
- Up to 32 channels of modular analog I/O with optional 8 mic preamps per Symphony unit
- Best per-channel value of any interface in its category
- Setup and advanced control via Waves SoundGrid Studio application (Available as free download from Waves)
- Ideal for studio facilities, live sound, broadcast and post-production
- Designed in California, Built in the U.S.A.
Configurations
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II SoundGrid Chassis
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 8X8 SoundGrid
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 8X8+8MP SoundGrid
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 16X16 SoundGrid
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 16X16+8MP SoundGrid
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 24X24 SoundGrid
- Apogee Symphony I/O Mk II 32X32 SoundGrid
Zoom Announces New Handy Recorder Model - The Zoom H1n
Zoom is proud to announce its latest handy recorder. The all-new Zoom H1n redefines what it means to be a portable recorder. Designed for ultimate convenience and versatility, with new stylish X/Y mics enclosure, it’s the new take-anywhere mainstay in every creator’s gear bag.
This next generation of Zoom’s best-selling model refreshes the concept of simple operation and introduces several new enhanced playback and control features. Thanks to a durable build and high-quality stereo mics, plus tone and slate generators, DSLR-based filmmakers will enjoy using it in the field. A graphic LCD display, one-touch button controls, and localized menus make it easy to quickly record song ideas, audio for film projects, lectures or meetings, podcast interviews, and more.
Highlights
- High quality X/Y condenser microphones for versatile crystal clear stereo recording
- High performance graphic LCD display and new one-touch button controls
- Multi-language user menu supports German, Chinese, Japanese, French, and Spanish
- Advanced limiter allows distortion free recording up to 120 dB SPL
- Optional audio interface operation: USB class compliant
- Powered by 2 AAA batteries for up to 10 hours of continuous use
- Optional AC adapter Zoom AD-17 for continuous power (not included)
- Playback speed control and A-B repeat playback
- Stereo Bounce feature for overdubbing new sounds over existing audio
- Auto-record, pre-record, and self-time functions
- Supports recording in 16 and 24 bit WAV at 44.1, 48, or 96 kHz, or MP3
- Built-in mono speaker: 500 mW 8Ω
- ⅛" mini phone jack mic/line input
- Includes license for Cubase LE and WaveLab LE
The Zoom H1n will be available early February 2018. For further information about Zoom, please visit the Zoom H1n product page.
TWO NOTES Promotion until December 7th, 2017
Purchase a selected Torpedo Hardware in our Black Friday Sale, online, or at your favorite retailer; and register before the 7th of December to redeem our Black Friday - Special Edition Virtual Cabinet Pack worth over €150! (Ex VAT)
TWO NOTES Reload @ Almanac
Musician, producer, composer, teacher, author and leader of the new symphonic metal band ALMANAC, legendary Mr. Victor Smolki has used the Two Notes Torpedo Reload for his new CD ‘Kingslayer’.
The Reload is the ideal combination of the devices you must have in a modern studio for the recording of electric guitars and basses: a power attenuator, a multi-impedance loadbox, a DI and re-amping box – it does it all and does it perfectly too.
Apogee Announces New MiC Plus USB Microphone
Apogee is pleased to introduce their new MiC Plus professional quality USB microphone for iPad, iPhone, Mac and PC. The entirely new designed MiC Plus offers Apogee’s unique PureDIGITAL connection technology for pristine sound quality up to 24-bit / 96kHz and the new built-in headphone output with Blend feature allows now zero-latency monitoring. Perfect for music production, voice recording, YouTube or live streaming, MiC Plus makes it easy for both aspiring and professional artists to get that big-studio sound they can take anywhere.
Apogee MiC Plus is a professional studio quality USB microphone you can connect to your iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Mac or PC. MiC Plus makes it easy to capture your best take with incredible quality, anywhere you go. Record any sound you can imagine, from vocals to voice-overs, instruments to interviews and everything in between.
Highlights
- Professional cardioid condenser microphone capsule
- Made for iPad, iPhone, Mac and Windows 10 PC
- Includes 3 cables: Lightning, USB (Type-C) and USB (Type-A)
- PureDIGITAL connection for pristine sound quality up to 24-bit / 96kHz
- 46dB of mic preamp gain, digitally controlled for greater precision
- Powerful headphone output with Blend feature for zero latency monitoring
- No configuration required, just plug in and record
- Made in the U.S.A.
Product page: Apogee MiC Plus
Apogee Announces Windows 10 Compatibility for ONE, Duet and Quartet Audio Interfaces
Apogee is pleased to announce Windows 10 compatibility for the latest generations of ONE, Duet and Quartet USB audio interfaces. Customers who purchase the latest generation of these products will be able to register and download a Windows 10 compatible software installer from Apogee’s website. Existing customers will also have access to the download. The software will be available in November 2017.
The new Windows software installers will include a firmware update for the hardware, custom Apogee ASIO audio driver and PC compatible version of Apogee’s Maestro application for controlling audio interface settings and low latency monitoring. All the same functionality currently available to Mac and iOS users will be available to Windows 10 users and the same interface can be used on either Mac, PC or iOS.
The Most Popular Audio Interfaces for Mac - Now Coming to PC
Apogee’s ONE, Duet and Quartet have been industry standards for professional quality recording on Mac and utilized by countless professional artists to record hit songs over the past 10 years. These products started the home and portable studio revolution, providing music creators with simple solutions for recording uncompromised tracks outside of traditional studios. Now the award-winning sound quality of Apogee’s most popular audio interfaces is available to music creators on Windows 10 devices.
Availability
New Windows 10 software installers for ONE, Duet and Quartet are expected to be available on Apogee’s website November 2017.
Zoom ARQ AR-48, the All-In-One Music and Live Performance Instrument
Zoom is pleased to introduce the Zoom ARQ AR-48, a very capable electronic music production station and performance instrument with a simplified design and tons of creative potential. The AR-48 lets your personality shine through and represents a fun and easy way to sequence sound, create beats, and perform with expressive effects controlled by waving the ring controller.
The AR-48 lets you craft music you can be proud of. Use the 16-pad ring controller to trigger its 460 built-in sounds, use custom samples from SD-Card, or even record audio samples on-the-fly to lay down innovative sequences. Capture what you’re playing in real-time by hitting record or use the dedicated step-input buttons to quickly program a beat. For example, start with a kick and snare, then add hi-hats and toms. Complete your pattern by adding in bass lines, synths, and melodies. You can make pattern variations and assemble them in Song Mode to create finished songs.
The AR-48 comes with a license for Ableton Live 9 Lite, providing a package with everything a modern music creator needs. Record and enhance your tracks quickly and intuitively. Ableton’s performance workflows let you take your music to the stage where you can mix and record live.
Highlights
- All-in-one drum machine, sequencer, synthesizer, looper, clip launcher, MIDI controller and live performance instrument
- Includes 460 drum machine, synth, and instruments sounds
- Import WAV files into the internal synth engine's oscillator
- 16 adjustable Master Effects, including reverb, filters, delay, and more
- Ring Controller with 3-axis accelerometer as a handheld aerial instrument for triggering arpeggiator sounds and effects
- 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive pads with programmable color LEDs
- Onboard 32-step loop sequencer for creating individual patterns or complete songs
- Programmable synthesizer engine with three sub-oscillators
- 3.5 mm mini stereo input for phrase recording and loop creation
- Play sounds chromatically, or choose from dozens of preset scales in any key
- Dual 1/4" line outputs, separate 3.5 mm mini stereo headphone output with dedicated volume control, and MIDI output
- USB port for computer integration and SD card slot
- Optional Bluetooth connection for the Ring Controller (BTA-1 connector sold separately)
For further information, visit the Zoom ARQ AR-48 product page.
Alvarez - Guitar of the month
Our September Guitar of the Month video is live. Have a look and listen to the lovely AG70CEAR, one of our great new armrest models, featuring a Solid Sitka Spruce Top, Rosewood Backs and Sides, all blending beautifully into a flamed maple binding & armrest. Learn more about this model Alvarez - Guitar of the month.