Kurzweil SP6 - The next-generation 88-key stage piano
We are proud to announce the all new Kurzweil SP6, in production and available this Autumn. This new model is a step ahead of the competition as a superior instrument not only excellent for pianists at home or in rehearsal, but also purpose built for professional use on stage with supreme sound, premium construction, customizable libraries, and portable design.
The Kurzweil SP6 is the New Entry Level Professional Stage Piano
The SP6 is an advanced stage piano built to dominate. It provides several high definition pianos with acoustic modelling features, VAST Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology, and Kurzweil VA1 analog synth modelling and DSP processing. Furthermore, the SP6 uses KB3 ToneReal physical modeling to generate famous organ sounds modeled after Hammond, Vox, and Farfisa organs with real-time performance controls. An 11 second start-up, zero loading time thanks to 2 GB of flash memory, and an excellent total instrument weight of 12,36 kg make this a full-fledged performance instrument.
This stage piano delivers a new Medeli keyboard with 88 fully-weighted hammer action keys. As Kurzweil has long been known for, extra special attention has been given to features for pianists including multiple exquisitely detailed piano models, support for half pedaling, sostenuto, damper noise, 10 selectable key velocity maps, and advanced string resonance modeling.
The new SP6 is in-line with much of the architecture both from the famous PC3 series and flagship Forte – the king of stage combos – including support for many advanced KORE 64 and VAST based sounds and is capable of importing or saving over 1000 custom user programs besides the 256 factory presets. With the help of the all-new Kurzweil software editor, this instrument’s design gives owners of the SP6 the possibility to create a huge library in their own style with personalized sounds sourced from material from thousands of renowned and masterfully refined keyboard programs.
This instrument is also designed with modern music performance in mind, as is embodied by the subtle futuristic shape and brushed metal front plating. The SP6 has 4 sturdy multifunctional knobs which access different parameters by switching between 3 rows of assignments. Use the knobs to adjust a volume envelope, filter frequency and resonance, plus hundreds of complex effect chains and access to 32 individual effect units which are individually adjustable and controlled in real time.
Highlights
- 88 fully weighted hammer action Medeli keys with 10 selectable key velocity maps
- German D 9' Grand Piano, High Definition Japanese C7 Grand, Triple Strike Piano
- String resonance modeling, half pedal, damper, and sostenuto support
- 10 Categories of programs including Strings, Brass, Voices, Synth, Bass, Drums, and more
- KB3 organ modeling for Hammond, Vox, and Farfisa style organs with live controls
- Advanced VAST and VA1 synthesis technology and DSP processing
- 2 GB flash memory for instantaneous loading
- Holds 1024 user programs and multis with support for Forte and PC3 sounds
- Contains 256 masterfully crafted factory default programs and 130 multis
- 4 high quality knobs with three rows of virtual assignments for real time adjustments
- Pitch bend, modulation wheel, arpeggiator, transpose, MIDI via USB
- 5 assignable favorite buttons for one-touch program changes
- 32 individual FX units plus hundreds of complex effect chains
- SP6 Program Editor Software for OS X, Windows, and iOS
- Gig-friendly 12.36 kg total weight, attractive brushed metal front plating
For further information, visit our Kurzweil SP6 product page.
Apogee Ensemble and Element audio interfaces integrate with Logic Pro X
Apogee Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element Series audio interfaces now offer Direct Monitoring support in Apple’s Logic Pro X (10.3.2) that easily eliminates recording latency with the simple click of a button. Pressing the new “Direct” button causes your monitoring signal to come directly from the hardware input, bypassing any I/O buffer or plug-in induced latency.
The new feature makes it possible to end distracting input delays for the performer without having to constantly change audio monitoring preferences and interact with a separate low latency monitoring mixer. Never before has it been so easy to record in Logic without latency – It’s as simple as clicking the Direct button and adding a touch of reverb with an effect send.
The tight integration of Apogee’s Ensemble and Element Series interfaces with Logic and its new Direct Monitoring feature combine to deliver a world-class professional recording workflow to musicians and audio engineers.
The newly-implemented Direct button is found in Logic’s Channel Strip Audio Device Controls, where Apogee hardware input parameters including mic pre gain, input type selection and others are currently found. This simplified user experience allows customers working with Apogee hardware and Logic Pro X to focus on a single session window when recording, and offers complete visibility and control of input parameters, and now unprecedented flexibility and control over recording latency.
Overview
- Apogee hardware support for Direct Monitoring feature in Logic Pro X provides hassle-free elimination of recording latency
- Works with Apogee Element Series and Ensemble Thunderbolt audio interfaces
- Requires Logic Pro X version 10.3.2 (Available now on the Mac App Store, as a free update to existing users)
- Requires Apogee Control Software update version 2.0 (Available now on the Apogee website)
Learn more about Ensemble Thunderbolt
Learn more about Element 24 / Element 46 / Element 88
Eventide Releases New Plug-in from the H9 Series - UltraTap
We are proud to announce Eventide UltraTap, a new advanced plug-in from Eventide Inc.
UltraTap is a unique multi-tap effect capable of rhythmic delays, glitchy reverbs, huge pad-like volume swells and extraordinary modulation. It’s the perfect tool for creating drum fills, vocal choruses, swelling guitar chords and other evolving effects. Producers, engineers, sound designers, and musician alike will find endless uses for this flexible and inspiring plug-in.
This unique effect has been ported directly from the award-winning H9 Harmonizer multi-effect pedal. A fan favorite for years, UltraTap is not a one-trick pony. All of the presets have been converted to the plug-in as well as newly created factory and artist presets. Now you can use all the delays, reverbs, chorus and modulation effects that guitarists and synth players have grown to love. Best of all, the programmable Ribbon Controller has been optimized for live use with your favorite DAW.
Features
- Over 150 presets designed to inspire including artist presets by Chris Carter, Colin Newman, Sasha and many more.
- Manipulate effects in real-time by using The Ribbon to morph seamlessly between two settings of any combination of the controls
- Create drastic changes in effect and sound by assigning the HotSwitch to an alternate version of the current settings
- Use up to 64 taps to create simple repeats or morph delays into chorus and reverb
- Speed up or slow down the rhythmic space between taps by altering the Spread knob
- Smear taps together or modulate them into unheard reverbs by using tasty Slurm
- Use the on-board LFOs and envelopes to Chop up the sound source intro tremolo’d rhythms
- Modify the stereo image of your taps from alternating from hard-panned to mono
- Sync the Length and/or Chop LFO speed to your DAW session
- Use Mix Lock to scroll through presets while keeping the wet-dry mix constant.
- Optimized for live use with MIDI control of The Ribbon and Tap Tempo for quick meta control on the fly
For further information about Eventide Plugins, please visit our product page.
NEW: ZOOM LiveTrak L-12
Mix, Record, Monitor, Playback, and Remix
Building upon the Zoom Corporation's legacy of success developing must-have products for creators, we are proud to introduce the newest sensation for live music and recording, the LiveTrak L-12 - a high quality compact digital mixing console that makes it possible to mix, record, playback, and monitor with a single piece of gear.
Mix and record in high definition through advanced high quality preamps using only the LiveTrak, or connect to Mac, Windows, or iOS and use as an audio interface. It is the only digital console that lets you mix your live performance and simultaneously record up to 12 discrete channels to SD card, all while providing five individual custom headphone monitor mixes through the built-in headphone amp. The extensive features set and performance of the LiveTrak L-12 make it a grand slam for performing bands, rehearsal rooms, recording setups, and venues alike.
The Zoom LiveTrak L-12 at a glance
- Digital mixing console, standalone multitrack recorder, and multi-channel audio interface
- Top notch mic preamps with -128dBu EIN and +60db maximum input gain
- 12 discrete channels: 8 combo XLR/Jack inputs and 2 TS line/RCA stereo inputs
- Hi-Z option on channels 1 and 2, +48V switch on channels 1-4 and 5-8
- 14-track simultaneous recording, 12-track playback
- Recording format: WAV 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, mono/stereo WAV format
- Recording Media SD, SDHC or SDXC cards up to 512GB
- Using the select buttons, each channel strip can access its own 3 band mid-parametric equalizer, low-cut, pan, plus access 16 fully adjustable effects.
- One-knob compressor for each channel strip 1-8
- Bright, backlit LCD display and encoder knob allow access to an intuitive menu system to create new projects, recall previous projects, and customize settings.
- Connect to a computer via USB as a 14 input / 4 output audio interface
- Save and recall up to nine fader scenes which also hold EQ, pan, mute, and more
- The fader modes allows for 5 custom monitor mixes in addition to the master sent through 5 individual built-in headphone outputs
- Use the built-in slate mic to record comments or talk-back
- Built in metronome further reduces the need for additional equipment
- Auto record: Start recording automatically at a set dB level and capture up to two seconds before recording starts
- Transfer projects and audio files to a flash drive in USB Host mode
For more information visit our product page.
Apogee Releases New Software for Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element Series
Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce new control software for Ensemble Thunderbolt audio interfaces which enables additional features and functionality. Apogee Control software has been built from the ground up to offer a highly customizable user interface that provides multi-unit support and compatibility with the Apogee Control iOS App as well as the Apogee Control hardware remote.
What’s New
- Connect two Apogee Ensemble Thunderbolt interfaces to your Mac to double your analog inputs and outputs
- All-new Apogee Control software replaces Maestro 2 and features a modern user interface you can customize for your workflow
- Apogee Control software also lets you control Ensemble Thunderbolt with an iOS remote app and the Apogee Control hardware remote
- Connect any Apogee Element interface to your Ensemble Thunderbolt and expand your system with Ensemble quality I/O at unprecedented prices
- Multi-unit support for Ensemble and Element Series
- Combine an Ensemble Thunderbolt and an Element Series interface connected to your Mac and expand your studio.
All New Apogee Control Software
Apogee Control software replaces Maestro 2 and features a modern, streamlined interface that offers extensive flexibility and customization that can adapt to your creativity. Apogee Control is built for Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element Series interfaces allowing them to work together giving you a seamless and powerful user experience.
Many new features now available for Ensemble and Element audio interfaces
Apogee Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element Series audio interfaces now offer direct monitoring support in Apple’s Logic Pro X (10.3.2) that easily eliminates recording latency with the simple click of a button. Pressing the new “Direct” button causes your monitoring signal to come directly from the hardware input, bypassing any I/O buffer or plug-in induced latency.
This new feature makes it possible to end distracting input delays for the performer without having to constantly change audio monitoring preferences and interact with a separate low latency monitoring mixer. Never before has it been so easy to record in Logic without latency - It’s as simple as clicking the direct button and adding a touch of reverb with an effect send.
Essentials Control Strip
- Maximize and arrange your workspace around your DAW with the compact Essentials Control strip.
- The Essentials Control Strip can be oriented vertically or horizontally.
- Real-time FX Send lets you use your DAW’s reverb and other effects with Apogee Control’s low latency mixer.
- Select Ensemble’s built-in mic, an analog input or your Mac’s built-in mic for talkback and activate via software to communicate with musicians over headphones.
- Configure the main output for multi-speaker systems up to 9.1 surround.
The new Ensemble Thunderbolt as well as Element software is now available as a free download for all Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element users.
About KHDK
KHDK boutique guitar effect pedals are hand-built in the USA. The name of the family company stands for the founding partners, Kirk Hammett and David Karon. In 2012, the two found themselves in bar in Prague drinking some of the world's best beer and contemplating the elements of sound to build a perfect guitar tone. In the early hours of the morning, they resolved to breathe fresh air (with sulphuric notes of the underworld) into the world of guitar effects. With a motto of "death to compromise" and the sentence "Let's build some crazy shit!" they vowed not to rest until they had created a line of perfect pedals.
Kirk Hammett is instantly known as Metallica's guitarist, and David Karon is a veteran from the artist relations sector in the music instruments industry. The third man on the team is the Czech engineer Antonin Salva, who is known by insiders in upper circles of the rock world for his custom Amp modifications and unique pedal designs.
Regardless of the company origins, KHDK pedals are for far more than high gain metal tones! The first pedals by KHDK include first-rate Overdrive, Clean Boost, and the "Ghoul Screamer" - a tribute and upgrade to one of the most famous overdrives (in a poison-green housing) with cult-status. The recent model "Dark Blood" will bring tears of joy to the eyes of the most demanding high-gain-lovers. KHDK overdrive pedals are recognizable by their excellently balanced amp-like sound.
The newest addition to the KHDK lineage is the "Abyss" overdrive especially for bass. As is true for all KHDK effects, Antonin Salva has introduced extraordinary and unique features. The Abyss is a union of two separate circuits. The first circuit is responsible for processing dynamic punch and clean fundamental bass tones, while the second provides boutique distortion. The signal mix can then be balanced between clean and driven. For massive sounds, the "Hi" mode allows for an extra kick of dirt and compression.
For more KHDK, info, and videos visit: https://www.khdkelectronics.com/
New: Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-Zi
The Cloudlifter CL-Zi applies the same technology to instruments with high-impedance (Hi-Z) outputs, such as electric guitars, basses, low-output piezo pickups used with acoustic guitars, or vintage electro-mechanical Stage pianos that employ a passive output. Plug your guitar or other instrument into the jack’s ¼'' center, or use the XLR portion for a microphone. Then, connect the XLR output to a phantom-power-capable input on your mixer, preamp, or computer recording interface, and experience sound that’s not merely louder, but better in every way that matters.
The Cloudlifter CL-Zi at a glance
- Fully Sweepable Vari-Z Loading from 150ohms to 15kohms
- Continuously Variable High-Pass Filtering @ -6dB per octave
- Three Gain Settings Yield up to +25dB, 12dB, or 6dB with Mics and +15dB, 6dB, or 3dB with Instruments
- Improves Microphone Gain Before Feedback Ratio in Live & Public Address Applications
- Easy to Use Self-Contained Design Requires Only Phantom Power
- Compatible with 1/4” Hi-Z Instrument Inputs and XLR Lo-Z Microphones via the Neutrik Combo Input Connector
- Protects any Passive Ribbon Microphone with No Transfer of Phantom Power
- Uses Patented Class A, Discrete JFET Circuitry and Patented Vari-Z User Interface
- Rugged, Road-Ready, and Portable for Studio, Stage, and Broadcasting
- Manufactured and Fabricated Responsibly in the USA
Product page: Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-Zi
New: Zoom AC-2 Acoustic Creatore Pedal
The A3 multi effect pedal for acoustic guitars has been one of the leaders in its field since its introduction. Zoom is now pleased to announce its successor, the AC-2!
The AC-2 is a professional multi effect unit as well as an acoustic guitar emulator and DI box. The unique and extremely authentic emulations of various types of acoustic guitars remedy the sound loss that occurs when using an electrical pickup system and ensures that the incoming signal sounds just as rich, full and authentic as the instrument that is being played. Choose from 16 body shapes such as various dreadnought guitars as well as presets for upright bass, classical nylon guitar, 12 string guitar and many other models.
The ZOOM AC-2 furthermore features a high quality preamp that amplify the signal while retaining the natural acoustic tone of the guitar. Thanks to the integrated authentic reverb, the user can give his instrument more depth and space as well as fine tune the sound with the help of a 3 band EQ.
The Zoom AC-2 at a glance
- 16 acoustic guitars / body shape presets
- Balanced XLR out
- TRS out
- Integrated reverb
- High quality low noise preamp
- Input section adjustable for magnetic or Piezo pickups
- Integrated 3 band EQ
- Anti feedback control
- Boost switch with up to 9 dB of volume
- Integrated tuner
- USB port for firmware updates
- Parallel outputs for simultaneous connecting to guitar amps and PA systems
- Operation via batteries, power supply (included) or micro USB port
Further information on the Zoom AC-2 can be found on the product page.
New Apogee Control Software for Ensemble Thunderbolt and Element Series
Apogee is excited to announce the all new Apogee Control Software Update for Ensemble Thunderbolt. This software update replaces the previous Maestro 2 software and brings new, unique features to your unit.
The Apogee Control Software was designed from the ground up and is extremely customizable and offers support for multiple units as well as the Apogee Control iOS App and Apogee Control Hardware Remote.
Apogee Control Software features the following innovations:
- The new Apogee Control Software replaces Maestro 2 and offers a modern user interface customizable to your workflow
- Connect two Apogee Ensemble Thunderbolt interfaces to your Mac to double your analog inputs and outputs
- Apogee Control Software also lets you control Ensemble Thunderbolt with an iOS remote app and the Apogee Control Hardware Remote
- Connect any Apogee Element interface to your Ensemble Thunderbolt and expand your system with Ensemble quality I/O at unprecedented prices
The new Apogee Control Software is available for download here. For further information about the Ensemble Thunderbolt as well as the Element Series, please visit the product pages.
New Zoom ARQ 2.0 Firmware Update
When Zoom released the ARQ Aero RhythmTrak 96 in July 2016, they broke all traditions regarding MIDI controllers and synthesizers. With its loop-shaped design and innovative hand-held Ring Controller with touch PADs and interactive LEDs, ARQ ushered in an entirely new way to compose and perform electronic music.
Now, a year on, Zoom is proud to unveil the AR-96 Firmware V2.0 which brings a slew of improvements and added functions that make the ARQ experience even more enthralling:
- An overall re-styling of graphics and icons used on the main LCD
- Images on LCD and actions from the Ring Controller are now seamlessly integrated providing a user-friendly approach to pattern and song making
- Sound parameters can now be accessed instantly and edited on the fly through the ARQ's enhanced onboard knobs and cursor buttons
- In addition, you can expand the ARQ with your own original samples by importing WAV files into the internal synth engine's oscillator and edit them like a sampler
- A fully-editable arpeggiator is now available
- The accelerometer functions are expanded for controlling the ring controller's sound parameters and effects
- Integration with Mac/PC has been taken a step further with all parameters now assignable to MIDI Out (via USB-MIDI port) from the base station and ring controller
- The ARQ Editor is made available for viewing and accessing all functions through your Mac screen in the studio or on your laptop during live performance
Firmware version 2.0 can be downloaded here. Further information about the Zoom ARQ can be found on the product page.