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Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 21 2011, 08:43 PM

Hey guys, I created this little topic for giving you the latest interesting devices from the audio industry. As time goes by, I'll update the topic, and provide some usual info on the devices that I've found interesting. Stay tuned!

First device for today is excellent 4-channel MOTU audio interface, perfect balance with very good pricing tag:


MOTU 4pre Hybrid USB/FireWire Interface (price ~450$ @ 21.11.2011)

Features:

A great audio interface for desktop and laptop recording rigs
Compact and rugged all-metal chassis fits easily in a backpack, but comes with the hardware you need to rackmount it
4 x ultra-clean and highly transparent microphone preamplifiers let you record without coloring your sound
All analog inputs are on combo jacks, providing you with the connectivity you need to record 2 x balanced line-level sources as well as 2 x hi-Z instrument sources
2 x channels of S/PDIF I/O
2 x independent headphone outputs make collaboration easy
Independent hands-on mixer lets you use the 4pre even without your computer
Connects via USB 2.0 or FireWire 400
CueMix software lets you control four mixes and 8 buses with simple tabbed interface (includes tuner, oscilloscope, real-time FFT, spectrogram waterfall, X-Y phase analysis, and other tools)
Functions as a stand-alone 4-channel mixer, even without a computer
Includes AudioDesk recording software







Specification Detail

Computer Connection Type FireWire/USB
Form Factor Rackmount/Desktop
Simultaneous I/O 6 x 6
A/D Resolution 24-bit/96kHz
Built In DSP/FX DSP Mixer
Number of Audio Inputs 4
Audio Input Types 2 x XLR/TRS combo, 2 x XLR/TS (DI) combo
Number of Audio Outputs 4
Audio Output Types 4 x TRS
Number of Digital Inputs 2
Digital Input Types 1 x S/PDIF
Number of Digital Outputs 2
Digital Output Types 1 x S/PDIF
Number of Mic Preamps 4
Phantom Power Yes
MIDI I/O No MIDI I/O
Clock I/O No Clock I/O
Bus Powered Yes (FireWire only)
Rack Units 1/2U
Depth 7"
Width 8.5"
Height 1.75"
Manufacturer Part Number 8460

Posted by: thefireball Nov 21 2011, 09:01 PM

Great idea, Ivan! Thanks!

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 22 2011, 05:02 PM

Today we have a very solid piece of studio gear - this time a guitar! Gibson made, with Gibson feel, with very affordable price, for covering lots of ground in the studio, but live as well (why not!). Of all the features, specially pointing out baked maple freboard for increased top end grit.

Gibson Nighthawk Studio (Goldtop) (price ~1000$ @ 22.11.2011)





Gibson Nighthawk Features:

Smooth-playing guitar with versatile tones and incredible sustain
Premium poplar body
Mahogany neck
Baked Maple Fretboard
25.5" scale length
Burstbucker pickups give you killer tone
Coil-tap electronics let you choose between single-coil and humbucker pickup types
Gig Bag included


Specification Detail

Body Material Poplar
Top Material Not Applicable
Body Finish Nitrocellulose
Color Gold Top
Neck Material Mahogany, Set
Neck Shape Slim Taper
Scale Length 25.5"
Fingerboard Material Baked Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 22
Nut Width 1.625"
Bridge/Tailpiece Fixed
Tuners Kluson Deluxe
Number of Pickups 2
Neck Pickup BurstBucker 2 Humbucker
Middle Pickup No Middle Pickup
Bridge Pickup BurstBucker 1 Humbucker
Controls 1 x Volume (Rhythm Coil Tap), 1 x Tone (Treble Coil Tap)
Case Included Gig Bag
Manufacturer Part Number DSNSTTGTCH1

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 22 2011, 06:52 PM

Nice axe Maybe $1000 U.S. is pushing the bounds of "Affordable" for many folks these days, but well worth the cost if you are in the market for this type of axe. Any recording/tone examples?

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 22 2011, 07:05 PM

There aren't any good demos out there, most of them are amateur so didn't want to put them on. If a good one comes out, I'll place it

Another great product for all you heavy metal drum programmers is new Toontrack's MIDI pack

Library of the Extreme - Fill Insanity



Dirk Verbeuren (Soilwork, Scarve) is back with the third pillar in his much appreciated series of extreme metal MIDI for drums: Library of the Extreme III - Fill Insanity.

Boasting more than one thousand different fills, played with butchering precision and offering an incredible diversity, this collection is likely to be your one-stop for any extreme metal fill. Just a simple drag and drop and you inject some of the mad genius of Dirk into your songs!

• More than one thousand different MIDI files, played by Dirk Verbeuren
• Straight / Swing variations in a wide range of different tempos
• Lead-in and stand-alone variations available in all tempos

Works with EZdrummer®, Superior Drummer® (optimized for 1 or 2 kicks, 1 snare, 2 toms, 1 floor-tom, 2 crash cymbals, 1 ride cymbal)

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 22 2011, 09:12 PM

I've got the first two midi packs from the EXTREME collection and they are AWESOME If you have not tried EzDrummer with Drums From Hell, it's worth a look.

Posted by: SirJamsalot Nov 22 2011, 10:19 PM

This is an awesome AI. If I were in the market for one again, I would definitely pick this one up.

Posted by: Sinisa Cekic Nov 22 2011, 10:56 PM

The first time I see this model, according to YT- not bad at all!

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 22 2011, 11:39 PM

Yeah, all these picks should be interesting, and they have gone out recently, so they can be interesting. MOTU is very good, it would probably be my choice for future interface too, also Gibson is definitely interesting as studio guitar, and MIDI pack is very cheap but great way to make better usage of your Toontrack (or other) VSTi drum of choice.

Posted by: maharzan Nov 23 2011, 05:05 PM

wow, 4 inputs... that would be great to record acoustic duo live.. interesting. Very reasonable!!

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Nov 23 2011, 05:29 PM

Amazing topic Ivan! Thanks for this info!

Line 6 new interface for Iphones is also ready... I don't have an iphone but it's awesome how many things you can do with it...

http://line6.com/mobilein/

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 23 2011, 09:46 PM

yeah, and from what I see, it has some functions as a mixer even without PC, which can be very useful sometimes!


This is awesome portable solution Gab! I'll check some reviews and get back on this one


Aaaand for today we have yet another awesome piece of gear for bassists (one that I tested myself and it works awesome). Price tag is extremely good for this level of quality:


Ampeg BA-115! (~330$ @ 23.11.2011)




The BA-115 is a solid-state model aimed at players that need a bit more power for bigger gigs. Truly designed for live performance, the BA-115 pushes 100 watts through its custom 15-inch woofer, plus the XLR DI output easily connects to a PA or mixer. Designed to meet the needs of today's multi-string bass player, the BA115's mid tone control lets you dial in the perfect amount of punch, so your tone will punch through the mix. Solid Ampeg tone, with conventional functionality, the BA115.

Portable Ampeg tone
When you need a portable rig with legendary Ampeg tone, look no further than the BA115. This powerful combo features a 100-Watt power section and a single 15" Ampeg speaker that can rock a small- to medium-sized venue. Just plug in and you're ready to rock!

Five preset tones to choose from
No matter what sound you're after, the Style Control puts absolute tone at your fingertips. With five presets to choose from, and the tone-sculpting capabilities of an onboard 3-band EQ, you'll be dialed in before the drummer can finish setting up his high-hat.

Tilt-back design
The BA115's monitor-style, tilt-back design allows you to put the sound where you want it, which is especially handy when you're using the built-in DI for recording or front of house applications. Rock-solid construction and Ampeg thump to go, the BA115.

Ampeg BA-115 Features:

RMS Power Output: 100-Watts
LF Driver: 1 x 15" Custom Ampeg Speaker
HF Driver: Piezo Tweeter
Preamp: Solid-State
Power Amp: Solid-State
Tone Controls: 3-Band EQ
Mid Tone Control: Style
Balanced Line Out: Yes
CD/MP3 Input: Yes
Headphone Output: Yes
Dimensions (W x H x D inches): 21 x 21 x 16
Weight: 62 Pounds

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 24 2011, 09:48 PM

Today we have something very interesting for audio producers, and this is not only a guitar software synth, it's something a lot bigger, check out the demo video for some samples!

Sample Logic Cinematic Guitars (~370$ @ 24.11.2011)

Here's a great review:


An Epic Collection of Guitar Sounds!

Here's a collection that's dream-come-true for many modern composers and songwriters. Whether you're looking for the perfect instrumental texture for a dramatic moment in a film or just some original sounds to make your music pop out from the rest, Sample Logic's Cinematic Guitars has a whole collection of sounds that will fit the bill. From relatively straight-forward guitars to pad-like morphs and flat-out mutation, Cinematic Guitars contains a complete collage of sounds humanly (and in some case, inhumanly) possible to make with a guitar. To get these results, Sample Logic called in composer/guitarist Steve Ouimette to play, manipulate, and abuse the better part of 1,000 instruments in this library. The result: one fantastic collection of guitar sounds. You can load Cinematic in Native Instruments's Kontakt, or use the included Kontakt player, so even if you don't own Kontakt yet, you're all set.

Sample Logic Cinematic Guitars Sample Library/Instrument Features at a Glance:

Includes over 1,000 instruments and multis (combination instruments) recorded and processed at 24-bit/44.1k
Contains 9 GB sample library (uncompressed)/5.8 GB via Kontakt's lossless sample storage compression
Instrument categories include: Atmosphere/ambient soundscapes and stinger construction kits, Morphed guitars, synths, and pads, Melodic and percussive tempo-synced loops, Melodic and percussive arpeggiated/gated instruments, Percussive impacts, big hit ensembles, and kits, and Swipes, scrapes, and reverse transitional effects
Over 125 score-ready multis
Requires Kontakt Player 4.1.1 or higher, which works as in Stand-alone, RTAS, AU, and VST formats
Native 64-bit support for stand-alone and plug-in versions on both Mac and PC


Minimum System Requirements:

PC: Windows® XP (SP2, 32bit) / Vista® (32/64 Bit), Windows 7® (32/64 Bit), Pentium® or Athlon XP 1.4 GHz, 1 GB RAM
Mac: Mac OS® X 10.5 or higher, Intel® Core Duo 1.66 GHz, 1 GB RAM
Minimum of 2 GB RAM

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Nov 25 2011, 07:13 AM

wou! those sounds are very inspiring! I like this collection of samples.

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 25 2011, 03:30 PM

I agree Gab, it looks quite good. I can recognize some samples here from NI Kontakt, it seems they are packing them as different products too. NI Kontakt library is awesome, it features all samples for band, but also traditional, ethinc, world, classical orchestra... Samples are a bit thin in the mix, and they can be stiff and flat, but it's great to have them around. I think they are better then most of the products out there (Spectrasonics has one of the best sounding samples these days as far as synths/samplers go).

And another cool cheap addition for studios. Alesis puts out two new mic pres, single and dual channel devices. Here's single channel device, a tube mic pre that is highly affordable and signed by Alesis. Great way to add nice tube warmth and modern low-noise design to the mic signal:

Alesis MicTube Solo (~70$ @ 25.11.2011)




Vintage Tube Tone at a Great Price
The Alesis MicTube Solo mic/instrument preamp features a 12AX7 tube for a vintage tone with a modern, low-noise design. Inputs for mic, line, and instrument sources make this the ideal preamp for smaller studios that need versatility - but pro studios should take note too! The low-noise design and warm-but-detailed character make the MicTube Solo a solid preamp for any task.

The MicTube Solo gives you 48V phantom power, polarity reverse, 80Hz highpass filter, and a +20dB Gain-boost button for ultimate flexibility in your studio. The Gain control gives you up to 65dB of clean gain, while the Drive control lets you heat up that tube until your sound is as old-school as you like.

With a hi-Z input for instruments and line inputs (balanced and unbalanced) too, the MicTube Solo is ready and willing to inject serious energy into anything you want. If you want a clinically-sterile sounding mic pre, look elsewhere - for serious vibe, plug into the Alesis MicTube Solo.

Alesis MicTube Solo Features at a Glance:

Mic, Line, and Instrument level inputs give you maximum recording flexibility
Drive control gives you power over how much tube tone you want to add
Vintage-style VU meter on the front panel gives you accurate level information, and looks great!
Designed with a minimized internal signal path for extremely low noise
Space-saving design is perfect for home and project studios

Specification Detail

Preamp Type Tube
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
EQ No
Compression No
Analog Inputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z)
Analog Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Digital Inputs No Digital Inputs
Digital Outputs No Digital Outputs
Other I/O No Other I/O
Computer Connectivity No Computer Connectivity

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Nov 25 2011, 05:42 PM

Nice guitar! I love Gibson guitars...

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 26 2011, 06:04 PM

Today, for all of those who want to upgrade studio microphone collection with one highly affordable Ribbon Mic:

sE Electronics Voodoo VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone (price: ~690$ @ 26.11.2011)



What makes the Voodoo VR1 perform amazingly well across its 20Hz-18kHz frequency response, however, is a breakthrough mechanical design concept introduced by sE CEO, Siwei Zou. The impact this patent-pending design has on the Voodoo VR1 is phenomenal! Use the Voodoo VR1 on vocals and get astonishingly natural sounding results. Put it on drums and you'll be amazed by its open and detailed imaging. And the Voodoo VR1 really shines on guitar cabinets and acoustic instruments. If you're already a ribbon lover, this mic will exceed your expectations, and if you're new to ribbons, the Voodoo VR1 is the perfect place to start!

sE Electronics Voodoo VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone Features at a Glance:

Operating Principle: Pressure Gradient
Diaphragm: 2? aluminium ribbon
Frequency Response: 20Hz-18KHz
Sensitivity: 1.6mV/Pa -56 ± 1.5dB
Polar Pattern: Figure 8
Impedance: less than or equal to 300 Ohms
Equivalent Noise Level: 17dB(A weighted)
Max SPL for 0.5% THD@1000Hz: 135dB
Connector: 3-pin

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 27 2011, 12:10 PM

Today we have new Rokit Midfield Monitors, at excellent price, suitable for every studio looking for larger monitors for midfield monitoring:

KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 Active Studio Monitor (price ~490$ each @ 27.11.2011)



Great 3-way Solution for Midfield Monitoring!

Get precise midfield monitor performance from KRK's Rokit Powered 10-3 midfield 3-way powered active monitors. If you need accurate monitoring for your larger project studio or commercial facility, these midfield monitors have what it takes. A 140W amp drives the 10" and 4" glass aramid composite LF and MF drivers, as well as the 1" neodymium soft dome tweeter. The glass aramid composite is very rigid and responsive, for amazing transient response and detail. And with the adjustable MF and HF design, you'll get ideal performance no matter how you place the KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 active monitors in your studio.


Performance-packed midrange

The 3-way design of the KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 gives you fantastic accuracy in midrange frequencies. By designating 400Hz-3.75kHz to the mid-frequency driver you'll enjoy clear monitoring in this highly critical range, without the masking or distortion from lower frequencies you get in some 2-way speaker designs.

Axis control

The KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 can be placed either horizontally or vertically, thanks to the rotatable MF/HF driver baffle. That means that no matter how you have your control room laid out, you'll be able to integrate the Rokit Powered 10-3 monitors without sacrificing monitoring performance.

Ported design

To maximize low frequency output without compromising accuracy, the KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 monitors sport a front-ported design. While rear-ported designs can cause boundary coupling with nearby corners and walls, the front-ported Rokit Powered 10-3 extends low frequency response without creating boundary issues.

KRK Rokit Powered 10-3 Active Studio Monitor Features:

3-way midfield monitor with a front-ported design is an ideal powered monitoring solution for larger project and commercial studios
Excellent midrange accuracy and definition from the 3-way design
Rotatable MF/HF driver allows both horizontal and vertical placement
Glass aramid composite LF and MF drivers provide precise transient response
Max SPL of 113dB allows you to accurately work with even the most dynamic program material

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 28 2011, 07:13 PM

If you're looking for a guitar for a modern gig, check out this new highly affordable Jackson with rock solid features that stood the test of time, and it's dazzling fancy look:

Jackson Soloist SLSXMG (price ~600$ @ 28.11.2011)



Specification Detail

Body Material Basswood
Top Material Quilt Maple Veneer
Body Finish Gloss Polyester
Color Natural
Neck Material Maple, Neck-through-body
Neck Shape Radiused
Scale Length 25.5"
Fingerboard Material Rosewood, 12"-16" compound radius
Fingerboard Inlay Pearloid Sharkfin
Number of Frets 24
Nut Width 1.6875"
Bridge/Tailpiece Floyd Rose Special Tremolo
Tuners Sealed Die-Cast Tuners
Number of Pickups 2
Neck Pickup EMG 85 Humbucker
Middle Pickup No middle pickup
Bridge Pickup EMG 81 Humbucker
Controls Master Volume, Master Tone, 3-way pickup selector
Case Included No Case Included

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Nov 30 2011, 11:02 PM

Awesome new device for those interested in guitar synthesis!

Roland GR-55 (~600e @ 30.11.2011)


some of the sounds available

Here's info from official site:

A New Era of Sound, Power, & Performance

The Roland GR-55 is a revolution in guitar synthesis, with features never before available in any guitar processor. In terms of speed, it’s the fastest ever. It’s also the most accurate, thanks to newly developed pitch-detection technology. As for sound, the triple-core generator houses a world-class array of virtual guitars, basses, amps, and synth voices, enabling tones and textures that have never been heard before. Onstage or in the studio, you can instantly access the GR-55’s huge library of ready-to-use sounds, from pop to rock and beyond, with quick-access category buttons. Welcome to a groundbreaking new era in guitar synthesis!

- A revolutionary fusion of guitar synthesis and powerful COSM guitar modeling
- Up to four sound sources at a time: two PCM synth tones, plus COSM guitar modeling and normal guitar input
- Easy to use and easy to play with hundreds of great, ready-to-use sounds for rock or pop guitarists
- Advanced Roland technology provides superb sound quality and lightning-fast processing
- Over 900 of Roland’s latest fully editable PCM sounds, including pianos, organs, strings, vintage synths, and much more
- COSM guitar and amp modeling
- Two types of multi-effects engines, plus global reverb, chorus, and delay effects, and an onboard looper
- Built-in USB audio player with foot control
- Available with or without GK-3 Divided Pickup

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 3 2011, 06:11 PM

For this week, we have a great MultiFX unti suitable for many many different purposes, signed by Alesis, and ofc - very affordable! Very nice multiFX unit for live usage as well, having the bypass switch option!

Alesis NanoVerb 2 (price ~95$ @ 3.12.2011)




The Alesis NanoVerb 2 isn't just about reverb. With 16 different effects programs, each with 16 variations of that program, you'll find a total of 256 effects algorithms to work with! These are brand new stereo effects that take advantage of the NanoVerb 2's 52-bit signal processing for a new standard in sonic quality.

The NanoVerb 2 makes access to all those effects programs, with just two knobs to select effect type and algorithm. Input and Output controls give you control of your signal pre- and post-effects, while the Mix control lets you dial in the perfect amount of effect. Simple operation makes the NanoVerb 2 equally suited for studio or live effects processing - and once you hear these effects, you'll want to use it everywhere!

Lush reverbs, ambient delays, swirly rotary speakers... all these effects and more can be found in the NanoVerb 2. With its simple design yet powerful effects processing, the NanoVerb 2 must be heard to be appreciated. Alesis has created another legendary multi-effects processor with the NanoVerb 2!

Alesis NanoVerb 2 Features at a Glance:

256 effects cover reverb, delay, and modulation
Small, durable design makes it an ideal effects processor for your live rig
52-bit DSP for a new level of audio clarity and depth
Front-panel indicator lights let you know at a glance if your signal is clipping
Footswitch input for hands-free bypass!

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 20 2011, 11:33 PM

Today we have an eye-catcher from PRS with a vintage vibe and extremely good price:

Paul Reed Smith SE Hollowbody Ltd (~900$)



A real looker
The PRS SE Hollowbody Ltd is a real looker! Let's take a look at the top: Red Sparkle, for catching eyes onstage. Then, your eyes will likely be drawn to those famous PRS bird inlays that adorn the ebony fretboard. The bound headstock gives a classy touch to this already unique guitar. And one other cool appointment not found on any SE model - a Bigsby tailpiece.

Vintage modern vibe
Bringing a new spin to the PRS SE line the SE Hollowbody Ltd combines the vibe of the old world with the modern touches of today. For starters, the Bigsby tremolo gives a cool, smooth old school feel while the locking tuners ensure tuning stability not possible decades ago. The chambered, semi-hollowbody body offers warm tones not found in solidbody guitars while the SE Hollowbody Ltd pickups dish out killer tones from clean to scream.

PRS quality
All Paul Reed Smith guitars are designed for top-notch performance, right out of the case and the SE Hollowbody Ltd is no exception. Constructed from top-notch tonewoods and components, PRS instruments carry on a commitment to quality that's been the brand's hallmark since 1985, when Paul Reed Smith himself started hand-building guitars for some of the most elite players in the world.

Paul Reed Smith SE Hollowbody Ltd Guitar Features:

Semi-hollow, chambered mahogany body
Single soundhole
Mahogany neck with wide-fat carve
Bound ebony fretboard with 22 frets
PRS-design bird inlays
25" scale length
Original Bigsby tremolo
Phase II locking tuners
Bound headstock


The Paul Reed Smith SE Hollowbody Ltd is an affordable, eye-popping instrument!
Specification Detail
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish Urethane
Color Red Sparkle
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape Wide-thin
Scale Length 25"
Fingerboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay PRS Birds
Number of Frets 22
Nut Width 1.68"
Bridge/Tailpiece Bigsby Tailpiece
Tuners Phase II Locking Tuners
Number of Pickups 2
Neck Pickup Humbucker
Middle Pickup No Middle Pickup
Bridge Pickup Humbucker
Controls 1 x Volumne, 1 x Tone, 3-way Switch
Case Included Gig Bag
Manufacturer Part Number SE Hollowbody SR

Posted by: Sinisa Cekic Dec 21 2011, 12:11 AM

That Bigsby looks so dominant !!! Beauty

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 22 2011, 07:06 PM

Here's something expensive, but affordable if you can afford it! Building a studio from hand-picked components that fit very well with each other. Excellent choice of gear packaged for affordable price:

(~14000$)

A Complete PC-based Music Production Studio!
Bundle up and Save! This complete Pro Tools HD system gives you everything you need for recording and saves you money!

Package Contains:

Sweetwater Creation Station 450 64-bit computer
Viewsonic 24" video monitor
Avid Pro Tools Native Core system
Avid HD Omni interface
Universal Audio UAD-2 Quad Flexi plug-in accelerator
Focal CMS 65 monitors
Focal CMS subwoofer
Avid Artist Mix control surface
Glyph GTO50 1TB hard drive
15' Pro Co DB25-XLRM Snake
2 x 20' Pro Co XLR Cables



Produce like a pro! The Sweetwater-exclusive Pro Studio HD Bundle gives you everything you need to record, edit, and mix pro-quality audio. If you're looking for the perfect studio package to take you from hobbyist/semi-pro to the majors, this is it. The Pro Studio HD Bundle is also great if you need to add an editing suite to the studio you already have. Everything in the Sweetwater Pro Studio HD Bundle is 100% professional-caliber gear, the same proven equipment used by some of today's best engineers to produce hit records. Check it out!

It all starts with the Sweetwater Custom Computing Creation Station Rack XT, 64-bit desktop computer. If you're not already familiar with Creation Station PCs, you're in for a treat. One of the only computers ever to be featured in TapeOp, Creation Stations prove that PCs are great for recording. This 2.8GHz Core i7 processor with 6GB of RAM more than lives up to the hype. A gorgeous 1920 x 1080 Samsung B2430H 24" widescreen LCD computer monitor makes navigating your sessions easy. And when it comes to recording space, you're totally set. You get 500GB and 1TB internal hard drive, plus a Glyph GT 050Q 1TB, 7,200rpm external hard drive to keep your sessions portable.

But there's more to this PC setup than just a great computer. Your custom Creation Station Rack XT comes with serious horsepower under the hood. First, there's the Avid Pro Tools|HD Native Core 64-channel PCIe interface card - which gives you the recording flexibility and ultra-low-latency of Pro Tools|HD. And to go with this amazing I/O card, you get one of Avid's recording workhorses, the HD OMNI audio interface. This beast gives you a pair of Avid's incredible microphone preamps, plus a huge selection of analog and digital I/O.

The power of Pro Tools|HD is absolutely staggering to begin with, and when you add the Universal Audio UAD-2 Quad Flexi bundle. This DSP card is a serious upgrade to any native system, adding the brute strength of 4 Analog Devices SHARC Chips to power some of the best-sounding plug-ins ever made. Speaking of which, the UAD-2 Quad Flexi bundle comes not only with UA's seven Mix Essentials II plug-ins, but it also includes a $500 UAD-powered plug-in bundle that you can use to exactly the plug-ins you want.

On the flip side of the Sweetwater Pro Studio HD Bundle, there's a Euphonix Artist Mix control surface. This great-feeling compact control surface puts 8 pro-quality touch-sensitive motorized faders. It also puts rotary encoders and programmable buttons at your finger tips - perfect for getting hands-on control of your sessions!

When it comes to monitoring, you'd be hard pressed to find a better setup than the 2.1 Focal monitor setup included with the Pro Studio HD Bundle. This amazing monitor rig includes a pair of 6.5" Focal CMS 65 active studio monitors, plus an 11" CMS SUB. Together, these speakers let you hear into the very depth of your music, letting you create mixes that translate perfectly onto any sound system.

Last but not least, here's one of the best parts about buying the Pro Studio HD Bundle from Sweetwater: we put it all together for you. That's right, software installations, cabling, the whole works - all installed and ready to go. Add to that our exclusive 2-year warranty and unbeatable service, and you're getting more than just a great deal on a ton of gear, you're getting a complete music production system you can count on.

Sweetwater Pro Studio HD Bundle Features at a Glance:

Sweetwater Custom Computing Creation Station Rack XT 64-bit desktop computer with 2.8GHz Core i7 processor, 6GB RAM, and 500GB and 1TB hard drives
Samsung B2430H 24" widescreen LCD computer monitor with 5ms response time, 20,000:1 dynamic contrast, and 1920 x 1080 HD resolution
Glyph GT 050Q 1TB, 7,200rpm desktop hard drive with FireWire 400, 2 FireWire 800, USB, and eSATA
Avid Pro Tools|HD Native Core 64-channel PCIe interface card
Avid HD OMNI audio interface with 2 microphone preamps and 4 x 8 analog I/O and digital 8 x 8 I/O
Universal Audio UAD-2 Quad Flexi PCIe DSP card with 4 SHARC Chips, 7 Mix Essentials II Plug-ins, and $500 plug-in voucher
Euphonix/Avid Artist Mix compact control surface with 8 touch-sensitive motorized faders, rotary encoders, programmable buttons, and Ethernet connectivity
Focal CMS 65 active studio monitor with 6.5" Polyglass Cone woofer, 1" aluminum/magnesium inverted-dome tweeter
Focal CMS SUB 11" 300-watt active studio
Sweetwater custom software installation and complete cabling kit

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 28 2011, 11:09 PM

Today we have very affordable monitor stands, so you can position your monitors properly

Samson MS100 Adjustable Studio Monitor Stands with Secure Speaker Brackets (price ~60$ for pair)



Affordable Isolation Stands for Your Studio Monitors!

Samson's MS100 Studio Monitor Stands are rugged, adjustable and affordable. The professional-grade MS100 stands isolate your monitors from desktops, meter bridges or other surfaces that could resonate and color the sound. The telescoping column adjusts from a height of 30" to a maximum of 50" for optimum monitor placement in your room. Plus, the MS100 has an adjustable vise-style speaker bracket that fits most studio monitors. Its heavy base features carpet spikes to further isolate your monitors from resonating surfaces. The MS100 Studio Monitor Stands are a great way to improve the sound of your monitors!

Specification Detail

Height 30" - 50"
Material Build Steel

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 28 2011, 11:38 PM

That is a KILLER Deal! These are the same stands I use in my studio and I paid quite a bit more for them. The adjustable top
can fit nearly any near field speaker, (I have my KRK Rockit 6 pair that weigh quite a bit on them) and the bottoms come to fine points to help isolate the sound. In short, these things RAWK!

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 30 2011, 06:43 PM

Here's sweet lookin' blues amp that will definitely turn some heads, and not expensive either

Fender Pro Junior III Red October LTD (Limited Edition "Red October") (price ~470$)



The Redcoats are Coming!
You won't believe the tones you can pull out of the FENDER® Pro Junior™ III Red October Limited Edition combo amplifier! Fender packed their Pro Junior III with the Fender clean tones you know and love, with a special limited edition Eminence Redcoat Ramrod speaker ready to rock. But at 15 watts, this 1 x 10" baby is ready to crank into famous Fender tube grind - without damaging your hearing just to hear that beautiful tube breakup! Ideal for getting huge recorded sounds and equally perfect as a practice/performing amp (it weighs just 20 lbs!), the Fender Pro Junior III Red October LTD is an extremely touch-sensitive guitar amplifier. Whether you like to plug straight in or run through an assault of effects pedals, you'll find the Pro Junior III sounds great. And with a few vintage-themed touches for style, including a vintage Fender "dog bone" handle, white pointer knobs, and a vintage-sized jewel light, the Fender Pro Junior III Red October Limited Edition combo amplifier doesn't just sound amazing, it looks cool too.

Fender Pro Junior III Red October LTD 15-watt, 1 x 10" Guitar Combo Amplifier Features at a Glance:

Limited edition version of a classic amplifier
LTD "Bronco Red" vinyl covering with white piping
Amplifier Type: Tube
Output Power: 15 Watts
Speaker: 1-10" Eminence Redcoat Ramrod 8 ohm, 30 watt Speaker
Output Impedance: 8 Ohms
Preamp Tubes: 2 x 12AX7
Power Tubes: 2 x EL84
Rectifier: Solid-state Rectifier
Inputs: One
Channels: One Channel
Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone
Speaker Jack: External Speaker Jack
Amp Covering/Grille Cloth: "Bronco Red" Vinyl Covering with Black Grille Cloth
Height: 14.5"
Width: 15.25"
Depth: 8.75"
Weight: 20 lbs.

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Jan 4 2012, 10:39 PM

Today we have ultra-ultra compact analog USB mixer from Behr, with already expected low price! Great for small mixing projects, and capturing podcasts, studio performances or anything on the field with netbook

Behringer Xenyx 302USB Mixer (price~50$)


Simple, Small, and Powerful

The Behringer Xenyx 302USB mixer is a great tool for small home studios and for those in the move. You get a USB in and out for easy recording. You'll find that the Xenyx mic preamp sounds great, and is extremely quiet. Tweak your sound with the 2-channel British style EQ. There is also a 2-track input that can be routed directly to headphones or your main mix. The Xenyx 302USB is compact enough to fit on the smallest of desks, and rugged enough to be used in the field capturing sound bites, podcasting or sampling nature. Small and compact, the Behringer Xenyx 302USB is ready to tackle any gig.

Behringer Xenyx 302USB Mixer Features:

British-style EQ
Xenyx mic preamp
USB stereo interface
Ultra-low noise
Inputs: 1 x XLR, 2 x RCA stereo
Powered via USB or adapter
Headphone out

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Jan 5 2012, 09:46 PM

I remember in the previous band we used to think about getting one of these It's a great addition for any band, you can sure spice up your stage performance with it, at it's veeeeeeery affordable

ADJ Mini Fog Haze Generator (price ~40$!)



Fog It Up!
Take your light show to the next level with the affordable ADJ Mini Fog fog machine. Just pour the included fog juice into the Mini Fog, start it up, and within minutes you'll be generating 1,500 cubic feet of fog a minute! You'll ensure your light show blows the crowd away, or just use the Mini Fog by itself to create some moody ambience on-stage. No matter what you use it for, you'll generate some serious atmosphere with the ADJ Mini Fog fog machine!

ADJ Mini Fog Haze Generator Features at a Glance:

Enhances your stage performance with room-filling fog
1,500 cubic feet per minute output
Wired remote control for convenience
Enhances your laser/light show
Warms up in just five minutes
Fog juice included

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Jan 10 2012, 03:51 PM

Check out this very unique 4-string bass from Gibson!

Gibson Krist Novoselic Signature RD Bass (price ~1000$)



Gibson Krist Novoselic Signature RD Bass Features:

An iconic grunge rock bass
Handcrafted in Nashville, TN
Maple body with set neck construction and nitrocellulose laquer finish
Maple neck with rounded profile; black obeche fingerboard with dot inlays
Chrome Grover Shamrock Tuners
2 Seymour Duncan Bass Lines Hot Stack pickups
Gently back-angled headstock for optimum string pressure
PLEK-cut Corian nut
Black Speed Knobs and black 5-ply pickguard
Gibson RD Hardshell Case Included

Posted by: AK Rich Jan 10 2012, 07:11 PM

whoa thats totally retro man!

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Jan 10 2012, 09:22 PM

Yap, and it looks funky

Posted by: SirJamsalot Feb 24 2012, 07:49 AM

grrrr. I'm in the market for one again... my PreSonus FireStudio bit the dust tonight. doesn't go thru the boot sequence. dead in the water. If only I had 450 bucks... cry





on a good note - I'll just forego recording til this little baby ships in the Spring
http://www.motu.com/products/motuaudio/microbook/body.html

Posted by: JPBluestring Feb 26 2012, 01:33 AM

Now what's going on my Presonus Firepod has just died on my last week-end as well.
I have been trying to get some support for the last 4 days without success.
I feel for you Man I know what you're going through.
Have you tried to get on-line support ??

JPBleustring.

Posted by: audiopaal Mar 12 2012, 01:14 PM

That Gibson looks great