2006 NAMM Show

Roland V Synth XT Namm 2006

via griffinavid:

Elastic Audio Synthesis has already captivated artists the world over. Now the V-Synth GT’s multi-core engine supercharges your expressive power, and enables sounds to go even deeper.

The power of AP-Synthesis and other innovative synthesizer technologies will give you the tools to break through into new realms of creativity. Delve in and explore unknown dimensions with the V-Synth.

NAMM 2006 Winter Show: Zoom introduced the SB-246 Street Box, in collaboration with the hot Nashville-based producers Beat Kangz. A dedicated Hip Hop rhythm machine, the SB-246 features a slim, compact design, 529 Hip Hop sounds, studio quality effects, and a built-in sequencer with loop capability.

The SB-246 comes with an array of percussion and rhythm sounds, as well as 24 bass sounds, fat synthesizers, acoustic instruments and special effects. Since no data loading is required, you can start to lay down tracks right away. East Coast, West Coast, Old School, and plenty of other styles in various categories make up a full complement of 80 “kits.” Each kit features a layout on 13 drum pads with built-in touch sensors bring out not only your timing, but also the dynamics and delicate nuances of your finger work.

All 210 preset patterns of the SB-246 have been pre-programmed by upcoming U.S. hip-hop artists Beat Kangz. Masters of current styles and classic hip hop beats the Beat Kangz have programmed tracks that are ready-to-go into the studio today. Intros, Fills, Endings and other variation patterns can be combined to create tracks that are ready to record. Read more…

NAMM 2006 Winter Show: Mackie announced a new release of their Tracktion recording software–Tracktion 2.1. This latest update includes several great feature enhancements including:

• Custom Control Surface Creation: Control Tracktion’s transport, navigation, options, and channels via your favorite low-cost hardware controller, or even the sliders, buttons, and keys on your MIDI controller keyboard.
• MP3 Import and MP3/OGG Export: Import MP3 files using the LAME codec, and export both MP3 and OGG files with the new menu item Export>Create an MP3/OGG file.
• MIDI Loop Recording: Create and build MIDI clips in loop record mode much like the way you can with audio files.
• Support for the Frontier Design Group TranzPort: Control Tracktion with the Frontier Design Group TranzPort Wireless DAW Controller.
• Filter Icon “Quick Control Parameter: All filter icons can now display any automatable parameter as a small horizontal slider on the filter icon for even quicker adjustments.
• File Import Improvements: Select and import multiple files from the import file dialog. Even drag and drop, or import from a CD on the PC.

Read more…

NAMM 2006 Winter Show: M-Audio announced support for Apple’s new Intel-based computers to several of its most popular USB- and FireWire-compatible products.

M-Audio has posted beta drivers for the entire FireWire-compatible family of products, including FireWire 410, FireWire 1814 and the new ProjectMix I/O. Beta drivers for the Fast Track USB and Fast Track Pro have also been posted to http://www.m-audio.com.

The M-Audio engineering team is actively working on Intel-based Mac support for the remainder of the company’s USB interfaces. Visit the Support > Drivers section of the web site for additional drivers, as the compatibility list will be updated regularly.

Also at NAMM, M-Audio software partner Ableton announced that Live 5.2 will deliver native support for new Intel Macs—in addition to significant gains in audio performance. Live 5.2 will enter beta testing as soon as the new Intel Core Duo-equipped MacBook Pro is available and is expected to be released in February. M-Audio projects the rest of its developed and distributed software will be operable on “MacTel” computers in the near future.

More information is available at the M-Audio site.

NAMM 2006 Winter Show: Yamaha announced the release of the MW10 and MW12 USB Mixing Studios.

Targeted to the musician, AV and home studio hobbyist, as well as educational and worship markets, these music production systems are portable solutions for recording on a computer with the convenience of USB audio and the familiar interface of an analog mixer.

The MW10 and MW12 feature USB connectivity for direct computer audio interfacing, with plug-and-play operation under Windows and Mac OS. A downloadable low latency Audio Stream I/O (ASIO)-compatible driver is also available. Both units include bundled Steinberg Cubase LE, a cross-platform software that provides a complete solution for audio/MIDI/video playback and notation applications, making the MW10 and MW12 ideal accessories for personal or remote recording, songwriting, production, podcasting, AV applications or even live mixing. Cubase LE contains up to 48 audio tracks, up to 64 MIDI tracks and 40 VST instruments and effects, and is also fully expandable.

Model MW10 features 10 inputs, including four ultra low noise mix preamps with Phantom power. Input channels contain three-band EQ, pan and high pass filters. Top-mounted input connections include XLR, 1/4-in. and RCA phono jacks, with insert I/O for connecting to external devices on Channels 1 and 2. The mix master section includes Aux Send/Stereo Aux return, Stereo Master, Control Room and Headphone outputs. Read more…