Alesis

Alesis’ new line of MultiMix FireWire Mixers is now shipping. The MultiMix FireWire Mixers are available in 8-, 12-, and 16-channel configurations, and feature FireWire connectivity, low noise analog electronics, and one hundred 28-bit digital effects.

The DICE II FireWire technology incorporated into the MultiMix FireWire Series provides for the transfer of multiple audio data streams from the mixer to one’s computer (PC/Windows or Mac OSX) using a standard IEEE-1394 FireWire interface. These mixers provide 24-bit stereo simultaneous input/output via the mixer’s FireWire connection to a wide range of computer-based audio production applications.

All three models feature high-gain mic/line preamps, 48V phantom power, auxiliary sends/returns, and an onboard effects engine encompassing one hundred 28-bit preset effects, including reverbs, delays, chorus, and flanging. Each channel provides 3-band EQ with high/low shelving and mid band pass/reject. Read more…

Summer NAMM Update: Alesis has introduced the new F2 Expression Pedal. Unique it its ability to function as both an expression and volume pedal simultaneously, the F2 makes an outstanding choice for keyboard, guitar, and bass players.

Featuring a sturdy cast aluminum case designed to withstand the most tortuous road abuse, the F2 is designed to work flawlessly with products from virtually every instrument manufacturer. In addition to its use with numerous Alesis products such as the Fusion keyboards or XGuitar, the new F2 incorporates a built-in switch for setting compatibility among keyboard and guitar products from Yamaha™, Korg™, and Roland™. Additionally, the F2 features an adjustable range setting to completely shutoff all audio signal through the volume pedal or to allow limited amounts of signal. Read more…

NAMM Update: Alesis has introduced the updated M1 Active 520 and 620 studio reference monitors. Representing Alesis’ third generation of the M1 Active Series, the new M1 Active 520 and 620 offer definition and flat frequency response from their high-precision drivers and professionally crafted crossovers. With a bold new look, re-designed drivers, plus Bass Density control and EQ, these affordable, high-precision active reference monitors deliver superb sonic clarity that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

The M1 Active 2-way, nearfield reference monitors incorporate a 1-inch thick front baffle to minimize speaker resonance, and their visually stunning acoustic waveguide evenly disperses high-frequency program material throughout the sound field—facilitating superior imaging with minimal diffraction.

The M1 Active 520 features a 75-watt amplifier coupled with a 5-inch low frequency woofer, while the M1 Active 620 features a 100-watt amplifier and 6.5-inch low frequency woofer. Both models employ a 1-inch silk dome tweeter for pristine, crystal-clear highs. The M1 Active 520 and 620 are magnetically shielded for close placement to video monitors in computer-based music production environments and their rear port design provides deep bass extension and increased SPL. Read more…

Summer NAMM Update: Alesis introduced its new line of MultiMix mixers featuring FireWire data connectivity. Available in 8-, 12-, and 16-channel configurations, these compact tabletop mixers feature next-generation DICE II FireWire technology, low noise analog electronics, one hundred studio-grade 28-bit digital effects, and rock-solid construction.

The DICE II FireWire technology incorporated into the MultiMix FireWire Series provides for the transfer of multiple audio data streams from the mixer to one’s computer (PC/Windows or Mac OSX) using a standard IEEE-1394 FireWire interface. These mixers provide lightening fast, 24-bit stereo simultaneous input/output via the mixer’s FireWire connection to a wide range of computer-based audio production applications.

With their low noise analog electronics, the MultiMix FireWire mixers are cost-effective and highly versatile companions to the desktop recording environment. All three models feature high-gain mic/line preamps, 48V phantom power, auxiliary sends/returns, and an onboard effects engine encompassing one hundred 28-bit preset effects, including reverbs, delays, chorus, and flanging. Each channel provides 3-band EQ with high/low shelving and mid band pass/reject.

The MultiMix 8- and 12-channel mixers provide four high-gain mic/line (XLR and quarter-inch balanced) inputs with phantom power, two stereo balanced quarter-inch line inputs, an Aux send that can send to either onboard or external effects, and a stereo Aux return. The MultiMix 16 has eight high-gain mic/line (XLR and quarter-inch balanced) inputs, with the remaining I/O connectivity identical to its smaller siblings.

Additional features of the MultiMix FireWire Series include separate quarter-inch balanced main and monitor outs, plus headphone out. Plug and Play operation is available under Windows XP and Mac OSX—eliminating the need for special drivers or setup. Completing the system package is the inclusion of Steinberg’s Cubase LE recording software.

Alesis President Jack O’Donnell commented, “With the MultiMix FireWire Series, we’ve made multitrack recording to the computer a viable and affordable possibility for the modern artist/producer.”

With a suggested retail price of $599 (MultiMix 8), $699 (MultiMix 12), and $799 (MultiMix 16), Alesis’ new MultiMix FireWire Series represents exceptional value for the computer music enthusiast. The MultiMix FireWire Series will be available Q3 of 2005.

Alesis has introduced the Photon X49 USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller. Building upon the success of the company’s Photon Series, which includes the Photon 25 and Photon X25, the new Photon X49 provides a 49-key velocity sensitive keyboard, an intuitive and fully assignable user interface for controlling one’s software/hardware DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), a wealth of assignable knobs, buttons, and switches, and Alesis’ unique AXYZ controller dome.

The new Photon X49’s revolutionary AXYZ controller dome facilitates control over software DAWs, plug-ins, and MIDI instruments in three dimensions with the wave of one’s hand. The Dome is particularly well suited, as an example, for creating filter effects. And with the Photon X49’s sixty assignable and immediately accessible knobs, buttons, and switches—including ten silky smooth, high resolution, 360-degree endless knobs, nine 60mm faders, and ten backlit buttons—users have a wealth of tactile control options when interfacing with their software. As expected, presets can then be stored for future recall. Add to this a 10-key keypad for direct access to software parameters along with dedicated transport controls for remotely controlling DAWs, and the Photon X49’s control capabilities are nothing short of extraordinary. Read more…