Blue Microphones

Yeti Features:

• The first USB mic to offer Blue’s condenser capsules in a  triple capsule array for the highest quality, most versatile audio recording capability
• Four patterns (Omni, Cardioid, Stereo, Bidirectional) for  versatility and superior results
• THX certification
• Studio quality performance and features, with zero latency, amplified headphone monitoring, microphone mute, and hardware-based gain adjustment
• Driverless installation and works with both PC and Mac.
• The Yeti’s angle can be adjusted on its custom-designed desk stand.

The Yeti microphone is designed to offer quality recordings in a wide range of situations, including podcasts, vocals, live or event recording, interviews, broadcasts, instruments, bands and more.

“THX testing and certification ensures the fidelity of the recording always remains true to its source” according to Matthew Chrispen, director of certification at THX, “allowing artists to accurately capture voice-overs, interviews and other sound elements with confidence.”

The Yeti, MSRP $149.99, will be available beginning December 2009.

If you’ve used the Yeti microphone, leave a comment with your thoughts on it!

• NSFW: Controversial Avant Garde Electronic Music: Blow Job 4
  Posted on Friday, December 19th, 2008 in Music Videos – Comments: (10)

  Click here to view the embedded video.

  
  This is a new version of Wojciech Kosma’s Blow Job, which explores the audio feedback effects of fellatio on a microphone.
• The Top Electronic/Dance Albums Of 2008
  Posted on Monday, December 15th, 2008 in Music News – Comments: (5)
  Amazon has announced its picks for the Best Dance & DJ Albums of 2008.
• Amazing Robotic DJs Spin The Vinyl
  Posted on Wednesday, December 17th, 2008 in DJ – Comments: (4)
  

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  These guys aren’t laying down the turntable science yet, but the RobotLab Juke Bots are still pretty impressive.
• Shure Microphone Survives Insane, Sadistic Torture Tests
  Posted on Friday, December 19th, 2008 in Gear Reviews – Comments: (4)
  

  Click here to view the embedded video.

  
  Shure SM58 & SM57 mics have a reputation for being reliable to the point of being indestructible. Mats Stålbröst, editor of the Stockholm-based Studio, took that as a challenge…..
• Stevie Wonder On The Arp 2600, Talkbox
  Posted on Monday, December 15th, 2008 in Electronic Musicians – Comments: (3)
  

  Click here to view the embedded video.

  
  These videos are of poor quality – but the offer some interesting historical perspective from Stevie Wonder’s 70’s electronic peak.

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TASCAM’s hitting several different price points, to appeal to different budgets and meet different requirements:

• The Track Pack T1 combines the US-122L audio interface with a dynamic microphone, headphones and Cubase LE4 recording software. Track Pack T1 sells for $299 MSRP/$179 street.
• The Track Pack T2 matches the US-144 interface with TASCAM’s new TM-78 condenser microphone. Track Pack T2 sells for $369 MSRP/ $199 street.
• The Field Pack pairs TASCAM’s DR-1 portable recorder with the TM-ST1 stereo microphone. Field Pack sells for $498 MSRP/$349 street.

“The Track Pack and Field Pack bundles give musicians everything they’ll need, even cables and stands, so they can start making music right away,” according to TASCAM’s Paul Jenkins. The bundles are scheduled to ship this month.

The mic uses low noise electronics and the latest in enhanced digital conversion techniques for pristine audio quality. The mic uses MOGAMI cable for the internal analog wiring to bring out the maximum definition.

The MXL USB.008 ships with a rugged tote bag, a desktop mic stand, mic stand adaptor, a 10-foot USB cable, wind screen, owners manual and an applications guide. The MXL USB.008 carries an MSRP of $199.00 and is now shipping. A stereo version will also be available.

With the Woodpecker, Blue continues its style of introducing attractive vintage-styled microphones that look as good as they sound.

The Woodpecker was designed to provide the smooth, intimate sound associated with the most sought-after (and expensive) vintage ribbon microphones. With its focused mid-range, and outstanding bass response, the Woodpecker captures the essence of any recorded sound. It also excels at ambient recording, capturing room tone with the most intimate detail – whether for rock drums, guitars or vocals – any application where some natural space in the recording is desired. The Woodpecker package includes a custom made, solid brass shockmount and wood storage box.

Woodpecker specifications:

• Acoustical Operating Principal: Pressure Gradient
• Directional Pattern: figure 8, bidirectional
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Sensitivity (1kHz into 2.5k ohm): 26mV/Pa
• Rated Impedance: 50 ohm
• Rated Load Impedance: Not less than 1k ohm
• Noise Level A-weighted (IEC 651): Not more than 22dB
• Max Output (1% THD into 2.5k ohm): 10dBU = 2.5V
• Max SPL (0.5% THD into 2.5k ohm): 136dB
• Dynamic Range (2.5k ohm load): 114dB
• Supply Voltage (IEC 268-15): +48V phantom power (+35V min.)
• Current Draw (typical ai +48V): 2.4mA
• Weight: 1.6lbs

Price: $1299
Availability: Q1, 2007

2007 Winter NAMM Show: Blue balls are cheaper than ever, along with all the other unique microphones in Blue Microphone’s ball line.

Blue announced a new $99 price point on their popular Ball Series microphones: the Snowball, the 8-Ball, the Kickball, and the original Ball microphone.

Designed for desktop recording applications, the Snowball USB microphone’s universal Mac/PC driver and plug & play USB compatibility make recording into your laptop or DAW quick and easy. Its unique dual-capsule design, one capsule tailored for vocals and the other for instruments, and a 3-position selector switch on the back of the mic let you dial in the desired sound.

The 8-Ball is a cardioid condenser microphone designed with the needs of the professional recordist in mind. Featuring Blue’s highly regarded Class A discrete low-noise amplifier circuit, the 8-Ball’s smooth frequency response is designed to please even the most discerning professional ear.

The Kickball is a specially designed low-frequency microphone from Blue. The back of the mic features a 3-position bass frequency switch allowing three distinct low-frequency equalization curves. This circuit is based on a unique active RC filter that attenuates sub-bass (below 20Hz) frequencies and contours the low end without any noticeable phase distortion. On stage or in the studio, the Kickball’s punchy and detailed sound is ideal for kick drum, tom toms, electric bass, and bass cabinets.

The world’s first phantom power dynamic microphone, the original blue Ball is capable of handling extremely high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it ideal for stage and studio. With its unique mid-range presence, the Ball comes alive in high volume situations — drums, guitar amps, bass cabinets, screaming vocalists, horns, and anything else that punishes lesser dynamic mics.

The USB2200a is a USB2 microphone based on the studio standard sE2200a capsule. It records CD quality audio (record path16 bit 48K, output 24 bit 48K) via USB directly to your DAW.

The mic has several features unique from USB mics currently on the market including, ultra-low latency headphone monitoring (less than 1ms) with mix control to allow the user to set playback versus record path levels to monitor live takes, 10dB pad, Bass cut and an ‘analogue switch’ which enables the user to use the mic via an XLR connector with 48v phantom power where required. This feature adds flexibility of use to the mic, and means that whatever changes may occur to digital recording technology in years to come, the mic can still be used in ‘analogue mode’, unlike it’s competitors.

In addition, the USB2200a has proprietary chips, developed by sE Electronics International, which deal with both noise and software driver problems faced by competitor products. One chip helps with transforming the 5v power supplied via the USB cable to power the capsule, by first removing ‘noise’ and undesirable spikes from the current. This ‘noise’ would normally be amplified, which is why USB mics have, until now, been largely too noisy to use in a professional environment. No other USB mic on the market offers this kind of specification, and it makes a huge difference to the performance for studio use.

Most manufacturers market their USB mics as ‘Podcasting mics’ for this reason. The second proprietary chip has all the appropriate software drivers embedded for use with any DAW, so the product really is ‘plug in and play’, automatically configuring to the host as it is connected.

The USB2200a will ship in early January 2007 and will retail at £222 inc vat.

The Type A vacuum tube microphone system is a high quality innovative and unique solution for virtually any critical recording need. Combining low noise and superb transient response along with a choice of nine different interchangeable capsules called “The Redheads” the Type A is a microphone system that is as versatile as it is dependable. The bayonet-mount capsules can quickly be changed for a stunning variety of sounds and pickup patterns without having to shut off the included “PowerStream” power supply.

“The Type A represents a breakthrough in quality and price for a tube microphone,” stated Ariel Soudak, Persident of Red Microphones. “Its interchangeable capsules make it several mics in one to cover virtually any recording situation. And with the free R7, it’s a great time to experience the sound of a high-end tube microphone.”

The transformer-less Class A discrete amplifier circuit of the Type A is a thoroughly modern design with a nod to the classic circuits of yesterday. Utilizing a single hand-selected ECC88 vacuum tube, the Type A can reproduce musical detail and subtlety previously only heard in mics costing thousands more. The Type A includes a custom-built flight case, Red’s high-definition tube mic cable, a shock mount and the innovative PowerStream power supply, which not only insures ultra-stable performance but features a soft-start feature that maximizes tube life and minimizes startup time.

For a limited time, purchase the new Type A Tube Microphone along with any one of the R0-R7 capsules and get a R7 Capsule for FREE ($650 Value). Complete your purchase by September 31, 2006, send in proof of purchase along with the Type A Intro Offer redemption coupon, and Red will send the R7 Capsule directly to you free of charge.

The Type A is available now for $1345. The Redhead Capsules are available now and range in prince from $249 to $849.

More information is available at the Red Microphone site.

Red Microphones

The Type A vacuum tube microphone system is a high quality innovative and unique solution for virtually any critical recording need. Combining low noise and superb transient response along with a choice of nine different interchangeable capsules called “The Redheads” the Type A is a microphone system that is as versatile as it is dependable. The bayonet-mount capsules can quickly be changed for a stunning variety of sounds and pickup patterns without having to shut off the included “PowerStream” power supply.

“The Type A represents a breakthrough in quality and price for a tube microphone,” stated Ariel Soudak, Persident of Red Microphones. “Its interchangeable capsules make it several mics in one to cover virtually any recording situation. And with the free R7, it’s a great time to experience the sound of a high-end tube microphone.”

The transformer-less Class A discrete amplifier circuit of the Type A is a thoroughly modern design with a nod to the classic circuits of yesterday. Utilizing a single hand-selected ECC88 vacuum tube, the Type A can reproduce musical detail and subtlety previously only heard in mics costing thousands more. The Type A includes a custom-built flight case, Red’s high-definition tube mic cable, a shock mount and the innovative PowerStream power supply, which not only insures ultra-stable performance but features a soft-start feature that maximizes tube life and minimizes startup time.

For a limited time, purchase the new Type A Tube Microphone along with any one of the R0-R7 capsules and get a R7 Capsule for FREE ($650 Value). Complete your purchase by September 31, 2006, send in proof of purchase along with the Type A Intro Offer redemption coupon, and Red will send the R7 Capsule directly to you free of charge.

The Type A is available now for $1345. The Redhead Capsules are available now and range in prince from $249 to $849.

More information is available at the Red Mic site.

Prior to its acquisition, VintageMicrophone.com had been the exclusive reseller of Red Microphone products, specializing in vintage microphone and related pro audio products, including microphones, hard-to-find replacement capsules and shockmounts, cables, custom storage solutions and more. VintageMicrophone.com will now become a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEMA Capital Group.

SEMA plans to expand the range of products and services offered at Vintage Microphone.com to evolve the specialized e-tailer into a high quality, full service online recording products retailer. VintageMicrophone.com will also remain a Red Microphone authorized retailer.

Ariel Soudak, Red Microphone’s President, believes that this is a win-win situation. “We are excited about this new relationship,” stated Soudak. “This acquisition provides both VintageMicrophone.com and Red Microphones the perfect opportunity to leverage our respective strengths and significantly grow our businesses.”

More information is available at the RED Microphones site.

2006 NAMM Winter Show: Blue Microphones

Ralph was designed to be an effective and inexpensive alternative or replacement shock mount for any mic with a diameter of 19.88mm-22mm. Precision crafted of solid brass, this shock mount is well suited to Blue’s Baby Bottle microphone as well as many other popular recording mics by AKG, Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser and Shure.

Employing an aesthetically unique design which has become a Blue calling-card, this custom mount is also designed for results and built to last. Ralph’s wrap-around design and suspension bands hold the mic out in front of the stand, positioning it directly in front of the sound source, helping to further eliminate low-frequency rumble generated by floor resonance or bumping the stand. It’s elegant, simple design also make mic changes and cable connections quick and easy.

Ralph the Wonder Mount is compatible with:

• ADK SC-1/SC-2/SC-T
• AKG 414 models
• Audio-Technica 4041a/4049a/4051a/4053a
• Audix SCX-25
• Beyerdynamics MC 930,
• Earthworks SR71/77/78/Z30X
• Groove Tubes GT-33/44
• M-Audio Pulsar
• Microtech Gefell M294/295/296/300/SMS 2000
• Okatava MC 012/101
• Sennheiser K6
• Shure KSM137/KSM141/SM 81/SM63
• Taylr Hohendahl Engineering THE KR-33A/KR-2W/ KR-25A/KR-1F/KR-2C/TT-3M

Ralph the Wonder Mount currently available for $149 MSRP.

More information is available at the Blue Mic site.

Blue Microphones

The mic’s dual-capsule design and three-position switch dial make it flexible to use for many applications.

The Snowball retails for $155 MSRP and is available in consumer electronics stores with accessory pack (desktop stand and cable) for $159.

Features:

• USB connectivity for PC and Macintosh platforms
• Dual capsule design with 3 position switch (cardioid, cardioid pad, omni)
• Capable of handling a wide variety of instruments and vocals
• Rugged ABS construction

Optional Accessories

• The Ringer: Custom shockmount for ball line of mics or any mic with a standard thread mount/li>
• Accessory Pack: Specially designed desktop tripod stand and USB Cable/li>

Source: Blue Microphones

Designed for desktop recording applications, the Snowball incorporates Blue’s exceptional styling with high quality, versatility and ease of use. The mic’s universal driver and plug & play USB compatibility make recording into your laptop or DAW quick and easy, while its dual capsule design and three-position switch dial in the desired sound for many applications.

The Snowball’s versatility is achieved by its unique dual-capsule design, with one capsule tailored for vocals and the other for instruments. A three position switch on the back of the mic lets you change between the capsules. The first position offers the end user a robust vocal sound, the second position delivers an open, airy detailed sound and the third position is a unique combination of both capsules, which allows for the recording of loud sound sources. The result makes Snowball a multi-talented recording tool — the first USB mic designed and engineered by people who know sound.

Snowball will be available in Q2 of 2005 for $139.00 MSRP.

For more information, visit the Blue Mic site.

The Lectrosonics IS400, designed for use with both electric and acoustic instruments in demanding live performance environments, uses a proprietary digital algorithm to encode the audio signal into an analog format for transmission along an FM wireless carrier. The IS400’s receiver captures this signal and converts it back into digital audio via DSP. The result is that the IS400 offers a matchless balance of digital audio quality and the immense operational range of consummate FM wireless systems. Further, the IS400’s means of operation effectively eliminates the need for a an analog compander circuit along with the normally corresponding signal artifacts, and provides superior audio dynamic and frequency response when compared to analog systems.

The IS400’s 50mW IM transmitter and R400 diversity receiver are both housed within rugged, all-metal casings for long-lasting use in demanding gigging and touring. On its front panel, the R400 receiver features a graphic display for simple selection of transmission frequencies, an adjustment knob and power switch. On the unit’s rear, a balanced XLR and unbalanced quarter-inch jack are provided with independent volume control via the comprehensive front panel menu for simultaneous connection to a balanced input and a guitar amplifier. Also on the rear panel is a locking power input connector and two BNC input jacks.

Noted Karl Winkler, Lectrosonics’ director of business development: “companded audio normally associated with analog wireless systems has been a well-documented problem for performing musicians, particularly acoustic guitarists and bassists. These musicians have longed for a system that would compete with a standard cable for sound quality, but allow the freedom of movement given by a wireless system. Our Digital Hybrid system provides the best of those two worlds.”

This exceptional and unique new wireless instrument system was used by top guest artists at the premier of the new Taylor T5 Thinline Guitar Series in the Taylor Guitar performance space at NAMM. The Lectrosonics IS400 Digital Hybrid Wireless System was carefully chosen by Taylor to compliment their award-winning Expression System guitar pickup systems.

The IS400 will be available both as a stand-alone system (including the IM transmitter, R400 receiver, cables, antennas and watertight carrying case) and as a rack-mount system (with IM transmitter, R400-RM rack-mount receiver, cables and antennas). MSRP for each system: $1,625. Availability: March 2005.

More information is available at the Lectrasonics site.

Features:

• Low mass diaphragm for ultra wide frequency response and ultimate sound reproduction
• Perfect for acoustic instruments, overhead, piano, etc
• Cardioid pickup pattern for effective feedback elimination
• Switchable low-frequency roll-off and -10 dB input attenuation
• Custom microphone stand adapters, windscreens, stereo-bar and transport case included
• Ultra low noise transformerless FET input eliminates low frequency distortion
• Gold plated 3-pin XLR connector

The C-2 is expected to ship in the first quarter of this year. MSRP: $59.99.

For more information, visit the Behringer site.

Red’s Type B

Precision-designed and hand-assembled, the Type B is crafted for a lifetime of use. But what really makes the Type B special is that it’s unique bayonet top can accommodate a variety of new and vintage lollipop-style capsules, including classic Neumann-Gefell capsules and Blue’s renowned line of Bottle microphone capsules, The Bottle Caps. In short, the Type B offers the user a wide variety of recording applications right at their fingertips — at an extremely affordable price!

Available through Red, The Vintage Microphone Online Store, as well as Red-authorized dealers, the Type B will sell for $699 and be available in February, 2005. Established by Blue Microphones, Red features a world of vintage-style parts and accessories, from hard-to-find replacement capsules and shockmounts to cables, pop filters and custom storage solutions to protect valuable mics. Red’s comprehensive online store can be accessed at www.vintagemicrophone.com.

For more information, high-resolution images and dealer inquiries, please visit http://www.vintagemicrophone.com or contact:

Technical Specifications

• Acoustical Operating Principal: Pressure gradient
• Directional Pattern: Cardioid (w/Red lollipop capsule)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz — 20kHz
• Sensitivity (1kHz into 2.5k?): 27mV/Pa
• Rated Impedance: 50?
• Rated Load Impedance: Not less than 1k?
• Noise Level A-weighted (IEC 651): Not more than 7.5dB
• Max Output (1% THD into 2.5k?): 12dBV = 3.1V
• Max SPL (0.5% THD into 2.5k?): 138dB
• Dynamic Range (2.5k? load): 130dB
• Supply Voltage (IEC 268-15): +48V phantom power (+35V min.)
• Current Draw (Typical AI +48V): 1.8mA

The Bottle Caps

• B0: Large Diaphragm Cardioid — Bright (Elam 251 reference)
• B1: Small Diaphragm Cardioid (Schoeps 221b, 451and 452 (CKI) reference)
• B2: Large-Diaphragm Figure of Eight (RCA 44 Vintage Ribbon reference)
• B3: Medium Diaphragm Cardioid (Neumann U89, TLM 170 reference)
• B4: Small Diaphragm Perspex Sphere Pressure Omni (Neumann M50 reference)
• B5: Large Diaphragm Pressure Omni (Neumann/Gefell M55k reference)
• B6: Large Diaphragm Cardioid (AKG C12 reference)
• B7: Large Diaphragm Cardioid (Neumann U47, U48 reference)

Distinguished by its transparent, open upper end and midrange and a smooth low end, the e300 is well suited as a vocal microphone. It features a stainless steel/brass dual stage pop/EMI filter for maximum stability, high SPL characteristics and pop (plosives) control.

The e300 employs a 1.1″ 24K gold sputtered triple pattern dual diaphragm condenser capsule that is hand dampened for consistent frequency response. CAD’s custom elastomer shock cradle system provides capsule isolation and the hi-mass capsule carriage ensures shock absorption. Sophisticated laser trimmed op-amp circuitry allows increased management of fast transients.

Other features include an on/off switch with an Auto Power Shut-Off feature; a hi-pass filter 6 dB/octave @ 80 Hz and a 20 dB pad. Rechargeable 9V nickel hydride batteries provide a huge current reserve and allow for remote operation for up to 6 hours. Also included is a gold-plated 3-pin XLR insert for corrosion resistance and optimized conductivity. A shock mount and carrying case are included.

For more information, visit the CAD site.

NAMM 2005

The SVTMP also features 1 x 12AX7 and 1 x 12AU7 tubes; combination input jack (1/4″ and XLR); input pads for line and mic level signal; 48v Phantom Power; a 1/4″ Thru jack; and XLR output.

Features:

• 1 x 12AX7, 1 x 12AU7 tubes
• Combination input jack (1/4″ and XLR)
• Input pads for Line and Mic level signal
• 48v Phantom Power
• Input signal attenuation
• 1/4″ Thru jack and XLR output
• Bag included

The SVTMP should be available in spring, and lists for $529.

More information is available at the Ampeg site.

Blue Microphones

Featuring Blue’s Class A discrete low noise amplifier circuit, the 8-Ball offers a smooth frequency response, suitable for applications as varied as male or female vocals, drum overheads or acoustic guitars.

A standard thread swivel mount at the base of the microphone allows the user to pivot The 8-Ball back and forth, making mic placement a snap. And because The 8-Ball requires phantom power, a front-mounted LED confirms that the mic is ready to use.

For more information, visit the Blue site.

Sennheiser was established in 1945 in Wedemark, Germany. Sennheiser Electronic Corporation (SEC) is the U.S. wholly-owned subsidiary, with headquarters in Old Lyme, Connecticut. SEC represents all Sennheiser products in the United States. It also distributes a variety of other pro audio lines, including Neumann, Turbosound, HHB, Chevin, Rosendahl and Innova-Son.

Their primary products for musicians are:

• Headphones and headsets
• Wired microphones
• Wireless microphone systems