SAE Institute, the leading provider of pro audio and multimedia education worldwide, is incorporating Euphonix MC Control and MC Mix media controllers into 25 SAE Institutes across four continents. The SAE Institute’s audio curriculum includes training on the world’s leading digital audio workstations to help prepare students for real world production situations. Euphonix’ Artist Series media controllers offer comprehensive control over Pro Tools, Logic Studio and many more software applications, providing SAE with unmatched flexibility in integrating MC Control and MC Mix into their diverse curriculum.

“SAE is the world leader in audio and creative media training, and we are very excited to have our MC Control and MC Mix chosen for their state-of-the-art institutes,” stated Martin Kloiber, Euphonix CEO. “The power and flexibility of the Artist Series is the perfect match for SAE’s innovative teaching approach, and provides students with cutting-edge media controllers that can be used with virtually any audio or video application.”

The Artist Series uses a high-speed control protocol developed by Euphonix called EuCon that enables simultaneous control of multiple applications and even workstations over an Ethernet cable. This allows SAE students to not only remotely access and control any workstation located on the network, but EuCon also enables the instantaneous switching between multiple Mac workstations – perfect for projects that require using dedicated audio and video workstations. Furthermore, the small footprint of the MC Control and MC Mix allows these media controllers to easily integrate into any studio or lab, fitting perfectly between a computer keyboard and screen.

Euphonix has worked closely with the world’s leading software developers like Apple, Steinberg, MOTU and others to deeply integrate native EuCon support into their DAWs to provide high-resolution, high-speed control over almost all DAW functions for an unmatched editing and mixing experience. The MC Control and MC Mix also support the HUI and Mackie Control protocols for even greater flexibility, at a faster speed and higher resolution than any other controllers.

“We are delighted to be installing Euphonix MC Control and MC Mix media controllers in so many of our campuses around the world,” says SAE’s owner Tom Misner. “Students who attend SAE Institutes learn how to use a huge variety of hardware and software, giving them the widest possible skill set to help them with their chosen careers. The EuCon protocol may only have been around a short while but has already become an industry standard, such is the calibre of these superb media controllers. Euphonix is a heavyweight in the world of recording and now our students get to see first hand why the gear it produces has made such an impact in today’s studio environments.”

About SAE


SAE Institute was founded in 1976 as the world’s first audio school. It has since grown to become a network of around 50 colleges in 20 countries offering courses in Audio Engineering, Digital Film, Web Design and Interactive Entertainment. With 32 years of teaching experience, SAE teaches students the skills necessary for successful integration into the audio and media industries. The concept of SAE is practical hands-on training, combined with solid theory knowledge. SAE offers courses in Audio Engineering, Electronic Music Production, Web Design + Development, Interactive Entertainment and Digital Film making. Students have the option to progress to Degree programmes, validated by Middlesex University, at SAE’s dedicated Degree Centres around the world. SAE is the first step into a career in the future-orientated fields of audio technology and media production.

Technorati Tags: SAE Institute, audio and multimedia education, Euphonix MC Control, MC Mix media controller

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Native Instruments has just introduced REAKTOR SPARK, a KORE SOUNDPACK based on the new “Spark” performance synthesizer designed by NI founder and REAKTOR mastermind Stephan Schmitt. With a strong focus on distinctive tone and genuine musical expressiveness, REAKTOR SPARK is both an outstanding library addition for REAKTOR users as well as a powerful instrument and sound library for KORE 2 and the free KORE PLAYER.

Spark was designed by Stephan Schmitt as a personal project over the course of three years, with the goal to create a synthesizer with a highly energetic sound character and maximum potential for real-time expression. Completely realized in Native Instruments’ groundbreaking modular synthesis studio REAKTOR, Spark expertly combines powerful subtractive synthesis with a sophisticated array of internal feedback loops and various other special sound shaping features. This allows its distinctive sonic output to cut through any musical arrangement with vivid, animated and organic tones, which are especially gratifying when played live with a keyboard and a set of real-time parameter controls.

The REAKTOR SPARK sound pack built around Spark makes this powerful synthesizer conveniently accessible for users of KORE 2 and the free KORE PLAYER, providing 200 versatile presets as well as intuitive sound tweaking options through the unified KORE interface. Owners of REAKTOR have access to the full set of Spark’s parameter and control elements, and can also explore and modify the complete signal flow structure of this extraordinary instrument.

REAKTOR SPARK is available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for a suggested retail price of $59 / 49 EUR.

Additional information on REAKTOR SPARK including audio demos is available at
www.native-instruments.com/reaktorspark.info

About Native Instruments:

Native Instruments is the pioneer and market leader in the field of software instruments, and one of the key players in the market of computer-based audio production technology. The company’s mission is to develop outstanding musical tools for all styles and genres. The resulting products regularly push technological boundaries and open up new creative horizons for professionals and amateurs alike.

Technorati Tags: Native instruments KORE sound packs, Reaktor Spark

Sweden — Finally the long awaited (and announced) title in the Toontrack Music Toontrack Software Tools series is ready for release. Taking a new angle on the conversion of drum audio to drum MIDI and drum sound replacement, Drumtracker(R) features stand alone operation and all out manual operation. Like other tools in the TST series Drumtracker is compatible with all major drum sampler MIDI mappings in the market. Drumtracker is another step in Toontrack Music’s endeavor to deliver a complete solution for production, composition and drum performance for players and producers alike. Drumtracker will be available through Toontrack Music distributors and retailers at the end of December.

Drumtracker is a stand alone, host independent, multi-track audio to MIDI converter. Specifically designed to convert drum session audio recordings to MIDI files for drum replacement purposes, Drumtracker will grant your drums a new lease of life.

The built-in filters in Drumtracker allow you to quickly detect the most common instruments and specify the velocity threshold for each section of your song. In addition, you may, of course, save your own filter presets to gain valuable time when sound replacing.

Best of all, Drumtracker lets you select which part or parts of a drum audio track to convert, down to each single hit. You can change the velocity, delete, add or move trigger points to your requirements, giving you manual control of tracking and converting audio to MIDI, to supplement automatic detection.

Audition the triggered parts using Drumtracker built-in sample library, then, when you are happy with the result, convert the MIDI rendered by Drumtracker to the mapping system of your favorite drum sampler.

More information: www.toontrack.com/drumtracker.asp .

Technorati Tags: Toontrack Drumtracker, drum replacement software

London, UK — Ministry of Sound and iZotope today announced that, in a groundbreaking collaboration for iPhone and iPod touch, fans can now buy the iDrum: Ministry of Sound Anthems album from the iTunes Store and also purchase a companion application from the Apple App Store that lets them create original music. “This is a truly unique experience where some of the best known dance music sounds of the last two decades are now available to be recreated on iPhone at the touch of a button.” said Van Uong, licensing account manager at Ministry of Sound.

“With the combination of iDrum’s simple Multi-Touch user interface and Ministry of Sound’s incredible sample content, you can create your own club anthems right in the palm of your hand,” said Nick Dika, content manager at iZotope.

iDrum: Ministry of Sound Anthems lets iPhone and iPod touch owners recreate their favorite club tracks of yesterday and today. This special edition of iDrum is the perfect companion to Ministry of Sound’s newest album representing clubbing history, “Anthems II.” Starting with professionally produced iDrum kits that emulate the greatest anthems in clubbing history, users can customize the included beats any way they like or mix and match over 300 original samples to make their own epic tracks. iDrum’s simple interface lets even novice users build beats layer by layer by tapping the touch screen or create music with simple shapes and color combinations that let anyone visualize the rhythm.

Features:
* Includes professionally produced samples and beats from Ministry of Sound ­ over 300 original classic and old school dance samples and 20 unique kits with dozens of pre-made patterns
* Customize patterns to create your own unique beats
* Take control of the rhythm of every drum sound and sample
* Tap the screen to play and record your own musical patterns

A collaboration between Ministry of Sound and iZotope, this special edition of iDrum is the perfect companion to Ministry of Sound’s newest album representing clubbing history, “Anthems II,” now available on the iTunes Store. The follow up to last year’s over half million selling album, “Anthems II” includes three discs filled with the best club classics of all time.

iDrum: Ministry of Sound Anthems is available for $5.99 USD from Apple’s App Store on iPhone and iPod touch.

About Ministry of Sound (www.ministryofsound.com)

Headquartered in London, Ministry of Sound is a global dance music and digital lifestyle entertainment brand delivering content, music and lifestyle products both offline and through multiple digital channels. Since first opening its doors as a London nightclub in 1991, Ministry of Sound has become a truly international brand with offices and clubs worldwide. Ministry of Sound is also the world’s largest independent record company.

About iZotope, Inc. (www.izotope.com)

iZotope is a research-driven audio signal processing company based in Boston, Massachusetts. Its hardware products, software products, and audio technology are used by millions of people in over 50 countries, from hobbyist musicians to GRAMMY Award winners. iZotope focuses on developing innovative audio technology for professional and consumer applications. This core technology is presented to customers in its award-winning product line and through its extensive licensing program.

Technorati Tags: iDrum Ministry of Sound Anthems, iZotope

Bothell, Wash. — BEHRINGER adds to its line of effects pedals with the new VM1 Vintage Time Machine. 550ms of true analog delay deliver the great sound of tape echo machines popular in the 70’s. Effects include Delay, Echo, Chorus and Vibrato. Flexible sound-shaping controls including Effect Mix, Feedback, Delay Time and switchable Chorus / Vibrato with variable Depth dial in a wealth of classic sounds. An Input Level control with Overload LED and a true hard-wire bypass foot-switch assure signal fidelity and integrity.

The VM1 features a super-bright status LED, rugged all-metal chassis and includes an external PSU-SB DC power supply.

* True analog delay - up to 550ms
* Analog tape echo machine sound
* Delay, Echo, Chorus and Vibrato effects
* Input Level, Mix, Feedback, Delay and Chorus / Vibrato depth controls
* Overload and Effect Status LEDs
* True hard-wire bypass footswitch
* Input, Direct Out and Effect Out 1/4″ metal jacks
* External PSU-SB DC power supply included
* Rugged all-metal chassis

Price details US $99.99.

Technorati Tags: VM1 Vintage Time Machine pedal

Bothell, Wash. — BEHRINGER adds to its line of active loudspeaker systems with the new EUROLIVE B315A. Featuring a 15″ 2-way design, integrated sound processing and 400 watts of power, the B315A offers a compact, high-power solution for live and playback applications. The B315A packs a long-excursion 15″ woofer and 1.75″ titanium-diaphragm compression driver with an ultra-wide dispersion, exponential horn and multi-cell throat into a versatile trapezoidal enclosure.

The rear panel includes Ultra-Low Noise (ULN) balanced mic and line inputs, a balanced XLR thru connector, input level control and two-band EQ. Internal sound processing provides complete system control as well as speaker protection.

The B315A can be free-standing, stacked, pole-mounted or used in a floor monitor configuration. Ergonomic handles and rugged construction make for a roadworthy package.

* 400 watt, 15″ 2-way active loudspeaker system
* Extreme sound pressure levels from a compact, lightweight speaker
* Integrated sound processing for system control and speaker protection
* Long-excursion 15″ woofer
* 1.75″ titanium diaphragm compression driver
* Large-format, ultra-wide dispersion exponential horn, with multi-cell throat
* Ultra-Low Noise (ULN) mic / line input with input level control and 2-band EQ
* Trapeziodal enclosure for versatile placement and configuration options

Price details (all shown ex local tax)
US $489.99 UK £239 Euro 359

Technorati Tags: Behringer Eurolive B315A, 2-way active loudspeaker system

High Wycombe, UK — After getting their Royal seal of approval, Novation release a limited edition keyboard that looks out of this world. Novation are celebrating the phenomenal success of the ReMOTE SL series by releasing a special limited edition ReMOTE SL37. The ReMOTE SL was the first MIDI controller to feature Novation’s groundbreaking Automap software - a technology so advanced that it recently won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Innovation.

To mark this extraordinary achievement, Novation have produced a run of 999 new SL37s which bring you all of the advantages of Automap technology and package it all into a keyboard that looks as futuristic as the concept that it delivers.

Not only does the keyboard offer features that are simply unheard of elsewhere, it also looks out of this world too! The eight faders and 16 rotary controllers are divided into 16 boxes, with the transport, octave and data/select sections also demarcated with green, light-reactive lines - it’s a distinctive fluorescent green design that positively glows in a UV club environment.

The ReMOTE SL combines Novation’s Automap technology with comprehensive physical controllers to provide automatic, instant and intelligent control of all the major sequencers and all automatable plug-ins. Novation’s Automap software ensures that little or no user setup is required.

Sequencer controls are automatically mapped to the SL the moment the sequencer boots up, whilst all VST or AU parameters are intuitively assigned as soon as a plug-in opens. In addition, an instant click and control ‘learn’ function is available for quick custom assigning, providing personalised plug-in control.

The new limited edition ReMOTE 37SL is available now at a selection of pro audio retailers around the world. Contact your local distributor for further details.

Further information on all Novation gear - www.novationmusic.com .

Technorati Tags: Novation ReMOTE SL37, portable MIDI controller

BUENA PARK, Calif. — Following the success of the Pocketrak 2G Pocket Recorder, Yamaha Corporation of America is now shipping their new Pocketrak CX. While the Pocketrak 2G fills the niche an ultra-slim recorder with an omni-directional mic for recording lectures, meetings and rehearsals, the Pocketrak CX adds an upgraded stereo microphone system and expandability, perfect for recording live music.

Like its predecessor, the Pocketrak CX supports a variety of different recording formats from 16-bit 44.1 CD quality .wav files to convenient MP3, an onboard speaker, stand adapter, and Cubase AI DAW software. The CX then adds a larger AA re-chargeable “eneloop” battery built into its compact body allowing up to 40 hours of continuous recording and play-back, a high sensitivity 90° X-Y microphone for high-quality stereo recording and expandability microSD cards (2GB card included). Add to this a peak limiter and variable speed playback for practicing difficult or fast passages and the Pocketrak CX becomes a powerful tool for any musician.

With an ultra slim body weighing less than 100 grams, the Pocketrak CX continues what the Pocketrak 2G has become known for ­ truly portable recording. Yamaha now offers two great choices at affordable prices.

The Pocketrak CX is now available for $499 MSRP at authorized Yamaha dealers. For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Music Production, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamahasynth.com.

About Yamaha
Yamaha Corporation of America is the largest subsidiary of Yamaha Corporation, Japan and offers a full line of musical instruments and sound reinforcement products to the U.S. market. Products include: acoustic and digital pianos, portable keyboards, guitars, acoustic and electronic drums, band and orchestral instruments, marching percussion products, synthesizers, professional digital and analog audio products, and innovative technology products targeted to the hobbyist, education, worship, professional music, and installation markets.

Technorati Tags: Yamaha Pocketrak 2G CX Pocket Recorder

LOS ANGELES and BERLIN — Native Instruments has just launched a special KONTAKT 3 crossgrade offer for owners of GigaStudio. From now until December 31st 2008, owners of any version of Tascam GigaStudio can get the industry-leading KONTAKT 3 software sampler for a reduced price of $279 / EUR 249, a saving of nearly 40% off the regular price.

With its powerful sample engine, unrivaled sound shaping features, comprehensive Universal Import capability and unique KSP scripting, KONTAKT 3 is widely acclaimed as the most versatile sampler on the market. An upcoming free update will also add full Windows Vista 64-bit support including extended memory addressing.

The KONTAKT 3 Crossgrade for GigaStudio owners is available now at authorized dealers and in the NI Online Shop.

More information on the KONTAKT 3 Crossgrade for GigaStudio owners can be found at
www.native-instruments.com/gigacrossgrade.info

About Native Instruments:

Native Instruments is the pioneer and market leader in the field of software instruments, and one of the key players in the market of computer-based audio production technology. The company’s mission is to develop outstanding musical tools for all styles and genres. The resulting products regularly push technological boundaries and open up new creative horizons for professionals and amateurs alike.

Technorati Tags: GigaStudio crossgrade offer, Native Instrument Kontakt 3

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Native Instruments just released MASSIVE EXPANSION Vol. 2, a new KORE SOUNDPACK based on the powerful MASSIVE engine. The library features 200 cutting-edge synthesizer sounds for use in KORE 2 and the free KORE PLAYER as well as the individual MASSIVE synthesizer, providing producers with a practical creative resource for a wide range of electronic music styles. MASSIVE EXPANSION Vol. 2 covers the whole sonic spectrum from powerful leads and basses to distinctive pads and sequenced sounds, utilizing the full sonic depth and versatility of the high-resolution wave-scanning engine of the acclaimed MASSIVE synthesizer.

All sounds are equipped with eight morphing-capable Sound Variations per preset, with crucial sound parameters also conveniently assigned to the unified KORE user interface.

MASSIVE EXPANSION Vol. 2 is available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for a suggested retail price of $59 / 49 EUR.

More information on MASSIVE EXPANSION Vol. 2 can be found at
www.native-instruments.com/massiveexpansion2.info

About Native Instruments:

Native Instruments is the pioneer and market leader in the field of software instruments, and one of the key players in the market of computer-based audio production technology. The company’s mission is to develop outstanding musical tools for all styles and genres. The resulting products regularly push technological boundaries and open up new creative horizons for professionals and amateurs alike.

Technorati Tags: Native Instruments KORE player, NI Massive