Positive Vibes

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2014

The Official Show Publication

DAILY

4 6 positive vibes

2 It’s been a great start to The NAMM a good sign that the industry is heading in a good Show, and notice how the mood on the show direction for 2014. Here are a few companies ﬂoor has become dramatically more positive. It’s spreading those positive vibes on the show ﬂoor.

1. Team Alfred was on the show floor yesterday ready in a very portable, affordable package. Ready for the to prove they’ve got a book (or a uke) for everyone! launch are, from left, QSC’s Mike Burke, Jon Graves, From left: Alfred’s Andrew Surmani, Daisy Rock’s Tish Gerry Tschetter, Ray van Straten and Joe Pham. Ciravolo, Alfred’s Steve Raft, Ron Manus and Antonio 4. Hanser Music Group’s Debbie Malave (left) and Ferranti. 2. Tymphany is bringing its 85-year-old Peer- Richard Cimarik with the new Michael Kelly 1950s less brand of high-performance, affordable transduc- series of single-cut guitars. See page 14. 5. Backun’s ers into the pro-audio market with a first-time NAMM Joel Jaffe (left) and Jeremy Backun with the Backun exhibit. Shown with the FSL-1830 18-inch woofer Protege B-flat clarinet and the MoBa Cocobolo Gold are Tymphany’s Phil McPhee (left), George Bullimore professional clarinet on the show floor Wednesday. and Chris von Hellermann in the company’s show- 6. From left: Taylor Guitars CEO and co-founder Kurt room yesterday morning. 3. QSC hit the NAMM floor Listug, Master Builder Andy Powers and President and Thursday with the much-anticipated launch of the co-founder Bob Taylor celebrate their 40th anniver- TouchMix compact digital mixer line. The mixer of- sary with the new 800 series models at the company’s 3 fers the power and capability of a large-format console booth yesterday.

NAMM Breakfast Session

Jeffrey Hayzlett, host of Bloom- berg Television’s “C-Suite,” offers a no-nonsense approach to ensure your business is focused and relevant in an era of rising e-commerce and eco- nomic pressures. Are You Relevant? PRS Adds Rose Tremolo Hosa’s Super Speed Cables Peavey XR-AT Boasts Portability MXR’s Bass Preamp Page 102 Page 12 Page 32 Page 40 Page 97

4 UBD January 25, 2014 namm show news

Kawai Focuses on ‘Family’ at Annual Awards Event Kawai held its annual awards ceremony success without faithful partners who are on Thursday night at the Sheraton Park Ho- willing to trust in our people and invest in tel. During the ceremony, Kawai America Se- our brand,” Kawai said. “Many of you in this nior Vice President Brian Chung touched on room have made that commitment to us over how Kawai’s dealer network is like a family. many years. We would not be here today “We’ve known so many of our dealers without you.” for such a long time that our relationships During the event, Kawai handed out often transcend business and become friend- many awards to “family members,” including From left: Gregory Hutchinson, Alex Gonzalez, ships that Paiste CEO Erik Paiste and Jason Sutter feel like family,” Chung said. “That feeling Drummers’ Input may not always Shaped Paiste’s be there for everyone in our New Cymbals dealer network, since all families Paiste showcased additions to its Sig- have squabbles nature Precision, Masters and Rude series and disagree- of cymbals at the Hilton on Thursday. The ments at times, cymbals were developed in collaboration with and relationships drummers Jason Sutter, Gregory Hutchinson take years to From left: Kawai’s Hirotaka Kawai, Schmitt Music’s Wayne Reinhardt, and Alex Gonzalez. Duane Norton and Tom Wennblom, and Kawai’s Naoki Mori. grow. But our de- Sutter highlighted the new heavier mod- sire is that, over els in the Signature Precision line, which time, every one of our dealers will feel like Dealer of the Year (USA), which went to A. are now offered at a lower price point. Sutter part of the Kawai family.” McBain/Carnes Piano Company of San Jose, said, “These cymbals are now going to bridge Kawai President Hirotaka Kawai also ex- Calif., and Dealer of the Year (Over 5 Loca- the gap and ﬁll that space for drummers like pressed gratitude to the dealers. tions), which went to Schmitt Music Com- myself who are playing heavier, aggressive Strat Museum “There is no way for any manufacturing pany of Brooklyn Center, Minn. rock, heavy rock and metal.” Fender’s Justin Norvell powers up in front company like ours to achieve international $ Kawai (kawaius.com) Hutchinson introduced the Dark Crash of the Stratocaster wall at the booth com- and Dark Hi-Hat additions to the Masters memorating the Stratocaster’s 60th anniver- series. Gonzalez demonstrated the three new sary. Check out the museum of rare Strats, models in the Rude series: the Basher, Shred special displays and videos at the Fender Bell and the Blast China. booth up on the second level.

Tannoy’s Product Manager Peter Jeppesen shows off the Reveal series of personal studio monitors. Hitoshi Fukutome, president of Yamaha Corp. of America, speaks at the annual Yamaha keyboard dealer Tannoy’s Musician- meeting yesterday morning. Friendly Reveal Yamaha Meeting Monitors Offers Retail Tips Mackie Product Manager Ben Olswang The annual Yamaha keyboard dealer TC Group’s Tannoy brand announced its demonstrates the DL series mixer yesterday. meeting on Friday morning was an exciting Reveal series of personal studio monitors on combination of musical performances, help- Thursday. ful advice on best practices in retailing and The speakers come in three different important updates about company activities. models: a 4-inch model with a 4-inch woofer Mackie Touts Updates to Hitoshi Fukutome, president of Yamaha and 3/4-inch tweeter; a 5-inch model, which Corp. of America, discussed the company’s is exclusive for Guitar Center and Musician’s partnership with its dealers. He said, “It is Friend; and an 8-inch model. Road-Tested DL Series Mixer essential that our efforts are coordinated and The Reveal monitors feature new driver, Mackie showed off recent updates to its With Apple’s frequent updates to the iOS our message is consistent. Without this, nei- amp and cabinet designs by Dr. Paul Mills. DL series mixers at the company’s booth operating system, Olswang said Mackie is ther of us will gain the customer’s trust, and The monitors come with a new Aux Link fea- yesterday. able to quickly bring new features to the DL we will not convince them that our products ture, which is ideal for personal studio use. “The DL series has been on the market, series’ software, which is now in version 2.0. are the best choice for them.” “A lot of musicians want something that’s on the road and in use for a year-and-a-half,” Keynote speaker Brian Wilkerson, CEO of “We’re continuing the DL series with very not too expensive but sounds great,” said Pe- said Ben Olswang, Mackie’s product manag- Revolution Advisors, delivered a condensed rapid software updates,” said Olswang. ter Jeppesen, Tannoy’s product manager. er. “Over 1.5 million shows have been mixed version of his presentation “Surﬁng the Tsu- Another feature of the DL series mixers Correction: In Thursday’s edition, UpBeat on the DL mixers.” nami,” which examines the current wave of Daily published an incorrect photo of TC Hel- The DL series utility mixers come in 16- is an attractive color touchscreen. Users can changes in consumer behavior. icon’s VoiceLive 3. To learn more about the and eight-channel options. The hardware mix wired or wirelessly for up to 10 iPad Pianist Nadejda Vlaeva played the Diskla- VoiceLive 3, go to tc-helicon.com/voicelive-3. mixer is used in combination with software devices. vier DC6X at the meeting, and pianist Craig $ TC Group (tcgroup.tc) controlled by an iPad or other iOS device. $ Mackie (mackie.com) Knudsen played the Clavinova CVP-609.

8 UBD January 25, 2014

Briefs Casio Enters DJ Controller Market

Casio’s new XW-J1 is the company’s ﬁrst foray into the DJ controller market. “At this show, we are entering a completely new category with the XW-J1,” said Mike Martin, general manager of marketing, at the Casio booth on Thursday. “The XW- J1 is for the DJ who is most likely spinning electronic dance music, and this product is Alba Lights Up GT-50 Tube Amp

Alba-Technology has unveiled a new type of vacuum tube guitar amplifier. The GT-50 is a 50-watt, two-channel amp that offers three voices and includes independent three- band equalizers for each channel. The LED, edge-lit front panel can be seen in any lighting condition. The amp weighs 20 pounds. Casio’s Mike Martin with the XW-J1, the company’s Line 6’s Paul Foeckler and Yamaha’s Tak Nakata first DJ controller, on the show floor Thursday. $ Alba-Technology (alba-technology.com) shake hands during the press conference. designed specifically to work with iPads and iOS devices. It uses an app called djay, the MMA To Host number-one DJ app in the iTunes store, and Yamaha Formally Announces we have the best integration with that appli- Conference cation in a piece of hardware.” Acquisition of Line 6 The XW-J1 has dedicated EQ controls and The MIDI Manufacturers Association Yamaha formally announced its acquisi- overall business goal, and that is enriching high-resolution touch-sensitive jog wheels. (MMA) will host a developer conference Sun- tion of Line 6 during a press conference at the lives of people in the world and musicians “I’ve been amazed at how many people day to discuss three new areas of interest for Yamaha’s booth on Thursday afternoon. through music,” said Paul Foeckler, Line are interested in the XW-J1,” added Stephen MIDI technology: audio/video bridging (AVB), “By combining our strategic vision, I be- 6 president and CEO. Schmidt, vice president. “We partnered with low-power wireless (Bluetooth) and Web lieve that Yamaha and Line 6 can achieve far Vestax, which has been making DJ control- “Having an alignment like this at the browsers (HTML5). greater penetration in the current market,” lers for many years.” highest level [is] when everything feels re- The conference begins at 1:30 p.m. said Tak Nakata, Yamaha president. at the Anaheim Marriott, Orange County “I can tell you that the Line 6 team is ally great. And that is how it feels for us Ballroom. Advance registration is required. most excited about the merger because we today with Yamaha and Line 6 coming Please email [email protected], or visit found that both Yamaha and Line 6 share together.” the MMA booth. a very similar culture and a very similar i Yamaha; Line 6 (yamaha.com; line6.com) i MMA (midi.org)

Amptweaker Adds Jazz Saxophonist Bowen BigRock Pro Pedal Bebops for Vandoren After receiving requests for a rock version of its TightMetal Pro distortion pedal, Amp- Dansr presented some serious bebop at gone now,” said Skinner. “It’s open and very tweaker has introduced the BigRock Pro. its booth on Thursday afternoon. During a dark, a beautiful round sound — as you can Unlike most distortion pedals with a Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee demonstration intended to generate inter- tell when you hear Ralph play.” speaks at the Percussion Marketing Council’s single boost, the BigRock Pro includes two est in Vandoren’s newly expanded V16 met- Skinner pointed out that new metal V16 all-member meeting yesterday morning. boost knobs, one before and one after the al tenor mouthpiece line, New York-based is competitively priced at $499. “It not only distortion, so it’s easy to boost the gain and saxophonist Ralph Bowen per- volume. Patch your favorite delay into the formed in a duo with bass- Huckabee boost effects loop, and you’ve got one-stomp ist Mark Sorlie for an attentive Advocates School control of your rock rhythm and lead. crowd of retailers and jazz fans. Added switches on the pedal allow play- A longtime Vandoren en- Music at PMC ers to get tones from Amptweaker’s Tight- dorser, Bowen said he current- The Percussion Marketing Council’s Rock and FatRock distortion pedals. ly plays a medium-chamber (PMC) annual all-member meeting yester- $ Amptweaker (amptweaker.com) metal V16 that produces a fo- day included a keynote speech from former cused sound reminiscent of the Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee. Board 1950s jazz scene. The new metal members discussed the council’s programs V16 line also includes a large- and campaigns aimed at creating new players. Sony Creative Joins chamber model that facilitates a “I can sum up the PMC pretty simply: Xchange Market broader sound with a 1940s jazz We want to make more players,” said Brad esthetic as well as a small-cham- Smith, senior sales and marketing manag- Xchange Market Corp. has added Sony ber model that’s virtually identi- er for Hal Leonard. Smith and other board Creative Software to its list of vendors. This cal to Vandoren’s original metal members detailed the PMC’s outreach pro- enables Sony Software dealers to access V16. Jazz saxophonist Ralph Bowen plays a Vandoren grams including Drums Across America, Per- metal V16 mouthpiece at the Dansr booth Thursday. hundreds of titles of creative content includ- “This is an American-de- cussion in the Schools, and Roots of Rhythm. ing ACID, Sound Forge, Vegas Pro and Movie signed French mouthpiece that Huckabee, a bass player and advocate of Studio. The platform also enables dealers to was created in collaboration arts and music education, emphasized that eliminate the risk of with U.S. artists like Ralph, and it’s charac- gives an opportunity for professional play- “music is a vital part of our culture,” and stocking hard copies, teristic of a number of different sounds that ers,” he said, “but a lot of high school kids should be part of the education experience save on freight costs are common in the jazz medium,” said Mi- now have their first opportunity to play a for American children. “The arts in general and storage space, chael Skinner, president of Dansr, which dis- pro-quality tenor mouthpiece at a price they and music specifically is not extra-curricular, reduce packaging tributes Vandoren. “It’s a very free-blowing can actually afford.” it’s not extraneous and it’s most certainly not waste, and offer the mouthpiece cut from one piece of bell metal Bowen, who also performed at Wednes- expendable,” Huckabee said. most current content brass and finished in 24-karat gold.” day night’s VandoJam, uses Vandoren Java PMC also announced that International to customers. Unlike some of Vandoren’s older mouth- Red #3 1/2 reeds and a Vandoren harness Drum Month will move from November to $ Xchange piece designs, the revamped metal V16s have neckstrap. His V16 has a size 5 tip opening. May to switch the campaign from the busy (xchange market.com) no baffle and noticeably less edge. “That’s $ Dansr (dansr.com) holiday season to the slower summer months.

10 UBD January 25, 2014 Line 6 Introduces Amplifi, Amp & App With Cloud Connection and Tone-Matching Paul Foeckler, president and CEO of The amp also matches a track’s guitar To recreate the tone from Bruno Mars’ Line 6, introduced the company’s new mu- tones. When users connect to the cloud with “Locked Out Of Heaven,” Gutnik matched Recording King sic playback and standalone amp, Amplifi, the Amplifi Remote app, they can rate tones the guitar sound from The Police’s “Rox- on Thursday. and share them, adding a social element. anne,” which has a similar tone, then saved Adds Tenor Banjo Line 6 introduced its first digital model- Max Gutnik, senior vice president of it to his library. ing amp at The NAMM Show in 1996 and products and marketing at Line 6, demon- “There are millions of songs out there; to Dirty 30’s Line has sold over 1 million amps to guitarists. strated Amplifi by matching tones and play- we’d like to see millions of tones matched to Recording King has introduced the Dirty Foeckler said Amplifi is inspired by the ing along with AC/DC’s “Back In Black” and them,” said Foeckler. 30’s tenor banjo. The tenor banjo first came rise of smart devices. “The average per- The Eagles’ “Life In The Fast Lane.” $ Line 6 (line6.com) to prominence in the early 1900s, and its C- son today checks G-D-A tuning is especially well suited for their smart device folk, Celtic and Dixieland music. over 150 times a The Dirty 30’s tenor banjo has the same day,” said Foeckler. road-ready styling as the rest of the Dirty “Wow. Let’s be hon- 30’s guitars and banjos. It features a narrow est: None of those 19-fret neck, and the 23-inch scale delivers things are nearly as a combination of feel and clarity. The open- fulfilling as listening back rim features 16 brackets holding down to music and enjoy- a Remo Fiberskyn head for the classic peri- ing it by playing the od-correct tenor sound. guitar.” $ Recording King (recordingking.com) Amplifi provides a new platform for guitarists to experience music. In addi- Wireless Karaoke tion to being a stand- HDKaraoke has introduced the HDK Box alone guitar amp, karaoke machine. The machine incorporates users can wireless- a powerful Sigma Design processor and offers ly stream and jam full support for ethernet and wireless connec- along with tracks tions. It features a 1080p full HD video output from any Bluetooth- and iPhone, iPad and Android control applica- enabled device. The tions. Working like a remote control, the HDK amp comes in 150- box’s apps for iPhone, iPad and Android let us- and 75-watt ver- ers download and stream the latest licensed sions and has a wide Max Gutnik demonstrates the tone-matching feature of Line 6’s Amplifi. and high-quality karaoke music videos. range of DSP effects. $ HDKaraoke (hdkaraoke.com) Zoom Launches iQ5 Stereo Historic Cowbell Latin Percussion is marking its 50 years with Microphone for iOS Devices the release of a limited Zoom has announced the iQ5 mid-side microphone, including Camera, GarageBand edition, gold Black Beau- condenser microphone for the iPhone, iPad and video streaming apps, as well as Zoom’s ty cowbell. Heard across and iPod Touch. free Handy Recorder app, which allows the decades of recordings, the The iQ5 attaches to the iOS device’s Light- width of the soundstage to be altered in post- Black Beauty produces ning connector and provides two micro- production, as well as adding editing capa- bright sounds with mod- phone elements in a mid-side configuration. bilities and effects such as compression, EQ erate overtones. The iQ5 can be used in either portrait or and reverb. “The gold powder- landscape mode and has a rotating mecha- “The iQ5 allows anyone to make great- coated bell is construct- nism that ensures correct left-right stereo ori- sounding recordings on their smartphones ed from the same steel entation. It offers 16-bit, 44.1-kHz recording and other iOS devices,” said Eric Battin, as traditional Black Beauties, which ensures and provides an analog-type mic gain wheel product manager at Zoom. “It opens up a you will hear that familiar sound from every for precision adjustment of input level, along whole new world of possibilities for creators cowbell,” said Victor Filonovich, director of with three auto gain presets, built-in limit- looking to add high-quality audio to their product for Latin Percussion. ing, an automatic recording function and a videos.” $ Latin Percussion (lpmusic.com) dedicated headphone jack. $ Zoom (zoom-na.com) The iQ5 works with Mapping New LM Introduces any iPhone (5 or later), iPod Technology Belt Quality Touch (5th Founded by Cornell undergrads, Think- generation or play has developed a patent-pending tech- Series of Straps later), iPad nology that lets mu- LM has released its new Belt Quality se- (4th genera- sicians map audio ries of straps. The new strap line is designed tion or later) and video clips to to fit just like a perfect belt. The strap’s leath- or iPad mini notes on their in- er is almost 1/4-inch thick for strength and (running iOS struments. EDM on durability. The leather has a natural aged 6.0 or newer). a guitar, hip-hop on look and comes in both black and cognac It can be a violin, techno phil- colors. LM’s Belt Quality series includes five used in con- harmonics and cus- models — from a no-frills basic model to junction with tom visual music are ones with sheep fleece. most iOS all now possible. Thinkplay also provides a For a little more flair, the Cryptic Art apps that sup- network for users to share and sell their cre- models from the Belt Quality series use the port audio ations via “ePedals” — brandable, virtual ef- same high-quality leather with the addition input from fect pedals that house audio and videos clips. of unique, deeply debossed artwork. an external $ Thinkplay (thinkplayaudio.com) $ LM (lmproducts.com) 12 UBD January 25, 2014

Briefs

Super Stand Hamilton Stands has introduced the compact Super Guitar Stand, based on a modi- ﬁed A-frame design. The stand has three legs and a hinged back support, which allow it to fold into a small size for convenient transport and storage. The back support arm and cushion rotate up for use, providing a higher support position. MSRP: $26.99. $ Hamilton Stands (hamiltonstands.com)

In Memory: KMC Sonuus Turns Up Voluum Music’s Ed Miller Sonuus Limited has introduced the transparent noise gate with smooth com- Voluum stomp box. More than a volume pression for clean sustain, running into an Ed Miller, former president of KMC Mu- pedal, the Voluum is a volume-based ana- envelope-controlled tremolo and using the PRS Adds Floyd sic, passed away on Jan. 15. He was 66. logue multi-effect with a digitally controlled, pedal to control the overall volume of the Rose Tremolo to Starting in finance at Kaman, Miller high-fidelity, pure-analog signal path for gui- effect. became president in 2007. He led KMC’s tar and bass. When used purely as a volume pedal, Custom 24 Guitar transition to the Fender The Voluum combines sonic perfor- Voluum offers superb control. Players can PRS has updated its Custom 24 electric Musical Instruments Corp. mance with flexibility and control. Constant start by adjusting the cut or boost or opti- guitar with a Floyd Rose tremolo system in (FMIC) and kept steady high-voltage analog power rails ensure high- mizing the feel of the pedal using one of 28 both the Core and SE product lines. watch over the division headroom with low distortion and low noise response curves. They can then explore the For the Core series, the new Custom 24 until his retirement in De- for maximum signal clarity. Intuitive modu- smooth fades and triggered ADSR sound- is equipped with the Floyd Rose Original cember 2012. lation lets the effects be controlled by the foot shaping envelopes. tremolo system and PRS’s \m/ pickups. “Ed Miller was a key pedal, signal envelope or MIDI. While oth- With both USB-MIDI and standard five- The Floyd Rose Original tremolo and executive of KMC for more er stomp boxes are either on or off, Voluum pin MIDI connections, Voluum was de- locking-nut tuning system is a double-lock- than 40 years,” said Larry gives users glitch-free continuous control to signed to be connected. Use MIDI to change ing design made from high-quality steel. The Thomas, FMIC CEO. “He enhance musical subtleties. presets, control effects, record automation system allows players to lock the guitar in was instrumental in the successful acquisi- The effects in the Voluum — noise gate, data, or send MIDI clock to sync the LFO. tune at the nut and at the bridge. tion and integration of KMC into FMIC in compressor, LFO (tremolo), volume and Users can connect to the flexible Windows/ PRS will also offer an SE model of the gui- 2008. He was well known and loved within limiter — can be used simultaneously or OSX editor to visually configure the effects. tar featuring Floyd Rose’s Korean-made 1000 the company, and was admired across our in any combination. Users can combine a $ Sonuus (sonuus.com) series tremolo. The guitar has SE HFS and industry.” SE Vintage Bass pickups paired with a push- pull tone control and three-way blade pickup switch for coil tapping. Sabian, Crescent Core models are available in PRS’s six new maple top colors: Aquableux, Blood Or- Forge Cymbal Universal Audio Apollo ange, Faded Whale Blue, Leprechaun Tooth, Alliance Obsidian and Violet. Twin Brings Pro Analog The Custom 24 will continue to be of- To meet customer demand, Cymbal fered without the tremolo in both the Core Masters of Kennesaw, Ga., now offers select and SE lines. Crescent models in North America, hand- Studio to Desktops $ PRS Guitars (prsguitars.com) made to its specifications by Sabian. Universal Audio has put all of the com- UA’s director of product management. “All “This new relationship offers Crescent ponents of its Apollo audio interface into a the things you find on Apollo that make it the chance to expand our sound palette with high-resolution desktop form factor with sound great — from the mic preamps, to the production on two continents, taking advan- the new Apollo Twin, which was introduced A-to-D’s, to the digitally controlled analog tage of the best craftsmanship in both the during a press conference at the UA booth monitoring outputs — we’ve brought to the Roland, QSC old and new worlds,” said Michael Vosbein, Thursday afternoon. Apollo Twin.” Crescent’s CEO. “About two years ago, when we an- The new Apollo Twin gives users the Announce i Crescent Cymbals nounced Apollo, it was at the nexus of our ability to run UA plug-ins inside of any (crescentcymbals.com) analog and digital heritage,” said Bill Putnam DAW. Marketing Jr., CEO and founder of UA. “If you’ve got Logic, ProTools, Cubase or “It brought them both together in one Ableton Live, you can actually run our plug- Partnership Ravi Demonstrates product. The next step is the Apollo Twin, ins inside your DAW while you’re tracking, which brings a professional analog recording editing or mixing,” Perrey said. Roland Corporation and QSC Audio ‘Geo-Fencing’ studio to your desktop — and that was our $ Universal Audio (uaudio.com) Products have begun a new marketing part- vision.” nership promoting the concept of electronic Ravi will discuss and demonstrate how The sleek 2x6 Thunder- and hybrid percussion as a whole and show- mobile marketing with “geo-fencing” tech- bolt audio interface for Mac casing the pairing of V-Drums and K series nology lets retailers reach customers when combines the 24/192-kHz amplification as a total solution. they are most likely to purchase. audio conversion of the orig- In order for drummers to access the full Ravi will present “Attract Customers with inal Apollo with onboard capabilities of their V-Drums instruments, Mobile Marketing” in NAMM’s Idea Center Realtime UAD Solo or Duo proper amplification is key. (Hall B) Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Processing. “The combination of a Roland V-Drums There is a geo-fence around the conven- It lets Mac users record percussion system and a QSC K series instru- tion center for the entire week. Using the in real time at near-zero la- ment amplifier are made for each other and iRavi mobile app, attendees who opt-in will tency through the full range are one of the recommended amplification automatically receive deals and discounts of UAD-powered plug-ins. systems by Roland,” said Roland Corpora- from participating exhibitors. Opt-in now by “Apollo Twin really is tion’s U.S. Vice President Paul Youngblood. texting “RAVI” to 313131. the sound of analog on your Lev Perrey, Universal Audio’s director of product $ Roland, QSC management, at Thursday’s press conference i Ravi (iRavi.mobi) desktop,” said Lev Perrey, (rolandus.com, qscaudio.com)

14 UBD January 25, 2014

Briefs

DaCarbo Crafts Carbon Fiber ’Bone Higher Fidelity DaCarbo’s new carbon fiber trombone, the Victoria, has been tested by well-known Recordings trombone players in genres from classical to Apogee Electronics’ new MiC 96k jazz. The instrument is easy to play, with a is a professional digital microphone for full sound that’s well-balanced over all regis- iPad, iPhone and Mac that records vocals, ters. The carbon fiber slide is light and man- voiceovers, acoustic guitar, piano or drums. ufactured with higher precision than what’s The MiC 96k, which features the same possible with traditional materials. The bell look and portable form factor as the original and the outer slide are completely dent resis- MiC, now makes higher fidelity recordings tant and will not bend. 5 New Michael Kelly Guitars and includes an iOS lighting cable as well as $ daCarbo (dacarbo.ch) Pay Tribute to 1950s Designs a microphone stand adapter. The MiC 96k also boasts an iOS 30-pin Michael Kelly Guitars’ new 1950s series pickup in the bridge and a Tele-style pickup cable, Mac USB cable and table-top tripod Get the True of single-cut guitars is available in five mod- in the neck position, chrome hardware, alder stand. Concert Experience els, all of which feature an exotic wood top body binding and a white pearl pickguard. $ Apogee Electronics (apogeedigital.com) and contoured arm cut, master volume and The caramel burst and black vapor finishes The best in lighting, touring and sound master tone controls, a three-way pickup se- come with a rosewood fretboard, while the solutions take center stage inside The Venue, lector and coil taps. blue jean wash finish comes with a maple located inside the ACC Arena. The highlight of the series is the 1955. fretboard. If you’re a buyer involved in stage produc- Priced under $1,000 with real flamed maple The 1954 is an alder body with a quilted tion, whether it’s entertainment, nightclubs, body binding, the guitar also offers a unique maple top outfitted with a Rockfield SWC leisure attractions or house-of-worship, then pickup configuration with a Rockfield hum- humbucker in the bridge and Tele-style The Venue was created especially for you. bucker in the bridge and mini humbucker in pickup in the neck position, black hardware This high-tech, high-energy arena houses the neck position. The swamp ash body with and white body binding. the latest innovations in lighting, touring quilted maple top includes a white pick- The 1957 features a swamp ash body and sound. Be sure to catch some of the live guard and chrome hardware. topped with a quilted maple top, chrome electronic music playing outside The Venue The 1952 is a basswood body with a hardware and a white pearl pickguard hous- arena on The Venue Stage. flamed maple top outfitted with dual hum- ing a Seymour Duncan Little ’59 in the bridge i NAMM (namm.org) buckers, chrome hardware, white body and a Rockfield humbucker in the neck posi- binding and no pickguard. It’s available in tion. The 1957 is available in black wash and deep cherry red and natural gloss finishes. amber translucent finishes. Rock-Solid Audio The 1953 is an alder body with a flamed $ Michael Kelly Guitars Partners Born maple top outfitted with a stacked single coil (michaelkellyguitars.com) Unity Audio has launched the active Pebble and Bam Bam. Like the existing Rock, Boulder and Avalanche sub-woofer monitor models, the Pebble has a sealed cabinet for fast, accurate bass reproduction and features the same internal aperiodic vent Nady Systems as the Avalanche sub-woofer for extended low frequency range. Adds Studio Mic $ Unity Audio (unityaudioproducts.co.uk) to SCM Series Nady Systems’ SCM-1200 is the most re- Brubaker Upgrades cent addition to the company’s SCM series of large diaphragm condensers that includes Electric Basses the SCM 800, 900, 960 and 1000. The Brubaker has released upgraded MJX and cardioid-pattern SCM-1200 is ideal for re- MJXSC single cut basses. Both series come cording studio vocals, acoustic instruments, with a coil selection switch. With the flip of a orchestras, choral groups and ambient in- switch, Brubaker’s humbucker splits in two, strument audio as well as live sound. letting musicians choose The SCM-1200 features a large back elec- from different single-coil tret condenser with FET preamplifier and and humbucker pickup TKL’s Limited Edition Series provides rich warmth and crisp, transparent configurations. The basses audio. feature a two-band equal- Expands to Include Banjo Cases The microphone also features compact izer. The MJXSC design machined housing and a protective mesh comes in merlot, matte TKL’s Limited Edition series has recent- TKL’s Limited Edition series cases fea- grill, internal shockmount construction, black, tobacco burst and ly expanded to include cases for five-string ture a Retro Black Durahyde textured exte- transformerless low-noise/high dynamic natural finishes. The MJX resonator and open-back banjos. The line rior, Providence Forge chrome hardware and range output and a basemount mic holder. design comes in white, black, satin tobacco now includes 24 models covering acous- combination lock, a vintage blue plush inte- The SCM-1200 requires 48 volts phantom burst, satin blue burst and natural finishes. tic guitars, electric guitars, bass, banjo and rior and an comfort grip handle. power. $ Brubaker (apintl.com) mandolin. $ TKL (tkl.com) $ Nady Systems (nady.com)

16 UBD January 25, 2014

Appointments

D’Addario Names Don Click management. He will serve as a social media Artist Relations Specialist specialist, where he working Don Click has assumed the role of educator closely with social media man- and artist relations specialist at D’Addario. ager Don Dawson. Click will be directly involved in support- Click will also work with ing educator and artist relations across D’Addario’s percussion busi- D’Addario’s percussion brands, includ- ness unit to support key out- ing artist and educator order processing, reach and product initiatives account maintenance and clinic program as well as assist with marketing support.

International Soloist, Educator an active schedule as a marimba and percus- She-e Wu Joins Mapex sion soloist, composer and Rob Papen Internationally renowned percussion soloist clinician. Soundware Packs and educator She-e Wu has joined Majestic As a child in Taiwan, More Punch and Mapex concert percussion as an artist Wu demonstrated musical Bigger DDQ Family and clinician. While serving as Associate Pro- talent at 3-and-a-half years fessor of Music and Director of the Percus- old when she began piano LD Systems has added two active cardi- Rob Papen Soundware has unveiled sion Program at Northwestern University’s lessons at a KHS Music oid subwoofers to the DDQ series, providing PunchBD-RE, a bass drum synthesizer for Bienen School of Music, Wu has maintained School. a tight, punchy bottom end for the line’s sat- Reason’s Rack Extension. ellite speakers. PunchBD-RE is based on the bass drum The new models, the DDQ Sub 18 and module in Papen’s Punch drum synthesizer- Loud Appoints Mark Altekruse with Loud’s independent the DDQ Sub 212, are powered by two high- sampler software instrument. The Rack Ex- as Regional Sales Manager rep force and support the performance Hypex Class D amplifier mod- tension version of Punch features the same Loud Technologies has appointed Mark Altek- two brands’ dealer net- ules sharing a high-efficiency SMPS. They high-quality algorithms. ruse as the western regional sales manager work in the western half of deliver 700 watts continuous each and a Through Reason’s Rack Extension, third for the Ampeg and Mackie brands. Altekruse the U.S. Altekruse will be total of 2,800 watts peak power. The DDQ parties can develop their own plug-ins. Pa- will utilize his background in pro audio sales based out of his home of- subwoofers have been designed to comple- pen has previously released virtual effects and marketing to manage and collaborate fice in San Jose, Calif. ment the series’ fullrange speakers, and their for Rack Extension including Predator-RE, compact, 18-mm ply cabinets are set up for SubBoomBass-RE, PR-Verb RE and PR-Dis- convenient castor mounting. The DDQ Sub tort RE. US Music Corp. Hires Jason and St. Louis Music. 18 is equipped with an 18-inch FaitalPRO “What we face as a developer is having to Gano as Marshall’s VP of Sales “We are pleased to have woofer, while the DDQ Sub 212 is load- have a PC version and a Mac version, and if Jason Gano has joined US Music Corp. as Jason join us at a time when ed with dual 12-inch custom neodymium you run them in your regular host, you can vice president of sales for Marshall USA. we have such positive momen- drivers. crash your host,” said Rob Papen, company Gano has more than 25 years of experience tum for Marshall Amplifica- $ LD Systems (ld-systems.com) founder. “That’s a real, big battle. People, if in the MI industry, primarily in instrument tion,” said Barry Ryan, presi- they use Reason, learn that things are con- sales with companies that include Korg USA dent of US Music Corp. nected. It’s cross-platform; everything works. It’s a major leap forward for Reason, and pro- ductions coming out of Reason will sound Samson Welcomes Bob Caputo career has encompassed Technical Manage- totally different. Reason remains Reason, but as Head of Sales ment at Atlantic Records, now it’s open.” Bob Caputo has been named Samson’s new General Management at Ca- PunchBD-RE features a click/noise mod- head of sales. Previously at Adam Audio USA sio USA and most recently ule and a sample module, which includes in Hicksville, N.Y., Caputo will now spear- President of Adam Audio USA. sample-based bass drum sounds as well as head all of Samson’s North American sales Caputo’s experiences will el- an assortment of creative controls. efforts. evate Samson’s sales efforts MSRP: $59. Caputo brings over 25 years of experience and realize the potential of the $ Rob Papen Soundware (robpapen.com) in the music and pro audio industries. His company’s brands.

McNally Named Pearl’s Brass & He has a Master’s in Trumpet Performance Woodwind Marketing Manager from the University of Louisville and a Bach- Pearl Corporation has welcomed Dr. Dan Mc- elor’s in Music Education Nally as its new brass and woodwind market- from Austin Peay State Uni- ing manager. versity. McNally is joining McNally holds a Doctorate of Musical Pearl after many years as a Arts in Trumpet Performance and Pedagogy successful high school band from the University of Southern Mississippi. director.

Natal Drums Assigns Touchton Slingerland and Evans Drumheads. His prac- Schecter’s Breedlove Stage as National Sales Manager tical application experience Guitar Plugs in Natal Drums has appointed Josh Touchton includes drum tech, clinician Banshee Guitar to the position of national sales manager. He and professional drummer. The Stage series Concert acoustic-electric brings with him more than 20 years of expe- He most recently was divi- Line Wails on guitar from Breedlove is ready to be plugged rience in the music industry. sion director for Ddrum Per- in and played live. The Stage Concert’s dis- Touchton has served in sales, marketing, cussion and will be residing Schecter has unveiled new additions to tinct voice is built on the original Breedlove and research and design positions at Mapex, in Murfreesboro, Tenn. its Banshee line. Concert body shape, while the electronics The Banshee six-, seven- and eight-string let players control their sound. A semi-gloss models are available with active EMG 81/85 neck allows for hours of comfortable play. or passive Seymour Duncan Nazgul and The Concert works well when played ﬁn- Mark Posgay Brings 20 Years of Posgay has 20 years of industry expertise. Sentient pickup conﬁgurations. The guitars gerstyle, as vocal accompaniment, or at a full Experience to New Role “Mark brings an ideal mix of audio indus- feature the the USA Hipshot Bridge — also strum. The Breedlove Bridge Truss relieves Sennheiser has appointed Mark Posgay to try knowledge, customer insight and man- available with a Floyd Rose bridge on certain stress on the top, allowing use of a thinner, the position of vice president of sales and agement expertise to lead our professional models — and are available in Trans Black graduated top, providing for greater sustain marketing. systems team as we implement our strategic Burst, Trans Purple Burst, Crimson Red and balance, more expression from the in- In his new role, Posgay will report directly growth initiatives into 2014 and beyond,” Burst and Faded Vintage Sunburst. strument and greater structural integrity. to Sennheiser USA President Greg Beebe. Beebe said. $ Schecter (schecterguitars.com) $ Breedlove (breedlovemusic.com)

18 UBD January 25, 2014

Tama Throne is Sabian Heads Into Accessories 1st Class Seat Sabian’s new division, Sabian Perfor- even snare wires. mance Accessories, is committed to creat- Band & Orchestral accessories also get a Tama has rolled out the 1st Chair throne, ing products that solve the fresh look by the new divi- a soft seat at a low price. real-world challenges of active sion. Watch for new accesso- The throne’s round top rider features the drummers. ries to debut under the Sabi- same heavy-duty Performance Accessories an Performance Accessories construction, dou- will offer products like bags, label this year. ble-braced tripod cases, felts, practice pads and i Sabian (sabian.com) base, memory-locking adjustments and a comfortable top similar to the Leading Engineers, Producers Use rest of Tama’s 1st Audio-Technica Vocal Microphone Chair family. $ Tama (tama.com) Grammy Award-winning producer and Reitzas and Richard Chycki have also recent- engineer Joe Chiccarelli recently employed ly used Audio-Tech- the AT5040 Cardioid Condenser Studio Vo- nica microphones cal Microphone. in their professional “I was quite impressed with its clear and work. honest high end,” said Chiccarelli. i Audio Technica Audio engineers Al Schmitt, David (audio-technica.com)

Frank Filipetti Uses Audio-Technica Mic to Capture Motown Sound Schecter API 1608 Travels When the cast album for the Broadway Microphone from hit show Motown The Musical was ready to Audio-Technica. ’Round the World be recorded, the show’s producers called on “The vocals just Starts a Riot Grammy Award-winner Frank Filipetti to came alive,” said API’s 1608 console can now be found in co-produce, record, edit and mix. Filipetti. Schecter Guitar Research has added the studios around the world. In turn, Filipetti called on the new i Audio Technica Session Riot as a new bass line. In Paris, musician-engineer David Chal- AT5040 Cardioid Condenser Studio Vocal (audio-technica.com) The Session Riot has a swamp ash body min’s 32-channel API 1608 fits perfectly in and active EMG 35DC and EMG 35J pick- his semi-private space. Virginia’s oldest com- ups. It features an aged natural satin finish mercial studio, Virginia Arts, opted for a and a Canadian hard maple fretboard with 16-channel API 1608 with P-Mix automa- D’Addario Joins Cult of Vernon Reid ebony side block inlays. tion. And Eric Emery chose a 16-channel D’Addario welcomes Vernon Reid, lead Guitar Strings. A unique body shape gives the Session automated API 1608 to represent Emery Re- guitarist of Living Colour and a co-founder “D’Addario strings are the voice of my Riot a modern vintage look. cording Studios in Novelty, Ohio. of the Black Rock Coalition, to its artist ros- guitar—weeping, speaking, laughing or $ Schecter Guitar Research $ API Audio (apiaudio.com) ter. Reid plays everything from hard rock and screaming,” said Reid, who also uses Planet (schecterguitars.com) punk to funk, R&B and avant-garde jazz and Waves accessories including the Custom Se- is known for his lightning-fast solos. ries Cable Line Reid creates his unique tone from a va- and the Cable Santana Receives riety of D’Addario string sets including Station Pedal Kennedy Honors Pure Nickel Blues/Jazz/Rock Electric Guitar Board Kit. Strings, Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings i D’Addario Paul Reed Smith Guitars congratulates and Coated 80/20 Bronze Light Acoustic (daddario.com) Carlos Santana, a PRS Signature Artist, as one of five recipients of the 2013 Kennedy Center Honors. ‘Blue Lou’ Marini, Tom ‘Bones’ Malone Santana’s relationship with Paul Reed Smith Guitars began in 1981 when he bor- Endorse JodyJazz Sax Mouthpieces rowed a PRS guitar to use on his Zebop! al- “Blue Lou” Marini and Tom “Bones” Saxophonist-trombonist Malone is play- bum. He has collabo- Malone have joined the JodyJazz family of ing the JodyJazz DV Baritone 9 and the DV rated with the company artist endorsers. Tenor 9*. Malone is known for his work on the design of Santana Saxophonist Marini’s credits include Eric with The Blues model instruments and Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder Brothers, the SE Santana guitars. and The Rolling Stones. Marini is playing “David Letter- i PRS (prsguitars. the JodyJazz DV Alto 7 and the HR* Alto 6M man Show” com) mouthpieces. and “Saturday “I recorded last week with the DV Alto 7 Night Live.” and was delighted with the sound, intona- i JodyJazz Tycoon Criollo Christian Church tion and articulation,” said Marini. (jodyjazz.com) Uses Sennheiser Cajon Sports Josh Marunde Joins Pearl’s Roster Real Life Christian Church, an Orlando, Peruvian Style Fla.-based ministry with five locations, is uti- Pearl Drums welcomes Josh Marunde of i Pearl Drums (pearldrum.com) lizing Sennheiser microphones and wireless Pop Evil to its artist roster. Since the band’s Tycoon Percussion has rolled out the Cri- systems. At each of its campuses, the church inception, Pop Evil has constructed a rock ollo Cajon. features live music and video teaching while empire of catchy hooks and sing-along cho- The traditional-sounding drum is Ty- a volunteer production staff handles most of ruses. Pop Evil is currently touring to pro- coon’s first snare-less Peruvian-style cajon. the AVL duties. The system is outfitted with mote its most recent studio album, Onyx, With the combination of its deep, warm, several channels of Sennheiser evolution on eOne Records, which features the singles booming bass tones and clean and bright wireless G3 systems and microphones. “Trenches” and “Deal With The Devil.” slaps, the Criollo Cajon is suitable for a va- Real Life also uses Sennheiser equipment Upon signing onto the roster, Marunde riety of musical genres. It’s constructed from to facilitate Real Life TV on Good Life Broad- turned to the warm and deep tones of the environmentally friendly solid oak wood. casting, a regional broadcast network. six-ply, all-maple Masters MCX series drum- $ Tycoon Percussion $ Sennheiser (sennheiserusa.com) set, finished in the Shamrock Green lacquer. (tycoonpercussion.com)

20 UBD January 25, 2014 SOUND ROOM

Shure SRH1540 Extends Headphone Portfolio Shure has introduced SRH1540 premium closed-back headphones. Featuring an expansive soundstage for clear, extended highs and warm bass, the lightweight headphones extend Shure’s SRH headphone portfolio, offering a comfortable Tannoy Reveal circumaural design for professional master- ing and audiophile listening. Monitors Widen Powered by 40-mm neodymium drivers, the SRH1540 headphones deliver superior the Sweet Spot Audio-Technica acoustic performance available in a closed- Tannoy has introduced Reveal 402, 502 back headphone model. A design developed and 802 active studio monitors. The new line Unveils ATH-M50x with aluminum alloy and carbon ﬁber con- is voiced to bring a massive sweet spot to struction as well as Alcantara ear pads, the “The SRH1540 offers a pronounced personal studios. Pro Headphones SRH1540 is built to withstand the rigors of bass response and the widest overall fre- Now musicians can move around their Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH- everyday use while still ensuring maximum quency range, while retaining the same workspace and share their mix while main- M50x Professional Monitor Headphones, sound isolation and comfort. The Alcantara level of craftsmanship as our open-back taining a precision listening experience. part of the company’s remastered M series of ear pads are integral to the headphones’ SRH1840,” said Matt Engstrom, category di- The new range consists of an ultra-compact headphones. acoustic tuning, positioned to optimize driver rector for monitoring products at Shure. “The 4-inch, a versatile 5-inch and a powerful The ATH-M50x has the same sonic sig- performance. SRH1540 headphones feature a diaphragm 8-inch model. nature as the original ATH-M50 headphones The SRH1540 was inspired by the developed with APTIV Film for improved lin- MSRP: Reveal 402, $139.99; Reveal and adds reﬁned earpads and three detach- recently released SRH1840 open-back earity and lower total harmonic distortion.” 502, $179.99; Reveal 802, $279.99. able cables. From the 45-mm large-aperture headphones. $ Shure (shure.com) $ Tannoy (tannoy.com) drivers to its sound-isolating earcups, the ATH-M50x is suitable for recording, broadcast, DJ and live sound environments. ATH-M50x headphones have exceptional power handling and very high SPL capabilities while delivering clear, natural, accurate sound with deep bass and high-frequency extension. MSRP: $239–$259. $ Audio-Technica (audio-technica.com)

Sony DWX Digital Wireless System Steinberg Updates Transmits Signals Clearly, Securely Cubase Systems Sony Electronics’ DWX series digital transmits and receives digitally modulated Steinberg Media Technologies has made wireless microphone system is designed for and encrypted data to minimize the risk of significant updates to its Cubase and Cubase a range of professional audio applications, interception. Artist music production systems. including live sound, field production, broad- Some of the newest DWX series compo- Version 7.5 incorporates important work- CAD Audio Expands cast, theater and sound recording. nents include: flow enhancements, version updates to its in- Acousti-Shield Line “The DWX series is designed to offer au- • DWM-02 handheld transmitter with struments and new effects to further the im- dio professionals the flexibility necessary to interchangeable mic capsules (CU-C31, CU- pressive feature set of Cubase and increase of Enclosures handle wireless transmission in nearly any F31, CU-F32). A choice of microphone cap- professionals’ productivity when producing CAD Audio has added the AS22 and type of environment,” said Karl Kussmaul, sules allows operators to capture sound de- music. AS16 to its line of Acousti-shield stand- senior product manager for pro audio, Sony pending on their individual requirements plus “The mix of highly effective editing and mounted acoustic enclosures. Electronics. “It offers the perfect combina- supports the use of third-party mic capsules. workflow enhancements, new instruments The Acousti-shield 22 is a foldable en- tion of sound quality, stable transmission, • DWR-R02D dual-channel rackmount and studio-grade effects makes 7.5 one of closure that provides added portability to the performance and durability.” receiver. The new model adds support for the most beneficial Cubase releases since SX Acousti-shield line. Constructed of 16-gauge The digital wireless microphone sys- electric guitar and bass amplifier connections 1,” said Helge Vogt, product marketing lead perforated stainless-steel shield-mated to 53- tem transmits and receives high-quality by adding 1/4-inch unbalanced phone out- at Steinberg. “I’m confident that this version mm high-density micro-cell acoustic foam, it 24-bit/48-kHz digital audio. Using Sony’s puts with attenuation control function. The will boost the creative output of our users enables a mobile, dry recording environment original WiDIF-HP codec, the system delivers new version also adds support for 100-volt to and underline its position as DAW of choice to be created for miking situations at home a wide dynamic range of more than 106 dB, 240-volt AC and 12-volt DC power. for the most renowned producers today and on the road. a wide frequency response of 20 Hz to 22 • DWR-S02D portable receiver. A wide At the top of the new features list is The AS16 combines durable construction kHz, and an excellent transient response. bandwidth of up to 72 MHz gives users a TrackVersions for creating, renaming and and high-density micro-cell acoustic foam to The DWX series enables highly stable higher probability to find unoccupied fre- managing multiple versions of one or more facilitate an isolated recording environment. wireless transmission that’s free of unwant- quencies in congested metropolitan areas. audio, MIDI and instrument tracks. $ CAD Audio (cadaudio.com) ed interference. In addition, the system $ Sony (sony.com/proaudio) $ Steinberg (steinberg.net)

22 UBD January 25, 2014

Recording King M5, M7 Banjos Hand Built in United States Recording King has introduced two U.S.- mahogany neck and a one-piece mahogany production banjo models, the M5 and M7. resonator, the M7 will hold its own against The M5 banjo is hand-built from top- any top-shelf banjo. shelf woods, including the curly maple one- The custom-designed diamond-and- piece neck and curly maple resonator. square fretboard inlay and hand-rubbed ni- The original fan-style fretboard inlay and trocellulose lacquer finish elevate the M7 to hand-rubbed nitrocellulose lacquer round another level. Features include: out the M5’s set of professional features: • Original Recording King peghead with • Original Recording King peghead with ebony overlay; ebony overlay; • Two-way adjustable truss rod; • Two-way adjustable truss rod; • Three-ply maple Recording King rim; • Three-ply maple Recording King rim; • 20-hole bell brass flathead tone ring; R&B Debuts • 20-hole bell brass flathead tone ring; • Prewar-style pot metal flange. • Prewar-style pot metal flange. The M5 and M7 come with Recording 4 New Guitars The M7 banjo is also hand-built State- King vintage hardshell cases. R&B Guitars has expanded its line of gui- side. With high-end features like a one-piece $ Recording King (recordingking.com) tars to include several new styles modeled after American classics, including three new electric guitars and an acoustic model. The R&B CB300VS is a hollow-body electric guitar, with a flamed maple top, maple neck and rosewood fret board, complete with a vintage sunburst finish. On the electronics front, accompanying two humbuckers, it features two volume knobs, two tone knobs and a three-way switch — stretching the tone from treble- heavy rockabilly to a warm and punchy jazz sound, and anywhere in between. Chrome hardware and diecast tuning machines complete the instrument. The R&B ST300, available in classic tobacco sunburst, black and cream finishes, has a spruce body, maple neck and Indian rosewood fret board. The R&B JP120 has a flamed maple top, maple neck, rosewood fret board and three classic finishes (cherry burst, black and gold top). R&B’s new 36-inch dreadnaught comes in three finishes: natural basswood, vibrant pink and sky blue. $ AP International (apintl.com)

The Official Show Publication

DAILY Vol. 61 No. 3 | The NAMM Show | Saturday, January 25, 2014

PRESIDENT Kevin Maher PUBLISHER Frank Alkyer MANAGING EDITOR Katie Kailus ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kathleen Costanza CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Ed Enright, Davis Inman, Bobby Reed AD SALES MANAGER John Cahill ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Tom Burns, Ritche Deraney ART DIRECTORS Žaneta Cuntová, LoriAnne Nelson CIRCULATION Sue Mahal, Evelyn Oakes ACCOUNTING Margaret Stevens

Address all correspondence to: 102 N. Haven Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-941-2030 | f: 630-941-3210 [email protected]

Maher Publications: DownBeat, Music Inc., UpBeat Daily. UpBeat Daily is the ofﬁcial NAMM show publication, published four times annually for The NAMM Show and three times annually for Summer NAMM. Music Inc., the business magazine for progressive music product retailers, is published 11 times annually.

24 UBD January 25, 2014 band ROOM

Vandoren Expands Masters Line The Masters clarinet mouthpiece line by characteristics of an expensive, Vandoren has been expanded with the addi- handmade mouthpiece at a tion of the “13” series, which is pitched at fraction of the cost. A = 440. Previously available in two distinct The CL6 is designed for models, Vandoren has also added the CL6 clarinetists preferring a slightly model to the “13” series as well as the stan- more open mouthpiece. Van- dard A = 442 series. doren has also added an en- The Masters line was introduced in tire line of 13 Series Masters 2011 and features a unique exterior shape mouthpieces pitched at A = and chamber design that allows for a reso- 440 for American orchestral players and any- nance and tone color unlike any other Van- one seeking a slightly lower pitch. doren mouthpiece. It has the performing $ Dansr (dansr.com)

Jupiter Introduces ‘Wave-Line’ Flutes The Jupiter product development team collaborated with several music educators, including Prof. Barbara Gisler-Haase from the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, to create the Jupiter 509S and 510ES, two flutes for younger players. The 509S and 510ES address prob- lems with ergonomic concerns that many instructors experience while teaching beginning flute students. The “Wave-Line” de- fingering key cups and a specially designed sign and shortened length is more ergonomic low D body without trill keys to reduce the and keeps the headjoint in line with the flute’s weight. The 510ES model is fully body, promoting correct playing posture. equipped with trill keys, split E mechanism The 509S model is designed for children and engraved alignment indicators. from 5 to 8 years of age. It has assisted $ Jupiter Music (jupitermusic.com)

Piccolo Trumpet Mouthpieces Join Schilke’s Symphony

Expanding its Symphony series mouthpiece line, Schilke has added three new mouthpieces created speciﬁcally for the piccolo trumpet. Schilke’s new piccolo trumpet mouthpiece choices come in both cornet or trumpet shank. Rim diameter options have been expanded to smaller sizes 6 and 7 within the Symphony series line. Now available in three rim sizes, the P5X, P6X and P7-X models feature modiﬁed, comfortable rim a balanced, even feel with a clear, resonant and cup shapes with the traditional Schilke sound. “X” piccolo backbore. These models provide $ Schilke (schilkemusic.com)

Yamaha Reconfigures Professional Flutes Yamaha’s new line of professional flutes Pads, which provide a precise seal and includes the YFL-577HCT, YFL-587HCT, smooth response, Yamaha reconfigured its YFL-677HCT, YFL-687HCT, YFL-777HCT toneholes and pad cups. and YFL-787HCT. The flutes are designed to meet the Yamaha’s reinvented flutes contain a needs of musicians involved in a range of hand-finished, sterling silver A-cut headjoint performance settings and to provide students that provides rich, colorful tone and a wide, with quality instruments at affordable prices. dynamic range. “Yamaha flutes stand out for their exact- On the 600 and 700 series models, ing specifications and high level of quality,” heavywall body construction contributes to a said Brian Petterson, marketing manager, warm sound and resonance. Wind Instruments, Yamaha Corp. of America. To accommodate Straubinger Phoenix $ Yamaha (usa.yamaha.com)

26 UBD January 25, 2014

D’Addario Foundation Fosters Music Education The D’Addario Foundation is a non-prof- training, plus liberal arts courses. it organization committed to inspiring and W.O. Smith/Nashville Com- assisting the growth and appreciation of mu- munity Music School is also a sic throughout the world by partnering with first-time recipient of a D’Addario passionate music educators. Foundation grant. Established in Through the generous support of 1983, this school has expanded D’Addario and Company, the D’Addario from 45 students to serving over Foundation awards grants and product do- 600. Students are charged a mere nations to educational programs that of- 50 cents per lesson and receive fer sustained opportunities for active par- weekly group or private instruc- ticipation in music making in under-served tion, including course work in communities. music theory for all beginners. The Curtis Institute of Music became a Rock the Autism is a 501(c)3 recipient of a D’Addario Foundation grant in non-profit organization dedicat- Dave Smith 2013. It provides full-tuition scholarships to ed to bringing a lifetime of music to those free to express themselves. Music instruction Instruments Born, all of its students, ensuring that admissions living with autism by putting instruments is provided for free to kids and parents. are based solely on artistic promise. Curtis and microphones in the hands of autistic and $ D’Addario Music Foundation Raised in USA provides complete and diversified musical special-needs children, allowing them to be (daddariofoundation.org) A made-in-the-USA success story, polyphonic synthesizer manufacturer Dave Smith Instruments designs and builds its instruments in San Francisco. GearLode Offers “We take the craftsmanship of our instruments very seriously,” said company founder Customized Dealer Websites and designer Dave Smith. “So every one of GearLode.com, the online instrument example, ‘your- our products is built in San Francisco, Cal- and equipment rental website, is offering business.gear- ifornia. Unlike other companies, who may customized website integration services so lode.com,’ which build some products in the USA but bring in that dealers can create their own branded goes to a homep- others from China, even our low-cost instru- identity within the GearLode platform for age with your ments are built here. Our synthesis technol- enhanced brand building and increased color scheme ogy, developed over the last 40 years, allows rental traffic. and logo and all us to hit great price points, have the most ad- “We offer three levels of customization for your rental ads. vanced features, build only with metal and a dealer’s presence on GearLode’s platform,” Level 3 includes wood — no plastic cases.” said Mike Dawson, GearLode cofounder. your own mi- Smith is responsible for producing the “With Level 1, any rental ads you put on crosite at your pre-eminent Prophet-5, the world’s first pro- GearLode will appear on your store’s profile subdomain.” grammable polyphonic synthesizer. page that can be linked from your own web- $ GearLode $ Dave Smith Instruments site. With Level 2, you get a subdomain, for (gearlode.com) (davesmithinstruments.com)

28 UBD January 25, 2014 guitar wall

Washburn Travels Through Time with Paul Stanley

Washburn Guitars has introduced the Time Traveler series with model PS2012R, a classically inspired guitar. Designed in conjunction with Paul Stanley of Kiss, Time Traveler guitars are handcrafted and aged to look, feel and play as if they’re 40 years old. Built in the Wash- burn USA Custom Shop, the limited- edition Time Trav- Alfred Volume eler models utilize premium woods and Lists 3,100 Chords components. Each Alfred’s Guitar Picture Chord Encyclope- guitar feels and plays dia lists every chord that a serious guitarist as if it were a worn would ever need. and well-broken-in Co-written by Alfred Music editors Link old friend. No two are Harnsberger and Nathanial Gunod, the Gui- alike, making each tar Picture Chord Encyclopedia is a com- one a collectible in prehensive collection of over 3,100 chords its own right (a cer- that feature crystal-clear photographs, chord tificate of authentic- frames and standard music notation. Chord ity is included with each). The Aged Nitro fingerings are shown along with note names, Ovation Revamps Celebrity Cellulose finish is available in four colors: and chords are listed alphabetically and Pelham Blue, Polaris White, Golden Mist and chromatically for easy reference. Chord con- Cardinal Red. MSRP: $8,665.33. struction, intervals, inversions, altered chords Series of Acoustic-Electrics $ Washburn (washburn.com) and music theory are explained using simple language to give the reader a complete un- Ovation’s new Celebrity Standard series ruby red gloss finishes, the Celebrity Stan- derstanding of the chords. of acoustic-electric guitars is replacing the dard features a solid spruce top and pearloid $ Alfred (alfred.com) existing Celebrity series and consists of two microdots on a rosewood fingerboard, a pearl- tiers: Celebrity Standard and Celebrity Stan- oid rosette and the Ovation OP-4BT preamp Lâg Debuts T77PE dard Plus models. with Ovation slimline pickup. The line features eight finish options, For a more exotic look, the Celebrity Acoustic Guitar in ESP Launches and the new models have a classic mid- Standard Plus features figured tops and up- the United States depth Lyrachord cutaway body style and an graded abalone appointments. New Bass Guitars improved quartersawn scalloped X bracing MSRP: Celebrity Standard Plus, Lâg Guitars has launched the T77PE ESP has added models to its line of bass- design. $649.50; Celebrity Standard, $529.50. guitar in the United States. This new model es, including four-, five- and six-string instru- Available in sunburst, natural, black and $ Ovation Guitars (ovationguitars.com) is part of Lâg’s Tramontane line of acoustic ments under the company’s ESP Original, and acoustic/electric guitars, which are dis- E-II and LTD brands. tinguished by their The new ESP Original line includes the use of fine woods, Stream and Stream CTM basses. The ESP beveled corner Original Stream is a bolt-on bass at 34-inch bindings, propri- scale with a white ash body, a maple/walnut/ etary preamp/pick- paduak neck and rosewood fingerboard. It in- up systems and cludes Hipshot tuners and bridge, EMG 35J a detailed rosette (bridge) and EMG 35P4 (neck) pickups, and design. is available in black and two-tone burst fin- The T77PE ishes. The Stream CTM adds a flamed maple comes in a Tradi- top and comes in Marine Blue and See Thru tional Parlor E style Black Cherry. body (with a slot ESP’s new E-II brand includes the AP-4 peg head), and of- (four-string) and AP-5 (five-string) bolt-on bass- fers a mahogany es at 34-inch scale, with a white ash body and body with black and maple neck with rosewood fingerboard. Com- ivory radial edge ponents include Gotoh tuners and bridge, and Savanna Redefines binding. The bridge Seymour Duncan SMB-4d (AP-4) and SMB-5d and fingerboard are (AP-5) pickups with active EQ. Available fin- made from Indo- ishes for the AP-4 include See Thru Black, See the $99 Guitar nesian rosewood; Thru White and Tobacco Sunburst. Savannah has introduced six guitars at full, warm sound of higher-priced instru- the compensated The ESP Stream bass is available in black a MAP of $99 each. The new instruments ments. Each has a classic 25.4-inch scale saddle and nut are and Snow White finishes. Also, the E-II Stream give music stores the ability to deliver great- for volume and punch on a comfortable both black graphite. FM provides the bass in a flamed maple top sounding instruments to their customers at a thin C neck with 1 11/16-inch nut width. A The mahogany body and dark mahogany neck with See Thru Black finish. The E-II Vintage-4 hot price point while taking advantage of The bound rosewood fretboard, ivory body binding all feature a French Satin finish. PJ/M (maple fingerboard, black finish) and E-II Music Link’s dealer-friendly margin. and nickel-plated hardware help to give the A new preamp configuration, the Di- Vintage-4 PJ/R (rosewood fingerboard, three- The SGD-12 dreadnought, SGO-12 000 D, O and P guitars some extra refinement. rectLâg Plus, is featured in this series. It tone burst finish) are a classic bolt-on basses and SGP-12 0 offer players on a budget a va- All three shapes are offered in natural consists of Lâg’s proprietary DirectLâg pre- with alder bodies and maple necks. riety of options. A basswood top and carved gloss or black gloss finishes. amp plus a built-in tuner. MSRP: $329.99. $ ESP (espguitars.com) Sitka spruce braces give these guitars the $ Savannah (savannahacoustic.com) $ Lâg Guitars (usa.lagguitars.com)

30 UBD January 25, 2014

See Big Brands on Levels 2 and 3, and in Hall E While you’re out looking for the show’s best finds, expand your search to include Level 2, Level 3 and Hall E. Level 2 features brands like Paul Reed Smith, Peavey and Schecter, and Level 3 is where you can find Roland and Lounge 88. More exciting products are downstairs in Hall E’s Music Metro, Allen & Heath Innovation Alley, Electric Avenue, Acoustic Court and Wireless Way. Xone:23 Mixes Hall E and the exhibits on Levels 2 and 3 open each morning at 9:30 a.m. Into DJ Market i NAMM (namm.org) Allen & Heath has launched the Xone:23, a two-channel DJ mixer packed with professional features normally found in the DJ booth of a top-rated club, including an enhanced version of the legendary Xone filter AKG By Tiësto Headphones with resonance control, VCA faders, three- band total kill EQ, illuminated switches and a crossfader curve selector with styling in- Reject Noise, Boost Bass spired by the flagship Xone:DB4. Music superstar Tiësto was involved in for optimum fitting and flat storage. Kala Begins U.S. At the heart of the mixer is the analog every aspect of the design process for the Tiësto tours more than 200 nights a year, Voltage Control Filter (VCF) system offer- AKG By Tiësto line of headphones. and for every show, his AKG By Tiësto K267 Production with ing low-pass and high-pass filters, frequency The AKG By Tiësto K267 headphones headphones are on his ears while he mixes Banjo Ukuleles sweep and “mild to wild” resonance control. offer an over-ear, closed-back design, with and entertains onstage. There is also an FX loop to connect to third- an oversized low resonance driver, provid- The AKG By Tiësto line of headphones Kala Brand Music has released banjo party FX units, which route back in through ing a higher SPL while still maintaining a has earned the internationally recognized ukuleles, the company’s first ukuleles manu- the filter system. matched low frequency bass response. The Red Dot Design Award, given to the finest factured in the United States. The banjo uku- The mixer’s two stereo channels feature user-adjustable bass boost keeps sound neu- in technology and products from companies leles are the first in a series of acoustic and independent level controls for each input, tral or maximizes deeper sub-bass frequen- that strive for excellence in design. acoustic/electric instruments that Kala is pro- enabling up to four stereo sources to be si- cies when selected. Suitable for multiple applications, the ducing at its headquarters in Petaluma, Calif. multaneously routed to the mix, as well as For convenience and comfort, the K267’s K267 Tiësto is an over-ear, closed-back de- Kala will feature two concert banjo uku- the dedicated send and return system for ex- dual plug-in feature allows the user to attach sign that offers high comfort and maximum lele models available in a custom-figured koa ternal FX. the cable to either the left or right earcup. noise rejection. or maple shell. $ Allen & Heath (allen-heath.com) Each set has 3D-Axis folding mechanisms $ Harman (harman.com) $ Kala Brand Music (kalabrand.com)

32 UBD January 25, 2014

Hosa Technology Debuts Speedy USB 3.0 Cables Hosa Technology has introduced the USB-300 series SuperSpeed USB 3.0 cables. Featuring data transfer rates up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0, the SuperSpeed USB cables are ideal for musicians seeking to maximize the performance of their equipment. connector found on DSLR cameras, smart Available in 3-, 6- and 10-foot lengths, phones, tablets and portable drives. the SuperSpeed USB cables are available in Regardless of the connector type, Hosa two conﬁgurations: the traditional Type A to SuperSpeed USB cables are fully compliant B option commonly used to connect a PC with USB 3.0 speciﬁcations, providing trans- to an audio interface, external hard drive or fer rates of up to 5 Gbps. similar device; and the Type A to Micro-B $ Hosa Technology (hosatech.com)

Peavey Introduces RBN 12 Speaker Enclosure Peavey’s new RBN 12 speaker enclosure is driven by a highly efficient power amp designed for powered speaker enclosures. Already used in studios, Peavey is bringing its ribbon driver to powered speaker enclosures designed for live applications. The 1,500-watt RBN 12 is equipped with a 12- inch, dual-voice coil neodymium Black Widow speaker. Incorporating modern digital signal processing, the RBN 12 enclosure features two XLR 1/4-inch combination in- and delay. Each output features a sophisticat- puts, a 3.5-mm input and a mic/line level se- ed compressor/limiter and fourth order high- lection. Each input features digital infrason- pass/low-pass filters. ic high-pass filters, a nine-band graphic EQ $ Peavey Electronics (peavey.com)

Remo Heads Start a Quiet Storm

Remo has unveiled a new line of sin- MSRP: $23.25–$72.50. gle-ply mesh drumheads for quiet practice $ Remo (remo.com) applications. The single-ply mesh material features a soft, spring-like feel at very low decibel levels. Offered in snare, tom and bass sizes, Silent- stroke drumheads provide a unique practice alternative to standard acoustic drum volumes. The Silentstroke line comes in a range of sizes, from 8-inch to 24-inch heads. They are ideal for drumming applications where standard drum set volume is an issue.

Reverend Debuts Balch Signature Axe Reverend Guitars has introduced a signa- Railhammer with a ceramic magnet for ture model for Fu Manchu and Sun + Sail smooth and clear tone. Club guitarist Bob Balch. Balch has been The Railhammer Chisel in the neck posi- playing Reverend Senseis for years. tion adds an aggressive tone with its cutting For his signature model, Reverend added upper-mid range. body bevels, routed a tone chamber under The Reverend Bob Balch signature model the pickguard and loaded it with Railham- is Satin Transparent Brown and has a rose- mers. The all-new Bob Balch Railhammer wood neck. pickup is in the bridge — a brass-covered $ Reverend (reverendguitars.com)

34 UBD January 25, 2014

Focusrite Interfaces Compatible with Thunderbolt Focusrite’s Saffire FireWire interfaces are fully compatible with Thunderbolt ports on Mac computers. Since the introduction of the first Focus- rite Saffire interface in 2005, FireWire has been a favorite among Focusrite interface users. FireWire and USB allow users to have an audio interface on one type of bus and hard drives on the other. On the latest Apple computers, FireWire 400 and 800 ports have been superseded by Thunderbolt — a high-speed serial interface developed by Intel and Apple. fully compatible with Thunderbolt using this users upgrade their computer to one with It’s easy to connect a Saffire interface to adaptor, which provides up to 7 watts of DC Thunderbolt, they can continue to use the a Thunderbolt-equipped computer. All you bus power as well as full signal connectivity. Saffire interface as before. If they buy a new need is the included FireWire 400-800 cable Focusrite will continue to fully support Saffire interface, it will work efficiently with Strukture Two-Tier and a Thunderbolt-to-FireWire 800 adapt- the Saffire range and will fully support the any Thunderbolt-equipped computer. $ Keyboard Stand er (sold separately). Saffire interfaces are use of Thunderbolt/FireWire adaptors. If Focusrite (focusrite.com) a True Heavyweight

The new Megalith two-tier keyboard column stand is constructed of heavy-duty steel and lightweight aluminum for a durable yet portable design. Each stand includes two sets of height-adjustable arms for playing comfort, and all arms retract into the center column of the stand for easy storage. Each set of arms accommodates a keyboard up to 110 lbs, while legs provide structural stability and fold into the base. The stands include a threaded attachment for a mic clip or boom arm, as well as two D-rings that easily attach to the included carry strap. MSRP: $229.95. $ Strukture (strukturegear.com)

Audiofly Monitor Combines Driver Technologies Audiofly continues to advance detailed, full-spectrum sound technology with the addition of the AF140 to the Audiofly Perfor- mance series of in-ear monitors. The AF140 integrates a dynamic driver with two balanced armature drivers, adding crossover circuitry. “As gigging musicians, we crafted in-ear monitors that we want to use on stage,” said Dave Thompson, CEO of Audiofly. “We also want to give all musicians the ability to perform like a pro, and music lovers the chance to experience music like never before. Our goal was to create an in-ear monitor with a warm, full bass response and detailed reproduction through the mids and highs. That’s why we’ve combined the two driver technologies. We kept an eye on durability and long- term comfort, too, so you’ll want to take your AF140s with you to enjoy music between gigs and while traveling.” $ Audiofly (audiofly.com)

36 UBD January 25, 2014 Grundorf Guitar Cases Stand Strong Grundorf has unveiled two new guitar and a durable, impact resistant laminated Grundorf Corporation. “Further, they elimi- stand cases: the G-GSCB and PRO-GSCG. finish that is resistant to scratches, weather, nate having multiple lightweight, collapsible Compact and easy to transport, both new and other variables that flight cases typically traditional guitar stands for each instrument, cases hold as many as six guitars when open, encounter. which provide less protection and occupy yet they are compact and easy to transport Both the G-GSCB and PRO-GSCG cas- more space. Our new cases provide far bet- and store. These guitar cases provide a secure es facilitate easy and secure setup and tear- ter protection for one’s guitars and, when the means of holding one’s instruments while down. The caes include padded adjustable gig’s over, they collapse quickly and trav- performing on stage or in the studio. spacers to customize the case for user spe- el well. I’m certain When collapsed, the cases have a com- cific acoustic or electric guitars and basses. many guitarists and pact form factor designed for easy transport. The thick, plush interior provides excel- bassists will find These new cases are great for guitarists, re- lent protection for the finish of one’s prized these cases an in- EHX Slammi Pedal cording studios, rehearsal facilities, and as instruments. valuable accessory.” backline supply for production companies “Both the G-GSCB and PRO-GSCG guitar MSRP: G-GSCB, Has New Algorithm and rental operations. stand cases are a terrific accessory for today’s $349.95; PRO- The G-GSCB guitar case features a vin- guitarist as they provide a secure, protective GSCG, $429.95. The Slammi Polyphonic Pitch-Shifter/ tage vinyl finish, while the PRO-GSCG em- means of holding one’s guitars with a small $ Grundorf (grun Harmony pedal from EHX combines a pow- ploys aluminum extrusion edge protection footprint,” said Frank Grund, president of dorf.com) erful new algorithm with EHX’s revolution- ary Next Step Effects platform to deliver a great tone, glitch-free operation and precision control. The Slammi’s MAX BEND control functions as an 11-position switch. It allows the player to set the pedal’s maximum bend/in- terval to Detune for a lush chorus effect as well as 1/2 Step, Major 2nd, Major 3rd, Per- fect 4th, Perfect 5th, Major 6th, Minor 7th, 1 Octave, 2 Octaves and 3 Octaves. Bends can move up or down in rela- tion to the original pitch, selectable with the pedal’s Bend button. Maximum bend can be achieved in either the toe-down or heel- down position, allowing players to customize the pedal’s response. The Slammi’s controls include a thumb wheel for dry volume, which blends in the instrument’s dry signal. MSRP: $191.66. $ EHX (ehx.com)

On-Stage Stands MBS5500 Arm Goes Anywhere Responding to calls for a portable broadcast boom arm, On-Stage Stands has introduced the MBS5500 Studio Webcasting Boom Arm. Now broadcasters, bloggers and bud- ding DJs can turn any desktop into a true microphone station. Mics can be positioned precisely for consistent high-ﬁdelity sound without taking up tabletop space. The MBS5500 is a pro-level articulating mic boom intended for broadcast and web- cast applications. Two pairs of springs provide just the right counterbalance for popular broadcast microphones, digital recorders, video cameras or other devices, including the new line of u-mount Snap-On tablet covers. Suitable for the professional or home studio environment, the MBS5500 allows for quiet, easy and repeatable positioning, even while on-air. MSRP: $129.99. $ On-Stage Stands (onstagestands.com)

38 UBD January 25, 2014

Aphex IN2 Line 6 StageScape M20d Designed for Software Enhances Live Project Studios Aphex’s IN2 is a computer audio inter- Sound Experience, Views face for project studios, musicians, production rooms and more. Line 6 has announced the availability of levels, monitor sends, FX returns and out- The IN2 was conceived with the project v1.2 software for the StageScape M20d smart puts. Fader view also enables users to mix studio in mind. Its pair of class A mic pre- mixing system. monitor sends on faders. Fader view is avail- amps provide clean gain for any type of mi- The update enhances the StageScape able on the StageScape M20d display as well crophone, while the built-in analog, optical M20d live sound experience by adding in- as the StageScape Remote iPad app. compressors keep dynamic range in check. tuitive fader views and new signal-chain pre- The v1.2 software introduces new sig- The IN2’s headphone amp is based on sets created by live sound engineers. nal-chain presets designed by engineers Aphex’s acclaimed Headpod 4. The IN2 uses “The StageScape M20d mixing paradigm Brad Madix (Rush) and Daniele Di Giovan- a 12-volt external power supply. The IN2 also continues to evolve with v1.2 software,” ni (James Brown, Ray Charles, Dave Grusin, features two front panel instrument inputs. stated Max Gutnik, vice president of prod- Lee Ritenour, Mike Stern). $ Aphex (aphex.com) ucts at Line 6. “Now musicians can choose $ Line 6 (line6.com) the mixer view they are most comfortable with, and quickly dial Graph Tech’s in professional-caliber PrePlay Helps live sound thanks to presets designed by Neutralize Skin pH experienced touring artists.” Graph Tech Guitar Labs has released Pre- One of the new fea- Play, hand care for guitars. Human hands are New Strap Mixes tures of the software is naturally acidic and the oils can transfer dirt the ability to alternate and grime to guitars which shortens string Two Leathers between the stage- life and eats away at a guitar’s hardware and Levy’s Leathers has introduced the MD- based mixing view and ﬁnish. PrePlay balances skin pH to 7pH — 17DP strap. a more traditional fad- neutralizing hand acid and protecting the in- A patchwork combination of two leather-based view. strument. The lubricating nature also adds ers is the deﬁning characteristic of this 2 1/2- The new fader slide, glide and a comfortable feel to the neck. inch wide guitar strap. screens emulate the PrePlay contains natural ingredients and The strap features distressed leather look and feel of a con- oil extracts, including sandalwood, lemon- patches and garment leather. It is available in ventional mixer, and grass, black tea, mallow, clove, Irish moss, black and white colors. can be used to con- rosemary and chamomile. $ Levy’s Leathers (levysleathers.com) trol channel and group $ Graph Tech Guitar Labs (graphtech.com)

40 UBD January 25, 2014 Harman’s USBX Works With iPad, iPhone Harman’s Crown has debuted the USBX, wireless router. an accessory that enables Crown XTi, CDi The “Powered by Crown” app al- and DSi series amplifiers with a USB port to lows wireless control and monitoring be operated via an Apple iPad/iPhone using of Crown ethernet-enabled devices and the “Powered by Crown” app. JBL loudspeakers that are equipped with The USBX allows Crown amplifiers DrivePack DPDA built-in amplifiers. equipped with a USB port to be controlled Because this app uses the same pro- via ethernet. The USBX plugs into an AC tocols as Harman’s HiQnet System Ar- outlet, and up to eight compatible Crown chitect, users can import custom con- USB products can be connected to the USBX. trol panels from System Architect into The USBX has built-in Wi-Fi, enabling the “Powered by Crown” App for added AP’s Power Pins wireless control of connected Crown amps functionality. via an iPad or iPhone and the “Powered by MSRP: $249.99. Never Need Crown” app without the need for a separate $ Harman (harman.com) Replacement AP International’s Power Pins never need to be removed. With a quick and non-in- vasive installation that leads the string right through the pin, players can replace strings with the ease found only on electric guitars. Experienced players will be surprised by increased bridge-to-soundboard contact, amplified tone and resonance, noticeably eased string action due to a shallower string break angle and protection of the bridge plate from the strings. $ AP International (apintl.com)

Will You Be in the 2014 Top 100? Each year at Summer NAMM, the association recognizes the efforts of its most creative, savvy and proactive retailers. This year’s competition opens March 1, 2014. Dubbed the “retail Oscars” by Music Inc. magazine, NAMM’s Top 100 Dealer Awards was created to share best practices and spot- light the very best retailers in our industry. An independent panel of anonymous industry judges will also select winners in variety of “Best Of” categories, including the presti- gious “Dealer of the Year” award. “Winning the 2013 Dealer of the Year was the proudest moment of my career,” said Gayle Beacock of Beacock Music. “I felt so honored. You really get just a few of these moments in a lifetime, if you’re lucky. That was mine!” i NAMM (namm.org)

Peavey XR-AT Boasts Portability Peavey Electronics’ new XR-AT mixer incorporates a 9-channel mixer and 1,000 watts of power (1,500 watts peak) into a portable design. For the ﬁrst time ever, the mixer includes Antares Auto-Tune pitch correction technology which can help anyone sing in key and is used throughout the world. Ideal for use in small to medium-sized venues, the XR-AT includes Blue- tooth wireless connectivity for audio playback, USB jump drive MP3 playback and a variety of digital effects. It also has exclusive features such as Mid Morph, Kosmos- C and FLS–Peavey’s patented Feedback Lo- cating System along with seven channels of compression. $ Peavey Electronics (peavey.com)

42 UBD January 25, 2014

Hal Leonard ‘Roars’ With Katy Perry Hal Leonard has published Katy Per- volume featuring the best from this pop star. ry Prism songbooks for Piano/Vocal/Gui- Vol. 60 – Katy Perry contains the melody, lyr- tar and Easy Piano, plus a Katy Perry ics and chord symbols for eight hits: “Cali- Pro Vocal volume. Perry’s best-selling al- fornia Gurls,” “Firework,” “Hot N Cold,” “I bum Prism spawned the hits “Roar” and Kissed A Girl,” “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.),” “Unconditionally.” “Part Of Me,” “Teenage Dream” and “Wide The Hal Leonard PVG and Easy Piano fo- Awake.” lios for Prism include all 16 tracks from the The playable CD album: “Birthday,” “By The Grace Of God,” contains demos for “Choose Your Battles,” “Dark Horse,” “Dou- listening and sepa- ble Rainbow,” “Ghost,” “International Smile,” rate backing tracks so “It Takes Two,” “Legendary Lovers,” “Love users can sing along. Me,” “Roar,” “Spiritual,” “This Is How We MSRP: Do,” “This Moment,” “Unconditionally” and $14.99–$16.99. DJ-Tech Mixer “Walking On Air.” $ Hal Leonard (hal Hal Leonard also offers the Pro Vocal leonard.com) Features innoFader The DJ-Tech DIF-4s is a professional EKO N(e)XT Guitar four-channel DJ scratch mixer with integrat- Stylish, Compact ed Mini innoFader from Audio Innovate. Alfred Music Teach Yourself Inherited from the original innoFader, EKO has debuted the N(e)XT Parlor en- it provides smooth and robust feeling to the try-level guitar, which features a small shape Series to Include Drums, Guitar scratch DJ. The contact-less design gives a long and a stylish design with a gloss finish. The life of more than 4 million cycles. The cut-in instrument is suitable as a first guitar, for les- Music has released three new self-teach- taught lesson-by-lesson. The accompanying position can be adjusted with simple calibra- sons and for exercises, and is also recom- ing resources: Alfred’s Teach Yourself Drums DVD provides over two hours of video in- tion steps, and the “reverse” switch allows you mended for children. 2nd Edition, Alfred’s Teach Yourself Music His- struction, over 160 performances and play- to do different styles of scratching. The mixer This guitar is part of the N(e)XT acoustic tory, and Alfred’s Teach Yourself Rock Guitar. along MP3 is compatible with the original innoFader. series from EKO. This entry-level guitar se- Teach Yourself Drums 2nd Edition teach- tracks. The DIF-4s serves as a full-feature four- ries has 10 models based on different body es drummers about various parts of the Teach channel mixer: three-band EQ, mic input, shapes, including full size and cutaway mod- drum set, playing basics, proper drum- Yourself Mu- LED level meter for each channel, XLR out- els, Gipsy and Parlor shapes, a nylon-string stick grips, and standard drum notation. sic History is a put, 6.35-mm and 3.-mm headphones out- model and an acoustic bass. The book covers playing different lines with concise over- puts, and a booth output with a dedicated Cutaway models have an in-house de- different tempos, rhythms, and grooves. view of all volume control. Each channel on the DIF- signed EKO preamp system, which features Teach Yourself Rock Guitar starts with the ba- major periods 4s has its own dedicated three-band isolator volume, bass, middle, treble, phase control sics of electric guitar by introducing various of Western EQs and dedicated high-pass/low-pass filters. as well as an onboard easy to read LED and types of guitars, how to care for a guitar, and music. The DIF-4s provide five high-quality dig- LCD tuner. standard music notation and TAB. Notes, $ Alfred (al ital performance effects. $ EKO (ekoguitars.it) chords, power chords, scales, and songs are fred.com) $ DJ-Tech (djtechpro.com)

44 UBD January 25, 2014

my first namm

A handful of industry veterans look back on their introduction to the chaos of the showﬂoor

GERSON ROSENBLOOM DeFranco. There are enough memories from Sweetwater Sound that show to fill a book Chicago | 1964 (or at least a good solid The place was the Conrad Hilton Hotel. My article!). One that stands dad was premiering Elger U.S.-Made Gui- out was joining my dad tars (a precursor to what eventually became in a meeting with Henry Ibanez), and I was a starry-eyed teenager Grossman (founder of walking from one hotel room to the next Grossman Music, Trophy/ Line 6 Updates (that’s where the exhibits were in those days) Grover/Rogers) striking a meeting musical heroes like Johnny Smith, distribution deal for POD Multi-Effects Art Van Damme, Buddy Rich and Buddy our guitars. Line 6 has introduced the new POD HD Pro X guitar multi-effects processor and stu- PETER DODS again I screamed. Between sets, during sets, dio interface, replacing the POD HD Pro. Easy Music Center and after sets. The next day I had back-to- Like the recently released POD HD500X, Anaheim | 2006 Hammond Organ back meetings for the entire day. Fender was POD HD Pro X features more DSP process- I was a brand new retailer, experiencing my first. At the booth the heat and the pressure Reimagines ing power than before, giving musicians first taste of success as a business owner. from the lights was even greater flexibility for creating complex On the first night, after a long day of meet- staggering. Half- Classic Model signal paths and unique, intricate tones. ings, we took a trip into Los Angeles to go to way through the Hammond has released the A-162, an “POD HD Pro X makes the latest POD the Viper room to see Paul Gilbert play. I was meeting, I had to organ inspired by the original A-100, which available in a rack-mountable form factor,” really fired up to be at NAMM, to be part of go into a back ser- was released in 1960. said Max Gutnik, vice president of prod- something bigger than just my small store, vice hallway and lie The classic A-100 was a self-contained ucts, Line 6. “With a world-class collection and to be at a Paul Gilbert show. And I guess down on the cold instrument, which needed no external of amps and effects, plus more DSP power I still hadn't really learned my lesson with concrete floor. I've speakers, providing the Hammond tone in a than ever, POD HD Pro X represents the ul- alcohol. About halfway through the show I been very careful compact package. timate creative studio tool for guitar players.” started yelling at the top of my lungs for Paul about not ever re- The A-162 uses the same VASE III tonal POD HD Pro X features the same collec- Gilbert to play “Terrible Man." Again and peating that. engine as Hammond’s B-3mkII, giving the tion of HD amps as its predecessor. From new model the power and sound expected vintage classics to modern powerhous- from a Hammond. es, each HD amp delivers incredible sonic GREG BILLINGS rooms on four of the floors. We went from Some of the new organ’s features include depth, character and touch nuance. Billings Piano Gallery room to room to see the gear. Most of the reverse-key presets, touch-response percus- $ Line 6 (line6.com) Chicago | 1964 business was done at the hospitality suites sion, chorus-vibrato and twin waterfall key- My first show was at the Palmer House in on the top floors. It was an incredible experi- boards with 25-note pedalboard. Chicago. I was 14. My dad chartered a Grey- ence, and I have been to al- It has a powerful 150-watt onboard hound bus to take all the employees from most all the summer and win- sound system with five speakers, including a Milwaukee, and I got to go along. I remem- ter shows since. I still think 15-inch woofer for rich pedal and bass tones. ber a Thomas Organ Company cocktail party the summer show should go The new system has a Digital Leslie, a fea- where there were ice sculptures. I had never back to Chicago, but maybe ture not found on the original A-100. Users seen such a thing. The displays were in hotel it is just nostalgia. also have the option to attach a physical Les- lie speaker to expand the tonal range. $ Hammond (hammondorganco.com) PETE GAMBER on — even at the other hotels. I didn't have Consultant a store at the mall, I didn't wear a sport Anaheim | 1979 coat and my hair was too long, and trying to It was the winter show at the "old" Disney- explain a music store that had a plan to sell land Hotel. I had been in business since product by teaching lots of music lessons June of 1978. I had no major lines of prod- was a definite sign that uct. A musician friend of mine said, "Dude, I was weird. But about a Roland HPi-50e you should be going to The NAMM Show!" month afterward a new So I drove down, got in line to register, got young sales rep for Ches- Gets Interactive a badge and there I was. It was amazing! bro Music dropped in and I had no idea something like this existed. said, ‘We met at the show. Roland’s HPi-50e digital piano is a com- Every ballroom, every suite, EVERYWHERE Are you interested in pact upright that features interactive DigiS- there were music products and demos going stocking Ibanez?’” core education features. The piano features Roland’s SuperNATU- RAL Piano technology with enhancements LAUREN HAAS AMANFOH outfits. (We certainly Hohner Launches including a new upright instrument tone, a Royalton Music Center didn't have that in Latin Stringed Dynamic Harmonic function for fortissimo Anaheim | 1991 suburban Ohio!) I kept playing and Individual Note Voicing to cus- At that time I would have only been about up my end of the deal, Instrument Line tomize the piano’s sound to suit the user’s 6 years old, and my mom and grandmother and so did my mom H. Jimenez has unveiled a new series of playing style or home environment. (the owners of Royalton Music Center at the and grandmother Latin stringed instruments. Roland’s new flagship PHA-4 keyboard time) had promised to take me to Disneyland — although it rained The line is the result of a direct collabora- with Escapement and Ebony/Ivory Feel is if I behaved at the show. I remember being when we were at Dis- tion with renowned bajo quinto and guitar outfitted with touch-detection technology overwhelmed at the sheer size of the hall, neyland, and therefore luthier and player Hilario “Layo” Jimenez. and high-resolution sensing. The PHA-4’s displays and booths, and the people who we wore ponchos the His experience contributed enormously. hammer-action mechanism produces less looked like rock stars with their eccentric entire time! The line utilizes Jimenez’s extensive audible noise than previous designs. knowledge of hand-built construction. H. With DigiScore technology, digital sheet almost ComicCon Jimenez offers a range of products that are music is displayed on the HPi-50e’s large col- LESLIE FALTIN energy of the show. I suitable for the beginning mariachi student or LCD. Thirty-second notes and up to 48 Instrumental Music Center also was AMAZED at or for gigging musicians in the Norteno or measures of music can be displayed at once. Los Angeles | 1999 the huge selections of Tex-Mex music scenes. With Auto Sync, the onscreen notation per- We hadn't yet opened our store. The show free magazines, and The H. Jimenez series consists of eight fectly follows the user’s performance. DigiS- was downtown, so parking and getting to the promptly filled my bajo quintos in a variety of mica options, core also provides notation-based exercises convention was a quest in itself. I didn't have bags with magazines pickups and varying body thicknesses. The and music games. Other education features a music background, and had NO idea what ... the first thing on series also includes three nylon-string gui- include a graphical metronome, onscreen most of the music gear did or who the sup- the first day. tars, a vihuela and a guitarron. keyboard and a Finger Training program. pliers were. I was impressed by the vibrant, Yeah, I was that girl. $ H. Jimenez (hjimenez.com) $ Roland (rolandus.com)

46 UBD January 25, 2014

CADAC Appoints ETA to Handle Console Portfolio in Australia In the continuing expansion of its dis- innovative brands, tributor network, CADAC has aligned with and currently our newly formed Australian distributor Enter- portfolio consists of tainment Technology Australia (ETA). SGM Lighting, KV2 Founded in July by David Croxton, ETA Audio — in asso- has offices and warehousing in Sydney and ciation with KV2’s Melbourne. ETA adds the CADAC console current Australian brand to a specialist portfolio that includes distributor, David KV2 Audio, a brand with which Croxton Williams — and has a long association. “I have been working now CADAC. This globally for KV2 Audio since 2011, and prior gives us a broad to that held the line in my previous distri- and diverse prod- bution company, Australian Audio Supplies, uct range, which which I sold in 2006,” Croxton said. “Having has interesting products for many different we look forward to growing the brand’s pro- The Loar LM-590 secured a group of brand partners early in market sectors, including CADAC’s primary file in Australia. Our number-one priority in 2013, ETA was born and officially launched live sound and theatre production markets. selecting a mixer brand was audio quality.” Mandolin Resonates at this year’s Entech trade show in Sydney. “CADAC’s innovative new mixer technol- $ Entertainment Technology Australia With Players “ETA is only focusing on high-quality, ogy was the primary attraction for us, and (etaust.com) The Loar’s LM-590 mandolin is made for players who want the rich sound of a hand- carved instrument in a resonant thin-satin finish with ultra-clean aesthetics. The LM-590’s top is hand-carved from solid spruce, and the back and sides are hand-carved from solid maple. The flat fretboard extension provides maximum picking clearance so players can feel comfortable going all the way up the classic V-neck. Other features include Grover reverse- gear tuning machines and a satin tobacco sunburst finish. Despite its stripped-down vibe, the contemporary F-style LM-590 retains the essen- tials of a great-sounding mandolin. The solid hand-carved woods really open up under the thin-satin finish. The LM-590 is also available as an A- model mandolin (LM-290) with identical specs. $ The Loar (theloar.com)

Planet Waves Elliptical Endpin Secures Straps

Planet Waves has launched the Rotating Elliptical Endpin. “Guitarists and bassists now have the option to easily change straps without worry,” said Planet Waves Product Manager Rob Cunningham. “Since the design allows the endpin to rotate and lock, players have extra peace of mind that their instrument is secure. Now, all you have to worry about is playing the right notes.” Planet Waves’ Rotating Elliptical Endpins were designed to secure the strap to your guitar or bass without any bulky hardware or without dedicating a single strap to a spe- ciﬁc instrument. The oval-closed shape allows players to easily attach the strap to the instrument; at the same time, it provides a secure locking feature. Once the strap is on the instrument, simply turn the top half of the endpin into the open position. The design combines function and style by locking the strap in place while complementing the aesthetics of any guitar or bass. MSRP: $24.99. $ Planet Waves (planetwaves.com)

48 UBD January 25, 2014 Moog's Expansion Pack for Animoog Includes 213 New Presets Moog Music has released the Minimoog Sascha Dikiciyan. Model D Expansion Pack for its iOS synthe- "Animoog’s Anisotropic Syn- sizer, the Animoog. The expansion pack in- thesis Engine is unique in that it cludes 69 timbres extracted from a vintage uses timbres as evolving oscilla- Minimoog Model D analog synthesizer and tors rather than as samples," said 213 presets designed exclusively for Ani- Cyril Lance, chief engineer for moog's Anisotropic Synthesis Engine. Moog Music. Presets were crafted by a set of design- The Minimoog Model D Ex- ers including sound creation expert Kevin pansion Pack is available now as Lamb, timbre extraction and design pundit an in-app purchase in the Ani- Drew Neumann, synthesist Adam Holzman, moog store for $6.99. DJ/producer Dom Kane and Sonic Mayhem's $ Moog (moogmusic.com) JodyJazz End-Plugs Feature Stylish Deep Black Finish

JodyJazz recently expanded its line of accessories with the introduction of the new JodyJazz Saxophone End-Plugs. Saxophone end-plugs are used to protect the octave mechanism and neck socket of the saxophone while it is disassembled or in its case. There are many different designs and types of end-plugs available, but the Jody- Jazz End-Plug offers a deep black ﬁnish with gold engraving, making it one of the most stylish on the market. “I’ve wanted to create a really good-looking end-plug for a long time,” said JodyJazz President Jody Espina. “Using an end-plug to protect your horn while in the case is so important. I think players will want to use our end-plug because they’ll want to show off such a ﬁne-looking accessory.” $ JodyJazz (jodyjazz.com)

MIDAS Expands the Potential of PRO1 Bundle

Midas' PRO1 expansion bundle exploits the full potential of the PRO1’s processing power, at an affordable price, by selectively incorporating DL150 series stage boxes and the new Mixtender II iPad App. The PRO1 features 24 mic inputs and 16 line outputs as standard on the control surface but with on-board processing for up to 40 inputs, 8 aux returns and 24 aux busses, in addition to left, right and mono. Adding a 16 mic input, 8 output DL153 stage box upgrades the “24/16” into a “40/24” PRO1 with the extra I/O being placed either on-stage or at FOH. Or, an additional 24 line output DL152 can be placed in the equipment rack to feed the loudspeaker rack and ampliﬁers. As all six AES-50 ports on the PRO1 are now enabled, multiple stage boxes can be controlled by the PRO1 surface, FOH, monitor and broadcast consoles networked and up to 64 channels of recording are now possible. The new Mixtender II iPad App enables comprehensive control of the most important console functions remotely and includes an enhanced suite of effects. $ Midas (midasconsoles.com)

50 UBD January 25, 2014 Randall RG13 Pedal/Amplifier Takes Tone on the Road Randall recently released the RG13 Ped- amp, or plug it into the FX return of any amp output level boost/cut to control your level al/Amplifier, which makes it easy to have and listen to it take over and free you from in the mix. your sound through any amp or P.A., any- backline tone. The RG13 comes in a heavy-duty metal where you travel. The XLR speaker-emulated output is ide- enclosure with external power supply and Put it through your 4x12 and be blown al for recording or sending your signal to the external 9-volt power for pedals. away at what 1 watt can do. P.A./front of house. The loop is switchable $ Randall Amplifiers Or, get a matching RG8 8-inch exten- with a level control and can switch to be an (randalllamplifiers.com) sion cabinet to practice with at home. Use it as a gain, distor- Cort MR600F Has tion, tone, or boost pedal in Built-In Preamp front of your The MR series of acoustic guitars from Cort has traditionally been viewed as the company’s finest line of instruments at affordable prices. This year, Cort has added the MR600F. The new model is outfitted with the Fish- man Isys Plus preamp and Sonicore pickup to provide a good-sounding acoustic guitar with built-in electronics at a price point affordable to the masses. The MR600F is a dreadnought body with a Venetian cutaway. With mahogany back and sides, the body is topped with a solid spruce top and advanced scalloped X bracing. The 25.3-inch mahogany neck features the traditional three-on-three headstock, rosewood fretboard and dot inlays. Additional details include D’Addario USA EXP16 strings. The Isys onboard preamp system is designed to offer maximum control, performance and quality in a small format. $ Cort Guitars (cortguitars.com)

Shadow Reduces Prices on Staples

Shadow Electronics has announced sig- niﬁcant price reductions for the following staples in the Shadow product line: • SH 330 single-coil passive soundhole pickup in maple ﬁnish (30 percent reduction); • SH 145 (black or gold) active soundhole humbucker pickup (30 percent reduction); • SH percussive stomp box to create natural rhythm (47 percent reduction). “With these prices, we will see a large increase in sales that will generate more overall revenue,” said Joe Marinic, founder and president of Shadow Electronics. See the Shadow pickups at The Music Link’s booth. $ Shadow Electronics (shadow-electronics.com)

54 UBD January 25, 2014 Yamaha Takes Maple Shells on March Alfred Praise Yamaha has announced the 8300 and hardware is now standard on snare drums, shell — it is about more of everything people Hits Motivate 9300 series marching drums. offering improved durability and a more in- love about the Yamaha sound.” After 30 years of building marching tegrated look with the rest of the series. $ Yamaha (yamaha.com) Students snares with birch drum shells, Yamaha brings “More than 10 Alfred Music has added two titles to its Ba- maple shells to field competitions with new years of product re- sic Piano Course: Praise Hits levels 2 and 3. marching snare, tom and bass drum models. search and develop- The books are filled with contemporary wor- The entries feature the same popular maple ment have yielded ship music, and each piece correlates page-by- shell design that has been tested with award- one of the most sig- page with the already established Alfred’s Basic winning drum corps and indoor percussion nificant changes to Ya- Piano Course. organizations, and has proven to be a great maha Marching Per- “When pieces from performer, both physically and musically. cussion,” said Troy the Praise Hits books Directors and arrangers will appreciate Wollwage, marketing are assigned in con- the fact that these drums can provide depth manager, Percussion junction with the mate- and projection without overpowering the Instruments, Yamaha rials in the lesson book, rest of the ensemble, yet still maintain the Corporation of Amer- new concepts are rein- clear, articulate sound that has been the hall- ica. “This new series forced in a fun and mo- mark of Yamaha marching drums. Chrome is about more than a tivating way, increasing the student’s interest in piano study,” said Praise Hits arranger Tom Gerou. $ Alfred (alfred.com)

Source Audio Deals Hottest Hand Yet Source Audio has debuted the Hot Hand USB wireless MIDI controller. Bypassing traditional knobs and faders, the Hot Hand USB integrates with top-quality music production and recording software such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, ProTools, Traktor Pro and Reason. It allows musicians to manipulate software parameters with wireless motion-control, engaging their audience by controlling sound through physical performance. Source Audio will be performing live in the Source Audio booth. $ Source Audio (sourceaudio.net)

Rotosound Reduces Packaging, Adds Color Rotosound has introduced its entire range of strings with color-coded ball ends in environmentally friendly, airtight packaging with new artwork. The packaging provides a moisture bar- rier that ensures strings will not tarnish or fade, keeping them factory-fresh until ready for use. The packaging has also been reduced by an eco-friendly 90 percent. All Rotosound strings now come with color-coded ball ends, and because they are British through and through, they are red, white and blue. The strings, still made at the Rotosound factory in the U.K., retain their pure, typically British tone, providing exceptional sustain with clear, bright sounds. The new artwork on the string packs has been updated with a modern look, clean lines, bold colors and clear instructions. $ Rotosound (rotosound.com)

56 UBD January 25, 2014

Ibanez Delivers Uppercut Series Tycoon Adds Booming Surdos to its

Ibanez has unveiled its new Uppercut se- Brazilian Percussion Line ries, a made-in-Japan line of guitars featuring Alongside its pandeiros and tamborims, fit to accommodate any players’ setup. The hand-wound Bare Knuckle Pickups made in Tycoon Percussion is introducing a new line Tycoon wood surdo produces a fuller more the U.K. of Surdos to its Brazilian Percussion line. rounded tone, and the aluminum surdo Since 2003, Bare Knuckle has amassed a The Brazilian drums play important roles is brighter and has more projection. Each reputation for building handmade pickups in traditional styles of music such as Sam- Surdo has 10 lugs for precision tuning and from top-notch authentic materials. ba and Axé. Surdos have a deep, booming comes with a mallet. The new line bass sound that projects and rounds out The Surdos are available with 16-, 18-, will launch with the any percussive gathering. With the different 20- and 22-inch head diameters. FR6UCBKF, an FR- variations in sizes, players can create differ- $ Tycoon Percussion style guitar with a ret- ent note groupings, and the surdos can be (tycoonpercussion.com) ro-influenced body shape and mahogany body. The guitar’s electronics include a Levy’s Gets Dark pair of matched Bare Sakae Trilogy Series Drum Knuckle Aftermath With New Skull pickups designed to deliver acceler- Kit Lightweight, Resonant Designs ated bass response Sakae Drums has released its new Trilogy a choice of vintage-style oyster or pearl finishes. Levy’s Leath- for tracking high- series drum kit. Lightweight, resonant shells $ Sakae Drums (sakaedrums.com) ers has introduced speed staccato riff- make this kit ideal for classic three new straps ing with increased ’50s jazz. With thicker drum- featuring skull focus in the mids heads, it creates the dry tones designs. and precise high-end of early R&B and ’70s rock. The 2-inch articulation. A maple-poplar-maple wide straps feature The next guitar three-ply shell configuration distressed leather in the line is the RG- offers Sakae’s unique take on ends and sublima- D7UCISH, a seven- the vintage sound. Four-ply tion-printed de- string that also has a pair of matched Bare North American maple rein- signs by Danica Knuckle Aftermath pickups. The RGD mod- forcement rings at the top and Levy. The straps el features a beveled body cut, extra horn cut bottom of the shell help to dry come in three vari- and an extra long 26.5-inch scale for accu- the sustain and keep the ultra- ations: MDL8-014, rate intonation of the heavier strings used on thin shell perfectly rounded. -015 and -016. down-tuned guitars. The Trilogy kit is available in $ Levy’s Leathers $ Ibanez (ibanez.com) a variety of drum diameters with (levysleathers.com)

58 UBD January 25, 2014 amp stack

Fender’s Rumble Amps are Lighter, More Powerful

Fender's all-new Rumble Series have been re-engineered from the ground up to be lighter, louder and more powerful. They feature a footswitchable overdrive circuit and a three-button voicing palette that delivers Orange Launches powerful tones. Additional upgrades include Eminence drivers and premium HF compres- Three New sion tweeters. Computer Models The line includes the Rumble 500 Com- bo, the Rumble Ashdown Engineering Orange Amplification has unveiled three 200 Combo, the new models of its personal computer, the Rumble 100, 40, Orange OPC. The models give users serious 25 and 15. The PiBass-240 Amp Designed computer power combined with all the soft- new line also in- ware they need for a range of creative uses. cludes the Rumble to Meet Pro Expectations The OPC Models offer a choice of fourth 500 Head, the generation Intel Core processors, memory Rumble 200 Head Ashdown Engineering has introduced the EQ in/out switch, master volume, headphone and a dedicated graphics card that lets us- and the Rumble PiBass-240, a 240-watt digital bass amp out and a DI output with a ground lift, the ers decide the best specifications for their 410 and 115 that was designed to the exacting specs of PiBass satisfies the fundamental demands of needs: OPC Studio (Intel i5 Processor, Mem- Cabinets. bassist Wojtek Pilichowski. nearly any professional application. ory 4GB RAM), OPC Professional (Intel i5 $ Fender {fender.com} The PiBass-240 is a great fit for the When coupled with a small footprint, and Processor, Memory 8GB RAM), OPC Ultimate professional musician who needs a reliable, an 8 ohm Ashdown speaker cabinet such as (Intel i7 Processor, Memory 16GB RAM, versatile, high-quality portable amplifier that the Mi12 or ABM Mini 210 NEO, players Graphics card included). can withstand the rigors of the road. Weigh- can feel confident that the low end is deftly All models come complete with Windows Win an All-White ing in at just 7.7 lbs., it’s small enough to fit handled while the subtlety and nuance of 8, IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3, PreSonus in the front pocket of most gig bags and is the instrument is articulated with clarity and Studio One (Orange Edition), Acoustica Mix- Ampeg Heritage well-suited for air travel. punch. This combination is perfect for gig- craft 6, Toontrack EZdrummer Lite, and Lick- B-15N Amplifier Featuring an active/passive input select, ging players looking to lighten the load. Library Guitar Lesson Center software. a 3-band, semi-parametric equalizer with an $ Ashdown (ashdownmusic.com) $ Orange Amplification (orangeamps.com) Ampeg is giving away a white Heritage B-15N amplifier to celebrate another year at NAMM. The Heritage B-15N is designed and assembled in the U.S.A. out of premium components. It delivers the sought-after B-15 performance in a new, circuit-board based, all-tube design with a white finish. For a chance to win the amp, visit the Legendary Heritage Giveaway app hosted on Ampeg’s Facebook page. The giveaway begins on Jan. 23 and ends on Feb. 28. i Ampeg (ampeg.com; facebook.com/ ampegusa)

Peavey Rolls Out Free Vypyr Edit Amp Software Peavey Electronics has launched new, free Vypyr Edit software for the Vypyr VIP series amplifiers. After installing the free software, guitarists can connect to Vypyr Edit using the Vypyr VIP’s USB bi-directional data and audio port. Once inside the software, users are given a complete virtual representation of their Vypyr VIP amplifier. Any adjustments made by the Marshall Adds Four Recreations user within the software are directly shown on the amp, and any adjustments made to the amp are represented in the software. to its Handwired Series Vypyr Edit is available for both PC and Mac. Guitarists can choose from a selection Marshall has expanded its Handwired The all-valve 2245THW is an exact rep- valve-driven tremolo and no negative feed- of instrument models, stompbox effects and series of all-valve amps with four new addi- lica of the extremely rare 'Bluesbreaker' 30 back in its cathode-biased output stage, the Peavey amp models to create fully custom- tions. The Handwired series features reissues watt head. Specifications for the 2245THW 1973X is a straightforward amplifier. ized tones. Plus, Vypyr Edit lets users save of historical Marshall products that were are identical to the 1962HW 'Bluesbreaker' Lastly, the 1958X is a handwired reissue and load their setting presets and preset originally wired by the human hand. combo except for the speakers. of the rare 1958 model. The 1958X’s specs banks and share them with the global Vypyr The 1962HW is a faithful recreation of The 1973 18-watt, twin-channel, all-valve are identical to that of the 1973X except that community. Vypyr Edit also contains backing the classic, Series II 1962, all-valve, 2-inch 2-inch by 12-inch combo with valve-driven 2-inch by 10-inch Celestion G10F-15 16 tracks, letting users play along using any of by 12-inch combo. This 30 watt, two-chan- Tremolo was originally produced from 1966 Ohm 15 watt speakers have been selected their presets. nel amp replicates the format and topology of to 1968. The 1973X is an accurate replica for their tonal authenticity. $ Peavey Electronics (peavey.com) the first production run. of this EL84 valve-powered amp. Armed with $ Marshall Amplification (marshallamps.com)

60 UBD January 25, 2014

Yamaha L Series On-Stage Stands Now Features Solid Humidity Under Control Secures Tablets Spruce Tops in D’Addario Facility On the heels of its TCM9150 Tablet Yamaha has introduced the redesigned L D’Addario Woodwinds has installed a said Gary Smith, D’Addario’s vice president Mounting System with folio case, On-Stage series handcrafted line of acoustic guitars. reverse-osmosis humidification system in its of West Coast operations. “It also allows for has added six new products to its u-mount All new models now feature solid En- Los Angeles manufacturing facility. a constant and predictable environment to line. gelmann spruce tops that are treated with The state-of-the-art system constantly control reed strength and measurements to Each model uses a tough, protective A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement), regulates the relative hu- the strictest tolerances.” Snap-On back cover to secure the tablet to a an original wood-reforming technology de- midity in the reed factory “This manufacturing im- choice of mounting systems. veloped by Yamaha. Instruments made with to ensure a consistent man- provement translates into They include the following models: the this technology produce a tonal richness that ufacturing environment. A a reed that plays and feels TCM9160 Snap-On case for iPad 3 and 4, can only be found in a vintage instrument. constant humidity level is consistent from one box to original mounting post system with the A. R. E. treatment provides outstanding tonal maintained regardless of the the next,” said Robert Polan, TCM9260 Snap- balance and eliminates the harsh edge com- outside ambient conditions with high reli- D’Addario Woodwinds product manager. On case for iPad mon with younger guitars. ability and energy-efficient humidification. “An added bonus is that this improvement mini with the orig- Another sound improvement comes from “This ensures that every reed is produced increases D’Addario’s production flow.” inal mounting the redesigned bracing, introducing a lower at the same relative humidity condition,” $ D’Addario (daddario.com/woodwinds) post system; the bracing height and shape that improves the TCM9161 Snap-On vibration of the top board and tonal transfer- case for iPad 3 and ence throughout the guitar. 4 with a quick dis- Several other improvements allow for en- Sennheiser Receives connect with round hanced playability, including a refined thin- surface mount; the ner neck profile, lower string action and TCM9261 Snap- wider string spacing. A new five-ply neck Engineering Emmy On case for iPad design adds stability and additional tone Sennheiser was honored with the Philo at the ceremony: the Philo T. Farnsworth mini with quick enhancement. T. Farnsworth Award at the 65th Primetime Award, the Charles F. Jenkins Lifetime disconnect system In a first for the L series, these models Emmy Engineering Awards in Hollywood. Achievement Award, Engineering Emmys and a round sur- come with an unobtrusive passive under- The Philo T. Farnsworth Award honors an for YouTube, Aspera’s FASP Transport Tech- face mount; the saddle Studio Response Technology (S.R.T.) agency, company or institution whose contri- nology, Josh C. Kline for creating Digital Dai- TCM9163 Snap-On case for iPad 3 and 4 with pickup for live applications that does not af- butions over time have significantly impacted lies, iZotope RX Audio Repair Technology quick disconnect and a flat surface mount; and fect the unplugged sound or detract from the television technology and engineering. The and Previzion Virtual Studio System (Light- the TCM9263 Snap-On case for iPad mini guitar’s finishes. award originated in 2003 as a means to recog- craft Technology), as well as two Engineering with quick disconnect system and a flat sur- Previously constructed only with Rose- nize Panavision’s years of contribution to the Plaques awarded to Lawo AG for their audio face mount. wood back and sides, the L series now offers film and television industries. Unlike most networking and routing system and Final The u-mount line was conceived to give models with mahogany back and sides, in other Emmy awards, it is not awarded every Draft Screenwriting Software. musicians, moms, teachers, artists, engi- addition to the Rosewood models to meet the year. The award is named after the inventor of Daniel Sennheiser and Dr. Andreas neers, retailers and everyone else a versatile market demand. MSRP: $849.99–$1,699. electronic television, Philo Farnsworth. Sennheiser accepted the Emmy statuette. way to mount their tablet computers. $ Yamaha (yamaha.com) Seven Engineering Emmys were awarded $ Sennheiser (sennheiser.com) $ On-Stage Stands (onstagestands.com)

62 UBD January 25, 2014

Numark Unveils DJ|iO 2 USB Audio Interface Numark’s DJ|iO 2 USB audio interface offers studio-grade 24-bit/44.1 kHz audio quality, clean setup and easy recording. Numark’s original DJ|iO audio interface offered DJs a simple and affordable way to get up and running with any DJ controller that lacked a built-in audio interface. The DJ|iO 2 is more affordable and includes the ability to send the mix and mic signals into a computer for recording. “We’ve also made DJ|iO 2 much more compact,” said Numark Product Manager Chris Roman. “Both in size and price, it’s now easier than ever to fit it into your setup.” Kremona Pickup $ Numark (numark.com) Amplifies Nylon Harman’s dbx Unveils String Sound PS6 Power Supply The NG-1 bridge pickup from Kremona Hudson Music amplifies the natural sound of nylon stringed Harman’s dbx has introduced the PS6 The PMC16 can be used with traditional Launches Free guitars without modification. Utilizing the power supply for the dbx PMC16 Personal onstage monitor systems, powered personal tension of tuned strings, NG-1 installs safely Monitor Controller. The PS6 can supply AC monitors, in-ear monitors, digital snakes and Digital Bookstore and securely on the classical or flamenco gui- power for up to six separate PMC16 units. headphones. tar tie block. The PMC16 is suitable for diverse set- “Since it began shipping, our PMC16 has Hudson Music has released a free digi- When changing strings or with an ex- tings, from house of worship systems with a been met with wide acclaim from users from tal bookstore app that allows users to expe- isting set loosened, the NG-1 is placed on single mixing console to large-scale orchestra a variety of backgrounds,” said Noel Larson, rience new and classic Hudson Music titles the tie block with the input facing down- installations of up to 60 PMC16 units. market manager for portable PA, tour and on Apple, Android, and Kindle Fire devices. ward. Strings loop at the bridge around the The dbx PMC16 Personal Monitor Con- recording at Harman Signal Processing. “We The app’s features include: easy naviga- tie block, holding the NG-1 in place as the troller has a remote control design, allowing designed a high-quality multi-power sup- tion that lets users flip the pages; quick zoom strings are tuned to pitch. performers to set up and control their own ply that provides users with a functional and in and out; an interactive table of contents to A version for ukulele, the UK-1, is also personal mixes of up to 16 channels of au- flexible option that will allow them to have a quickly jump to chapters; instant playback available. dio. Each channel can be tweaked with EQ, highly scalable setup as they add additional of audio; and integrated video, including full MSRP: $79. panning, stereo width control and effects, in- PMC16s.” screen playback. $ Kremona (kremonausa.com) cluding a choice of built-in Lexicon reverbs. $ Harman (harman.com) $ Hudson Music (hudsonmusic.com)

64 UBD January 25, 2014 add ons

Elixir Strings Co-Designs HD Light Set With Taylor Guitars Elixir Strings has launched HD Light The resulting Phosphor Bronze with strings for acoustic guitar. Nanoweb Coating set, known as HD Light, The product is the result of a collabora- complements the construction of the Grand tion with Taylor Guitars’ master luthier Andy Concert and Grand Auditorium. “The in- Powers, who wanted to create a string set creased tension of the treble strings improves that would bring a bolder high end and fuller, their articulation, balancing their voice within warmer low end to the guitar maker’s Grand the mix,” said Elixir Strings engineer Justin Concert and Grand Auditorium instruments. Fogleman. “What was unexpected is that Powers felt he could achieve this articu- the interaction of the tension profile with the lation by creating a unique tension profile at soundboard also adds to the harmonic con- the bridge that allowed greater articulation tent of the bass strings, creating a warmer, of the treble strings without overloading the fuller sound. The articulation of the treble Gator Introduces soundboard. “We talked with our friends at strings, while adding harmonic content at the Elixir Strings about how the tone of these body bass end, provides a bold voice across all the Les Paul, 335 shapes could be enhanced by experimenting strings, hence the name, HD Light.” Model Guitar Cases with string tension,” said Powers. After experimenting with blending heavier medium gauge strings for the top Gator Cases’ Journeyman series includes three (treble) strings with the bass strings custom fit cases for Gibson Les Paul and of the regular light set, Fogleman said 335 model guitars. that they found that the optimum gaug- The elegant Journeyman series offers styling for the HD Light set to be .013, .017, ish cases for a variety of guitar styles. Mov- .025, .032, .042 and .053. ing away from the traditional black exterior, “The new HD Light sets are perfect the Journeyman series provides a fresh look for these narrow-body style guitars,” Pow- with its pebble weaved burlap wrapping and ers adds. “The hand feel is incredibly espresso brown trim. Antique brass hardware balanced. Knowing that I was going to get gives each Journeyman case a classic look. to use this string set actually influenced A royal blue crushed velvet lines the inte- the way I braced and voiced the guitars, rior and provides a soft cushioning for the in- because I knew that they would create a strument. An internal accessory storage com- unique tension profile.” partment is great for straps, strings, capo, Taylor has also announced that its On-Stage Stands and related accessories. Each Journeyman most popular steel-string acoustic guitars case is constructed of thick plywood. are now being factory-strung with Elixir GS7800 Hanger $ Gator Cases (gatorcases.com) Phosphor Bronze Strings with Nanoweb Uses U-mount Clamp Coating — including HD Light sets on the 300 to 800 Series. Continuing to demonstrate the versatil- $ Elixir Strings (elixirstrings.com) ity of the patent-pending u-mount clamp, On-Stage has introduced the GS7800 mic stand guitar hanger, designed with u-mount technology. The GS7800 joins On-Stage Stands’ growing line of u-mount-equipped products, ORBIT Mounts Hold including the DA-26P percussion mount, the LS7720QIK quick-connect lighting stand, the LSA7700P lighting stand arms, and the com- iOS Devices Secure prehensive line of Snap-On and folio-style tab- Triad-Orbit has released the iORBIT 1 The O2 dual boom does double duty, let covers with integrated mounting systems. and 2 mounts for all versions of Apple iPad anchoring a vocal mic and sheet music and The u-mount elliptical clamp is at the and iPhone. charts on an iPad. heart of every u-mount product. The GS7800 ORBIT mounts feature spring-loaded “Digital files displayed on the iPad are combines it with a self-adjusting swiveling D&A Gigstand Designed frames that gently but securely capture tab- quickly replacing conventional paper sheet yoke, turning any standard tripod mic stand With Musicians in Mind lets and phones and CamCutawayTM for full- music, chord and lyric charts on stages and into a hanging guitar stand. Easy-on, easy- frame photos and video. Combining a Triad in studios around the world,” said Marty Har- off, the single knob clamp secures to D&A Guitar Gear has launched a line of Stand, ORBIT O2 Dual-Orbital Boom and a rison of Access Products Group, parent com- any shaft up to .75 inches in diameter. The guitar accessories with sophisticated aesthet- iORBIT mount creates a secure platform for pany of Triad-Orbit. swivel yoke accommodates most conven- ics and reliable functionality. The company’s worship leaders as well as studio and per- “iORBIT mounts incorporate our exclu- tional headstocks, adjusting automatically so flagships product, the D&A Gigstand, is a forming musicians. sive MICROTM stainless-steel ball swivel instruments hang straight. The yoke is lined new generation of its portable guitar stands mechanism for an unparalleled range-of- with inert velveteen foam, and solid metal that unfolds with the whip of a hand and fits motion, along with the IOTM Quick-Change construction handles acoustic and electric comfortably in a gig bag. Coupler for instant connectivity to all T-O instruments up to 8 pounds. Designed to be ultra compact, lightweight stands and booms or conventional stands At the other end, an exclusive EVA bum- and intuitive, the portable guitar stand eas- equipped with IO-RTM retrofit couplers,” per is included to stabilize and protect the ily integrates into the musician’s workflow. Harrison said. “The result is rock-steady sta- body of the instrument. This bumper fits Weighing less than your average guitar cable, bility and precise positioning of iPads and around the mic stand shaft and can be po- the D&A Gigstand unfolds in two simple iPhones for viewing text, recording audio and sitioned in the best location for the particu- steps. It is covered in the soft polymer mate- video or remote control of application in any lar instrument. A zip tie is included with the rial TPE, making it safe for all guitar finishes. performance setting. With iORBIT, the world bumper for semi-permanent installation. A Although small in size, the D&A Gig- of iOS mobile computing is always at your complete kit, allowing an existing tripod mic stand is rock solid. The lattice ribbing, adapt- fingertips.” stand to pull double duty as a guitar stand, ed from the Eiffel Tower’s structure, provides Triad-Orbit Advanced Microphone Stand the GS7800 gives musicians new options in strength and support equal to more than Systems work with all industry-standard com- stage layout and equipment handling. three times that of the hollow material alone. ponents, from stand bases to mic clips. MSRP: $16.95. $ D&A (heydna.com) $ Triad-Orbit (triad-orbit.com) $ On-Stage Stands (onstagestands.com)

66 UBD January 25, 2014

Korg Reimagines the RK100S Synth/Controller Korg has debuted the RK-100S synth/ including a broad range of oscillator controller to celebrate the 30th anniversary algorithms such as the characteris- of the original RK-100. tic sawtooth and square waves found Housed in a solid-wood body, the bat- in analog synthesizers, plus formant tery-powered RK100S offers a number of waveforms, noise, and classic PCM/ additional updates from the original mod- DWGS waveforms. el. Equipped with a full palate of keyboard In addition to the 37-note slim sounds from the built-in microKORG XL+ keyboard (as featured on the Korg MS- engine, it enables users to perform in a wide 20 Mini), a short ribbon controller on variety of music genres. It also functions as the neck and a long ribbon controller a USB/MIDI controller, as well as a vocoder. in front of the key bed are included for con- key bed and can also be used to play scales There are 200 programs available in the trolling parameters such as pitch and filter. over three octaves. onboard MMT sound generation system, The long ribbon runs the entire length of the $ Korg (korg.com) DigiTech Jams With New Compact Stereo Looper Banjo Exhibit to be Featured at Harman’s DigiTech’s JamMan Express XT Compact Stereo Looper/Phrase Sampler is the Museum of Making Music the size of a standard stompbox. The JamMan Express XT offers a host of Today the banjo is nearly everywhere. It’s every genre of American popular music — capabilities, including up to 10 minutes of played on children’s television, late-night talk rom jazz to rock and from funk to punk. stereo looping time and DigiTech’s exclusive shows and at the World Series. Even Gram- Accompanied by an impressive array of JamSync feature for synchronizing multiple my-winning artists, famous comedians and historical instruments, as well as those made JamMan pedals. international megastars have placed the ban- by today’s companies large and small, the The JamMan Express XT is great for use jo at the center of their acts. exhibition will tell a story of music made Vintage & Modern with guitar, bass, keyboards and other in- From March 28 to Sept. 28, The Museum uniquely in America and how musicians, struments. Its control layout is simple yet of Making Music in Carlsbad, Calif., will ex- manufacturers, dealers, consumers, song- Positive Grid’s BIAS is a guitar amplifier versatile. A single pedal switch, three Record, plore this growing trend with a special exhib- writers and publishers all interact in a mu- modeler and designer. It’s equipped with 36 Dub and Play LEDs and a Loop Level knob it, “The Banjo: A New Day for an Old Instru- sical ecosystem centered around the banjo. replications of vintage and modern amps. provide access to many looping functions. ment.” Learn how the banjo emerged from The exhibit will include a vibrant multi- Key features include complete, accurate Using the JamSync feature, players can the plains of West Africa to plantations in the genre series of live performances and inter- and versatile amp modeling; 36 factory au- synchronize the JamMan Express XT with American South. Discover how it survived active opportunities. thentic amp models (28 guitar, four bass and other JamSync-enabled pedals to create mul- disturbing decades of blackface minstrelsy to For more information, visit museumof- four keyboard/vocal) included with the in- titrack loops or play loops with other musi- eventually thrive under the bright lights of makingmusic.org or call the museum at troductory release; and the ability to custom- cians. MSRP: $149.95. country, folk and bluegrass, and how it broke 760-304-5809. design a variety of new topologies. $ Harman (harman.com) from its traditional roots to influence nearly i NAMM (namm.org) $ Positive Grid (positivegrid.com)

68 UBD January 25, 2014

SHEL to Demo ‘d:’ Products at DPA Microphones Folk pop band SHEL will once again be the headlining act for DPA Microphones at The NAMM Show. Longtime fans of the Solid State Logic Builds company, SHEL is made up of four sisters who will perform using DPA’s d:vote 4099 Network in Denmark, Sweden Instrument Mics and d:facto II Vocal Micro- Solid State Logic has appointed Alfa Au- already had several opportunities for hands- phones equipped with a variety of adapters. dio as the ofﬁcial SSL Live console dealer in on experience with the new SSL Live. The Additionally, the company is announcing a Denmark. Arva Trading will oversee distri- layout, feature set and audio quality of the full product “d:” branding, which includes bution in Sweden. console are all perfect. We are convinced the absorption of the current 4060, 4071, “With live equipment portfolios that per- that SSL Live presents a whole new way of 4080 and 4090 Miniature Mics into the fectly complement SSL’s Live console com- working and thinking about mixing live au- d:screet Miniature Microphones group and bined with a wealth of experience in the live dio. The features of the SSL Live, combined the addition of the 4066 and 4088 Miniature market, both Alfa Audio and Arva Trading with the natural expectation of the very high Headsets to the d:ﬁne Headset Microphone are ideally suited to partner with SSL in this audio quality for which Solid State Logic is category. new venture,” said Tim Harrison, area sales known, has attracted the attention of several In addition to watching full performances manager. “The highly innovative new Live key players in the Danish pro audio market.” from the group, attendees will have the op- console has rightly generated high expecta- “Arva Trading and Solid Stage Logic have portunity to hear the true quality of the mics tions from our prospective clients to deliver longstanding and prosperous business rela- employed in SHEL’s setup at personal listen- a sales support structure of the highest stan- tions for distribution of Solid State Logic’s re- ing stations located throughout the DPA Mi- dard at the local level. This is accomplished nowned analog recording and digital broad- crophones booth. through Alfa Audio and Arva Trading.” cast consoles, and we are very pleased to The unveiling of the new d:screet Minia- “We at Alfa Audio are very excited to add have the new SSL Live added to the roster,” ture Microphone name is another step in the the SSL Live console to our product portfo- said Olof Arvidsson, managing director of company’s plans for full “d:” branding. lio,” said Morten Laulund Uldbæk, product Arva Trading. $ DPA Microphones (dpamicrophones.com) manager, SSL Live, Alfa Audio A/S. “We have $ Solid State Logic (solidstatelogic.com)

70 UBD January 25, 2014 drum pads

Vic Firth Designs 12-Lug Superdrum Two Markworth Features Triple Mallets Snare System Vic Firth has introduced two The Superdrum is a 12-lug snare drum new models to its series of Andrew designed to improve sound by increasing Markworth Corpsmaster Signature control over the tensioning of the top and Keyboard Mallets. bottom heads. The enhancement in sensitiv- As an instructor, arranger, com- ity and articulation is due to the addition poser and show designer, Andrew of four lugs to the standard eight-lug snare Markworth’s talents have been drum, a 50 percent increase. showcased with some of the very Designed by pro drummer and teacher best ensembles. Dave “Bedrock” Bedrosian, the Superdrum is The M231H is a 16 3/4-inch available in brass, maple and chrome. medium-hard model that offers $ Superdrum (superdrum12.com) a blend of warmth and articulation in all registers. It fits between the M231 and M232 in terms of hardness and features large birch Remo Introduces shafts for increased articulation and sound projection. Yamaha Stage Custom Emperor Ebony The M232L is a 16 3/4-inch Drumhead Line hard model suited for those who Birch Set Gets a Makeover appreciate the M232 but want Remo has expanded its Ebony series more agility and warmer tone Yamaha has introduced the redesigned available at traditional depths and diameters, drumhead line. at all dynamic levels. A spe- Stage Custom Birch drum set with several offering wider tuning and dynamic ranges. The new Emperor Ebony drumheads cial synthetic core coupled with significant upgrades. The floor toms, trimmed down to be under provide durability, warmth, volume and clar- 5/16-inch birch shafts provides Many of the changes are subtle, yet sub- square, provide a better tone to attack bal- ity with focused mid-range tones. Designed enhanced comfort. stantial. Yamaha upgraded the shells with the ance. The drum sets also offer excellent fin- for snare drums and tom toms, Emper- $ Vic Firth (vicfirth.com) same thicker-ply concept used on Live Cus- ishes, high-end specs and superior hardware or Ebony heads have plenty of attack for tom and rounded the bearing edges for more at a great value. maximum stick head-to-shell contact, which provides a fatter “The Stage Custom Birch has been a very articulation. sound. The Absolute style lug, which attaches successful drum set due to its incredible The line to the shell using a single screw, requires few- value,” said Dave Jewell, marketing manager, is available er holes in the shell and less metal inside the Yamaha Drums. “We listened to dealers and in a range of drum, allowing the drums to resonate more consumers and improved our number-one- sizes including fully. Die-cast claws and new spurs adorn the selling drum set in many ways. From pro 6-inch, 8-inch, bass drum and the snare drum now includes finishes to the new Absolute lug casing, the 10-inch, 12- 10 lugs for more precise tuning. Stage Custom Birch drum set will continue inch, 13-inch, 14-inch, 16-inch and 18-inch Stage Custom Birch kits also come in to set the standard for the industry.” heads. MSRP: $27.90–$48.90. new sizes. Tom and floor tom sizes are now $ Yamaha (yamaha.com) $ Remo (remo.com) Mapex Drum Goes Out of This World With New Mars Series Drum Kits

Mapex’s Mars series of drums and hard- sit flat. That frustration, especially for play- on its premium line of Saturn IV drums and ware are designed for aspiring players ready ers who are learning the art of tuning their brought them into the mid-range to enhance to replace their beginner kits, and for young- drums, can lead to a lack of enjoyment and the performance of this gig-quality series. er players in search of a mid-priced drum set less time playing.” The SONIClear rack tom suspension system that is easy to tune and maintain. Mapex has taken design elements found increases overall resonance by preserving Hal Leonard The Mars Series Shell Packs vibration in the shell and offer shallow-depth 100 percent drumheads and prevent- Gives Essential birch shells, complete with the ing the loss of energy that Drum Set Lessons new SONIClear Bearing Edge, can make drums sound which increases the contact be- choked. Hal Leonard has published the book/CD tween the drumhead and shell The Mars hardware pack 100 Essential Drumset Lessons, aimed and allows the head to sit flat on series is designed to be at drummers of all styles and levels. the edge. The SONIClear Bear- paired with Mars kits. It offers self-contained tutorials, ample ing Edge produces a stronger and It’s the perfect step-up examples and exercises, and more than 300 more centered pitch and makes hardware choice to re- demo and play-along tracks. the drums easy to tune. place beginner hardware. This thorough book/CD pack covers ba- “The drum manufacturing The double-braced Mars sic beats and fills, soloing concepts, odd- community hasn’t paid a lot of stands are heavy duty. time playing, brush playing, swing concepts attention to the importance of This all-purpose hard- and metric superimposition. Author Terry bearing edges over the years,” ware is available in packs O’Mahoney delves into rock, jazz, funk, met- said Mike Robinson, director or as individual pieces, al, hip-hop, blues, country, reggae, Afro-Cu- of marketing for KHS America. and comes in a choice ban and other world music drumming styles. “Specifically, players have had a of chrome and a spe- The book also includes advice on produc- difficult time tuning their drums cial black-plated finish tive practicing techniques, transcribing drum and making them sound good be- and can endure years of parts, creating an original drum part for a cause the apex of the edge is too playing. song, and five drum set audition solos. far to the outside of the shell, and $ Mapex (usa.mapex- $ Hal Leonard (halleonard.com) they can’t get the drumhead to drums.com)

72 UBD January 25, 2014 Go Fish: Lanikai Reels In Solid Spruce TunaUkes Lanikai Ukuleles’ first series of solid and this new series offers some of the best wood ukuleles equipped with TunaUke is a playing ukes in the world. new technology that uses a compensated nut “Uke players and movable saddle to deliver a significant don’t know what intonation improvement. they have been The new ukes feature solid spruce tops, missing; most uku- mahogany back and sides, rosewood bridge leles have never and fingerboard, geared chrome tuners and sounded this good genuine Aquila strings. and only Lanikai’s “Solid spruce tops have always been a fa- TunaUke offers vorite for guitarists,” said Product Manager this performance.” Leon Lewis. “We feel that this top can also be MSRP: From $199. used to build great sounding ukes. Combine $ Lanikai Ukuleles this construction with TunaUke technology (lanikaiukes.com)

Ibanez Rocks Iron Label Series With New Additions to ARZ Models Ibanez has added the RG Series eight-string guitar and a new RG Baritone guitar to its Iron Label series of single-cutaway ARZ models. The new Iron Label ARZ instruments include a six-string model, available in black, white and a figured bubinga top in a Dark Brown Sunburst with gold hardware. A new seven-string model will also be available in black or bubinga sunburst. The RG body-style baritone RGIB6BK a basswood body, and a 28-inch scale Nitro and eight-string will make their debut in Baritone neck for a full, rich tone. the Iron Label series. The RGIB6BK features $ Ibanez (ibanez.com) PreSonus Two-Way Monitor Powered by 25 Watts PreSonus has added the Eris E4.5 studio by a 25 watt Class AB amplifier. reference monitor as the third model in the $ PreSonus (presonus.com) Eris series of two-way monitor speakers. The E4.5 delivers professional audio quality and can be adjusted to the acoustic space. The affordable monitor speaker is ideal for bedroom studios, school music programs or as a high-quality replacement for computer speakers. The Eris E4.5 features a 4.5-inch, Kev- lar low-frequency transducer, a 1-inch, silk- dome, high-frequency tweeter and a rear bass-reflect port. Each speaker is powered

Roland Offers Dynamic Response in HP500 Models Roland has unveiled three new models in the HP500 series of digital pianos: HP508, HP506 and HP504. The pianos come equipped with Roland’s SuperNATURAL piano sound engine, offering tonal variations, natural note decay and dynamic response. New features include an upright piano tone, a Dynamic Harmonic function for for- while all models in the HP500 series include tissimo playing and Individual Note Voicing the Headphones 3D Ambience effect. to customize the piano’s sound to suit the us- The new PHA-4 Concert (HP508 and er’s playing style or home environment. HP506) and Premium (HP504) keyboards The HP508 and HP506 models feature include Roland’s touch-detection technology. Roland’s Acoustic Projection audio system, $ Roland (rolandus.com)

74 UBD January 25, 2014

Deering Eagle II Banjo Amplifies With No Squeal Hundreds of thousands have seen Deer- ing’s Eagle II acoustic/electric model banjo played on stage thanks to folk-rock band Mumford & Sons. Of primary importance to the instrument’s success is the addition of the Ka- vanjo Pickup System. This system features a hand-wound humbucker pickup that is mounted through the head of the banjo and a jack installed on the flange. The banjo features a new amplification system with the and resonator stained in a rich, dark brown patent-pending TwentyTen tone ring, mak- with a glossy finish. ing it capable of being clearly heard in larger $ Deering Banjo Company venues. Other features include a maple neck (deeringbanjos.com)

Hal Leonard Surveys the Decades With Ukulele Songbooks

Hal Leonard has unveiled the Ukulele The 1950s songbook contains classics Decade series of like “At The Hop,” “Blue Suede Shoes” songbooks. and “You Send Me.” The 1960s offers Each of the six “Both Sides Now,” “Ruby Tuesday” and songbooks con- “Stand By Me.” The 1970s features tains the melody, “The Joker,” “Rocky Mountain High” lyrics, chord sym- and “Y.M.C.A.” bols and ukulele Hits in The 1980s songbook in- chord grids for 80 clude “Beat It,” “Call Me” and “Foot- top tunes from a loose,” while The 1990s has “All speciﬁc decade, I Wanna Do,” “Hero” and “Smells with new arrange- Like Teen Spirit.” The 2000s in- ments playable cludes “Since U Been Gone” and on any type of “Stacy’s Mom.” MSRP: $17.99–$22.99. ukulele. $ Hal Leonard (halleonard.com)

Washburn Guitars ‘Idol’-izes WI40NM Washburn Guitars has added the with keystone buttons. WI40NM to its Idol family of solid-body The electronics are what make this guitar guitars. a real star. A hot alnico bridge humbucking The WI40NM features a solid, two-piece pickup wound to 16k has been chosen to ex- mahogany satin-ﬁnished body with a Cana- cel at rock tones and soloing. The WI40NM dian maple set neck with recessed heel for comes equipped with D’Addario strings. upper-fret access. The 22-fret ebony ﬁnger- $ Washburn Guitars (washburn.com) board accentuates the pearloid block inlays, and the gloss-black capped headstock features pearloid Wash- burn logo and stylized W inlay. The all-black hardware complements the mahogany and maple and features a tune-o-matic bridge with stop tailpiece and Grover 18:1 tuners

Yamaha DTX502 Electronic Drums Sound, Play Better

Yamaha has revamped its DTX502 electronic drums. Based on the DTX-PAD, the new kits feature redesigned tom pads, a lighter-weight steel rack, a laser-enhanced playing experience and a new drum trigger module that is more powerful than anything in its class. The DTX502 drum trigger module includes 691 professional and expressive sounds featuring new drum and cymbal voices, along with upgraded versions of clas- module for virtually endless sonic capabili- sic Yamaha acoustic drums. The system lets ties. A built-in sequencer provides a wide va- drummers customize their sound with ed- riety of songs to play along with and record iting and voice layering and offers the abil- performances. ity to import new drum samples into the $ Yamaha (yamaha.com)

76 UBD January 25, 2014

Vintage Debuts Viator Travel Acoustic

Vintage and Paul Brett have announced their third collaboration, the Vintage Viator acoustic guitar. This travel-sized parlour acoustic features a solid sitka spruce top, sapele back and Primacoustic sides and customized X-scalloped bracing. The word “viator” means traveller in Lat- Takes Europe in, and this guitar comes with a Vintage cus- Radial Engineering recently announced tom Viator padded carry bag. that its full line of Primacoustic acoustic “I am proud treatments are now being warehoused in Eu- to present the rope for the European and Middle Eastern Kala Donates 1,200 Ukuleles new Viator trav- markets. el guitar,” Brett “We are experiencing a growing de- to Educational Programs said. “This guitar mand for our products in these markets, will suit both be- particularly for commercial and private stu- Kala Brand Music has donated more than said Jessica Baron, executive director, Guitars ginners and pro- dios,” said Steve McKay, Radial’s export sales 1,200 ukuleles to Guitars in the Classroom in the Classroom. “Ukes offer these students fessionals who manager. (GITC) for classroom programs in Massa- an irresistible experience on par with cud- want to have i Primacoustic (primacoustic.com) chusetts, Michigan, South Carolina, Virginia dling a puppy, making new musical friends a great-sound- and California. and experiencing authentic self-expression ing and afford- Teachers who complete the beginning — all at once. We are beyond grateful to Kala able guitar that level of training with GITC are eligible to for making this possible.” they can fit into Save the Dates! apply for ukuleles for their students to play “Kala is excited to be leading the way in small spaces for during regular academic lessons. Students enabling music literacy as a tool for all learn- travelling conve- Plan ahead to attend NAMM’s upcoming write original songs using the ukes in order ing,” said Rick Carlson of Kala Brand Mu- nience. My in- trade shows. to aid in learning lessons in math, science, sic. “Teachers now have the ability to impart spiration for this Summer NAMM will be held in Nash- social studies, language arts and more. multiple skills with ukulele in the education- guitar came from ville, Tenn., from July 17–19. It celebrates Classrooms typically receive a set of six al arena, and we are proud that it is having the early 20th- the importance of the local music store and instruments so that children can take turns a profound impact on students. Kala looks century style of honors the industry’s Top 100 dealers. being in their classroom string band. Many forward to continuing this partnership with guitars, and the Musikmesse Russia and Prolight + Sound schools later decide to purchase a full set of Guitars in the Classroom in 2014.” sound the Viator NAMM Russia will be held in Moscow from ukuleles. GITC has trained almost 10,000 teach- produces both in September 11–14. “The addition of ukulele to our work su- ers and school staff members to lead musi- fingerstyle and The NAMM Show 2015 will be held again per-charges students’ academic learning, fu- cally integrated lessons across the academic strumming modes is very much reminiscent in Anaheim, Calif., from January 22–25. eling their passion for making and sharing curriculum. of that era.” i NAMM (namm.org) music, and boosting their self confidence,” i Kala (kalabrand.com) $ John Hornby Skewes (jhs.co.uk)

78 UBD January 25, 2014 Tanglewood Brings Sundance Sax Dakota Natural Series to North America Features Tanglewood has introduced its Sundance The Dreadnought and Orchestra models Natural series of guitars to North America. have solid spruce tops and mahogany back New Finishes The stripped-down instruments feature and sides, while the TW45W-OP-E Super Tanglewood’s Open Pore technology, a pro- Folk model combines solid cedar and Amer- Sax Dakota has unveiled the Dakota XG prietary finishing process that utilizes a thin ican black walnut. Type alto and tenor saxophone available film sealant, allowing the body to breathe MSRP: TW15-OP Dreadnought , in two custom metallic finishes — antique and resonate more freely. $679; TW15-OP-CE Dreadnought, $899; bronze or matte black body with silver plate The process gives the guitars accentuat- TW45W-OP-E Super Folk, $899; TW70-OP bell, bow and neck. ed bass and middle registers, while the treble Orchestra , $679. Both models reflect the original design tones remain similar to instruments with a $ Tanglewood Guitars (tanglewoodguitars. and specifications for all Dakota saxophones, more traditional lacquer finish. com) including oversized, grouted bells, double key arms for all bell key cups, 77 percent coper content brass alloy, fast taper neck design and solid stainless steel key rods. MSRP: $3,375–$3,675. $ Sax Dakota (saxdakota.com)

Kaltman Creations Offers Touch Tablet RF Analyzers Kaltman Creations’ RF-Vue T10 is the sweep range (within the range of the ana- ﬂagship model in the company’s line of RF lyzer) and view the RF spectrum looking for Analyzers. The handheld unit that is inte- open RF space for channel selections, inter- grated into a 10-inch touch tablet with the ference avoidance or interference trouble- full Windows 8 operating system. shooting, all in real-time. The T10 covers the standard wireless The unit features current, average and microphone and IEM frequency range of peak spectral traces, Touch-to-Listen (lis- 470 MHz to 700 MHz. Additional models ten-in to all RF are available with greater frequency ranges. space); a RF Standalone RF software modules are also Congestion Scale available, for use with user-supplied com- to gauge the se- puters or tablets. verity of local RF; The analyzer has full ﬁnger navigation and customizable functions so the user can pinch, expand- screen markers. zoom and slide through the RF spectrum $ Kaltman Cre- with ease. As a true handheld RF spectrum ations (kaltman analyzer, the user can enter any frequency creationsllc.com)

Franke Introduces Stroke Machine Franke Music has introduced its debut product, Stroke Machine, a professional drum and groove synthesizer for Apple’s iPad (iOS 6.0 or higher). Stroke Machine can be programmed with rhythm and groove patterns. With just a stroke, users can switch between the patterns during a live performance, mute or solo individual instruments, change parameters on the fly and record performances as high- quality audio files for sharing or subsequent editing on a computer. Stroke Machine’s attractive, high-contrast user interface is suited to overcoming less- than-ideal onstage lighting conditions. The product’s synthesizer engine features a high-quality oscillator, filter, overdrive, envelopes and LFO, a pattern sequencer and a sample, sound and pattern library. $ Franke Music (frankemusic.com)

80 UBD January 25, 2014

Go Anywhere With SoundBox Mini Behringer Debuts The Vox SoundBox Mini is a mobile me- users to easily set the delay time in sync with Motor Series dia player with optional battery power. It can the tempo. be used with any audio source from MP3 The Vox SoundBox Mini boasts an E- The new Motor series USB/MIDI key- players to microphones, as well as instru- string tuner that can be used with instru- board controllers from Behringer include the ments, such as guitar, bass and keyboard. ments connected to the guitar jack. It can MOTOR61 and MOTOR49, with 61 and 49 Vox SoundBox Mini features new proprie- also be mounted directly onto a mic stand, keys, respectively. The controllers combine tary Acoustage sound technology, as well as for use as a keyboard monitor, or for person- the features of a professional keyboard con- a rugged, die-cast aluminum casing for use al use. MSRP: $199. troller, a bank of nine touch-sensitive motor- anywhere. $ Vox (voxamps.com) ized faders and a bank of drum pads — all In addition to audio playback and jam- of which integrate ming along to MP3s, Vox SoundBox Mini seamlessly with any can also be used for vocal training. As a prac- DAW. tice tool for aspiring vocalists, a center can- MAP: MO- cel function can eliminate vocals from audio TOR61, $299; MO- Cleartone Now that’s playing via the aux in jack. TOR49, $249. Strings New Eight effects are available, including de- $ Behringer (beh Gibson Electrics lay, reverb and more. The tap button enables ringer.com) Gibson USA electric guitars now come with factory-installed Cleartone strings. This move reunited the late Cleartone owner Phil Harman Soundcraft Si Performer Lights Everly with Gibson. “Gibson has given my family so much joy over the years,” Everly said, shortly before Up Audio World, Tours Widely his passing. “My dad’s prized possession was Harman Soundcraft’s Si Performer has at- have a band playing, we can plug in over the FaderGlow changes color, so you never his L-5. And I’ll never forget my years tour- tracted customers in numerous applications, MADI and the Si Performer will double as make a mistake when moving from FOH to ing the world; ﬁrst with my J-200 and later including education, houses of worship, a monitor and front of house console,” said monitor mixes,” October said. my Everly Brothers model J-185.” concerts and corporate events. Chris Thoms, production manager. $ Harman (harman.com) Cleartone strings are wound at the com- The famous London club Ministry of Bryony October, long-term pany’s North Hollywood, Calif., factory. Gib- Sound recently added a new Soundcraft Si FOH engineer for The Noi- son USA switched to Cleartone after testing Performer digital console. At the same time, settes, recently took to the road in a retail environment found the strings Ministry of Sound purchased a Compact with singer/songwriter Delilah. on Cleartone-strung guitars remained new- Stagebox, which with the MADI card and She has become an early adopt- sounding longer than uncoated strings. single Cat5 connection to the Si Performer er of an Si Performer console. Cleartone’s Gibson set includes string gaug- gives them a capacity of 64 I/O’s. “It has screens on each es: .009, .011, .016, .026, .036 and .046. “With the I/O expansion, not only do we channel, so you can see the i Gibson (gibson.com) get the increase in channel count but if we compressors and gates, and

82 UBD January 25, 2014 marketplace UBD January 25, 2014 83 marketplace 84 UBD January 25, 2014 marketplace UBD January 25, 2014 85 marketplace 86 UBD January 25, 2014

Solid-Top Studio CharterOak 3 Band Ultra Auralex Gets Series Bass From Parametric EQ Has Pro Appeal Moving With Breedlove Has CharterOak has introduced the K500 ul- high and low bands; and frequency divided Freestanding Panels Extra-Deep Body tra parametric three-band equalizer. by 10 switch in mid band. Auralex Acoustics has launched the Pro- The K500 features high headroom and The unit has 12 dB of cut and boost in 2 GO moveable freestanding acoustical panels. The Studio Bass guitar from Breedlove low distortion on three ultra-wide bands. dB steps via 11-position rotary switch with le- This acoustical panel is a portable, light- is a solid-top 4-string that takes full advan- Seeking to appeal to a wide audience of au- ver control, and –24 weight and highly efficient absorber that’s tage of Breedlove’s bass bracing and features dio professionals, the K500 will fit into any dB cut selection on effective on the stage, in the studio, in the the Breedlove Bridge Truss system, which re- 500 series powered rack. each band for cor- classroom, in home theaters, in hi-fi listening lieves stress on Other features of the K500 include: con- rective wide band- spaces and more. the guitar’s top stantly variable low band center frequency width cut or correc- This portable absorber consists of a cus- while provid- sweep from 20 Hz–500 Hz; constantly vari- tive notch filter. tom, two-sided ProPanel assembly fitted ing additional able mid band center frequency sweep from $ CharterOak into a custom black sustain and 500 Hz–10 kHz; constantly variable high Acoustic Devices melamine-laminat- balance. band center frequency sweep from 800 Hz– (charteroakacous- ed base that can be The instru- 20 kHz; bell and shelf selection switch in tics.com) outfitted with op- ment sports tional casters for in- an extra-deep creased portability. jumbo body The ProGO, that sounds as available in 2’x6’x8” great acousti- Genelec Offers M040 or 4’x4’x8” configu- cally as it does rations, rests in the plugged in. included floorstand The Breed- Bi-Amplified Active Monitors and is easily moved love Jumbo is Genelec has unveiled the M040 Bi-am- superb imaging. to accommodate a the company’s plified Active Monitors. They are in Genel- The M040 also utilizes a Laminar Inte- wide variety of set- largest body ec’s energy-efficient M Series, which takes a grated Port (LIP) for accurate low-frequency ups. It’s suitable for shape by vol- new approach to monitor design as part of response and minimizing the enclosure vi- controlling early ume and was Genelec’s larger ongoing sustainable initia- bration and employs an integrated advanced reflections and is designed for tives known as GES (Genelec Embedded Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW), also highly effec- big acous- Sustainability). yielding large internal volumes with out- tive as a bass trap tic depth and The M040 employs a Natural Composite standing mechanical strength. when stood across a presence. Enclosure (NCE) manufactured for Genelec The M040 employs a 6.5-inch woofer room’s corners. The Every in Finland from wood fiber and recyclable with a 1-inch metal dome tweeter, powered ProGO is an effec- Breedlove in- material. The M040 uses Genelec enclosure by an 80-watt and 50-watt amplifier respec- tive solution for any strument undergoes a rigorous 25-to-30- design heritage, featuring rounded edges tively. The free-field frequency response is space where boundary-mounted acoustical point inspection in Bend, Ore. and gently curved front and sides to pro- 48Hz-20kHz (+/-3dB). treatments might not be desirable. $ Breedlove (breedlovemusic.com) vide minimized cabinet edge diffraction and $ Genelec (genelecusa.com) $ Auralex Acoustics (auralex.com)

88 UBD January 25, 2014

D’Addario Products Featured at SIR Locations Nationwide

D’Addario now equips Studio Instru- rehearsal that is unmatched.” ment Rentals (SIR). SIR’s network is tied together by hun- SIR’s Solutions Network boasts 13 facili- dreds of committed professionals with years ties stocked with the largest backline invento- of experience working toward a common ry of its kind, ranging from the latest and most goal: to satisfy customers with top-of-the- popular items to sought-after vintage instru- line service, gear and facilities. Each studio is ments. Many of their offices also provide qual- equipped with Planet Waves cables, the fin- ity production stages and rehearsal studios. est sound system, many high-end and hand- “We are thrilled to be part of the SIR wired boutique guitar amps, the ultimate experience,” said Marco Soccoli, director bass amp setup, top-of-the-line keyboards Yamaha U1TA of artist relations. “We proudly share their and drum kits outfitted with Evans drum- Waves Models commitment in providing every client an ex- heads. PE Upright Turns cellent value in quality music equipment and $ D’Addario (daddario.com) Scheps 73 Plug-in Soundboard Into on Classic EQ/Pre Waves Audio has debuted its Scheps 73 Loudspeaker plug-in. The Waves Scheps 73 is a color- Yamaha’s U1TA PE professional upright West Coast Pedal Board ful, three-band EQ modeled on the classic piano reproduces all sounds (in addition to 1073 console EQ and mic preamp module. the acoustic piano) from the soundboard Revamps Website It was developed in association with world- rather than from a traditional speaker. West Coast Pedal Board has an- westcoastpedalboard.com, featuring the renowned mixing engineer Andrew Scheps The U1TA PE uses TransAcoustic tech- nounced the launch of its new website, company’s standard line of pedalboards, as (Adele, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Black Sab- nology, which turns the entire soundboard well as its Custom Shop bath, Lana Del Ray, Metallica, Jay-Z). Using of the piano into one big loudspeaker — and accessories store. technologies for the modeling of the Marinair which means that any sound can be deliv- “We have stream- transformer, Waves meticulously captured ered through this resonant component. lined our website so it is all the sonic characteristics of the 1073, in- The U1TA has 19 additional instrument easier than ever to find cluding its harmonic distortion, whose over- sounds onboard to expand the creative pos- the board that’s right for tones were tweaked by Andrew Scheps him- sibilities in a variety of musical applications. you, or to design the self, resulting in authentic saturations. But, unlike other digital instruments where custom board of your “Being able to EQ in MS mode opens up sound emanates from fixed points (direc- dreams,” said Spencer a whole new range of possibilities for my tional speakers), this piano’s novel use of Henderson, West Coast workflow,” Scheps said. “I think about EQ- the entire soundboard makes the resultant Pedal Board founder. ing in ways I never have before with tradi- sound envelop the user. $ West Coast Pedal Board tional hardware.” $ Yamaha (yamaha.com) (westcoastpedalboard.com) $ Waves (waves.com)

90 UBD January 25, 2014

Ibanez Launches Los Cabos Makes it a Combo Henry Heller Offers Artwood Series With New Duo Model True Originals With Tenor Guitar Los Cabos has unveiled the new Duo very focused attack while creating a wonder- Henry Heller has debuted 2-inch subli- Ibanez’s AVT1NT is a parlor-sized, four- model, a stick and mallet combo. The Duo ful overall balanced feel.” mation printed polyester guitar straps with string tenor guitar featuring a solid sitka combines the company’s 3A Maple drum- The Duo is 16.25 by .586 inches. original, vivid designs. spruce top, mahogany back and sides and stick with a 1-inch hard-felt mallet. MSRP: $25.64. All the straps are adjustable to 66 inch- bone nut and saddle. “The Duo is like the younger sibling of $ Los Cabos (loscabosdrumsticks.com) es and feature The guitar has a mahogany neck, rose- our Multi-Stick,” stitched microfi- wood bridge and fretboard, black and white said Matt Carter, ber ends. multi-rosette and a natural high gloss fin- director of market- There are 21 ish. Chrome turn-of-the-century Butterbean ing and artist rela- new designs, all open-gear tuners complete the vintage vibe tions for Los Cabos. with a price point while providing modern-day tuning stability. “Using maple al- that ensures large The tenor guitar’s popularity has begun lows for an overall dealer margins. to rebound. It is becoming more commonly lighter feel to this $ OMG Music utilized by contemporary artists — Ameri- stick and the hard (omgmusic.com) cana musicians in particular. felt beater delivers a Tuned in fifths, it’s akin to the violin and mandolin family of instruments and can be played using the same scales and chord shapes. Shadow Offers Guitarists adapt to the tenor quickly, and the instrument NAMM Price makes a welcome addition to a wide vari- Reductions ety of genres, including country, swing, Shadow Electronics has offered spe- jazz, folk and pop. cial price reductions of 30 to 47 percent for “We’ve always NAMM 2014 on the following items: The SH called Artwood our 330 single coil passive sound hole pickup in ‘modern approach to maple finish, the SH 145 (black or gold) ac- acoustic guitar tradi- tive sound hole humbucker pickup and the tion,’” said Frank Fac- SH Stomp Box percussive stomp box. MAP: ciolo, acoustic guitar SH 330, $49.99; SH 145, $129.99; SH product manager. Stomp Box, $99.99. $ Ibanez (ibanez. $ Shadow Electronics com) (shadow-electronics.com)

92 UBD January 25, 2014

New Sonor Shell Packs Boast Dramatic Punch, Even Vibrations Sonor’s two new shell packs feature Ca- snare. MSRP: Select Stage, $1,572.50; Select nadian maple shells and high-quality Sonor Drive, $1,852.50. fittings. $ Sonor (sonor.com) Select Stage is a five-piece shell set available in Dark Forest Burst or Maple. Canadian maple is a hard, dense wood, producing dramatic punch, superb tone and even vibrations. The nine-layer shells offer rich, warm tone, highlighting lower pitches while maintaining a smooth balance between mids and highs. The Select Stage kit consists of a 22- by 17.5-inch bass drum, 10- by 8-inch and 12- by 9-inch rack toms with a 16- by 16-inch floor tom and a 14- by 5.5-inch wooden Roland Rolls Out DP90Se, DP90e Digital Upright Pianos

Roland has introduced the DP90Se and Headphones 3D Ambience effect. DP90e, two new digital upright pianos. $ Roland (rolandus.com) The DP90Se is available in Polished Eb- ony or Polished White ﬁnishes, while the DP90e is available in Contemporary Black ﬁnish. The DP90 series of pianos feature Ro- land’s SuperNATURAL technology. Other enhancements include new upright instrument tone, a Dynamic Harmonic function for fortissimo playing and Individual Note Voicing. The DP90Se and DP90e feature onboard audio systems, and Roland’s new

Tycoon Percussion Partners With Dancing Drum Founders Tycoon Percussion has teamed up again Siam Oak wood, the 12-inch Pro series djem- with Steve Campbell and Lindsay Rust, co- be has a smooth, hand-rubbed matte ﬁnish. founders of Dancing Drum, to release the Additional fea- new 12-inch Pro series djembe. tures include a calf Campbell and Rust’s extensive experi- skin head secured ences in Africa have inspired in them a cul- by a high tension turally diverse and successful approach to bright red rope and integrating drumming programs into music a decorative brass classrooms. The 12-inch Pro series djembe metal design locat- has a traditional West African shell shape that ed at the bottom of produces a rich, open tone and a profound the shell. bass tone. The quad-ring design features two $ Tycoon Percus- top and two bottom rings for superior tun- sion (tycoonpercus ing. Constructed of environmentally-friendly sion.com)

Zoom Guitar Pedals Feature Multi-Effects

Zoom has debuted the next-generation and chromatic tuner. G1on and G1Xon guitar effects pedals. “Zoom has long been leading the way in The G1on provides 75 guitar effects, multi-effects,” said Eric Battin, product man- while the G1Xon offers 80 effects and adds ager at Zoom. “We’re especially proud that a built-in expression pedal. Onboard DSP effects include compressors, noise gates, ﬁlters, equalizers, wahs, boosters, overdrives, fuzzes, phas- ers, ﬂangers, chorus, pitch-shifting, tremolo and vibrato, as well as reverbs and delays. In addition, there are 22 amp models and special effects such as a ring modulator our innovations in stomp-box effects pedals and intelligent harmonizer, plus an acoustic have become the go-to choice for guitarists guitar simulator and Zoom’s noise reduction the world over. Now, with the release of the algorithm. Up to 5 effects can be used simul- G1on and G1Xon, we’re breaking down bar- taneously, chained together in any order, and riers of both sound and price.” there’s also a looper, rhythm accompaniment $ Zoom (zoom-na.com)

94 UBD January 25, 2014 Samson Offers Portable Power With XP1000 Samson’s Expedition XP1000 Portable to use the system with additional powered P.A. system is an all-in-one sound system that speakers. packs tons of power into a compact design. Its two-way vented speakers give a clean, The XP1000 is Bluetooth-enabled and powerful stereo sound. features a removable 10-channel mixer. A $ Samson Technologies (samsontech.com) 1000-watt lightweight, Class D ampliﬁer powers the XP1000. The mixer features four mic/line input channels, each with XLR and 1/4-inch inputs for connecting microphones or active line-level instruments. It also includes three stereo input channels for connecting external devices. The XP1000 provides 16 presets of high quality DSP effects. For larger applications, the XP1000 provides stereo monitor outputs with level control

True Wireless Solution Samson’s Synth 7 offers a pro-level UHF optimal frequencies in the area for interfer- wireless solution at an affordable price. It’s ence-free performance. available in handheld, headset, lavalier and The Synth 7 offers over 90 available chan- guitar conﬁgurations. nels, allowing for up to 20 systems to operate The system’s receiver features a full-color simultaneously. It also includes an excellent LCD, a user-friendly menu and a Pilot Tone signal-to-noise ratio, a wireless range of up Squelch/auto mute function that eliminates to 300 feet as well as an increased dynamic RF noise when the transmitter is turned off. range. The system’s scan mode is designed to locate $ Samson Technologies (samsontech.com)

Solid-Wood Masterworks Alvarez will unveil its newly designed, all-solid wood Masterworks series. Four- teen new models will be showcased, with five body shapes — including dreadnought, grand auditorium, OM, parlor and classical. The models also feature two different choices of wood configurations: African mahogany/ mahogany and sitka/rosewood. The guitars feature a bracing system called FST2M. Both the mahogany and sitka tuners with ebony buttons, ebony bridge models have 1.5 mm Paua abalone purfling pins and pearl and abalone inlays. All mod- and the mahogany models come in a Shad- els come in a high gloss finish, with maple owburst finish. and koa bindings. They are fitted with real Alvarez Masterworks series also feature bone nuts and saddles. MAP: $599–$1,099. a one-piece mahogany neck, premium gold $ Alvarez (alvarezguitars.com)

96 UBD January 25, 2014

Celestion Lawing Rolls Out Celebrates 90th Underwound Series Anniversary Lawing Musical Products has introduced the Underwound series of pickups which Celestion is commemorating its 90th an- are designed to be more compatible with the niversary by launching the limited edition conventional 250 k ohms control potenti- G12-35XC guitar speaker. The speaker has ometers found in most S-Style guitars. a total production run of only 3,000 units. Zexcoil Underwound pickups use the Available in 8 or 16 ohms, the 35XC is same patented tone tuning technology as the a pressed steel frame, ceramic magnet gui- vintage, fat and bucker lines to deliver the tar speaker that delivers 35-watt power han- full range of vintage S-Style and humbucker dling and an output sensitivity of 100 dB. tones. The speaker exhibits evenness and freedom Zexcoil pickups are also now shipping from souring colorations and features char- with interchangeable covers. They also in- acteristics typical of speakers with Pulsonic clude noise-free tone, no dummy coils or ex- cones. cessive shielding and negligible string pull. $ Celestion (celestion.com) $ Zexcoil (zexcoil.com) CLASSIFIEDS Blipsonic, CDM Release Compact Bass Synth Blipsonic and CDM (CreateDigitalMu- sic.com) have announced the MeeBlip anode, a compact bass synth which combines an analog ﬁlter with digital sound sources in an easy-to-understand, compact sound package. The MeeBlip anode is part analog, part digital and capable of producing a range of aggressive, bass-heavy sounds. Users just plug in a keyboard, computer, iPad (via adapter), or controller via the MIDI port to play notes. The MeeBlip’s digital side reproduces the sound and architecture of classic synthesizers, but with an emphasis on adding personality, especially in the low end. Its all-new analog ﬁl- ter with resonance can range from smooth to raunchy. $ Meeblip (meeblip.com)

MOD Kits DIY Adds Wahtz Wah Pedal Kit

The Wahtz Wah Pedal Kit produces the classic Wah tone with a hint of extra bite and growl. True bypass switching insures no loss of signal when the Wah effect is not en- gaged and the long life potentiometer manufactured speciﬁcally for use in Wah pedals is included to provide years of smooth, quiet operation. Point to point construction lets advanced kit builders easily experiment with modiﬁcations. MOD Kits and Assemblies are designed to give novice and experienced musicians the opportunity to build or modify their own amps, effects pedals and guitars. All kits come with easy-to-follow instructions and use point-to-point wiring. $ MOD Kits DIY (modkitsdiy.com) UBD January 25, 2014 97

Fretlight’s GT Control Software for Teachers Lights Up Students’ Frets in Real-time Fretlight Guitar’s new Fretlight GT Con- the fingering positions will stay lit even after trol software is tool designed specifically for the instructor has stopped playing. guitar instructors. With both student and teacher connect- Industry studies show that 80 percent ed through interactive software, the teach- of first-time guitar players quit. To combat er has complete real-time control over the that stat, the Fretlight GT Control software student’s Fretlight Guitar system, making displays anything a teacher plays on their it possible to maximize learning speed and MIDI equipped guitar or controller in real- enhance the student’s overall retention and time on a student’s Fretlight Guitar. Teachers enjoyment. GT Control Software is available can even “paint” individual notes, chords or online for $199.99. complete scales on the student’s guitar and $ Fretlight (fretlight.com)

Dunlop Rolls Out MXR Bass Preamp The MXR Bass Preamp combines a bass preamp with a studio-quality direct out in a phase 90-sized box, providing clear tone without hogging pedalboard space. Players can use it to add a new voice to an old passive bass or sweeten up any amp by dialing it in and sending it straight to the house — pre or post-EQ — with its built-in DI capability. The bass preamp Schlagwerk Strikes Deal features separate input and output Schlagwerk has announced that Kelley David Kelley, Kelley Percussion boasts a com- level controls and Percussion will be the exclusive U.S. distrib- prehensive catalog of fast-turning drums and a 3-band EQ sec- utor for Schlagwerk Percussion. accessories from DrumCraft, TRX, Cymbag tion with sweepable Schlagwerk, the German-based manu- Cympad, Vater, Innovative Percussion, Kick- midrange — from facturer, began in a garage in 1982 and was Port, Mike Balter and Regal Tip. The compa- 250 hz to 1 khz. The among the first companies to see the poten- ny is able to provide efficient service to drum Bass Preamp fea- tial of the cajon for modern percussionists. shops and music stores throughout across tures a ground lift Since the introduction of the first Schlag- the Americas from its warehouses located switch. werk cajon in 1986, the company has re- throughout the United States. $ Dunlop (jimdun mained a leader in the cajon market. i Kelley Percussion, Schlagwerk lop.com) Owned and operated by MI veteran (kelleypercussion.com; schlagwerk.com) 98 UBD January 25, 2014 appearances

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2014

10:30 a.m. Victor Wooten 5:00 p.m. Samson Technologies Jason Mraz with Raining Jane. Booth 4828 Taylor Guitars Room 213ABC 11:00 a.m. PT Gazell (also at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.) Seydel Harmonicas Jason Mraz Booth 3028

12:00 p.m. Tosin Abasi Reunion Blues Booth 5968

12:00 p.m. Iron Maidens Peavey Electronics Booth 201 Victor Wooten

1:00 p.m. Ethan Brosh ISP Technologies, LLC Booth 5863

1:00 p.m. Marty Friedman Paul Reed Smith Guitars Booth 210B

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Signing with Munky for VOX Amps. Korg Macy Gray Booth 6440A

1:00 p.m. Matt Sorum Gretsch Drums 3rd ﬂoor, Room 304 (next to Ballroom E)

2:00–3:00 p.m. Macy Gray Avid Munky Booth 6400

3:00 p.m. Dave Amato TonePros Booth 3390

3:00 p.m. John Bilezikjian Mid-East Mfg., Inc. Booth 2617

3:00 p.m. Jorge Iacobellis PiTTi Hecht Axis Percussion Booth 3478

4:00 p.m. Anouck Andre and Laura Jaramillo Gruv Gear Booth 4192

4:00 p.m. Jaime St. James, Steve Moore, Ron Keel, Laurence Martin Rock-N-Roll GangStar, Inc. Booth 4196

5:00 p.m. PiTTi Hecht performs. Latin Percussion Booth 304

100 UBD January 25, 2014 schedule

Unless otherwise noted, the following events will be held in NAMM’s Idea Center, booth 5501 in Hall B.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 102

Treidel explains how to use social media Kannenberg & Co. and website metrics to design a multifac- Music retail financial gurus Alan Friedman eted campaign that encompasses all relevant and Daniel Jobe are fresh from corporate tax platforms. season servicing hundreds of music retailers. In this session, attendees will walk away with 1:30 P.M. the “top 10 financial retailing musts” for Create a Strong Cash Flow Cycle improving your store’s profitability and cash Lori Supinie, Senseney Music flow. Gain the knowledge and confidence Cash is still king. So, how’s your cash flow? you need to make better financial decisions, This session delves into the cash flow cycle starting the moment you get back to your — the length of time it takes to manage the store. financial inputs of inventory, receivables and payables, and turn them into cash. Lis- ten in as Supinie explains concrete strate- gies to keep your cash pump strong and Alan Friedman on financial retailing musts, 4:30 pm streamlined.

2:00 P.M. 5 Technologies That Will Change Your Business David Rice, ProSound & Stage Lighting and Omacro Join Rice as he covers everything from managing product information on your POS, website and purchasing system to simple SEO tips.

2:30 P.M. Google AdWords: The Best Marketing Decision I Ever Made Leslie Faltin, Instrumental Music Center Listen in as Faltin explains how any business owner can easily take charge of its online marketing with Google AdWords.

3:00 P.M. Take the Headache Out of Hiring Colleen Billings, Billings Piano Gallery Billings explores the formula for attracting, selecting and launching the right people into your business. Whether you’re hiring one employee or 100, with a little planning and applying these recruiting ideas, you’ll ﬁnd better quality employees who you want to keep around longer and who can deliver results faster.

3:30 P.M. How to Create the Perfect Inventory Donovan Bankhead, Springfield Music Join Bankhead and learn how to create an ideal inventory for your retail business. He will explain how to create an open-to-buy plan so your store has just the right amount of stock for maximum profitability and cash flow. 6:00 P.M. 4:00 P.M. Robby Krieger’s Jam Kitchen New Ways to Expand Your Lesson NAMM GoPro Stage Program End the day with Robby Krieger’s Jam Kitch- Liane Rockley, Rockley Music en, which boasts not only Krieger, a founding In this session, Rockley, who recently up- member of The Doors, but also musicians dated her music lesson program, covers who have played with Frank Zappa, WAR, ideas for a successful lesson expansion, new Chicago, Chick Corea and Al DiMeola. classes to generate additional income and effective marketing ideas. Walk away with 7:00 P.M. ideas to take your lesson program up a notch. Muriel Anderson’s All-Star Guitar Night 4:30 P.M. Platinum Ballroom, Anaheim Marriott Take Your Store’s Financial Pulse Join Muriel Anderson and her friends for a (Double Session) full night of live music. Attendees must have Alan Friedman and Daniel Jobe, a ticket to enter.

102 UBD January 25, 2014 schedule SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2014

Unless otherwise noted, the following events will be held in NAMM’s Idea Center, booth 5501 in Hall B.

Robby Krieger’s Jam Kitchen will Muriel Anderson’s All-Star play the GoPro Stage, 6 p.m. Guitar Night, 7 p.m.

Danny Rocks on making your Leslie Faltin on Google Gather great ideas at the show’s Gabriel O’Brien on website work, 11:30 a.m. ADWords, 2:30 p,m. educational sessions. Google, 10:30 a.m.

BREAKFAST SESSION Google 11:30 A.M. South Pasadena Strings Program 8:30 A.M. Gabriel O’Brien, Larry’s Music Center What Do I Do About My Website? Susan Pascale of the South Pasadena Strings The Mirror Test: Is Your Business O’Brien reveals easy ways to boost your (Double Session) Program shares how she built a nationally ac- Staying Relevant? Google ranking for better search results. Danny Rocks, The Company Rocks claimed music lesson program that not only Jeffrey Hayzlett, Tips covered include managing your Google with panel creates more retail sales, but also elevates author, business owner and host of Places listing, optimizing your website using Want to improve your store’s website but her company’s local profile. Bloomberg Television’s ‘C-Suite’ keywords, using social media to improve your don’t know where to start? Should you hire Hilton Anaheim Hotel, Pacific Ballrooms ranking and making the most impact in 15 outside help for the site or do it yourself? 1:00 P.M. Join Hayzlett for all the marketing, man- minutes a day. How much should you invest? If any of these How I Used Social Media to Im- agement, selling and customer engage- questions sound familiar, join Rocks along prove My Business ment techniques you need to surge ahead 11:00 A.M. with his panel of retailers for a discussion on Bruce Treidel, in today’s changing business climate. Free Turn Your Rental Customers Into making your website work. Bethel Music Center breakfast is served from 8–8:30 a.m. on a Your Top Customers The team at Bethel Music Center has lever- first-come, first-served basis. Liz Reisman, Creative Music Center 12:30 P.M. aged social media and digital marketing to Reisman shares no-hassle ideas to turn How I Built an Award-Winning revamp and improve its brand. Listen in as 10:30 A.M. rental customers into customers for life using Lesson Program Simple Ways to Get Found on tools you already have in your business. Susan Pascale, CONTINUED ON PAGE 100