Crown PZM-30D Pressure Zone Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)You may look at the picture of this microphone and wonder just how big it really is. Well, it's quite small, actually. The plate is made of metal and it seems quite sturdy. Performance is great for those who understand how to use this type of microphone. This type of microphone works best when placed on a rigid, flat surface. The pickup pattern seems to be 360 degrees so if you are hoping to buy a microphone that picks up "everything" then this would be a good choice. If you want a microphone that focuses on a specific subject while ignoring sound coming from other directions, then you might want to consider a shotgun-style microphone instead. This particular microphone takes an XLR cable and operates on phantom power from your mixer. I use it in a distance-learning classroom. This microphone is almost as good as the $1,500 "AudioScience" microphones.

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The PZM ® -30D is a Pressure Zone Microphone ® designed for professional recording, sound reinforcement and broadcasting. It has many applications, from miking full orchestras or individual musical instruments to security or teleconferencing. The PZM-30D has a switchable dual frequency response: rising (R) or flat (F). The "rising" position adds brilliance. This makes it useful wherever a crisp attack is desired, such as on percussion, drums, or piano. The user can get a bright sound without boosting high frequencies on the recording console; the result is lower noise. The "flat" position provides a smooth, flat, high-frequency response for natural sound reproduction. These sturdy microphones are especially reliable because they can be used with a rugged detachable cable. The output is a male 3-pin XLR-type, balanced and low impedance, which permits long cable runs without hum pickup or high-frequency loss. Like other Pressure Zone Microphones, the PZM-30D TM utilizes the Pressure Recording Process in which a miniature condenser microphone capsule is positioned very close to a sound-reflecting plate or boundary. The capsule is mounted in the "Pressure Zone" just above the boundary, a region where sound coming directly from the sound source combines in phase with sound reflected off the boundary. The benefits are a wide, smooth frequency response free of phase interference, excellent clarity and "reach," a hemispherical polar pattern, and uncolored off-axis response.

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RODE NT1000 Vocal Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I went shopping for a Rode NT1. Rode mics use superb capsules mounted in machined housings you could drive a truck over, and the NT1 is a great mic for male vocals. The guy at the store suggested the NT1000. I recorded myself on both, and there wasn't much difference, but the 1000 just sounded a little smoother. But, the NT1 had a painted finish (may have changed since), made out of aluminum. When you screw the mount on it feels rough, like screwing in a light bulb with an aluminum base. The NT1000, though, feels rich and expensive, a nickel-steel finish (I guess) more like the expensive Neumanns. And when you screw the parts together they feel precise and elegant. It was a hundred bucks more than the NT1, but with the slightly nicer sound, and the much nicer look and handling feel, it seemed worth it.
The only problem I've had with it is weight. It's fairly heavy, and can't be extended very far on my boom stand without falling over.
Great dynamic range, low noise, very detailed.

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The Rode NT1000 brings new standards to the recording industry. When today's musicians and recording engineers demand clarity and dynamic range, they demand large capsule performance. The Rode NT1000 is superior in both vocal and instrumental performances. Voiced for application versatility , the NT1000 has been hailed by many as the ultimate drum over-head and grand piano mic selection. The NT1000 is also equally at home as a first call vocal mic. With its Australian made 1 inch HF-2 capsule incorporating internal shock mounting, the NT1000 boasts a 134 dB dynamic range, and 140 dBA SPL capabilities and a 20 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response. Includes mic stand mount, and zippered pouch. Rode NT1000 Features HF2 1 inch capsule with gold-plated diaphragm Ultra low-noise transformerless circuitry Cardioid polar pattern Heavy-duty cast metal satin nickel body High-strength welded and heat-treated mesh head Internal capsule shock-mounting True externally biased condenser Full frequency response AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Rode products.

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Behringer B2030A Active 2-Way Reference Studio Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased these with the assumption that I was not going to get the quality sound I wanted as opposed to KRK monitors (WAAAY overpriced) for my small studio. Boy was I wrong! The sound quality is better than expected to say the least. They're HEAVY, thus you won't be too worried about knocking them over (like the smaller KRK's or M-Audio Studiophiles I've seen). Took these over to a friends house for mixdown of video's he's been working on, and adjusted the settings for his video editing hardware and room dynamics. He then changed his mind after about some 5 hours of video editing. Not the best, but I'll be putting my money into what I can use rather than a name (KRK, JBL, Tannoy, Genlec are just TOO much. . .even for just one monitor). And it'se never about what you got, it's what you do with it.
There are going to be reviews bashing them, but when I have audio engineers telling me "good choice, cuz the KRK's are sometimes WAAY too bassy", I feel I've done my job and research into finding what I can afford.
Just a quick note. . .do give these "burn in" time. meaning give them some time to run before going all out on those mixes. Similar to tube preamps for guitar heads/cabs. . .burn em in slowly so you can get the full effect later. I haven't had these long enough, but I can say they are the best part of my studio.

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The TRUTH B2030A has all of the great features of an active TRUTH monitor packed in a compact cabinet.It's a high-resolution, active 2-way reference studio monitor that is perfect for nearfield monitoring applications: from small mixing environments to multi-channel surround setups.

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Shure KSM 137/SL End-Address Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I had been looking around for a good condenser microphone for recording acoustic guitar and a sales representative recommended this one. I absolutely fell in love with this microphone the first time I pushed in the 48v button for my Pro Tools rig. It's a great price for an excellent microphone, Shure has always made affordable go to microphones especially for live performance ie the 57 or the 58. I really like the roll off switches, I don't use the db switch because on my pre I have a pad that I rarely use on an acoustic guitar. I usually place this mic at the 12 fret and use a vocal condenser as a room mic for the stereo effect, so far the work has turned out very well. I would recommend this microphone to someone looking above maybe that entry level or would like to produce there own music.

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Versatile, durable, and precise, the Shure KSM137 end-address condenser microphone is an outstanding microphone for instruments ranging from percussion to wind, strings to brass, and piano to guitar. Designed for studio use, yet rugged enough for live applications, the KSM137 can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL). Its low self-noise and extended frequency response make it ideal for recording musical instruments.

Key Features
A highly consistent cardioid polar pattern
Ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24 karat gold-layered, low mass Mylar diaphragm for superior transient response
Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response, no crossover distortion, and minimal harmonic and intermodulation distortion
Premium electronic components, including gold-plated internal and external connectors
Subsonic filter eliminates low frequency rumble (less than 17 Hz) caused by mechanical vibration
Switchable 15 dB pad for handling extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs)
Three-position switchable pad (0 dB, 15 dB, and 25 dB) for handling extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs)
Three-position switchable low-frequency filter reduces background noise and counteracts proximity effect

Performance Characteristics
Extended frequency response
Low self-noise
Exceptional reproduction of low-frequency sounds
Can withstand high sound pressure levels (SPL)
High output level
No crossover distortion
Uniform polar response
Superior common mode rejection and suppression of RFI (radio frequency interference)

Applications Some typical applications for the KSM137 are listed below. Microphone use is a matter of personal taste and the KSM137 may be used for a variety of applications other than those listed.
Acoustic instruments -- such as piano, guitar, drums, percussion, strings
Wind instruments -- brass and woodwind
Low frequency instruments -- such as double bass, electric bass, kick drum
Overhead miking -- drums or percussion
Ensembles -- choral or orchestral
Room ambiance pick-up -- guitar amplifier or drums

Specifications
Type: Permanently Biased Condenser
Frequency Response: 20­ to 20,000 Hz
Directional Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Output Impedance: 150 ohms (actual)
Attenuation Switch: 0 dB, 15 dB, or 25 dB attenuation
Low Frequency Response Switch: Flat; ­6 db/octave below 115 Hz; -18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
Phantom Power: 48 Vdc +/- 4 Vdc (IEC­268­15/DIN 45 596), positive pins 2 and 3
Current Drain: 4.65 mA typical at 48 Vdc
Common Mode Rejection: ≥50 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Sensitivity (typical, at 1000 Hz; 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL): -37 dBV/Pa
Self­noise (typical, equivalent SPL; A-weighted, IEC 651): 14 dB
Polarity: Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on output pin 2 relative to pin 3
Weight: 3.5 ounces

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Digidesign Mbox 2 Micro Review

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(More customer reviews)The first issue you have to address when considering this product is do you actually need or have a use for it? As I compose music the answer for me was yes, when I am outside of the studio or home I needed a way to create music. This device is very handy if you have a laptop and you don't need to record anything yourself. It is create for writing midi tracks and playing with loops or other various activities like adding effects to your pre recorded tracks. This is an instrument to make your current rig much more mobile and that's about it. I enjoy taking my laptop outside and just writing a midi track to the beautiful scenery. This device actually makes me want to take a train to work because I would just be more productive. Also it is a great way to upgrade your pro tools system if you haven't made the jump to 8.0. If you have I would suggest waiting until the next update unless you are in dire need of writing or mixing away from your stationary rig.

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MXL V67Q Stereo Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this microphone to record piano music, chamber music and choral concerts. This is a serious professional microphone at a very reasonable price. It is stereo, and requires phantom power, which right away limits the devices you record on. You basically have to use pro equipment. It comes with a 5 pin stereo XLR connector cable which is only 10 feet long, You can get longer 5 pin stereo XLR connectors from musiciansfriend, Amazon or B and H photo/video. I use a Marantz CDR-300 recorder, but you could also use a marantz 310, any digital multi-track recorder or pro-tool/mac/digidesign interface box setup. (just make sure the interface box has two XLR inputs). The advantage to using a stereo mike is that it only requires one stand and one cable, and this mike sounds fantastic. You do have to back up from whatever you are recording, because it is very sensitive. Watch your levels when you are recording. It records the entire frequency spectrum, very quiet mike, but also very sensitive, you will hear every sniff and cough. It is a neutral mic, warm enough, and doesn't have a digital "edge" to it. I'm very happy with it. The color scheme is a little loud (I call it my Notre Dame Leprechaun Bling-Bling microphone) but once you get past that, it's a serious piece of electronic recording hardware. My previous microphone was a $200 Sony ECM-957 and I've also used a Rode NT-4 (~$600) this is as good as the Rode, but at one third the price. The MXL V67Q is the same price as the Sony but much better, wider spectrum, more neutrl and quieter. You should get a shock mount (I use the MXL 57) and a good tripod (I have an On-stage tripod, the end of the tripod accepts the MXL 57 shock mount). In summary, you can't do much better than this if you are trying to record classical music in a live venue with a digital recorder that has phantom power and XLR connectors. Highly recommended. for more info, go to www.mxlmics.com.

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MXL is proud to announce the newest addition to the V67 series, the V67Q Stereo microphone. This mic is the perfect addition to the home recording or studio environment. A fixed 90 degree XY pattern delivers a spacious stereo image, but also minimizes loss when translating to mono. The width can be adjusted later with panning if desired, as the left and right signals are delivered on separate balanced XLR connectors. The open tonality of the microphone compliments close micing by capturing the natural reverb of a room, provides an easy solution for drum overheads, and fits nicely under the lid of a grand piano. Follow the link above to hear a sample of the V67Q on guitar as well as other microphone samples.

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IK Multimedia Miroslav Philharmonik Orchestra Virtual Instrument Workstation Review

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(More customer reviews)I am really happy that I bought this program as a plug-in for Pro-Tools. The sounds are really great. Most are perfect. My nephew who plays bassoon at Julliard thought the low woodwind samples were extremely accurate.
I am not as thrilled with the piano samples as I am with those I use in Reason, and there are no saxaphones. The combination of Reason and Miroslav give you an incredible package for classical and jazz work.
I use a GR-33 guitar synth and keybd as controllers. The GR-33 tracks beautifully with the synth engine. Not all programs can say that.
Buy it. You will not regret. If I could give it 4.9 stars, I would.

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The Miroslav Philharmonik orchestra workstation from IK Multimedia combines the legendary Miroslav Orchestral and Choir sample collection masterpieces with a dedicated virtual instrument plug-in specifically tailored toward classical sounds and arrangements. Miroslav orchestral samples are some of the most playable and inspiring sounds ever produced for symphonic arrangements and composition. They've set the atmosphere of hundreds of movies and productions and have become the tool of choice for many Oscar winning composers. This sound collection contains some of the most beautiful and lush sounding orchestral samples ever recorded, with plenty of feeling and emotion. Miroslav was able to bring out the rich character of symphonic music with a special sound that is unique and powerfully expressive. For incredible acoustic realism, the string, brass, and woodwind sections have been captured in the proper acoustic orchestral positions inside one of the world's most famous symphony halls, Prague's Dvorák Symphony Hall. No need for simulation with panning, just call up the elements of the orchestra and instantly sound like a symphony. These sounds have a texture, warmth, and beauty that is unique in the sample world. The Miroslav Philharmonik's virtual orchestra plug-in is based on an enhanced version of the SampleTank workstation architecture, offering 16 multitimbral parts, with full control over the tempo and pitch of the sounds. Each of the 16 multitimbral parts can be loaded by selecting one of more than 1,300 orchestral instruments included in Philharmonik. All of the virtual instruments can be easily found in neatly organized folders within the browser window. The multitimbral parts can also be saved as combi ensembles, allowing you to load an entire orchestral set with one click. Additionally, each part also offers up to 50 sound-shaping controls, for maximum flexibility over sound sculpture.The IK Multimedia Miroslav Philharmonik also offers a master effec

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Tascam US1641 USB 2.0 Audio and MIDI Interface with digital Connection - Macintosh and Windows Review

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(More customer reviews)I looked at virtually every multiple mic interface on the market and couldn't find anything to touch this in features and/or price... so I bought it.
Wow!This thing rocks! I connected up 8 microphones for Kick, Snare, Hi-hat, Tom 1, Tom 2, Tom 3, Left Overhead and Right Overhead... all those mics plug into the 8 XLR mic sockets at the front of the unit. Got some really great 20ft XLR mic cables from Amazon for only $6.95 each (Whirlwind LowZ Microphone Cable (20 Foot) I then plugged in my bass guitar into one of 2 switchable line/guitar 1/4" mono inputs on the front.
Each of the 10 front panel inputs has a volume control knob and red/green led. The drummer hits each drum individually one by one so I can adjust each vol control so that it just occasionally clips red but mostly stays green.
After adjusting the six individual drum mics I now get the drummer to play the whole set and I adjust the left and right overheads mics so they don't clip (go red). That's it! The mics are setup ready to record.
I took the main output from the back of the unit to my monitors and there's a volume control on the front of the unit to allow you to turn down the monitor while recording... then you turn it up to listen back... so in effect, the unit has it's own monitoring control.
Two headphone jacks would've been nice, but I used a Y-adapter 1/4" Headphone Splitter to split the output allowing me to plug in the two headphones for me and the drummer.
I now setup recording on my laptop (HP TX2500z) using the supplied Cubase LE4 software which is really easy to use - buy yourself the The Complete Idiot's Guide to Recording with Cubase. There's no specific book for version LE4 but this idiot's guide worked great for me.
A note about my notebook - It's a tablet PC laptop HP Pavilion tx2500z 12.1" TOUCH-SCREEN Notebook with a great touch screen - so you can arm/disarm or mute/unmute your record channels/tracks just by touching the screen buttons with your finger - it's just like a real mixing desk with real tactile switches - it's really cool!
You may need to tweak your laptop for audio recording to get the best results otherwise you will hear artifacts (odd noises) when recording if the laptop is struggling to find the necessary processing power. I tweaked my laptop and it was just amazing to see the difference in performance. You can Google "Tweak Vista for audio recording" to find the information on how to tweak.
I also replaced my 5400rpm drive with a 7200rpm drive Seagate 500 GB 7200RPM 2.5" Drive - it's real easy to do... Google "Upgrading laptop hard drive". As well as getting a faster speed drive I also made it a 500GB to replace the 320GB drive that I had - so lot's more space... and very low cost too!
RESULTS!!!!!!!!!!!
Well... Let me tell you, I was absolutely BLOWN AWAY by the results obtained with this unit! The Tascam 1641 is an amazing piece of gear and Amazon's price is just out of this World at only $299...
It's like having a whole recording studio in a box - the mic pre's, the mixing desk (vol controls), the signal LED's, the monoring vol control, headphone controls, etc... AND the software - all for $299 - You can't beat that!
The actual sound that I got was totally professional - I couldn't have done better if I was in a top-notch recording studio. I am 100,000% satisfied!
GO FOR IT!!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!!!!



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With sixteen inputs, the TASCAM US-1641 is the ideal choice for musicians to record the whole band to a computer. Eight mic/line inputs plus six line inputs gives you plenty of channels for a large ensemble, drumset, live recording or worship service. It includes Cubase LE4, Steinberg's latest version, for 48 tracks of 96k/24-bit recording power. Using the latest high-speed USB 2.0 technology, the US-1641 packs the interfacing power of a big console into only one rackspace.The eight mic inputs employ TASCAM Pro mic pres for 60 dB of gain and phantom power for studio-quality recordings. Two balanced TRS line inputs on the front panel are switchable to guitar level for direct-in recording of bass or guitar tracks. Four more balanced line inputs and outputs fill out the rear panel, along with MIDI and S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs for a total of 16 ins. A built-in power supply means there's no special wall-wart to lose, and connection to the computer is handled by USB 2.0 technology - 40 times faster than USB 1.1 and 20% more bandwidth than FireWire 400.The US-1641 comes with Cubase LE4, Steinberg's latest version of the 48-track, 96kHz recording workstation, so you'll be ready to cut tracks right away. Also included is TASCAM's Continuous Velocity Piano, a VSTi plug-in for Windows that uses Giga technology for totally authentic grand piano sounds. The US-1641 installs ASIO and Core Audio drivers for Windows XP, Windows Vista 32 and Mac OS X, with simple instructions for hooking up to Logic Pro, Cubase, Nuendo, Digital Performer, SONAR, Reason, Live and nearly all other recording software. For musicians and bands always looking for more inputs, the US-1641 is the ultimate choice. Gather up your mics and head to your TASCAM dealer for more.

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Behringer MS16 Powered Studio Desktop Monitors Review

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(More customer reviews)SUBJECTIVE REVIEW: Behringer MS16 2-Way Active Personal Monitor System
Pros:
- Accuracy, soundstage & imaging!!
- Connectivity & Front Panel Controls (Right CH Speaker):
.... INPUT 1 (1/8" TRS) Connector
.... INPUT 2 (RCA Right & Left) Connectors
.... ADJUSTABLE 1/4" TRS Microphone Input - mixable w/stereo inputs for playback and vocal monitoring applications
.... 1/8" TRS HEADPHONE Connector w/auto-mute loudspeaker function.
.... FRONT PANEL Controls (Bass, Treble & Level)
Cons:
None except deep bass - which can be resolved by adding a powered-sub like I did!!! ;-)
NOTE: All subjective comments based on:
1) SPEAKER LOCATIONS:
.... a) Free-standing near-field monitor location, 4' apart, slightly tilted-in (closes walls 10') - Music by my Polaroid 30 GB MP3 player (NO powered-sub )
.... b) Keyboard: L & R location installation, slightly tilted-in (with & without Altec Lansing FX2021 powered-sub**)
**NOTE: Adding a powered-sub relieves the Behringer MS16 4" woofer speakers of reproducing the lower frequencies thus lowering the possibility of distortion or breakup when played louder, - 85 dBc to 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks!
2) Critical listening SPL = approx. 85 dBc to 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks measured @ 8' to 10' away from the speakers.
.... a) Radio Shack SPL Analog Meter: Dial = 80 or 90 / Weight = C / Speed = Fast
ACCURACY:
One of the Behringer MS16 hallmarks is the accuracy in reproducing encoded musical sounds from my MP3s, ... like, a violin sounds like a violin, a trumpet sounds like a trumpet, a tenor sax sounds like a tenor sax, a Grand Piano, like the Grand Piano that Diana Krall uses in her "Live in Paris" CD (I use to own a 6' Yamaha Grand in my HT/family room), etc. What is unusual for this price range, is the MS16 ability to reveal subtleties and the resolution of the high frequency characteristics within the encoded music/instruments, . . . they are just more evident with the Behringer MS16 vs. other speakers in this price and some costing more; i.e. with close mike recording of an acoustic guitar, you can hear the artist fingers (George Benson; Earl Klugh; Russ Freeman) sliding up and down the frets; you can tell that that two violins are playing a melodic line, rather than just one violin; the air harmonics off the crash or ride cymbal sounds, just like our Tama Rock Set w/Zildjian cymbals; Diana Krall breathing during some of her songs Intro ("Live in Paris" Music CD). Here - I do chalk up the sound quality to Behringer MS16 1.5" (38mm) Diameter High-Resolution Tweeter., which is a nice size for a small personal Studio near-field Monitors.
SOUNDSTAGE:
The left to right placements of instruments & voices are excellent, providing a precise, very wide, beyond the speakers soundstage. The Behringer MS16 front to back (depth) soundstage is also excellent, as well as the dynamic's resolution (soft vs. loud) in playing back the encoded instrument sounds which helps provide excellent location placement of the instruments. Though the front to back soundstage can be a result of how close the microphones were to the instruments, no doubt, the quality of the best recordings, will be revealed by this speaker and the opposite is also true, poor recordings will be revealed as poor. The Behringer MS16 plays back all my Jazz CD Music with relative smoothness, with no surprising in-between the eyes, unnatural frequency peaks because of it's super flat & wide Pro Monitor like frequency characteristics. I also own the JBL N24 w/4" woofers (JBL NSP1 PKG) which was raved by Brent Butterworth for its super midrange playback (voices) and in direct comparison, the Behringer MS16 is equal to task providing the same balanced, natural, clear unstrained playback! (Samples: "Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim" 1967 Digital remastered DDD Music CD; Diana Krall "Love Scenes" & "The Look of Love" Music CD; Bob James "Fourplay" Music CD; David Benoit "Fuzzy Logic" Music CD [Album Of The Year - 2003 National Smooth Jazz Awards], etc.).
IMAGING:
Another characteristic that the Behringer MS16 displays is its ability to image the specific instruments across the soundstage, with a floating in front, side, quality sound presence comparable to some JBL PRO Studio Monitors, though its point source is more precise due to the smaller cabinet side. The Behringer MS16 low-diffraction front cabinet geometry feature curved cabinet edges to eliminate diffraction, which ensures precise imaging and localization. I love the Behringer MS16 ambience reproduction in my room, because it gave me the feeling that "you are there" and if the recording is from a live concert, the ambience provided the right amount of reflections to make you think your listening to the performance outdoors, or in the symphony hall. ("The Corrs - Live at the Royal Albert Hall" Music CD; Diana Krall "Live in Paris" Music CD).
BASS FREQUECY:
WITHOUT POWERED-SUB: (Bass adjusted slightly less than MAX @ the 5 o'clock position / Treble left flat)
The Behringer MS16 bass is rated down to 80 Hz, and after adjusting the Bass Control to near MAX (5 o'clock position), ... it easily matches my JBL 24s (Benchmarked down to 89 Hz -2.7 dB - Fronts location by Tom Nousaine for Sound & Vision Magazine) lowest rated frequency reproduction in my familiar jazz music (David Benoit, Bob James, Joe Sample, Diana Krall, etc.) MP3 encoded music is not as demanding as a keyboard or CD (pure digital recordings), so what I hear was more than acceptable @ 85 dBc Fast SPL Peaks! (louder than normal listening). The deep bass is lacking of course, which is expected for a 4" DIA woofer, but it wasn't MIA and actually sounded better than most free-standing speakers w/4" or 5" woofers. The upright bass (Diana Krall) and electric bass lines (Bob James "Fourplay" w/Nathan East on bass) reproduction was way above average and overall, ... it nicely filled my 20 x 30' room with well balanced, clean & smooth frequency jazz music.
WITH POWERED-SUB - YAMAHA PORTABLE GRAND KEYBOARD:
Reproducing a digital keyboard is demanding so to get that floor & air feeling bass SPL without distortion or breakup, I coupled the Behringer MS16 Speakers w/the Altec Lansing FX1021 2.1 Speaker System, or more specifically, Altec Lansing FX4021 Powered Subwoofer (w/Two 5.25" long-throw woofers in isobaric configuration). This unit is rated down to 32 Hz and takes care of the lower frequency duties. Matching the Altec Powered-sub to the MS16s took about 20 mins. using the Keyboard built-in MIDI DEMO files and by playing it personally! I'm finally happy with what I hear from my Yamaha DGX-505 88-key Portable Grand.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
If you want "budget" monitors that provides excellent imaging, revealing resolution, super flat & wide Pro Monitor like frequency characteristics, the Behringer MS16 is for you! At no time during my critical listening phase (w/85 dBc - 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks) did I hear any distortion or breakup (with or without powered-sub) from my Behringer MS16 speakers!!!
- Although the following is an OPTION & NOT REQUIRED to ENJOY these powered speakers, you can add a powered-sub to round out the lower frequency foundation and once you balance the SPL between the powered-sub & MS16s, ... you've got a very nice killer setup for MP3, PC, Laptop, Keyboard & near-field Home Studio application @ a very reasonable price!
In my case, I'm guessing, that the Behringer & Altec powered-sub combination for my Yamaha Portable Grand Keyboard frequency response is approx. 40Hz - 18kHz ±5 dB in my 17' x 13' living room (see my attached Amazon photo's) and for the price, ... it just sounds GLORIOUS @ 85 dBc - 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks!!!
Highly Recommended!!! (Another way to think about it is, ... you can't build a 16 Watt [2x 8 Watts] self-powered speakers like this for under $60 a pair!!!)
Background: Audiophile since 1980; retired Audio/Video dealer; retired semi-pro musician (piano, keyboard, acoustic / electric guitar, bass guitar & drums).

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The Behringer MS16 Speakers are a compact 2-way stereo speaker setup for home studio or multimedia applications! Two high-power amplifiers drive the 4-inch woofers and the high-resolution tweeters. The front-mounted volume control and individual bass and treble controls make accurate sound adjustments a breeze. Two stereo line inputs (RCA and eighth-inch TRS) allow simultaneous use of two stereo sources, so you can play back CDs, MDs or MP3s and use an electric guitar/keyboard at the same time. In addition, the quarter-inch TRS microphone input lets you mix vocals with a stereo track. Behringer MS16 Features Compact stereo speaker system for home studios or multimedia applications 4 inch woofer and high-resolution tweeter powered by two 8-watt amplifiers Dedicated volume, bass and treble controls for more flexibility Stereo RCA inputs for sound cards, keyboards... etc Connect a CD or MP3 player through 1/8 inch TRS stereo input Separately adjustable 1/4 inch TRS mic input for vocal monitoring 1/8 inch TRS headphone connector with auto-mute loudspeaker function Magnetically shielded for placement near computer monitors Magnetic shielding and compact size make these speakers perfect for placement near video monitors or computer displays. AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Behringer products.

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Yamaha QY100 Music Sequencer Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the best drum machine out there, because it's the only one I could find that allows you to substitute any yamaha keyboard sound for a drum. In other words, instead of the limit sounds you get from other drum machines (snares, kicks, symbols, and maybe bass), you get EVERY sound with this thing. So what you can do with this thing is take, for example, the kick on any preset drum loop this thing has, and replace that kick with a trumpet or guitar or strings. And obviously with such an awesome feature like that, it would be important to be able to set the "key" for those other instruments, which this thing does better than any other with its built-in miniature keyboard (look at the photos to see, it has a two octave keyboard of white and block keys) which you can use to "record" the key changes of your sequence. So you take, for example, a preset sequence/loop and you hit "record" and you begin to play along with the keys, and it records that as a song. You can then play back that song in any tempo, and it's like you got a whole band accompanying you. And more than this, this thing has a full-feature synth so you can edit every sound, make it dull, make it echo, add any effect, adjust the equalization of any sound, resonance, cut-off certain frequencies, etc. The only thing I wish this thing would do is light-up better in the dark. It can be hard to see in the dark. I had to use a book-reading light to see it in some live settings.

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If you're a guitarist, singer, or other instrumentalist who wants aneasy way to create great-sounding accompaniment for practice orperformance, the QY100 is for you! If you're an artist who needs aversatile song-writing tool for sequencing and music production, theQY100 is perfect for you, too! The QY100 is compact and battery-poweredso you can even pop it into your bag or backpack and create and playanywhere, anytime!The Amp Simulator – Inspiring sound for Guitarists and SingersLet's face it, great sound iswhat inspires performance and motivates you to practice. The QY100'sbuilt in Amp Simulator bring you the characteristics of a range ofamplifiers – specifically guitar amplifiers and microphone preamplifiers– so you have total control over your own sound as well as your backingaccompaniment. In addition to great amp sound, the QY100 Amp Simulatorincludes a range of top-quality effects for use with guitar andmicrophone. The guitar setups, for example, feature overdrive/distortion, modulation(chorus, flange, etc.) and reverb. The microphone setups offer delay,modulation and reverb. The QY100 has 18 guitar setups and 5 microphonesetups that you can customize to create the perfect sound for yourmusic.

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Rocktron Banshee Talk Box Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this talkbox from Musicians friend here in Kansas city and I must say I love it. No tricky set up. You just simply plug in and play your instrument. I am a keyboard player and it makes my Yamaha DX100 sound amazingly great. I like the effects that you can do with the box. In the manual it is also explained very well about setting up. If you were to read the Rocktron description, it says that you can't distroy the driver. I have even spoken to a gentlemen at the company and he has said that he has turned up his box to the maximum volume. There is one let down in this review I do want to mention. I understand that guitarists have been using this effect. That's fine. I have no problem with that. But what about us keyboardists? Professional, and or hobbiests? Everyone is looking at this and saying that this can only be hooked up to a guitar, or bass. Wrong wrong wrong! This is also a talkbox for a keyboard. I mean sure, Roger Troutman, and Roger Troutman II have had different talkbox sounds, but, Roger Troutman II used the Rocktron when he recorded the second coming in 2000. So, don't look at this box just for guitarists, look at this box for keyboardists too!

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Bringing a cool, new twist to the outdated generation of complicated and risky talk boxes, the Banshee is a unique new product that gives classic rock touches to today's players. Although "talk boxes" have been used in the making of hit music (Aerosmith, Frampton, Joe Walsh, etc.) for years, many guitar players simply have not tried them because of their complicated and potentially damaging setup. Leave it to the stomp box gurus at Rocktron. The Banshee rocks, simply and safely. What makes the Banshee so unique is that it contains its own internal preamp, amplifier, and horn driver. You simply plug into the Banshee like you would any common stomp box, and run the provided "tubing" up the mic stand and into your mouth. The rest is up to your own imagination as you get the most incredible sounds from your instrument. And no more risk of blowing up your favorite amp head, (always a possibility with talk boxes of old). The Banshee's preamp section features controls for gain, tone, and output level. A wide range of clean and dirty preamp tones may be dialed in with plenty of saturation for those who desire lots of gain. Guitar World Magazine wrote: "The Banshee's high-gain preamp and focused tone control allow for excellent enunciation and sustain. With minimal practice, I was able to create clear words and open vowels, and I could readily see how anyone could become addicted to this effect." Not only does the Banshee scream in the talkbox mode, but Rocktron has also included an extra jack for hookup with an extension pedal speaker. Plugging a speaker cabinet to this output turns your pedal board into a perfect practice setup with enough volume to do some pretty serious cranking!Get your hands on the most unique product in years and let your creative juices flow! Or as Guitar World Magazine put it: "With a simple design and arena-worthy performance at a cool price, this Banshee is sure to send you screaming into the night.

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Korg M50 61 Key Synthesizer Workstation Review

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(More customer reviews)I really cannot offer any insight as to the positives and negatives on this keyboard. When you have this level of control and power at your hands then frankly only the musician can decide if the product is worth adding to their music set up. But I do feel the best way of showing a product like this is to just overview it and let you, the musicians, decide.
So rather than explain how amazing I think this keyboard is (and it is!) I have produced the quick video above. This is by far the best keyboard I own and I'll let the video demonstrate why. Ultimately every sound you hear was created completely live as shown, and that's despite the whole thing being recorded by the on-board mic of a cheap camera. So if you're after an amazing keyboard far surpassing your wildest desires then this is it.
Sometimes when viewing a user video showcasing a MIDI music product it's hard to make a judgment call as to whether the individual instrument is suitable for your needs when there's a lot of other equipment connected to it - all outputting great sounds at the same time. The attached video is pure M50, so please take a listen and see what you think.
Some things that I forgot or didn't have time to cover in video:
The sequencer can be played live or step by step, so if you're feeling a little rusty you can manually key in each note as you wish and change them easily.
The M50 accepted the entire pedal data from my Casio PX500L (which I also purchased on Amazon) which is shown underneath the Korg M50. That was without need for any MIDI changes or complications - it was MIDI plug-and-play as expected in this day and age of agreed midi channels. But I didn't use the pedals in the video deliberately so the recording would be pure M50, but they do work and can sustain/damper the Korg etc with ease through the Casio.
The MIDI triggers buttons, which I show on the modulation/pitch bend/joystick area can be set to ANYTHING - any MIDI trigger that you need and you can even trigger THEM with a foot switch pedal.
The song sequencer is totally editable. This may sound like a silly thing to say but it's worth stressing as it can act more like a song accompaniment than a mere playback of what you just performed. It's a recording of MIDI data of your performance and given the massive polyphonic nature of the M50 you could use the sequencer just to trigger events such as drum riffs or instrument changes and THEN play over it live. Or record multiple passes. It's not just a digital 8 track tape deck for your jamming tracks of old.
The COMBI MODE has lots of stunning string and voice combination patches. I didn't do them justice!
The M50 is much bigger than it looks in this video - in tandem with the wide angle lens on my camera, and my fairly giant-sized meat hooks, the keyboard looks quite small. It's not!
Finally there are no speakers the M50. You need an amp and speakers. I do welcome any questions in the comments section of this review and I'll do my best to answer them. Finally sorry the video cuts off so quickly - the amazon 10 minute time limit cut in quick and I was enjoying myself!

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The fiery new KORG M50 is ready to take on all contenders! Incredible new sounds; fat & juicy combis, splits and layers; a plethora of ace effects; dynamic Drum Tracks; enhanced poly-arpeggiators; classic sequencing tools, a solid, confident keybed; up-to-date SD storage; companion editing software and our famous TouchView interactive display - it all adds up to an invigorating and sexy keyboard instrument that could only come from KORG.Over twenty years of category-defining workstation expertise beats in the heart of the M50 Music Workstation. Just as the M3 borrowed elements from the legendary OASYS, the M50 captures all the sonic firepower of the M3, distilled into a performance instrument that is second to none. In a word, the M50 just may be the keyboard you?ve been waiting for. Sporting a new semi-weighted Natural Touch keyboard, this new fast and responsive synthesizer keybed facilitates expressive and dynamic performing in addition to the intuitive and interactive TouchView screen for quick and easy navigation.

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Image-Line Software Image-line Fl Studio 9 Fruity Edition V.1 Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great program. I was very excited to get it. When it came, I locked myself in my home office with some headphones and lost all track of time. I was up until the middle of the night creating beats and building a new song.
I found the interface pretty easy and the manual is great if you have a question. The multitude of file formats it supports and is able to create is outstanding, and the interpolation system is practically flawless. The built-in sounds and effects are really good. I, personally, love FL Studio, and I recommend it to anyone who's a new producer or interested in music production.

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FL Studio is a full-featured, open architecture, music production environment. FL Studio is designed for creative freedom. FL Studio Fruity Edition frees your creative mind. You can choose your preferred workflow; compose using the step-sequencer or piano roll. Create in pattern or track mode, then arrange your ideas in the Playlist. The Playlist presents timeline as a virtual canvas where each Playlist track can hold score or automation events.

FL Studio Fruity Edition is aimed at composers who need Piano roll for complex melodies and to record/play chords. Fruity Edition adds access to the lower, Pattern Block, area of the Playlist for complex and lengthy arranging/sequencing. It is also great for percussion programming, simple melodies, bass-lines, riffs etc. You can record and play a single pattern, of up to 64 steps. Each pattern can be comprised of an unlimited number of instruments (samples, native and VST instruments). The instruments in the pattern can be routed to the mixer for effects processing on a per-instrument or grouped basis.
Instruments
Make Virtually any Sound FL9 includes over 30 software synthesizers covering acoustic/synthetic bass, electric guitar, multi-sampler tools including piano & strings, general sample playback and beat-slicing (With Rex 1 & 2 support).
Synthesis Techniques Span subtractive, modelling, FM, RM, granular and additive. With the addition of FL SynthMaker you can further create & share your own FL instruments, effects & MIDI control dashboards without the need to write basic code.
Open Plugin Standards FL Studio supports all PC industry plugin instrument standards including VSTi (1/2), DXi(1/2), Buzz and Rewire. This means you can sequence with your favorite plugins and applications.
Sequencing Compose and record your musical performances and ideas in the most logical way.
Pattern or Track Sequencing You choose, record your musical performances and ideas in the most logical way. FL Studio 9 can simultaneously function as a pattern and track based sequencer. Reuse patterns as Pattern Clips in the Playlist or record song-length sequences, as desired.
Step Sequencer or Piano Roll Scoring tools include FL Studio's legendary Step-sequencer, one of the most advanced Piano rolls in any software studio, event and multipoint automation envelopes. FL Studio supports MIDI input, standard controller compatibility, and the ability to simultaneously control multiple instrument channels from separate controllers.
Arranging FL Studio allows you to do what you want where and when you want.
Determine Your Own Project Design In FL Studio 9, you decide how your project will be laid out. Unlike the competition, FL9's Playlist is a totally flexible and virtually unbounded workspace where Note Pattern, Audio and Automation data can be arranged and edited to suit your creative ideas and preferred workflow.
Mixing & Mastering FL Studio provides all the tools you need to produce your tracks to high professional standards.
The Mixer FL9 includes a superb 104 track stereo track mixer that is about precision, control and flexibility. The mixer's tracks each hold up to 8 effects (VST, DX or FL's proprietary format). To create sub-mixes or mixing chains of almost unlimited complexity, each mixer track can be routed to any other mixer track, one of 4 dedicated 'send' channels and or the Master track.Sends provide the ability to sidechain inputs to multi-input effects plugins. Finally, each of the mixer tracks can be routed to any output on your audio interface, now that's flexibility.
Effects What about effects? FL Studio includes more than 40 effects spanning maximization, limiting, compression, delay, distortion, equalization (graphic & parametric), filtering, phasing, flanging, chorus, vocoding and reverb. These have you covered for the creative broad-brush effects, through to the minutia of the mastering process.
Open Plugin Standards FL Studio supports all PC industry plugin effect standards including VST (1/2), DX(1/2), Buzz and Rewire. This means you can mix with your favorite plugins and applications.
FL Studio Fruity Edition includes:
Program or record 999 separate 'loop' patterns into the step-sequencer.
Enter beats or monophonic notes on each instrument Channel (unlimited Channels).
Enter velocity, pan, modulation, pitch and note-start offset per-note.
Each 'loop' pattern can play an unlimited number of instruments & samples.
Route and mix Channels through any number of the 104 Mixer tracks and add effects such as delay, reverb, flanging chorusing, EQ etc.
Play back or render a single pattern at a time of up to 64 steps.
Render to wav, mp3 or ogg format.
External MIDI control and recording.
Unlimited number of instrument Channels.
Supports unlimited VST & DX plugin instruments.
Used as VST instrument in another host e.g. Cubase, Sonar, Logic, etc.
Used as a ReWire & VST client or host.
4 to 64 notes in the Step Sequencer per pattern (up to 999 patterns).
FL Direct Wave (player only).
Instruments - TS404, 3OSC, Autogun, Channel Sampler, BooBass, Beepmap, Plucked, Fruit Kick, Chrome ,FPC, WaveTraveller, Dashboard, KB Controller, Fruity Vibrator, Midi Out, FL Slayer, FL Keys, Granuliser.
Effects - Delay, Delay Bank, Equo, Flangus, Love Philter, Vocoder, Parametric EQ & EQ2, Multiband Compressor, Spectroman, Stereo Enhancer, Wave Candy, Wave Shaper, Soundgoodizer, Simsynth Live synthesizer instrument, Drumsynth Live percussion synthesizer, DX10 FM synthesizer, Wasp & Wasp XT synthesizers, FL Direct Wave (player).
Import/Export WAV, MP3, OGG & MIDI.
Piano typing keyboard.
ASIO support (for low latency).
Lifetime free updates to Fruity Edition by download (using the included 49$ cash card).
Piano roll allowing chords and note-slides.
Playlist (Pattern Block) arranging.
Full automation of all enabled parameters (as Event Automation).
Internal controllers as a modulation source.

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Steinway Virtual Concert Grand Professional Version - C Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)(Note: I wrote this about the Pro Version in the Basic product review but I noticed there is the Pro version on Amazon, so I am going to repeat it with slight editing.)
I noticed this product last year. I recently purchased the Pro version and it is a real hoot! I remember being frustrated last year as it was announced and months later there was still no release. I then really forgot about it.
It came to my attention recently and found it was available so I purchased this full version that has the 24 bit samples. I have ran both 24 bit and the Pro version "high quality" 16 bit versions and I am not sure after listening the short amount that I have it IF there is any material difference. BOTH are quite impressive.
I was going to buy a 10,000 RPM hard drive for my Icy Dock Sata, Firewire 800 enclosure (these are VERY sweet because they, different hard drives, just slide and snap-in, taking seconds and you just buy accessary trays that you can use as many hard drives you have as long as they are compatible like SATA) but I found my 7200 external quite nice and effective, a Western Digital, for the 24 bit samples going USBII into my 2.2GHz, Macbook Pro.
Earlier, I changed my Macbook Pro (laptop) hard drive to one of those Momentus 7200 RPM drives so the minimum requirements of the Garritan Steinway to run on a 7200 RPM are there actually, *inside* the laptop without an external.
So I tried it. I ran the laptop having the samples on the *internal* using a Firewire 800 connection to an RME Fireface 800 rack acting as my sound-card. Worked GREAT! right from my laptop!!! (with no external drive). HOWEVER, after playing for about an hour or so, the program crashed. (not the laptop, obviously it's a MAC!!). I suspect that it was system file interference, OR one would have to disconnect Airport temporarily to run the Steinway samples direct from the Macbook Pro. I will play with that later, while in the meantime, I am running the 24 bit samples from the Icy Dock with no issues.
The first thing I noticed with playing the Garritan Steinway is the 'singing' capability of the 'instrument'. I am currently using a Yamaha graded action (P80). I should add that the touch of 'hard' 'soft' etc work on the actual P80 and surely other digital pianos to the Garritan for different players' choices since it is adjusting the midi-out velocities though obviously, this can be controlled via the software. Singing notes of the strings or selected tones that are struck harder just stand out with it's dynamic range, something I only perceived at this level by playing a actual acoustic grand. The tone is sweet and not artificial. It is warm and addicting to play and if you intend to play for only a few minutes you will likely get up an hour later.
This software will get you back practicing. You will not tire of the quality like another version of your hardware, digital piano comes out 3 to 6 months later that you wish you waited to buy. The instrument if you look up on the forums is worked on profusely for upgrades by the developer(s). It IS a sampled piano but offers the versatility of having some DSP programming to add and tweak to your desired sound the peripheral tones of the instrument. Hammond actually did this with organ to bring out a new B3. They combined samples with modeling as a hybrid to get just about the EXACT sound in the recent model vintages but tweakable. This was called VASEIII though surely not on the same model parameters as the Garritan but the concept is the same.
The Pro version has 5 perspectives. You need to try them all to find out which one is 'you', having the ability to change to another perspective (mic positions with 5 sets of samples) for a change-up or for a targeting sound for a certain tune or location where you are playing.
For *loud* bands that want to use this: the dynamic range may be a problem for cut. The solution has been to use on the 'loud band' stage a compressor, it would seem. The best compressor methods, imo, have been the upward compression available with some compression software that does not effect the attack or the envelope of the struck string. Using compression, the tone with a lower dynamic range can hang longer, cut through the mix, before it decays (not as realistic but can improve the piano-cut with loud music, as I said, where you really cannot hear the fine nuances of an accurate emulation and sympathetic sounds).
For my playing, I see no need for this. Can't see that compression would be necessary for moderate band volumes either.
This software is really a great gift to the digital piano world, in my view. Garritan should be congratulated as I suspect this has been and still is, quite a 'life event' struggle to get this right from start to finish. These Garritan Authorized Steinway packages are a phenomenal deal to get the REAL sound to those of us who cannot affort the real-deal. Does it replace the real Model D Steinway? No. But it is sure fun to play something this close.

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The Authorized Steinway Virtual Concert Grand Piano accurately captures the distinctive sound of the hallmark Steinway & Sons concert grand piano with unprecedented authenticity and musicality. The Professional version offers the superb Steinway Model D p

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Sterling Audio PHP1 48V Phantom Power Supply Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a fantastic little unit. It makes my mic sound much better- not because of any crazy circuitry, but because the mic is fully powered. Many phantom power supplies are shared and weak (like USB powered audio interfaces etc), so this thing really gives it the juice it needs.
Built like a tank and cheap. Perfect combo. Thanks Sterling Audio!

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The Sterling Audio PHP1 Power Supply provides stable 48V phantom power for one condenser microphone. Meets DIN 45596 standard.

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Tascam DP-004 Pocketstudio Digital Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a songwriter who needs something that will allow me quickly to jot down song ideas and fragments, as well as completed songs, this unit is a little cumbersome. In order to create a song, you must do the following:
1. Turn on unit
2. Press "Menu" button
3. Scroll to "Song" menu item
4. Click a function button to select
5. Using the data wheel, scroll down to "Create"
6. Click a function button to select
7. Use data wheel to enter name of song one laborious letter at a time (optional step: you can forgo naming a song and it will be named "Song023" etc.)
8. Click "Home" button
9. Click "Rec" buttons for tracks 1 and 2 (assuming you want to record in stereo).
10. Click the record transport and play transport buttons together, to start the recording process (I'm assuming you have already set the input levels and want to use the built-in mics)
11. Click the stop transport button when you are done recording your song
12. Repeat steps 9-11 if you wish to overdub another voice or instrument on tracks 3 and/or 4.
13. Click "Menu" button, then "Play" to listen to playback
14. Click stop button at end of song
15. Click "In/Out" button
16. Click function key "Out" to set the out point
17. Click "Rec Mode" button
18. Using data wheel, scroll down to "Master Rec"
19. Click function key to select
20. Click the record transport and play transport buttons together, to start the recording process for the "master" track (this is simply a stereo mixdown of the four tracks)
21. Click "Rec Mode" button
22. Using data wheel, scroll up to "Multi Track"
23. Click function key to select
24. Click "Menu" button
25. Scroll using data wheel to "Wave"
26. Click function key to select
27. Scroll down to "Export Master"
28. Click function key to select
29. Use data wheel to enter name of song one letter at a time (optional step: you can forgo naming a song and it will be named "Song023" etc.)
30. Click function key to execute exporting of the master stereo tracks to the FAT partition of the SD card within the unit.
31. Attach unit to your computer via the supplied USB cable
32. Open folder to view the files on the Tascam
33. Click the "Wave" folder to find the master tracks you just created.
34. Go to a file conversion program to convert the ".wav" file to an ".mp3" file, so you can email it to your friends, etc.
Whew! Not exactly a quick, friendly, intuitive process!
What you want is a two-click process to start recording (as on my old mini-disk recorder), and then be able to connect to a computer to copy the file and convert. There are an awful lot of extra steps involved, but of course you are talking about four tracks, not just stereo, so there's just no getting around the necessity of the mix-down/mastering. What is a little odd and annoying are those extra steps to export the master to the FAT partition of the Tascam SD card (steps 27-30, above).
Also, since each song file must be loaded before you can listen to it, there is no way to play songs one after the other unattended, or zip quickly between songs like you can do on an iPod or CD player, to audition which is which (thus naming them is critical).
Anyway, a word to the wise if you want something quick and easy. You pay for the ability to make a multi-track recording. On the other hand, if you want something with great quality recording sound, ample storage (a 16 GB SDHC card gives you 1300 track minutes in the 8 GB partition you can create (the largest possible), very nice and senstive built-in stereo mics,
and something you can use to create an excellent mini-demo, then this will definitely do the trick.
TIP: Purchase a PSP-100 power adaptor. It is made for the Sony Playstation and is identical to the more costly PS-P520 Tascam says you have to buy (i.e., 5V, 2A, correct plug and polarity). I paid $5 for mine, not $30!

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Smaller than a paperback book, the 4-track Tascam DP-004 Pocketstudio digital recorder is simple enough for students, songwriters and musicians who want to keep their recording process simple and creative.

Offering four tracks of CD-quality digital recording, the DP-004 can record two sources at once to the included 1 GB Secure Digital (SD) memory card. A built-in stereo condenser microphone makes it simple to record anywhere you go, perfect for concerts, rehearsals and songwriting inspirations. A pair of 1/4-inch jacks on the rear panel allow you to connect your own microphones or sources--you can even switch the inputs to guitar level for recording.

You can build up your arrangement until you've filled up all four tracks, and the Bounce feature allows you to consolidate tracks and make room for more overdub layers. Once you set levels and pan, record your mix onto a dedicated stereo master track. You're able to transfer your tracks and mixes to a computer over USB for CD burning and sharing online.

Key FeaturesConnections:
Two 1/4-inch unbalanced mic/line inputs
Switchable guitar input
Headphone/Line output
USB 2.0 connector
Recording:
Four-track digital multi-track recording
CD-quality 44.1kHz/16-bit WAV recording
Records to SD Card media (1 GB card included)
Repeat, Record undo
Dedicated stereo mixdown track

Physical:
Powered through AA Batteries or optional PS-P520 power adapter
Battery life: About 8 hours recording, about 8.5 hours playback (alkaline batteries)
Dimensions: 6.1 x 1.3 x 4.2 inches (WxHxD)
Weight: 2.8 ounces

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M-Audio AXIOM 49 Advanced 49-Key Semi-Weighted USB MIDI Controller Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First things first, I'm no pianist. I purchased this controller to work with DAWs and soft synths. So far I'm really pleased with the purchase. The faders feel a bit dry but function nicely. The rotary encoders support absolute and relative CCs, keeping parameters from jumping when changing presets. The keyboard keys feel solid and aren't springy like the Keystation line. The blue display is informational and easy to read in light and dark environments. It's also nice the keyboard is powered off the USB bus. No need for a wall-wart adapter.
The reasons I'm giving it a 4 out of 5 instead of a 5 are the following:
1. the keyboard advertises aftertouch. This is not polyphonic aftertouch, but the less expressive channel aftertouch. Say you play a C3 and hold the note, then hit a C5 and add aftertouch only to the C5. Aftertouch is not applied to only C5 but to both C3 and C5. This can be a bit surprising the first time you try it.
2. No printed manual. A paper manual is something I like getting with hardware.
3. Pitch bend only sends coarse adjustments. This makes the pitch bend knob a bit sensitive to expressive play.
4. Customizing the layout of the instrument requires M-Audio's Enigma software. Personally I don't really like it and wish the Axiom's didn't have a black box sysex format. It'd be nice to customize the layout of the keyboard w/o using this clunky app.
I still really like this keyboard. It feels solid, plays well and is a good mid-entry midi keyboard/controller.

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If you need total MIDI control and playability in a compact package, check out the Axiom 49. This advanced 49-key USB mobile MIDI controller delivers semi-weighted action plus assignable aftertouch, along with eight rubberized trigger pads that are perfect for hands-on drum programming and performance. Nine sliders complement eight endless rotary encoder knobs to control just about any software studio parameter you can think of. 15 MIDI-assignable buttons--including six transport controls--and assignable wheels and foot pedals round out total control. The dedicated front-panel keypad and backlit LCD screen provide intuitive setup. There's room for 20 non-volatile memory locations for instant access to setups, plus compatibility with our free Enigma editor/librarian software for managing a virtually infinite library via Mac or PC.



Total MIDI Control and Playability in a Compact Package

Get Into the Action The Axiom series of mobile USB MIDI controllers has everything it takes to get the most from your MIDI software and hardware. Semi-weighted action complete with aftertouch gives you great feel and expression for both synth parts and pianistic passages. Eight rubberized trigger pads put your drums at your fingertips for programming with feel--or easy fire samples or visual effects.
Total MIDI Control Assign the eight rotary encoders to mixer controls like panning and effects sends, or to any synth parameters you want to control. Map the nine sliders to software mixer faders or drawbars on your virtual organ. 15 buttons, pitch and mod wheels, and sustain and expression pedal jacks round out a tour de force of MIDI domination. Assigning controllers is simple, yet has the power to let you delve as deep as you want. Each controller can map to just about any applicable parameter in the MIDI spec, including independent channel addressing for each. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
Intuitive Front-Panel Programming M-Audio Axiom MIDI controllers all feature a large backlit LCD screen for visual feedback--and the 61-key and 49-key models also place a 10-key pad right on the front panel for direct, intuitive programming. You'll also find 9 dedicated front-panel function buttons to easily access common operations like preset / program change or MIDI channel +/-, octave +/-, and transpose +/-. Use the Controller Mute button to prevent parameters from jumping when you change them, for example, then press Snapshot to transmit all current settings. 20 non-volatile memory locations instantly save and recall your favorite presets--and you can manage an entire preset library on your computer via SysEx dumps and our free Enigma software editor/librarian for PC and Mac.
Mobile Operation The Axiom series is extremely compact and lightweight and all models are powered directly from your computer's USB bus. Choose the size that's best for your needs, then take your music anywhere you want to go.

Axiom 49 Specs
MIDI Data from variable controllers:
MIDI Controller Number
RPN/NRPN
Program, Bank LSB, Bank MSB
Pitch Bend
GM/GM2/XG SysEx Messages

MIDI Data from buttons/switches:
MIDI Controller Number
Note On
Note On/Off toggle
RPN/NRPN
MIDI CC On/Off toggle
Program, Bank LSB, Bank MSB presets
MIDI Machine Control
GM/GM2/XG SysEx messages

Size: 31.9 x 11.2 x 2.6 inches; 81 x 28.5 x 6.6 (cm)
Weight: 10 lbs.; 4.5 kg

What's in the Box Axiom 49 Advanced 49-Key Semi-Weighted USB MIDI Controller, User's Manual, Ableton Live Lite Software

Click here for more information about M-Audio AXIOM 49 Advanced 49-Key Semi-Weighted USB MIDI Controller

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