September 2010 News
► Steinberg has launched Nuendo 5, a new state-of-the-art
production environment tailored to top-flight production studios
in post production, live recording and audio production.
Supporting Mac OS X 10.5 and 10.6 as well as Windows 7, Vista
and XP, Nuendo 5 is available from authorized Steinberg dealers
for $2,340 MSRP. Among the new features presented in Nuendo 5 is
a new ADR toolset engineered for audio post, providing new
capabilities for spotting including advanced take and marker
handling, EDL import, a new video engine and more. Clip Packages
have been designed specifically for sound editors as a new way
of organizing and handling audio as clusters of files across
multiple tracks that can be archived, previewed and retrieved
almost instantly using the upgraded Nuendo 5 MediaBay. Enhanced
mixing features in Nuendo 5 include further developments on the
Nuendo automation system as well as direct routing with multiple
destinations. A new plug-in set with the next-generation
Surround Panner and a surround bus Patch Editor further add to
the advanced feature set for surround. Numerous other additions
in Nuendo 5 include a waveform display in the Nuendo mixer,
improved compatibility with Pro Tools audio files and automated
Batch Export functions. Nuendo 5 also integrates seamlessly with
Steinberg’s Nuendo SyncStation synchronizer hardware, providing
sample-accurate sync in almost any situation requiring
rock-solid sync to almost any modern sync standard. Nuendo 5
also features complete support for a range of controller devices
such as Euphonix, WK Audio and the Smart AV Tango.
www.steinberg.net.
► The Tascam DR-680 brings multi-channel portable recording
within reach of any musician for polished live, location and
surround recordings. Up to eight tracks can be recorded to
solid-state SD card media at 96kHz/24-bit Broadcast WAV quality.
Six mic inputs provide phantom power and 60dB of gain for
great-sounding recordings with condenser microphones. Record the
six microphones along with a digital S/PDIF source for 8 track
recording. Inputs can be monitored using a built-in mixer with
level and pan controls for each input. The stereo mixdown can
even be recorded along with the six mics for quick stereo
playback of the event. There’s even a built-in speaker to check
recordings without headphones. In addition to WAV recording up
to 96kHz, the DR-680 captures stereo audio at 192kHz/24-bit for
audiophile-quality masters. The DR-680 records multi-channel MP3
audio for web-ready recordings. Two of the recorders can be
connected with a cascade cable for up to 16-track recording on
battery power. Other features include: Auto-recording mode
begins recording when the input reaches a certain level; Mark
function during recording/playback; Edit functions such as
divide and delete; 128x64 backlit LCD display; Records to
SD/SDHC card media; (4) XLR/1/4” (combi) mic/line inputs and (2)
TRS 1/4” mic/line inputs; Low cut filter and limiter on each
input; (6) RCA unbalanced line outputs; USB 2.0 (mini B)
connection for computer.
www.tascam.com.
► Voxengo Voxformer version 2.4 update is now available
for download. Voxformer is a multi-functional vocal channel
strip plugin for professional audio and sound production
applications, available in AudioUnit and VST plug-in formats,
for Mac OS X and Windows computers. Version 2.4 update
implements the following changes among others: “Ctrl+Drag”
narrow band sweeping implemented; DC filter parameters are now
specified for all channel groups to avoid phasing problems;
Smoothed spectrum display implemented; the “No Multi-Channel
Operation” global switch was added that fixes incompatibility
with some non-VST2.3 compliant VST hosts. Voxformer is available
for purchase on-line for USD 79.95.
www.voxengo.com.
► Open Labs, a leader in innovative Music Production
Stations based in Austin, Texas, debuted their newest line of
Production Stations, Generation6. The Gen6 lineup includes the
Gen6 MiKo QC6, the Gen6 NeKo QX6, the Gen6 MiKo LXD and the Gen6
NeKo XXL. The entire new Gen6 product line offers more power,
more sounds and is more affordable. All products in the Gen6
lineup feature processors from the 2010 Intel® CoreTM processor
family and are based on Microsoft’s Windows 7 for true Open
Platform Capability. The Q series lineup includes the MiKo QC6
and the NeKo QX6, which offer over 10,000 sounds, full DAW
capabilities, a 15” touch screen interface, DVD/CD burning and
internet capability and a 37 or 61 keyboard form factor. The L
series lineup, which are the pinnacle of Music Production
Stations, include the MiKo LXD and the NeKo XXL. Both production
stations offer over 15,000 sounds, full DAW capabilities, a 15”
touch screen interface, DVD/CD burning and internet capability
and a 37 or 61 keyboard form factor. The L series offers
incredible control over production with the Alpha 2 controller,
the bankable Mix Edit and the drum pad interface Bump MP. The
NeKo XXL also raises the bar in audio by offering 24bit/192khz
recording. The Gen6 MiKo QC6 is available for $3,799 USD and the
Gen6 NeKo QX6 is available for $3,999 USD. The Gen6 MiKo LXD is
available for $4,799 USD and the Gen6 NeKo XXL is available for
$6,999 USD. All Open Labs production stations can be purchased
directly through Open Labs at www.openlabs.com or through an
authorized reseller listed on the Open Labs web site.
► Musicians and music lovers who use MIDI technology have a
remarkable new way to create, control and connect with their
instruments. Audiofile Engineering, a developer of audio
software for Mac platforms, has released MIDI Surface for iPhone
OS. Designed for use with Line 6’s one-of-a-kind MIDI Mobilizer
hardware accessory, MIDI Surface gives iPhone and iPod touch
owners the ability to build their own fully customized MIDI
control surfaces. Seamless touch-screen control of MIDI-enabled
instruments such as keyboards, drum machines, software synths
and more is now available in the palm of users’ hands. Suitable
for use on stage, at home or in studio settings, MIDI Surface
offers four interface styles, each with its own set of
changeable parameters: The Keyboard interface features Channel
and Velocity controls. The Sliders interface includes Channel,
Controller (Mod Wheel, Expression, etc.), Low Value and High
Value controls. The Drum Pads interface includes Channel,
Category (Note On, Controller, Program Change), Note, Note Off
(Immediate or Touch Up) and Velocity controls. The X-Y interface
supports up to four touches and includes Channel, Controller,
Left Value and Right Value controls. Users can create and save
as many MIDI Surface interfaces as they like. Each customized
control surface can be configured in precise detail and adjusted
on the fly. Users can even store their own unique Presets for
quick recall. Audiofile Engineering previously developed MIDI
Memo Recorder, a free application that allows iPhone and iPod
touch users to record, store and playback MIDI sequences using
Line 6’s MIDI Mobilizer accessory. MIDI Surface is now available
for download via the Apple App Store for $5.99.
www.audiofile-engineering.com.
► TransAudio Group, the U.S. distributor for ATC (Acoustic
Transducer Company) audio reference speakers, is now shipping
the U.K. manufacturer’s first ever compact active three-way
studio control monitor - the SCM25A Pro. Designed for
positioning on a meter bridge, or rack-mountable for broadcast
applications, the ATC SCM25A Pro offers very high-performance in
the most compact possible form factor. The drive units all use
large diameter, under-hung voice coils for excellent dynamic
range and linearity. The mid-range is ATCs world-renowned soft
dome and the bass driver is a hand-built, in-house, using a
carbon-paper cone with high excursion capability. On-board
amplification features the company’s class A/B Mosfet output
stage delivering 150W to the bass driver, 60W to the mid and 25W
to the high frequency driver. All three stages are fed by 4th
order critically damped crossover filters with phase
compensation. The unit’s ported enclosure measures 10.4 inches
(264 mm) (H) x 16.9 inches (430 mm) (W) x 16 inches (408 mm)
(D). The SCM25A Pro produces a wide, stable soundfield with very
low coloration and offers low-frequency extension to 42 Hz
(-6dB). MSRP: $8,500. www.atcloudspeakers.co.uk. ►
► New releases from FirstCom Music include: AM064 Network News -
Traditional fast moving news and information, designed for
serious news, political, and world events; AM065 Big Fat FX -
Impact effects, hits, sound design, production elements; CHAP
354 The Roots Of Blues Rock - Heavy riff-based amped-up blues;
CHAP 356 Complete Movie Collection - Classic Soundtracks And
Movie Themes; CHAP 357 Complete Movie Collection - Classic
Soundtracks: B Movie, Horror and War; EVO139 Pop Bites - Bite
size teen portions, pop styles, pop culture, fashion, youth
Idols, kids TV, top hits, instrumental promos; EVO146 Soft Touch
- Soft sell neutral music backgrounds, acoustic guitar,
percussion and light motion for narration, video and
commercials; GM-132 Big & Juicy Underscores 4 - Tasteful
positive underscores for people profiling, light sports events,
corporate webcast, magazine news, advertising, talking heads,
all with that user friendly feel; and many more. Audition at
www.firstcom.com.
► Pro Sound Effects is now distributing five new libraries from
the BBC Sound Effects Archive. The BBC Sound Effects Library has
the largest, most global and diverse selection of animal sound
effects and historical sound effects currently available. For
audio demos and track listings, please visit the BBC Publisher
Page on www.prosoundeffects.com. Pro Sound Effects works with
the BBC Information & Archives to make the BBC Sound Effects
Library available both digitally and on sound effects hard
drives with search engine software. The five libraries include
the BBC Complete Sound Effects Library with 33,000 sounds and
the re-release of the BBC Original 1 - 60 Sound Effects Library
with updated metadata. Search software is included free; the
library is delivered pre-digitized on hard drive with 3 year
data replacement policy. The embedded metadata is compatible
with NetMix, Soundminer, Basehead and more.
www.prosoundeffects.com. ►
► United Stations Radio Networks, Inc., (USRN) an independent
leader in the creation and marketing of network radio
programming, announced that the network will be the exclusive
source for a new radio imaging service called PHANTOM PRODUCER
that enables subscribing stations to create their own customized
production elements with no need for professional audio
software. Phantom Producer is the brainchild of the
award-winning producer Jeff Thomas who has developed the service
in conjunction with programming executives at United Stations.
Eric Weiss of The Weiss Agency represented Jeff Thomas in this
deal and this announcement came from USRN’s Chairman/CEO, Nick
Verbitsky at the company’s Headquarters in New York City. The
service provides radio stations with the ability to choose, mix
and create their sweepers, links and other interstitial
production elements via a password-protected website. Phantom
Producer works via a new and exclusive online user interface
that accesses customized elements created just for the client
station and allows anyone at the radio station to sequence those
elements into perfectly mixed production elements that can be
immediately downloaded, ready for air. No new gear or software
is required and as a result, the Phantom Producer service ushers
in a new era of “desktop imaging.” Jeff Thomas has helped image
radio stations all over the world in a career that has spanned
more than 30 years. The Australian native is perhaps best known
for his time spent at Clear Channel’s KIIS-FM, Los Angeles where
he was the station’s Creative Services Director, but he’s also
widely known for his role in launching the Killer Hertz Sound
Design Library, providing audio that has been used by radio and
television stations all over the world and in numerous movie
trailers. At KIIS, he helped develop the national ‘KISS” sound
for Clear Channel. He also helped launch the Howard Stern Sirius
Channels, Howard 100 and 101. The rest of the Phantom Producer
team includes a stable of imaging and voice-over heavy weights.
Thomas along with Arden Hanley (Nova FM Australia, Capital FM
London) will launch the service with new imagers to be announced
soon. An impressive array of voice-over artists will also join
the service with credentials and careers that span the globe.
The music and jingles in the package will be provided by Seattle
music production powerhouse, IQ Beats whose client list includes
WKTU New York, Heart 106.2 London, Capital Radio London and many
more. Much more information and a few tutorials are available at
www.phantomproducer.com.
► Multiple RMB Crystal Award Finalist and Runner-up in the 2009
Radio And Production Awards, Matt Fogarty, recently launched
mattfogarty.ca to promote his voice work. Matt is currently the
voice of Ricky’s All Day Grill in Canada, and is now looking to
begin projects for new prospective clients seeking a fresh,
diverse and affordable sound. In addition to voice work, Matt
offers scriptwriting and copy services, as well as campaign
consultation. For more information, contact Matt Fogarty, or
visit www.mattfogarty.ca.
► Another six Entercom stations sign on with vCreative™PPO.
There are now over thirty Entercom stations using vCreative™PPO.
KBZC-FM, KKDO-FM, KSEG-FM, KRXQ-FM, KDND-FM & KCTC-AM are the
latest to sign up. Also added are Nebraska’s KHAS-AM, KKPR-FM,
KLIA-FM, KXPN-AM and KICS-AM; and Sacramento’s KKFS-FM, KFIA-AM,
KTKZ-AM and KSAC-FM. The online system allows AE’s to enter or
review production orders online. Orders can be for traditional
on-air radio spots or even online streaming and banner ads. Once
submitted, production orders are fully tracked with user,
dateand time stamping as well as perpetually archived with all
source files for easy access down the road. www.vCreativeInc.com.
▲
Rod West, Tunedge Music, Encino, California
Carl Hitchmough, Southern Cross Media, Qsld., Australia
Rich Witt, Vanilla Gorilla Productions, Sugar Land, Texas
John Mciver, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Cathal Joyce, Clare FM, Ennis, County Clare, Ireland
Christchurch Polytechnic, Newmarket, Auckland, New Zealand
Rick Andrews, Gap Broadcasting, Amarillo, Texas
Brian Stevens, Springboro, Ohio
Laurent Boulet, CHOI-FM, Quebec, Canada
Simon Healy, MSCM, Bunbury, Western Australia
Frank Scales, K-Love & Air 1 Radio Networks, Rocklin, California
Grant Brodie, Radioworks, Auckland, New Zealand
Heikki Wichmann, NRJ,Helsinki, Finland
Sideshow Mike Andersen, Triple M, Sydney, Australia