Saturday, March 24, 2012

Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome

Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome Review



Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome Feature

  • Korg's original, cylindrical resonator speaker provides powerful sound, now with even more volume and improved tone.
  • An LED provides visual confirmation of the tempo, a convenient feature for practicing with the metronome muted.
  • Newly added beat variations range from basic to sophisticated rhythms like son clave and rumba clave.
  • A total of 19 beat patterns cover your practicing needs in numerous musical styles.
  • Tap Tempo function makes it easy to set the tempo.
The Korg KDM-2 is an easy-to-use, electric metronome that visually marks the tempo with remarkable accuracy, and delivers a powerful sound like never before.

The Korg KDM-2 visually marks the and delivers a powerful sound. Click to enlarge.

Easy-to-see, large LED.

Encoder-type TEMPO/CALIB dial.

Improved cylindrical resonator speaker
This digital electric metronome delivers even clearer and more powerful sound, and Korg's acclaimed cylindrical speaker has been further enhanced with an improved resonator structure to ensure that it is easily heard. Even loud instruments will not overpower the unmistakable, clear sound of the Korg KDM-2. And with the KDM-2 you have the choice of selecting 3 different PCM sounds (cowbell/agogo/clave) for the beat, so you can choose which sound you want to compliment the instrument you're playing. The volume can also be adjusted to the most appropriate level. Since there's a PHONE jack built in to this electric metronome, you can connect a mini-plug (1/8") earphone, perfect for private practice.

Easy-to-see, large LED
The START/STOP switch located on the top panel of the Korg KDM-2 blinks in two colors--red and green--providing for unmistakable visual indication of the tempo. The START/STOP switch is a great feature if you are looking to practice with a silent metronome.

A variety of beats cover even sophisticated rhythms
From basic beats to variations like son clave and rumba clave, the KDM-2 contains a total of 19 beat patterns. You can set the tempo in any one of three ways. Full Step mode lets you adjust the tempo over a range of 30 through 252 in steps of one. Pendulum Step mode lets you set the tempo using the preset tempo settings, as on a mechanical metronome. and Tap Tempo lets you set the tempo by pressing the TAP switch at the desired interval.

Use the reference pitches to tune by ear
Sound Out mode outputs a reference tone that you can use as a tuning guide. You can listen to any one of the twelve pitches from C4-B4. You can also adjust the A4 frequency (calibration) in a broad range from 410 Hz-480 Hz.

Memory backup function
The KDM-2 provides a memory backup function that remembers the specified tempo, beat, calibration, and reference pitch, even when the power off.

Designed for stability and ease of use
The large LCD screen on this electric metronome makes it easy to view the settings. An encoder-type TEMPO/CALIB dial and a Step Select switch provide quick and direct access to settings and functions. Featuring an original design that is compact yet stable, the KDM-2 is at home on your desk, your piano, or anywhere else.

Long battery life
The KDM-2 is designed for long battery life. The electric metronome will continue marking an accurate tempo for approximately 120 hours of continuous use at a tempo of 120 beats per minute.

Three-Year Warranty
Korg digital and electric metronomes purchased from a Korg USA authorized dealer now have a three-year warranty.

What's in the Box
KDM2 Metronome, Four AAA Batteries, User's Manual Korg's original, cylindrical resonator speaker ensures  the KDM-2 will be heard loud and clear and with a choice of 19 beat patterns, large LCD screen and Tap Tempo function, the KDM-2 could be the last metronome you'll ever need. Korg's original, cylindrical resonator speaker provides powerful sound, now with even more volume and improved tone. An LED provides visual confirmation of the tempo, a convenient feature for practicing with the metronome muted. Newly added beat variations range from basic to sophisticated rhythms like son clave and rumba clave A total of 19 beat patterns cover your practicing needs in numerous musical styles. Tap Tempo function makes it easy to set the tempo. An audible Reference tone in a range of C4?B4 is available, allowing you to tune your instrument. An encoder-type TEMPO/CALIB dial and switch provide direct access to the desired setting or function. A large LCD screen makes settings easy to see. Original and compact style. Long battery life, with approximately 120 hours of continuous use. Improved cylindrical resonator speaker delivers even clearer and more powerful sound.Korg's acclaimed cylindrical speaker has been further enhanced with an improved resonator structure to ensure that it's easily heard. Even loud instruments wont overpower its unmistakable, clear sound. And with the KDM-2 you have a choice of 3 different PCM sounds (cowbell/agogo/clave) for the beat, so you can choose the sound that compliments the instrument you're playing. The volume can also be adjusted to the most appropriate level. Since there's a PHONE jack, you can connect a mini-plug (1/8") earphone for private practice. Easy-to-see, large LED. The START/STOP switch located on the top panel blinks in two colors red and green for an unmistakable visual indication of the tempo. It's a great feature if you want to practice with a silent metronome. A variety of beats cover even sophisticated rhythms.From basic beats to variations like son clave and ...


Friday, March 23, 2012

Korg nanoKONTROL USB Controller, White

Korg nanoKONTROL USB Controller, White Review



Korg nanoKONTROL USB Controller, White Feature

  • Maximum Polyphony: 32 Notes (Depending On The CPU Of Host Computer)
  • Number Of Parts: 8
  • Number Of Presets: 200 Presets
  • 144 PCM Waveforms (100 Multi-Sounds, 44 Drum-Sounds)
  • 33 Effect Types
The nanoKONTROL is part of Korg's nanoSERIES USB powered slimline MIDI controllers; so small you can put them on your workstation, in front of your laptop, on a recording console, or anywhere else you need versatile control over your DAW, virtual instrument, effect, or DJ software. Despite it's small size, this MIDI controller goes big when it comes to functionality. It's intuitive layout provides extremely easy operation for any user. The Korg nanoKONTROL offers 9 faders, 9 knobs, and 18 switches, plus a full transport section for expansive control. It also features a note input mode to help you lay down your next big groove. Even if the Korg nanoKONTROL controller is your first foray into MIDI control, be assured that you'll be able to get connected to software quickly. The nanoKONTROL includes a discount coupon for Ableton Live LE software. What's more, you get a free downloadable Editor/Librarian to help you create setups to suit your specific control needs.


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Korg M50 61-Key Music Workstation

Korg M50 61-Key Music Workstation Review



Korg M50 61-Key Music Workstation Feature

  • 61-key semi-weighted Natural Touch keyboard5.7 inch TouchView GUI, 320 x 240 dot displayControllers: Joystick, [SW1], [SW2]Damper Pedal (half damper pedaling supported), Assignable Switch, Assignable PedalSynthesis Technology: EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis)Tone Generator: 256 Mbyte (when converted to 16-bit linear format) 1,077 Multisamples1,609 Drum SamplesMaximum Polyphony: 80 voices, 80 oscillators max, single mode40 voices, 80 oscillators max, double modeSounds:Programs: 640 total locat
Weighing in at just 15 lb., the KORG M50 keyboard workstation is packed with incredible 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 KORG's TouchView interactive display. It all adds up to an invigorating and sexy KORG keyboard, at your service. There's a Keyboard for EveryoneOver 20 years of category-defining workstation expertise beats in the heart of the M50 Compact Workstation. Just as the M3 borrowed elements from the legendary OASYS, the KORG M50 captures all the sonic firepower of the M3, distilled into a top-notch performance instrument. This 61-note keyboard features a semi-weighted Natural Touch. Its fast and responsive synthesizer keybed facilitates expressive and dynamic performing. A Natural PerformerMade to be played, the M50 is inviting and comfortable. The TouchView screen is intuitive and interactive, allowing the uniquely angled front panel to remain refined and uncluttered. The buttons themselves are rock solid, backlit, and rounded for visibility and ease-of-use under any playing conditions. In addition to KORG's 4-way joystick and multifunction knobs, the M50 keyboard offers 4 Chord Triggers that provide a flexible and fun way to play chords and trigger arp patterns. A 10-key numeric keypad allows on-demand instant access to sounds, combinations (or combis), and other parameter/values. Hundreds of drum track patterns, and over a thousand arpeggiator patterns—including chord grooves, picking-patterns, and more—are instantly available to add punch and pizzazz to your M50 performance, and to provide hours of inspiration.Perfectly Shaped SoundsM50 is packed with over 600 individual sound programs, each one created by KORG's international voicing team. With a robust 256MB of sample data—recorded in exacting studio conditions—the acoustic instr


Monday, March 19, 2012

Korg Pitch Clip Chromatic Low Profile Tuner

Korg Pitch Clip Chromatic Low Profile Tuner Review



Korg Pitch Clip Chromatic Low Profile Tuner Feature

  • A compact, lightweight, and discreet clip on style chromatic tuner
  • An easy to use display reverse to ensure easy viewing when mounted on either side of the headstock
  • Highly accurate and ultra-responsive, offers a wide detection range
  • Clear, bright, and easy to read LED display
  • Auto power off extends battery life
The Korg Pitch Clip Chromatic Low Profile Tuner boasts fast pitch detection and processing, and a detection range from A0 to C8, the Korg pitch clip outperforms many of the clip on tuners on the market today. Korg has located the battery compartment in the clip itself allowing the display unit to be discreet, lightweight, and easy to handle. The Korg pitch clip's high contrast LED display can be inverted to make sure you have clear visibility when mounted in front of or behind the headstock on any instrument. It can be used with classical guitars, electric basses, ukuleles to name a few. You can use the Korg pitch clip for up to 17 hours using one CR2032 battery; it includes an auto power off function that helps preserves the battery life. The Korg Pitch Clip Chromatic Low Profile Tuner Features A compact, lightweight, and discreet clip on style chromatic tuner An easy to use display reverse to ensure easy viewing when mounted on either side of the headstock Highly accurate and ultra-responsive, offers a wide detection range Clear, bright, and easy to read LED display Reliable, highly stable clip design Auto power off extends battery life


Sunday, March 18, 2012

Korg OT-120 Wide 8 Octave Chromatic Orchestral Tuner

Korg OT-120 Wide 8 Octave Chromatic Orchestral Tuner Review



Korg OT-120 Wide 8 Octave Chromatic Orchestral Tuner Feature

  • Chromatic tuner with a wide 8 octave detection range that supports band and orchestra instruments.
  • Dual display provides both a needle-type meter and an LCD for excellent visibility.
  • Sound Back mode plays a reference pitch for the note that's closest to the input pitch. The meter indicates the discrepancy between the input and the correct pitch. (This feature requires the additional purchase of the CM-100L microphone.)
  • Multiple Temperaments support historical tunings
  • Transpose mode is convenient for wind instruments.
Tune string and wind instruments in a flash with the OT-120, a new band and orchestral tuner that combines the accuracy of needle-type meters with superior functionality, wide tuning range and a new, sleek vertical design.

Superior functionality, wide tuning range and a new, sleek vertical design. Click to enlarge.

Dual display provides both a needle-type meter and an LCD for excellent visibility.

View control diagram. Click to enlarge.

Vertical Design and Superior Visibility
The Korg OT-120 chromatic band and orchestral tuner is intended for orchestral instruments, packing precise performance and sophisticated functionality in a vertical design that's easy to hold and operate. The Korg OT-120 features a dual-display, an easy-to-see needle-type indicator and a backlit LCD screen that shows the battery life, sound output level, calibration, as well as key and note name. Additional design features include a large dial that makes it easy to select the desired mode, soft-touch buttons and a rear-mounted stand that lets the band and orchestral tuner stand by itself. A sophisticated silver aluminum panel contributes to its sleek, new look.

Accurately Tune Orchestral Instruments Over a Wide Range
Since we developed the world's first meter-type tuner in 1975, the accuracy of Korg tuners has made them the choice of artists in all styles of music. With its wide tuning range extending from A0 to C8, the OT-120 lets you quickly tune any type of band instrument including, orchestra, wind, string, brass or piano. The Korg OT-120 also provides a wide range of calibration to support concert pitches in a range of 349-499 Hz (1 Hz steps).

Smooth and Precise Tuning
This band and orchestral tuner uses a high-precision needle-type meter to accurately indicate any pitch discrepancy. The speed at which the needle responds to the input can be changed over a range of three steps; you can choose fast, medium or slow speeds to match your tuning preference.

You can also choose from two tuning modes; Auto mode, which automatically detects the pitch of a single note you play on your instrument, or Manual mode, which lets you specify the desired note name. In Manual mode, the needle movement is shown in a range of 50 cents, letting you view the tuning discrepancy over a wide range. In addition to the excellent visibility unique to a needle-type meter, the LEDs located below the meter also indicate pitch deviation or a perfect match, making precise tuning easy even in dim locations.

Sound Back Mode for Tuning String or Wind Instruments
The OT-120 produces a reference tone in a five-octave range extending from C2 (65.41 Hz) to C7 (2093 Hz). You can switch the output level in two stages. The large speaker allows for more volume while not being obstructed even when using the stand, ensuring that the reference tone is clearly audible.

The OT-120 also provides Korg's proprietary Sound Back mode. This mode lets you connect an optional CM-100L contact microphone to the input jack, and automatically make the OT-120's speaker produce a reference tone for the note that is closest to the input pitch you play on your instrument. The meter will also indicate the input pitch, letting you tune using your eyes as well as your ears for greater accuracy--and also providing a great way to train your sense of pitch.

Support for Transposing Instruments and Historical Temperaments
For conveniently tuning any wind instrument, twelve types of transposing keys are provided in this band and orchestral tuner, including both sharps and flats. The Multi Temperament function provides eight presets that cover the most popular historical temperaments often used with period instruments. These are also ideal for checking unique temperaments used in classical music.

Long Battery Life
The OT-120 is designed for an extended battery life of approximately 100 hours when running on two AAA batteries. It can also be used with an AC adaptor (sold separately).

Soft Case Included
A durable, suede-tone soft case is included. Korg band and orchestral tuners purchased from a Korg USA authorized dealer now have a three year warranty.

What's in the Box
Korg OT-120 Orchestral Tuner, Soft Case, Two AAA Batteries, Owner's Manual The Korg OT120 lets you tune string and wind instruments in a flash! The OT120 is a new tuner that combines the accuracy of needle-type meters with superior functionality, wide tuning range and a new, sleek vertical design.


Thursday, March 15, 2012

Akai Pro LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller

Akai Pro LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller Review



Akai Pro LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller Feature

  • USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software
  • Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note or program change
  • Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software
  • Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
  • USB bus powered - no additional power cable needed
No matter where you are when an idea pops into your head, you can turn it into a beat by simply plugging the Akai Pro LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller into your Mac or PC. A great choice for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators on the go, this compact controller easily fits in your laptop bag or backpack so you can always have it on hand.

The LPD8 is based on Akai Professional's MPC line of iconic music production stations, and it provides your laptop the MPC controls you've become accustomed to and prefer over a mouse and keyboard. It has eight orange light-up pads that are velocity sensitive for programming rhythmic or melodic parts. The pads can also send program-change information to software. Additionally, the LPD8 has eight assignable Q-Link knobs you can assign to virtually any parameters in their software for hands-on control.

The LPD8 works plug and play with Mac and PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. It has four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs you use.

Key Features

  • USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software
  • Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads can send note or program change
  • Eight Q-Link knobs for controlling virtually any parameters in software
  • Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
  • Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag
  • Four programmable memory banks
  • Comes with editor software for Mac and PC
  • USB bus powered -- no additional power cable needed


The Akai Pro LPD8 Laptop Pad Controller.



Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag (see larger image).

Ultra-portable production pad. The LPD8 laptop pad controller is a USB-MIDI controller for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators. It measures less than 13 inches across and weighs less than a pound to easily fit into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag for extreme portability. The LPD8 is based on Akai Professional’s MPC line of iconic music production stations. Producers who love the feel of the MPC and want to work with software on their computer will find that the LPD8 gives their laptop the controls they prefer over a mouse and keyboard. The LPD8 has eight orange light-up pads that are velocity sensitive for programming rhythmic or melodic parts. The pads can also send program-change information to software. Additionally, the LPD8 has eight assignable Q-Link knobs you can assign to virtually any parameters in their software for hands-on control. The LPD8 works plug and play with Mac and PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. It has four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs you use. Make music in any setting with the LPD8.


Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Korg MA1 Digital Metronome (Blue)

Korg MA1 Digital Metronome (Blue) Review



Korg MA1 Digital Metronome (Blue) Feature

  • Multi-function compact metronome
  • Beat-Counting display makes it easier to practice your rhythm and phrasing
  • Choose from two types of tempo steps: pendulum steps or full steps
  • Tap Tempo function lets you quickly set the desired tempo
  • Tune any instrument using the 12 step chromatic reference pitch
The MA-1 is a compact metronome that solidly covers all the basics with a broad tempo range and a rich variety of beats and rhythm patterns. The MA-1 also shows the beat in an innovative way that makes practicing easier. The MA-1 is available in your choice of two-tone color schemes: blue and black, or black and red. With stylish design and reliable functionality, this is an indispensible rhythm training aide for any musician.


Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Korg monotribe Analog Ribbon Station Synthesizer

Korg monotribe Analog Ribbon Station Synthesizer Review



Korg monotribe Analog Ribbon Station Synthesizer Feature

  • The powerful sound of true analog synthesis
  • 3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
  • Popular Electribe-style sequencing.
  • Active Step and Flux features for realtime dynamic loop manipulation
  • Advanced multi-function ribbon keyboard; Chromatic, Continuous, & Wide modes
In a world seemingly ruled by digital, Korg created an analog sensation with the palm-sized monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer. Korg has once again raised the analog banner with the amazing monotribe Analog Ribbon Station; a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body. Korgs monotribe shares the monotrons analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic, and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. In addition to analog synthesis, monotribe brings together intuitive ease of use and a three-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of Electribe-style sequencing. Complete with a built-in speaker and battery power, monotribe is self-contained and highly portable.True Analog Synthesis The monotribes sound engine uses technology old and new, merging the powerful sound of analog synthesis with the dexterity and playability required in todays groove making environments. Analog technology is essential for fast and responsive control, and delivers the full sonic spectrum from warm and easy-going to full-throttle rampage.Three-Part Analog DrumsThe monotribe provides a three-part rhythm section powered by discrete analog circuitry; bass drum, snare, and hi-hat. These three sounds were the key elements in a generation of analog beat making, and are still in demand today. Use these powerful drum sounds to generate distinctive beats attainable only from the monotribe.Electribe-Style Groove Creation For over a decade, Korg's Electribe Series has served as the standard tools for dance music and DJ work, and has earned outstanding popularity, even appearing recently as top-selling iPad app. The fantastic step key interface lives on in monotribe, with a dedicated button for each of the eight steps. This allows real-time, hands-on step editing of not only the drum parts, but also for any synth part sequence played on the ribbon keyboard.Active Step and Flux ModeActive Step editing lets yo...


Alesis Q25 25-Note USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis Q25 25-Note USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller Review



Alesis Q25 25-Note USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller Feature

  • 25-note keyboard controller for melodic control of virtually all MIDI hardware and software
  • Velocity sensitive keys for expressive, musical performance
  • USB MIDI and traditional MIDI for use with Mac and PC, as well as MIDI hardware
  • Pitch and Modulation wheels for capturing musical expression
  • Backlit Octave Up and Down buttons expand your range
The Q25 is a 25-note, velocity-sensitive, MIDI keyboard controller with USB and traditional MIDI ports that enable you to connect to almost all MIDI equipment including software and sound modules. Thanks to Pitch and Modulation wheels, backlit Octave Up and Down buttons, and a Volume/Data Entry slider, you can add expression, range, and dynamics to your performances quickly and effortlessly.


Monday, March 12, 2012

SP170BK Keyboard Stand (Black)

SP170BK Keyboard Stand (Black) Review



SP170BK Keyboard Stand (Black) Feature

  • Includes - Stand, Music stand, Damper pedal and AC adapter
  • Sound Generation - Stereo Sampling System
  • Effects - Reverb, Chorus (3 levels each)
  • Demo - 30 songs (10 songs in 3 banks)
  • Metronome - Tempo, Time Signature, Accent and Volume controls
Matching Black Stand built by Korg specifically for the SP170BK.


Sunday, March 11, 2012

Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad Dynamic Effects Sampler

Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad Dynamic Effects Sampler Review



Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad Dynamic Effects Sampler Feature

  • USB: Type B
  • MIDI: IN/OUT
  • Data Storage: SD Card
  • Power Supply: DC 12V; 700mA
  • USB: Type B, Midi: in/out
  • USB is of Type B

Embraced by DJs, musicians, and producers alike, the Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad Dynamic Effects Sampler is intuitive, immediate, and just plain fun to use. By simply touching, tapping or sliding your finger over the touchpad, the Korg KP3 allows you to control multiple effects parameters and manipulate samples in real time. On stage or in the studio, these gestures and moves can become truly powerful and expressive performance elements.

Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad
Click here for a larger image.

More than a processor, the KP3 is a complete instrument allowing you to manage, recall, and play back samples; sample on the fly; and add dynamic processing to any audio signal or to the samples themselves. The KP3 is an effects sampler with 128 effects, ranging from traditional effects such as delays, flangers and reverbs, to exciting new effects, like grain shifter, decimator, analog style filter with a tone-bending drive circuit and EQs controllable directly from the pad.

The KP3 offers a Secure Digital (SD) slot for loading and saving your sample data. And an editor/librarian program is included with the KP3 effects sampler so you can build libraries of samples and edit them using your computer (via USB).

Trip The Light Fantastic

The new pad lighting system of the KP3 DJ effects sampler provides visual cues for the current program, held position, and more--it can even scroll a custom message! This interface offers a whole new level of operator interaction.

Sync'd Up

The KP3 effects sampler's Auto BPM circuit derives tempo information from a turntable or CD player and can sync effects to play in perfect timing, while providing MIDI clock to other devices.

Editor/Librarian software
Editor/Librarian software. Click here for a larger image.

A DJ Effects Sampler Beyond Effects

Instant drum grooves and RADIAS-inspired vocoder and synthesizer sounds can also be played on the X/Y pad, and, they can be synced to tempo just like the effects.

Capture Contraption

Sampling and effects are integrated completely, so you can sample through the effects, and even resample the output to create powerful, multi-element sounds. Plus, you can sample and resample the synths and drums within the unit KAOSSILATOR style, to create musical phrases on the fly.

Specifications

  • Sample Memory:
    • Up to 16 beats x 4 pads at tempos of 73 BPM and higher
    • Up to 8 beats x 4 pads at tempos of 72 BPM and lower
    • 100 samples maximum when using SD card
  • Inputs: 1/4-inch mic with trim knob; line-in (L/R RCA)
  • Outputs: 1/4-inch headphone with volume; line-out (L/R RCA)
  • MIDI: In/Out
  • Dimensions: 8.27 x 8.9 x 1.93 inches (WxDxH)
  • Weight: 2.87 pounds
The Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad Effects Controller is a powerful sampling tool and performance effects pad right on your fingertips. Korg’s KAOSS technology has been embraced by DJs, musicians and producers alike. No other interface is as intuitive, immediate or just plain fun to use. By simply touching, tapping or sliding your finger over the touchpad, the all-new KP3 allows you to control multiple effects parameters and manipulate samples in real time. On stage or in the studio, these gestures and moves can become powerful and expressive performance elements. More than a processor, the KP3 is a complete instrument allowing you to manage, recall, and play back samples, sample on the fly, and add dynamic processing to any audio signal or to the samples themselves. This latest KAOSS incarnation has been completely overhauled to enhance your creativity, with significant advances in every area. New effects algorithms, synth sounds derived from our RADIAS engine, bigger and better sampling plus computer connectivity all point to the fact that the KP3 is an entirely new KAOSS instrument. A new pad lighting system places 64 individual LEDs in an eight by eight grid under the pad, providing visual cues as to the current program, held position, etc. It can even scroll a custom message across the pad! The KP3 comes equipped with 128 great-sounding effect programs Sure, the traditional essential effects are there– delays, flangers and they sound amazing. But using newly developed algorithms, the KP3 also provides fresh, exciting effects such as a grain shifter, decimator, a vintage analog style filter with a tone-bending drive circuit, and expanded EQs that are controlled directly from the pad. And moving beyond effects, there are also drum grooves and even RADIAS-inspired vocoder and synthesizer sounds that can be played free-form on the X/Y pad.


Friday, March 9, 2012

Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface, Black

Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface, Black Review



Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface, Black Feature

  • Low-profile, multi-function control surface
  • New track select and marker advance parameters
  • Supports numerous software titles including major DAW programs
n a body proportioned to fit perfectly in front of your laptop computer, the nanoKONTROL2 provides eight channels of the controllers you need to control your music software. The nanoKONTROL2 also features a dedicated transport control section. The buttons have been carefully selected to be useful with your software, ensuring simple and intuitive control. Many software titles – including major DAW programs – are supported, dramatically reducing the need to make complicated connection settings. A knob, fader, and three switches are provided for each of the eight channels, respectively assigned to pan, volume, and solo/mute/record. This arrangement is a real convenience when recording automation for multiple channels. There's also a marker button, making it easy to assign marks at important points in your song for more efficient recording and song production. When using a software synthesizer, you can assign parameters to the desired controllers for easy control. For example you could use the faders to control the ADSR of an envelope generator, and use the knobs to control the filter's cutoff frequency and resonance, etc. The nanoKONTROL2 works with the "Korg Kontrol Editor" software – available free on the Korg website. Load it into your computer, and use it to make detailed customized settings. For example, the minimum and maximum values for each control change message can be specified. Just connect a single USB cable from your computer to the nanoKONTROL2, and you've got a quick and portable music production system. Power and USB-MIDI data travels down the same wire for a clean, efficient workspace.


M-Audio Oxygen 25 25-Key USB MIDI Controller

M-Audio Oxygen 25 25-Key USB MIDI Controller Review



M-Audio Oxygen 25 25-Key USB MIDI Controller Feature

  • Bus-powered 25-key USB MIDI controller - Ultra-mobile design
  • 8 MIDI-assignable knobs - control DAW and virtual instrutment parameters
  • DirectLink mode - instant controller mapping to DAW functions
  • Dedicated ransport and track skect buttons - sreamlined session control
  • Assignable slider - quick to Masster Volume. Pro Tools compatible - extends industry-standard functionality
The Oxygen 25 USB MIDI controller delivers next-generaion functionality from M-Audio, the leading innovator in mobile music production technology. The Oxygen 25 features eight assignable knobs, plus dedicated transport and track select buttons. DirectLink mode automatically maps these controls to common DAW functions including transport, mixer, track pan and plug-in parameters. Built-in factory presets offer support for popular virtual instruments right out of the box - no complicated setup required. Velociy-sensitive keys and a sleek, compact design round out a portable keyboard that's perfect for lapop production, live DJ performance, triggering samples or composing on the go. No other MIDI controller in this price range has so much functionality while remaining easy to use.


Thursday, March 8, 2012

Korg PX4D Pandora Personal Multi Effects Processor

Korg PX4D Pandora Personal Multi Effects Processor Review



Korg PX4D Pandora Personal Multi Effects Processor Feature

  • Numerous Built-in high-quality REMS modeling effects
  • A total of 158 effect types from realistic amp sounds to sophisticated effects
  • 200 programs provided - 100 preset and 100 user programmable
  • Offers up to seven effects simultaneously
  • Knob-based interface for quick and intuitive editing
Since its introduction, the Pandora series has been acclaimed by guitarists and bassists for its high-quality sound, versatile functionality, and superb user interface in an amazing pocket-sized package. Combining both guitar and bass effects into a single unit, the PX4D delivers a major leap in functionality as well. Its comprehensive range of sounds includes vintage amps and a wide range of cabinets, as well as effects ranging from classic to distinctively unique. The PX4D is a great choice not only for practicing, but for any situation that demands great guitar or bass sound, including recording and live performance. The PX4D contains 158 effects that deliver vintage amp sounds and much more. From high-end tube amps to rare vintage amps and classic favorites, the 25 amp types faithfully model the amp sounds that guitarists and bassists seek. Each of the 23 cabinet effects that reproduce the acoustic and structural resonances of a speaker cabinet were newly created especially for the PX4D.The creative possibilities are limitless – you can even combine a guitar amp with a bass cabinet. In addition to standards such as compressor and wah, there are numerous realistic modeling effects that deliver a versatile range of tones. Pickup modeling transforms the sound of a single-coil pickup into that of a humbucking pickup (or vice versa), a guitar (bass) synth that lets you play synth sounds, an intelligent pitch shifter that automatically harmonizes with your playing, a talk effect that produces the impression that your guitar is speaking, a slow attack effect that creates violin-type swells, a feedback effect that allows feedback playing techniques that are normally possible only at high volumes, a rotary speaker that changes speed in response to your picking or fingering dynamics, a fretless bass effect that simulates the distinctive sound of a fretless bass, and many more are ready for your use.