In this pre-NAMM 2016 music tech roundup, we look at some new product releases, anticipated arrivals, leaked rumors, and predictions of innovative music gear that will inspire musicians across the coming year.
Technics SL-1200GAE | 50th Anniversary Limited Edition
Panasonic has announced the revival of their legendary SL-1200 Direct Drive Turntable System with all new improvements. Due to the widespread use of CDs, turntable systems disappeared briefly from the market, but their warm sound quality is bringing them back. The 50th anniversary of the SL-1200 will be celebrated this summer with the release of two new “Grand Class” models aimed at audiophiles: the aluminum-cased SL-1200G, and the magnesium-cased SL-1200GAE 50th Anniversary Limited Edition.
Korg Minilogue | Analog Synthesizer Leak
Unofficial images leaked out earlier in January of the Korg Minilogue synthesizer. Korg hasn’t made any official announcements about the analog synthesizer, but it’s expected to be launched officially at the forthcoming NAMM trade show later this month in California. According to several sources the KORG Minilogue is a fully programmable, 4-voice polyphonic synthesizer equipped with built-in reverb and delay effects, 16-step sequencer with recording automation options, and more.
Link to MIDI | Clock Sync App for iOS
Link to MIDI connects Ableton’s new Link technology to musical devices that support MIDI Clock Sync. Recommended for use with hardware MIDI devices, Link to MIDI features launch quantization, an incredibly stable clock output, and a fine offset control (±250 ms) to perfectly line up the receiving MIDI device’s playback.
IK Multimedia | “Revolutionary Mastering Product” Announcement
IK Multimedia as announced they teamed up with Lurssen Mastering, a multi-Grammy award winning mastering studio to unveil a totally unique mastering product at NAMM 2016. IK Multimedia revealed that the new product brings the finesse, expertise, and creative insight of the award winning mastering studio and innovative technological leadership of IK to musicians, producers, and engineers around the globe.
T-Rex Replicator | Analog Tape Delay Guitar Effects Pedal
While the quality of tape delay emulators has come a long way, nothing beats the sound of a genuine magnetic tape delay. The REPLICATOR is a pure analog tape delay, handmade in Denmark by T-Rex Engineering. This ultimate tape echo unit features two playback heads for three output modes, a chorus mode that modulates the pitch of the echos, two expression pedal inputs to control delay time and feedback in real time, and uses a durable C30 1/8″ chrome tape cassette for a long life and easy replacement. The goal was to make a tape echo unit that could nail the sound quality of the old echo units, but surpass them in features.
BioTek | Organic Synthesizer
Tracktion has announced the release of BioTek, a premium quality virtual instrument that combines an advanced synthesis engine with a stunning array of sampled sounds from natural, urban, and mechanical environments. Built on the entirely new Acktion™ platform, this “organic synthesizer” is designed to place a wide range of sound sculpting tools on a single screen interface. BioTek’s natural and environmental sounds are samples from a collection spanning 20 years of field recordings across the country.
Waldorf Kassettenspieler | Tapeloop Synthesizer Rumor
Rumors have emerged across the internet that Waldorf may unveil a new tapeloop synthesizer called Kassettenspieler inspired by the legendary sounds of tape instruments.
Rumored Specs:
- ARM processor
- Analog multimode-filter
- 128GB flash memory
- Stereo output
- USB connection for transferring samples
- MIDI in and out
- Software editor for samples
- Digital FX with reverb and phaser from Streichfett
- 12 memory location
Keith McMillen Instruments | K-Mix Audio Interface and Mixer
Keith McMillen Instruments recently introduced K-Mix, an 8-in/10-out audio interface and programmable mixer. K-Mix is labeled as a go-anywhere, fully-programmable, audio multi-tool that can meet all your needs as an artist whether you’re in the studio or on the road. K-Mix features two ultra-accurate high-efficiency low noise μPre preamps and a precision opto-tactile control surface designed from the ground up for an unprecedented level of control. Like other KMI products, K-Mix does not have any moving parts, so it can be transported in a backpack without the fear of snapping off a fader or knob.
Denon DJ | 2016 Teaser
Denon DJ recently released a teaser video full of symbolism that has us curious about their next big product reveal. There are a few speculations circulating now that Denon DJ is under new ownership. All we know for now is that “As climate changes and stars align, this is the tip of the ‘Ice-Berg’ for Denon DJ 2016.” ~ Denon DJ
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