Welcome to Part 3 of our NAMM 2021 Buyer's Guide!
No surprise here, but the NAMM Show is moving to an all online experience this year due to COVID-19. There will be a ton of good online talks and resources available to check out and registration is FREE. Many of our advertisers use the NAMM show to announce new products, so here is a look at many of them in lieu of walking the showroom floor.
If you see something you like, please support our retail advertisers and know that when you purchase via links in this guide we receive a small commission that helps Tape Op keep the lights on! Enjoy!
NAMM 2021 Buyer's Guide: Part 1
NAMM 2021 Buyer's Guide: Part 2
5059 Satellite 16 x 2+2 Summing Mixer - Now available in Shelford Blue for 2021
Built around many of the topologies and custom transformers made famous with the 5088 mixer, the 5059 is a 16x2+2 summing mixer designed to deliver the ultimate out of the box sonics and control in a 2U, rack-mountable chassis.
The 5059 features 16 channels with individual level, pan, inserts, stereo-2 sends, and master texture controls, providing easy integration with outboard equipment, complete control for two separate stem mixes, and the ability to dial in analog mojo in two modes. With the same sonic heritage as mixers used to create countless hit records, the 5059 Satellite imbues your tracks with the legendary warmth and presence of a Rupert Neve design.
5060 Centerpiece 24 x 2 Desktop Mixer - Now available in Shelford Blue for 2021
From the pioneer of recording consoles comes the 5060 Centerpiece: the Class-A analog heart of your 21st-century studio. Sized for your desktop, the 5060 delivers the tonality and center section features of Rupert’s flagship 5088 console at your fingertips, cementing outboard together with serious custom transformers, flexible monitoring, DAW transport controls, and the raw power of a Rupert Neve-designed 24×2 mix-buss.
With a modular, hybrid analog/digital mix system built around the 5060, you can outfit your studio with exactly what you need – and nothing that you don’t. Utilizing modern DAW control technologies, the 5060 seamlessly integrates stem outputs from the DAW with the rest of your control room, sums the final mix, and provides 2-track outputs, source selection, and up to three speaker feed outputs from the monitor section.
Its custom transformers, class-A mix buss and variable Silk allow the 5060 to provide a wide range of tonal flavors. Drive the mix buss hard and crank the Texture knob for a rich, saturated, vintage vibe – or disengage Silk entirely for clear, wide-open sonic beauty. With the Centerpiece, the choice is yours.
Master Buss Converter (MBC) - Dual Path A-D Converter & Limiter
Whether you’re tracking, printing mixes, or mastering, the Master Buss Converter is a revelation in quality and functionality of A-D conversion technology. The analog drive circuitry allows the MBC’s converter to be fed by either a class-A transformerless path for maximum transparency, or by custom inter-stage audio transformers with variable Silk for a wide variety of tonal enhancements. Coupled with an astonishingly musical limiter, the MBC is always the best choice to capture your analog signals with breathtakingly three-dimensional accuracy.
Features:
- Selectable Analog Drive Paths
- The very best of class-A transformerless and custom transformer-coupled designs at the touch of a button.
- Transformer Path with Silk / Texture
- Add weight and punch with a dedicated custom inter-stage transformer before the converter. Silk / Texture allows you to dial in the harmonic content and drive saturation of this signal path.
- Class-A Transformerless Path
- Maximizes clarity and transparency of the input signal.
- Active Compound Release Analog Limiting
- Push your levels further with fewer artifacts than plug-ins, and introduce clip safety for tracking or broadcast
- 24-bit/192kHz Reference Conversion
- Unparalleled analog capture with precision clocking using top-of-the-line chips.
- Multi-Standard Connectivity (AES, S/PDIF, TOSLINK)
- Precision Clocking
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RedNet R1 is a desktop remote controller that unleashes the power of Focusrite Red interfaces. It’s designed for professionals who need to adapt their audio configurations quickly to suit the ever-increasing demands of the studio environment. Combine, select and switch audio from any conceivable source to a multitude of common (or user-defined) monitoring environments, and control large groups of speakers from a single set of controls. RedNet R1 is also a Dante-enabled talkback unit, with a powerful headphones output and built-in talkback mic, making it the ideal studio partner.
Built on Focusrite’s decades of interface design experience and impeccable attention to audio detail, Red 8Line is the best sounding, most versatile and hardest working audio interface in any professional system. Red 8Line blurs the line between high-end studio workflows and small-scale professional audio systems. With 58 inputs and 64 outputs including eight analogue line inputs and 10 analogue line outputs, two Red Evolution mic pres, ultra-low latency, dynamic range of up to 121dB and connectivity via Thunderbolt 3, DigiLink, Dante, ADAT and S/PDIF, it’s the strongest link in any audio professional’s chain.
Sharing the simple mic preamp design of the original Focusrite ISA 110 module from the Focusrite Studio Console, ISA 828 MkII incorporates eight of Focusrite's classic mic preamps, with Lundahl LL1538 transformers on every input. Each mic pre has variable input impedance, to provide a range of subtly different sonic options when using microphones, including an ‘ISA 110’ setting, which replicates the impedance of the original Focusrite mic pre. Up to 60dB of gain is available, with a further +20dB of continuously variable trim, providing a huge 80dB gain range. The high-pass filter features variable cut-off frequency between 16 and 420Hz. ISA 828 MkII features high-pass filters, calibratable per-channel, six-segment LED meters, and switchable rear-panel insert points, which allow the use of inline processors such as compressors or EQs. Dedicated connectors for mic and line-level inputs allow all sources to be connected simultaneously, making ISA 828 MkII perfect for permanent installation in a rack. New to the ISA 828 MkII is an updated power supply that allows for more efficient power consumption, a reduction in heat generation, and extremely reliable operation. The optional ISA ADN8 analogue-to-digital expansion card provides eight Dante, ADAT and AES3 outputs at rates of up to 24-bit/192kHz.
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soothe2 is a dynamic resonance suppressor. It identifies problematic resonances on the fly and applies matching reduction automatically. This results in a smoother, more balanced sound and saves you from having to notch out the frequencies by hand. The reduction kicks in only when and where needed without affecting the nearby frequency areas. This preserves the timbre of the original sound source and results in transparent treatment with minimal artefacts.
soothe2 can be used to reduce harshness, sibilance and mud from the sound source, and excels in fixing a range of problems.
spiff is oeksound's take on transient control. Following the success of their first plug-in, soothe, spiff was designed to fill in the gap of the sound engineer’s toolkit. It has been designed to cut or boost transients with extreme detail. Similar to soothe, spiff analyses the incoming signal and applies the processing only on the parts of the signal that contain the transient information. This keeps the rest of the signal intact and free from side effects.
AT4050 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
For more than 25 years, the Audio-Technica AT4050 studio condenser has been celebrated as the mic that captures every nuance. The large-diaphragm AT4050 exhibits a remarkable combination of qualities: high-SPL capability with transparent uppers/mids complemented by rich low-end qualities. Its dual large diaphragms are gold-vaporized and aged for consistent, outstanding performance. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle provides rock-solid element stability and exceptional sensitivity. The microphone is equipped with three switchable polar patterns (omni, cardioid, figure-of-eight), plus a switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad. Ideal for studio use and live sound productions with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps, and more, the AT4050 comes with a custom shock mount for superior isolation.
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AT5045 Studio Instrument Microphone
Available as a single mic or as a stereo pair, the AT5045 is Audio-Technica’s premier condenser instrument microphone, offering the performance of a large-diaphragm, side-address condenser in a convenient, stick-type body. In fact, despite the space limitations imposed by its housing, the AT5045 boasts Audio-Technica’s largest single diaphragm. The instrument microphone’s circuitry has been honed to the essentials, allowing the AT5045 to achieve an unprecedented dynamic range that’s one of the widest of any microphone on the market.
Every AT5045 is hand assembled and individually inspected for 100% quality control. Each microphone is enclosed in an elegant housing of aluminum and brass with a high-quality gray finish for durability and low reflectivity.
Discrete components have been selected for optimized performance. The circuitry and capsule assembly are mounted as a single block within a floating internal shock mount, effectively decoupling the capsule from the microphone body for excellent vibration isolation. In fact, every aspect of the microphone has been carefully considered to minimize any negative effects on the audio signal.
The AT5045 instrument mic comes with Audio-Technica’s innovative AT8481 isolation clamp, an AT8165 windscreen and a protective carrying case that holds a single AT5045 microphone or a stereo pair of AT5045 microphones.
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ATH-R70x Open-Back Reference Headphones
The ATH-R70x is Audio-Technica’s premier model of open-back reference headphones for professionals. Featuring specially designed 45 mm drivers and acoustically transparent housings fashioned from aluminum honeycomb mesh, these headphones provide an accurate and natural open-back sound, perfectly balanced to reproduce extreme low and high frequencies (5 to 40,000 Hz). The R70x is robust but exceptionally lightweight (approximately 210 g without the cable) and features Audio-Technica’s popular 3D Wing Support system along with breathable fabric earpads to keep you comfortable during extended listening sessions. The headphones also include a unique, dual-sided detachable locking cable that is L/R signal independent to ensure proper stereo orientation no matter how it’s attached. An ideal choice for mixing and mastering.
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https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/
Soundtoys 5 brings together our entire range of audio effects into one ultimate collection. The bundle features all 21 Soundtoys plug-ins, including EchoBoy, Decapitator, Little AlterBoy, Little Plate, Crystallizer and Effect Rack. Each are powerful tools, trusted by professional mix engineers, musicians and sound designers everywhere.
Whether you’re a pro or just getting started in your home studio, Soundtoys 5 will help you work smarter. For example, Effect Rack integrates all of the individual Soundtoys effects into a single plug-in, which improves workflow by displaying an entire custom effect processing chain at once. You won’t need to juggle multiple plug-in windows to adjust parameters, add new effects, or change their routing. Effect Rack keeps everything right at your fingertips.
To help you get started, you’ll find thousands of carefully-curated presets within each plug-in. And, many of the individual Soundtoys effects offer special Tweak panels which expose deeper editing features, where you can find advanced options like a choice of saturation styles, fine control of an effect’s groove, or a selection of different delay algorithms. The modulation effects offer powerful shape and rhythm editors for creating complex motion. The overall result: an incredibly customizable set of sonic tools that you’ll want to use on every project.
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Meet the most powerful tool in the Soundtoys arsenal. Effect Rack is a single, self-contained plug-in that comes preloaded with 14 premium Soundtoys effects that you can use within the Rack (not as individual plug-ins) to easily create multi-effect chains.
Effect Rack makes it easy to experiment with different combinations of effects and discover unique sounds. Get inspired with hundreds of carefully-crafted presets, or simply drag and drop to create your own custom effect chains. Lock rhythmic effects to a single tempo, or let them run free. Fine tune the input and output levels, use the global Mix control to blend your effect with the dry signal, and experiment with the powerful global Recycle control. You can also easily save a custom effect chain and add it as an insert or send effect in any supported DAW on Mac or PC.
Effect Rack includes Crystallizer, Decapitator, Devil-Loc Deluxe, EchoBoy, EchoBoy Jr., FilterFreak 1, FilterFreak 2, MicroShift, PanMan, PhaseMistress, PrimalTap, Radiator, Sie-Q, and Tremolator.
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Get a huge range of vocal transformations from one simple plug-in with Little AlterBoy. With a few simple controls, you can dramatically alter the pitch of a voice, change the singer’s gender with formant shifting, and use the mix control to create instant vocal harmony. You can even lock vocals to a pitch for robot effects and easily create popular pitch-quantized hard-tune effects.
Once you’ve crafted your perfect vocal signature, use MIDI in your DAW to control the pitch for dramatic vocoder or harmony effects. It’s a hugely powerful way to find new directions and drive new ideas.
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API 2448 Recording and Mixing Console
Designed to the same standard of excellence as the 1608, Legacy AXS and Vision consoles, API proudly announces the debut of the new 2448 Recording Console. The 2448 offers a powerful and impressive feature set including Dual Inputs on each channel, Stereo Returns and optionally, API's new cross-platform Final Touch Automation™ fader automation system. The 2448 expands API's powerful line of world-class analog recording consoles and continues API's nearly 50 year legacy of combining functionality and reliability with the unmistakable warmth of the API sound.
2448 Console Features:
- Available in 24, 32, and 40 Channel Frame sizes
- Each channel equipped with Mic Pre and Equalizer
- Accepts API 500 Series Equalizers
- Each Channel features Dual Inputs (small fader rotary pot, pan, solo, mute, safe and flip)
- 56 Channels available to the Mix Bus - in a 24 Channel Frame
- 8 Multitrack Buses
- 8 Auxiliary Buses
- 1 Stereo Bus
- 4 Stereo Returns, 100mm faders (manual or automated) with Multitrack and Stereo Bus assign
- Full Center Section Control
- Surround 5.1 Center Section Monitoring
- Classic Analog Metering
- Global 0dB Small Fader Bypass
- 529C Stereo Bus Compressor (optional)
- Comprehensive Rear Panel IO Connectivity
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API successfully debuted THE BOX Console over five years ago, and its highly desirable large console sound in a compact footprint has become a favorite choice of audio pros worldwide — from commercial production facilities to home studio operations.
The newest version of the award-winning BOX Console provides even more options and flexibility for modern studio workflow. Offering a total of eight input channels and eight 500 Series slots, the updated BOX Console also features LED metering for each of its 24 summing channels. The new BOX Console provides the same comprehensive rear panel connections, full center section and monitoring as its predecessor, as well as the 0dB bypass switch on each summing channel — a feature so popular it was included in the design of API's new 1608-II and 2448 consoles.
THE BOX is API's small-format solution for any studio where space or budget is limited. Using the same circuitry and components as all other API consoles (including the Vision and Legacy AXS), THE BOX provides the signature analog sound and performance users have come to expect from API.
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Features:
- API's Classic 312 Microphone Preamp in a 500 Series module
- Vintage Style Analog VU Meter
- Maximum 69dB of gain
- Traditional API fully discrete circuit design with 2520 Op Amp
- Proprietary AP2516 Input Transformer
- 20 dB pad switch
- 3:1 Output Transformer Tap Selection
- Switchable 48V phantom power
- Peak LED
- API's Five Year Warranty
The 312 is one of API's most sought after and famous mic preamps. First introduced in the 1970s, it is well known and respected throughout the recording industry, and is the building block of the modern 3124 rack unit.
Based on API co-founder Saul Walker's original designs, the API 312 Mic Pre combines our 2520 op-amps and proprietary transformers. It delivers the analog warmth, massive headroom and unmistakable sound for which API is known, in a convenient 500 Series format.
Following the success of the hand wired 312 50th Anniversary Edition, this standard production version offers the classic API sound at an affordable price. Like all API products, the 312 is backed by API's unique Five Year Warranty.
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The Neve 8424 console is designed to fit the needs of the modern hybrid studio, where the speed of in-the-box workflow is enhanced with the ultimate sound quality of analogue outboard gear. Designed to be straightforward and accessible to all, this versatile console provides a centralized platform with unparalleled connectivity, facilitating and ergonomic link between the linear analogue processing world of outboard gear, analogue synths and instruments,?to the digital world of DAW workflow, software plugins and?session recall. Capitalising on Neve's sixty years of technical heritage and highly revered analogue circuit design, the British-designed 8424 fits perfectly into many different applications. Whether you're a music producer or an artist with your own project studio, the owner of a small professional audio facility or the person in charge of an educational facility, this compact, budget-conscious desk delivers everything you need to record, mix, monitor and master music quickly, marrying Neve’s revered sonic excellence with the speed and flexibility for today's connected workflows. The 8424’s name alone references so much that is iconic about the Neve brand. There is the nod to the legendary Neve 80 series mix bus sound.
The AMS RMX16 was the world’s first microprocessor-controlled, full-bandwidth digital reverberator and characterized enormous numbers of seminal recordings from the 1980s onwards. It has remained an essential piece for any self-respecting studio ever since, and units sell today for a substantial proportion of their original cost due to great desirability.
Designed from the outset to be musical rather than simply implementing mathematical algorithms, each program was tuned and re-tuned to provide as wide a “sweet-spot” of settings as possible by means of “carpet graph” parameter tables, interactively linked control by control. It was designed by ear over an extended period of time and from first principles and this is what has made it a classic. Despite its longevity, there is little more any present-day design could better and its sound is unique and instantly recognisable.?Now available in a 500 series format, the sound once available only to premier studios is now on tap for a much wider user base. In addition to the 9 standard programs, there are 9 aftermarket programs available to RMX16 users via the unique and now elusive remote control. These 9 extra programs are included in the AMS RMX 16 500 Series Digital Reverb Module.
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Through the last 50 years the 1073 has become the world’s most sought-after preamp. Designed and manufactured in the UK by AMS Neve, it’s tonal quality, warmth, low-mid punch and subtle harmonic distortion provides prestigious front-end for studios of all sizes.
The 1073® OPX continues the 1073® lineage, packing eight legendary preamps into a 2U 19” rack unit. Front mounted XLR/TRS connection and rear D-type give ultimate connectivity to any Studio/Live/Broadcast environment and its modern remote-control software gives two-way control over all parameters and full, automatic recall of settings.
Microphone sources benefit from the Marinair® transformer-coupled input stage and Instrument sources can be connected to the front-mounted Class-A D.I input for recording directly in the studio control-room. The 1073® OPX’s unique Analogue and Digital monitor signal path allow for use as a complete standalone I/O interface or as a live room remote preamp with full latency-free monitoring cue mix signal path.
Its new, powerful digital card gives up to 192kHz/24-Bit A/D conversion over USB connection to any connected DAW-enabled computer as well as Primary and Secondary Dante™ connectivity for a multitude of Audio-over-IP applications. The 1073® OPX modern, elegant hardware and software design takes the classic Neve sound into the future.
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A150 Studio Reference Headphones
The new line of dynamic, closed back headphones from Audix are designed for audio professionals and audiophiles to deliver the most accurate sound possible. The A150 is designed with one goal in mind: to reproduce music with accuracy throughout the full frequency range with a smooth, balanced linear response. Featuring 50 mm phase coherent drivers, the A150 headphones are designed to be worn for hours without listening fatigue. With exceptional isolation, free from the artifacts of noise cancellation, the A150 headphones are intended for studio engineers, DJ mixers and anyone who enjoys high-quality audio. Featuring acoustically optimized cushioned ear cups the A150s provide long-term listening comfort and noise isolation. The cables are detachable 1.8m oxygen free copper (OFC) with gold-plated connectors & ¼” adapter. Every pair of headphones comes with a custom protective carrying case. Hear what you’ve been missing.
A133 Studio Condenser Microphone
The A133 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone ideal for vocals, choir, piano, acoustic instruments, and overheads. Featuring a contemporary, compact design, the A133 is the perfect choice for podcasting, professional audio production, studios, and live stage performances. Housed in a precision-machined aluminum body, the 33 mm fixed-charge capsule features a gold-sputtered diaphragm for wide, natural frequency response. With its well-behaved cardioid polar pattern, the A133 faithfully captures the detail of the performance while rejecting room noises and other unwanted, off-axis sounds. A double woven steel mesh grille and ultra-thin acoustic foam offer exceptional pop resistance for podcasting and vocals. Behind the grille, the open-air design of the capsule mounting system allows the A133 to deliver transparent, uncolored sound. Proprietary impedance control between the capsule and circuitry ensures consistent and reliable performance across a wide range of environments. A unique and highly effective internal shock mount isolates the capsule from mechanical vibrations and touch noise, eliminating the need for a bulky external shock mount. The switchable 10 dB pad and bass roll-off ensures you’re ready for any recording or live performance situation. Offering studio performance in a road-worthy package, the A133 also comes with a protective zippered carrying case.
TM2 Integrated Acoustic Coupler for In-Ear Monitors
The TM2 is an Integrated Acoustic Coupler for In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) specifically designed for use in the professional sound industry. Ear simulator “couplers” are the measurement devices used by manufacturers of IEMs for capturing key metrics during research & development, final production and quality control of IEMs. Using patent-pending technology, the TM2 incorporates the functionality of lab-type testing equipment into an integrated compact package, ideal for live sound and studio engineers who want a simple, yet effective way to test IEM performance. Monitor engineers are often faced with questions from performers regarding the functionality of their IEMs with no reliably consistent method to test them in their environment. With the TM2 and readily available measurement software such as Rational Acoustic’s SMAART or Studio Six Digital’s Audio Tools, a monitor engineer can easily confirm the functionality of each performer’s IEMs. With its included adaptors, the TM2 can fit any size of in-ear monitor. The TM2 can also be connected to an acoustic calibrator for greater measurement precision.
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The Folcrom ($775) is a high quality passive mixer intended for analog summing of multichannel digital mixes. Outboard summing offers streamlined integration of other analog processing, both on individual tracks and across the whole mix, without the need for latency compensation and without sacrificing the automation and recall ability of your DAW. Because the Folcrom is completely passive, it requires the use of a stereo microphone preamplifier to provide 35-40dB makeup gain. Other analog mixers have the amplifiers built in, and the sound they make is the sound you get. With the Folcrom, the sonic character of your entire stereo bus is determined by your choice of preamps. Chances are, you’ve got some great preamps sitting idle at mix down anyway, here’s an opportunity to get more use out of them. The Folcrom uses only pushbutton switches to assign its 16 inputs to the Left, Right, both, or neither output busses so it’s perfectly recallable and channel-matched. The simplicity of the Folcrom circuit allows no-compromise build quality at a very reasonable price. Introduced in 2003, the RMS216 Folcrom is still the gold standard for value and versatility in an analog summing device.
Tubule, Valvop, Vacbax, Valveq
The Tubule and its sisters ($799 each) are a line of fully compliant 500-series modules built around our unique transformer-coupled, high-voltage tube amplifier. The Tubule was the first "VPR Alliance” tube-based 500-series module introduced in 2008. All four modules use an ECC832 / 12DW7 dual triode, with elegant power management circuitry to produce 240V plate and 150mA heater supplies without exceeding each module slot’s allowed power consumption.
RMS5A7 Tubule - microphone preamplifier with switchable 20dB input pad, 10dB variable input attenuator, and 33-66dB stepped gain control, which combine to offer variable coloration for a given output gain.
RMSMC5 Valvop - optical compressor with threshold and gain controls and our unique “Program Dependent Release” button. Gain reduction is indicated with a big LED.
RMSB5T Vacbax - passive Baxandall-variant tone control with bass and treble controls, high-pass filter, and selectable high-band corner frequency. Because the EQ is passive (ahead of the tube gain stage), large boosts don’t ever result in harsh internal slew limiting.
RMSM5F Valveq - two-band inductor-based midrange equalizer with two frequencies per band. The frequency choices, derived from BBC broadcast specifications, are famously musical. Combined with the beefy iron, they make for delicious midrange sweetening.
Currently in development with anticipated release summer 2021 is Roll Music’s most ambitious product yet. The Majestic Flagship (price to be announced) is based on the highly regarded circuits found in our tube 500-series modules. The 3RU, 2-channel studio centerpiece combines the microphone preamplification of the Tubule, the optical compression of the Valvop, and the tone shaping EQ of the Vacbax. Additional enhancements include an XLR input that is selectable between microphone and line level, a tube DI circuit which feeds the selectable-impedance input transformer, backlit analog input/output/gain-reduction metering, and stereo linking of the optical compressors. Each channel uses three dual triodes between its transformer-coupled input and output, and stepped controls for input gain, bass, treble, and output gain. The Majestic Flagship is equally suited for dual-mono or stereo tracking with microphones or Hi-Z sources, or stereo bus processing at mixdown – either with line-level sources or fed by the microphone-level outputs of a Folcrom passive summing device.
With eight channels of our signature transparent microphone preamplifier, latest generation A/D conversion, the m108 is the MVP for any modern recording environment. Its audio performance is unmatched in its power to resolve complex sonic waveforms, allowing your recordings to have amazing clarity and realism.
The m108 is ready to go as a stand alone preamplifier, or connected to an ethernet network can be controlled from your desktop with our standalone control app, or over Wi-Fi from your iOS or Android device. You can even connect it to your AVID® hardware for control directly from your Pro Tools session.
A built in USB interface and reference DAC allow it to function as a simple 8x2 audio interface, making it a perfect choice for an ultra-high quality mobile laptop recording rig. The onboard low-latency mixer feeds the headphone amplifier so you can mix and monitor the mic preamp channels along with a stereo mix from your workstation, and an optional Control Room output card allows you to connect directly to a stereo monitor system. Finally, the m108 can be equipped with optional Dante™ or DigiLink Option Module Cards.
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Our newly redesigned m201mk2 provides a full serving of our signature transparent audio performance - with massive headroom, ultra-wide bandwidth and a very open, musical character. The fully balanced signal path has been refined, resulting in amazing clarity and dynamic range, and a new power supply design provides the lowest noise performance we have ever achieved. This all means the new m201mk2 will translate a sonic picture of astonishing detail, which captures the essential character of the music being recorded.
The m201mk2 will bring out the very best in your entire microphone collection. Favorite large diaphragm mics will sound like they were intended, with detail and texture in extra measure. Dynamics mics will come alive with newfound clarity. Ribbons mics will perform their best with our exclusive ribbon mic mode, which shifts the gain range up 10dB while deactivating 48V phantom power, bypassing the decoupling capacitors and optimizing the input impedance.
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The new m908 Monitor Controller is designed for speaker systems up to 24 channels, from stereo to Dolby Atmos™ 22.2 and all formats in between. Built on our legacy of reference audio design, the m908’s audio performance delivers impeccable clarity and detail. Our latest generation AD/DA converters provide incredible dynamic range and resolution, while all new analog circuitry is designed to be effortlessly transparent and musical.
The m908 is a fully self contained plug and play monitor controller, with a full complement of monitoring features including cue channels, built in talkback mic, mono, mute and dim controls, and an exhaustive list of functions relating to surround and immersive playback systems. It is designed to enable professionals and facilities to update their workflows for immersive audio playback with a minimum of effort and cost.
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The idea behind the Hornet is simple: give people an affordable, portable preamp/DI that can go toe to toe with any of the $1000+ preamps on the market. After years of development, it’s here. An ultra low-noise front end that gives signal the bite and power that the built-in pres on interfaces just don’t deliver like dedicated preamps. Need an even thicker, more powerful sound? Just dial in the Color control, and the personality of the signal is enhanced without the need for compression or EQ. The Hornet features discrete gain cell topology, a custom Cinemag input transformer, and JFET DI. Even at 60 dB of gain, it’s insanely quiet. The Hornet is tiny, but don’t let that fool you - it’s perfectly capable of serving as the front end of choice even in the best studios.
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The BF-S is the big brother of the BF-1, a high impedance instrument preamp/DI/EQ that has become the favorite of Stanley Clarke, Charlie Hunter, Brendan Morawski and Jerry Barnes, to name a few. This box not only generates an incredible tone for recording, but will simultaneously drive an amp making the tone available on stage, at FOH and in the studio. The BF-S is a true all-tube design featuring a studio grade linear power supply for the lowest possible noise.
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The TEC-nominated SFP-30 is an all-tube mic pre with variable second harmonic content. Featuring a pentode front end and triode back end, the SFP-30 uses an inductively loaded output stage (like the Telefunken V series) to enhance transient response and capture the sense of space in the room. The Color control gives a single box multiple different personalities, from polite and sterile to edgy and saturated — without clipping.
B80-BMB4-32x16 (Live Sound Solution)
Combining the best of digital and analog technology, the B80 Mothership can be found in top studios around the world and is widely regarded as the ultimate audio interface.
Built on an all class-A, discrete design and a no-compromise philosophy, the Mothership delivers unrivaled depth, clarity, and detail not previously found in digital interfaces. Live production and recording studios have been moving towards the digital realm for years and show no signs of going back.
With the release of the Burl B4 Mic Pre and A/D daughter card, the Mothership can now be used for live sound applications, bringing studio-quality sound to the stage. Bringing the best of both analog and digital together in one box, the B80 Mothership is the ideal solution for bringing richness and clarity to live digital sound production.
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B16-BMB6-4x4 (Professional Mastering Solution)
This B16 Mothership Solution is an example of a BURL Professional Mastering configuration featuring the BAD4M for 4-channels of analog input and a BDA4M for 4-channels of analog output with switchable transformers and adjustable analog attenuation. This solution utilizes the BMB6 Motherboard with AES/EBU connectivity.
The BAD4M daughter card utilizes BURL Audio’s NextGen Analog technology with the same BX1 transformer-coupled circuit path as the BAD8 (no op-amps) and a transformerless analog front end using BOPA14. The BAD4M allows you to switch between the BAD8 style analog front end and the newly developed, BOPA14 based, transformerless analog front end.
The BDA4M, switchable transformer coupled, 4-channel digital-to-analog converter Daughter Card for the B80 and B16 MOTHERSHIP is the result of over 25 years of R&D experience in pro audio digital and analog design. Following on the success of the B2 BOMBER DAC and the BDA8 for the MOTHERSHIP, the BDA4M utilizes the newly developed BOPA14 with BURL Audio’s NextGen Analog. The BOPA14 is followed by the renowned BX5 output transformer used in the B32 VANCOUVER MIX BUS.
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B16-BMB3-4x4 (Home Recording Solution)
This B16 Mothership Solution is designed for high-end home recording. It features the B4 MIC / LINE ADC Daughter Card with 4 analog inputs, and the B22 ORCA Daughter Card with 2-channels for mixing/mastering and a 2-channel monitor section. This solution utilizes the BMB3 with Dante audio-over-Ethernet connectivity.
The B22 ORCA employs 4 DAC channels. The first two are mix/mastering grade DAC channels with switchable BX5 output transformers. These channels can be used to feed a separate headphone amp or a mix/mastering chain. You can also use these channels to send out tracks for analog processing. The second two DAC channels feed the main monitor section which features two stereo speaker outputs and one stereo headphone output.
The B4 boasts the new BX6 input transformer designed for true MIC/LINE input impedance. The B4 maintains a no-compromise, class-A analog circuit, followed by the same ADC we use in the BAD8.
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RAD Distribution
Audiophile sound meets portability. Planar is the culmination of Avantone's experience in creating reference-grade monitoring products, and the demands of modern, professional end-users.
Featuring planar drivers for extreme detail, and supreme comfort for long sessions, Avantone’s Planars are a perfect solution for mix engineers, musicians, podcasters, live-streamers, and hi-fi enthusiasts.
Planar drivers offer an incredible set of advantages over traditional moving coil drivers. Amazing accuracy, high-end detail, clarity, natural bass and response time.
Specifications
- Style: Over-ear, open-back
- Transducer Type: Planar Magnetic
- Magnet Type: Neodymium N50SH
- Diaphragm Type: 21 Micron PET
- Transducer size: 70 x 95 mm
- Maximum power handling: 5W RMS
- Frequency response: 30Hz - 30kHz
- THD: <0.1% @ 100dB
- Impedance: 32 Ω
- Sensitivity: 104 dB/1mW (at Drum Reference Point)
- Minimum power: >100mW
- Recommended power: >250mW
- Included Accessories: 1.5m; 5ft 3.5mm audio cable, 3.5mm to 1/4” adapter and Eco-friendly carrying bag
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Meet the Black Lion Audio B173 mkII — the most portable 1073 British-sound around! The B173 mkII uses the same Cinemag input and output transformers as our B173 Quad for a whopping 70dB of gain, a revamped gain stage, and a lower noise floor for cleaner, lower distortion sound. A front panel D.I. delivers a harmonically rich tone to guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers, and stepped input gain and variable output attenuation allows for perfect control over transformer saturation.
Specifications
- Big 1073-style gain
- Cinemag input and output transformers
- Variable output attenuation for control over transformer saturation
- Front panel D.I.
- Stepped input gain
- 48V phantom power and phase inverse controls
- Convenient half-rack sizing for mixing-and-matching
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https://www.blacklionaudio.com
Black Lion Audio // B12A mkIII
Meet the Black Lion Audio B12A mkIII — the most portable 312A American-sound around! The B12A mkIII uses the same Cinemag input and output transformers as our B12A Quad for a whopping 70dB of gain. A front panel D.I. delivers a harmonically rich tone to guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers, and stepped input gain allows for perfect recall.
Specifications
- Big 312A-style gain
- Cinemag input and output transformers
- Front panel D.I.
- Stepped input gain
- 48V phantom power, 18dB pad, and phase inverse controls
- Convenient half-rack sizing for mixing-and-matching
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MD7 500-series Mic Preamp with Built-In Send/Return
The MD7 is an all-discrete, single op-amp design with Jensen transformers at the input and output stages, finished off with a Class A buffer amp used to feed the Send output jack. Unlike most preamps, the variable Trim knob attenuates the incoming signal directly after the input transformer (not at the output stage). This eliminates the need for an input pad, meaning hotter incoming levels can saturate the input transformer. Transient response is very fast with an incredibly low noise floor. This preamp also provides a built-in effects loop for instrument level devices (guitar pedals) or professional line level equipment. Learn more about the MD7 on the Avedis website. Read Dave Cerminara’s Tape Op review here.
Atomic PSU
Power supplies for SSL 4, 6, 8, 9K, Neve V Series, Amek, Calrec, and Custom
A power supply that uses about half the energy, lowers the noise floor (up to 13dBu), vastly improves reliability, and noticeably improves sound quality. Most importantly all Atomic Power Supplies provide extensive protection to your valuable console and monitors during erratic power from electrical storms and brownouts.
Small powerful monitor that is capable of full range high output in a “hip”, vintage looking package, a nod to the beloved Altec “612s”. But smaller with much better sound quality.
The rear loaded 10” sub driver can handle much more power than other studio monitors. It uses multiple copper rings in the motor for extremely low distortion.
A Passive discrete crossover between the midrange and tweeter @ 2.6kHz.
The crossover between the sub driver and mid-bass @120Hz is a proprietary hybrid passive and active filter that operates at line level and is built into the outboard amplifier system.
The amp also has controls to achieve perfect balance between the mid/bass and sub drivers for your room and a stepped by-passable inductor based midrange presence control for fine tuning in the critical 800hz to 2khz region.
The system is completed with a 4 channel Ncore amplifier that delivers 550 watts at 2 ohm with .005% THD (X2) Plus 120 watts (x2) The same technology has found its way into $50,000 “high-end” amplifiers.
A common acoustic problem with most home and professional mixing studios is the ceiling, often your closest reflective surface. A hard ceiling, desk and floor will create standing audio waves in the audio sweet spot which makes mixing extra challenging. The common solution of sound deadening can often create additional problems.
Enter MixCoupler, a DIY acoustic sound diffuser kit specifically designed to scatter sound energy above the mix position. This sound diffuser disperses sound evenly and creates a more consistent listening environment. MixCoupler is uniquely designed to scatter the reflections between you, the ceiling and your speakers.
We ship premade sound diffusion kits that will save you time and frustration. Sound diffusion products are generally very expensive, costly to ship, and out of reach of many studio owners. We changed that when we began selling the MixCoupler, a diffusion kit designed to maximize the sound at mix position.
And now, 2'x2' and 2'x4' JAS Acoustics diffusers are in stock and ready to ship to your studio. We offer free shipping in the USA.
All of our kits are made of the best quality engineered wood available, cut precisely, sanded, and ready for your finish. We also make things easy by including steel rigging kits and detailed instructions.
KRK Systems announces a new generation of powered subwoofers. The new series of KRK Studio Subwoofers are available in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch variations: S8.4, S10.4 and S12.4. Building on KRK’s legacy of sonic accuracy and performance, the new KRK subwoofers deliver tight, accurate and defined bass, while the highly efficient Class D power amplifiers dramatically increase transient response, control and punch. The redesigned cabinets feature a more compact profile when compared to their predecessors, allowing for improved placement flexibility and a timeless design that provides a more professional aesthetic.
Additional refinements to the KRK subwoofers include modestly improved low frequency extension, improved porting for enhanced low frequency phase response and less port noise, as well as a four-position crossover frequency selection switch, making it easy to adjust the subwoofer’s settings to optimally match existing monitors. The new KRK Studio Subwoofers feature a wealth of connectivity options with XLR, 1/4" TRS and RCA inputs/outputs that interface with various manufacturer’s studio monitors, mixers and/or audio interfaces. Designed with an inverted dust cap and optional all-steel grille with reinforced MDF enclosure, KRK’s latest generation of subwoofers offer a durable solution with excellent driver protection.
PTW Audio is Nashville’s only full-service vintage & custom microphone repair shop.
From complete rebuilds to customization, PTW Audio will bring your broken mic back to life and sounding better than before. Name brand microphone capsules, like AKG, Telefunken, and Neumann, are all sputtered and repaired in-house. Join the long list of happy clients that turn to PTW Audio for their repairs, like Ocean Ways Studio, Belmont University, Southern Ground, and The Studio Nashville.
Need a New Mic? Then, Check out our handcrafted AMP (American Microphone Product) microphones that are constructed by-hand at our Nashville TN workshop with American parts. Contact PTW Audio for prices and quotes!
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Regardless of how many microphones you’ve used, you’ve never seen — or heard — anything like the Aston Element. Developed with input from over 2,000 musicians, engineers, and producers, this microphone’s active, moving-coil design gives it a sound that’s different from dynamic, ribbon, and condenser mics. In other words, if you want a mic that sounds like the Element, you need to get an Element. And how does it sound? “Full,” “wide-ranging,”and “detailed” are some of the descriptors we threw around here at Sweetwater. But, no matter what words you use to describe it, the Element’s extended bass, natural-sounding smoothness, and fast transient response will deliver a vibrant sound that you’ll reach for again and again.
With the ART USB Pre II two input/output audio interface, you can connect any mic, line, or instrument into your recording device. The included MIDI I/O allows for connection to your favourite synth or MIDI controller. High quality convertors, low latency, and sample rates of 44.1k to 192 kHz, (32 bit), allow professional clarity and resolution within the scope of any recording project. Front panel Indicator lighting circling around the gain pots make it easy to monitor from a far and looks great in any recording set up. Includes Cubase LE.
With the ART USB Pre IV four input/output audio interface, you can connect any mic, line, or instrument into your recording device. The included MIDI I/O allows for connection to your favourite synth or MIDI controller. High quality convertors, low latency, and sample rates of 44.1k to 192 kHz (32bit), allow professional clarity and resolution within the scope of any recording project. Front panel Indicator lighting circling around the gain pots make it easy to monitor from a far and looks great in any recording set up. Includes Cubase LE
Every new reverb that comes to market claims it is the new standard. We won't say that INSPIRATA is the new standard in reverbs - because you will.
To show you how confident we are, we are giving away the $199 version of INSPIRATA for FREE! You may think we're out of our minds since a normal giveaway would only be for a few licenses for some winners drawn from a giant list. Not this time! Today, everyone is a winner.
After 15 years of dedicated research, we are confident that you will like INSPIRATA as much as we do. And we are also confident that you will eventually decide to support us by upgrading to one of our larger and more expansive editions - at a reduced price. We believe INSPIRATA will change how you think of a reverb and how you use a reverb.
Download Your FREE Perpetual License Now!
NAMM 2021 Buyer's Guide: Part 1
NAMM 2021 Buyer's Guide: Part 2
