IK Multimedia unveils the iRig Pro digital audio interface for iOS and Mac, ships this month for $150 (video)

IK Multimedia unveils the iRig Pro digital audio interface for iOS and Mac, ships this month for $150 video

Looking to capture some vocals or record a few guitar riffs while you’re out and about? Well, IK Multimedia has yet another gadget that looks to lend a hand. The outfit’s iRig Pro serves up a digital audio and MIDI interface that connects to the full gamut of iOS devices and Mac machines via USB. Battery-powered and quite diminutive in stature, the device wrangles microphones, guitars, MIDI devices and other Hi-Z instruments for mobile recording — with those audio and MIDI inputs able to be employed simultaneously. The connected phone, tablet or laptop actually powers the add-on, but that internal 9V kicks it when needed to provide phantom power to a mic. A smattering of the company’s apps come packaged with the unit including AmpliTube, SampleTank and iRig Recorder. Folks with older Apple devices shouldn’t worry: the iRig Pro ships with cables compatible with Lightning, 30-pin and USB connections. If all of that sounds too good to pass up, $149.99 will be the required investment later this month. For now, venture past the break and take a quick look at the setup in action.

Filed under: ,

Comments

Source: IK Multimedia

Native Instruments outs Kontrol Z1: an iOS DJ mixer with audio interface

Native Instruments launches Kontrol Z1 an iOS DJ mixer with audio interface

It wouldn’t take a genius to figure out that Native Instruments was going to release some hardware to cozy up to that shiny new iOS version of Traktor DJ. And here it is — the Kontrol Z1 — a two-channel mixer with a built-in audio interface specifically for iPad and iPhone. Plug this into your iDevice, and Traktor DJ gets full pre-cue functionality, plus some proper (club-level, 24-bit) audio output, not to mention dedicated faders and 3-band EQ controls. The hardware (which is similar in size to the Kontrol F1) means you can break out the mixer section, leaving the touchscreen display dedicated to transport and performance. The Z1 will keep your iDevice charged up, too (it needs to be plugged in), so you’re good for that epic Balearic chill-out set. Likewise, it also works with Traktor Pro 2, if you’re looking to integrate something a little smaller into your laptop setup. It’ll need a lightning adapter to work with the latest devices, and costs $199 / €199 from your favorite DJ outlet. The app won’t support the hardware until a June 24th update, but in the meantime, roll past the break for the demo video.

Filed under: , ,

Comments

Source: Native Instruments

Apogee revamps One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Apogee intros revamped One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Apogee wants bring pro audio interfaces to the mobile realm. To that end, it’s coming to NAMM with a trio of options that cover most Apple-bound musicians and podcasters. Its next-generation One interface (seen after the break) can take simultaneous input from both a built-in condenser mic and one device plugged into either an XLR or quarter-inch jack, passing along the resulting tunes to an iOS device or a Mac’s USB port. A similarly reworked Duet adds direct iOS connections to the two-input, four-output Duet (above). Full-fledged bands aren’t left out of the equation, either — the existing, four-input Quartet has received iPad support without changing its formula. Lighting-based iOS gear unfortunately requires an adapter, but we’ll take consolation in a new Maestro app for iPads that offers control over connections and session monitoring. Producers hoping for more mobility can pick up the Duet or Quartet in February at their respective $595 and $1,295 prices, although they’ll have to wait until March to buy the One at $349.

Apogee intros revamped One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Show full PR text

Apogee Electronics introduces all new “ONE”, audio interface & microphone featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, upgraded sound quality and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 – Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce the completely redesigned ONE, a 2 IN x 2 OUT USB audio interface and microphone. The all new ONE is the first studio quality audio interface and microphone that makes a direct digital connection to Apple’s iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. ONE features Apogee’s Maestro control software, iOS device charging, optional battery power for portable recording with iPad and professional sound quality. ONE is the all-in-one solution that makes it easy for musicians, songwriters, recording engineers, film makers, audiophiles, and anyone else to enjoy professional sound quality on iPad and Mac.

ONE offers three input options; a built-in omni-directional condenser microphone, XLR input for dynamic, condenser or ribbon microphones, and 1/4″ instrument input for electric guitars, keyboards or any instrument with an electric pick-up. An upgrade from the original design, ONE now has the ability to record two inputs simultaneously (instrument plus built-in microphone or external microphone). The updated AD/DA converters and mic preamps deliver best-in-class, studio quality sound and allow you to capture and playback your recordings with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE’s audiophile quality headphone amplifier/DAC is a favorite for enhanced music listening on Mac. Now ONE delivers the same hi-fi quality sound to iPod touch, iPhone and iPad users for listening to streaming radio and music libraries with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE’s built-in condenser microphone is a unique feature allowing anyone to record with incredible results and without the need for an external microphone. This paired with the option of connecting to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad and battery power enables studio-quality recordings to be created in any location.

“We have completely redesigned ONE, incorporating highly anticipated features; iPad compatibility, simultaneous recording of guitar and a microphone, enhanced sound quality, and a much desired metal chassis,” says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. “This is an innovative interface, ideal for the musician who wants an all-in-one solution they can count on for ease of use and professional studio quality results, no matter where they are. We’re excited to welcome this next generation of a classic Apogee product and we know our customers will love it.”

Apple’s iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. As a studio quality microphone and audio interface, ONE delivers key features to this new paradigm. Apogee’s Maestro software for iOS lets you control ONE’s inputs, mic preamp, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. ONE’s DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. The option of battery power for ONE allows for truly portable professional recording.

When used with iPad or an iOS device, ONE works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, ONE works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

ONE for iPad and Mac – Highlights

First studio quality audio interface and microphone for iPad
New circuitry, mic capsule and upgraded sound quality
Redesigned die cast aluminum chassis
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Lighting adapter required – Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, MultiTrack, Spotify; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton, iTunes; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee’s Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
Optional battery operation for remote recording on iPad (2 AA batteries not included)
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/96kHz A/D and D/A conversion
Built-in omnidirectional condenser microphone (mic stand adapter included)
2 Analog Inputs (XLR microphone and 1/4″ instrument connector on breakout cable)
Record up to 2 inputs at a time (instrument + internal microphone or external microphone)
1 1/8″ stereo output for headphones or powered speakers
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California – Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.7.5 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
Power supply or two AA batteries required
(Batteries not included)
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple’s Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $349
Availability: March 2013

Apogee Electronics introduces new Duet featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, MIDI I/O and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 – Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce Duet for iPad and Mac, a 2 input, 4 output USB audio interface. The new Duet is the first professional stereo audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple’s iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Duet features Apogee’s Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity and professional sound quality. Duet is the ideal personal studio interface for stereo music recording, mixing and audiophile-quality listening on iPad and Mac.

First introduced in 2007, the original Duet was a 2 IN x 2 OUT FireWire Audio Interface for Mac and became one of the most popular audio interfaces of all time, starting a home studio revolution and winning many industry awards and accolades. Duet received an upgrade in May of 2011 when Duet 2 took its place with a new 2 IN x 4 OUT format, redesigned AD/DA conversion and mic preamps, and USB 2.0 Mac connectivity. The new Duet for iPad and Mac builds on this legacy by offering the same professional quality as the Duet 2 for the iPad based personal studio.

“Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad and iPhone. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices,” says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. “Enabling amazing products like Duet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we’re proud to be at the forefront.”

Apple’s iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Duet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional stereo audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee’s Maestro software for iOS lets you control Duet’s inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Duet’s DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Duet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Duet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Duet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Duet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Duet for iPad and Mac – Highlights

First professional stereo audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple’s Lighting to 30-pin adapter required – Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee’s Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
2 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
2 Balanced analog line outputs
1 Independent 1/4″ stereo headphone output
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California – Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple’s Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $595
Availability: February 2013

Apogee Electronics announces iPad compatibility for Quartet USB audio interface and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 – Apogee Electronics is pleased to announce iPad compatibility for Quartet, a 4 input, 8 output USB audio interface. Quartet is the first professional multi-channel audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple’s iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Quartet for iPad and Mac features Apogee’s Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity, advanced monitor control and professional sound quality. Quartet is the ideal studio control center for multi-channel music recording and mixing on iPad and Mac.

“Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad & iOS. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices,” says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett.

“Enabling amazing products like Quartet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we’re proud to be at the forefront.”

Apple’s iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Quartet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional multi-channel audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee’s Maestro software for iOS lets you control Quartet’s inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Quartet’s DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Quartet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Quartet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Quartet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Quartet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Quartet for iPad and Mac – Highlights

First professional multi-channel audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple’s Lighting to 30-pin adapter required – Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack and any Core Audio compliant app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton and any Core Audio compliant app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee’s Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
4 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
6 Balanced analog line outputs
ADAT/SMUX digital Inputs
Monitor control – up to 3 speaker sets
1 Independent 1/4″ stereo headphone output
QuickTouch pads for input/output selection and advanced control
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California – Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
Power: DC Power supply included
iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple’s Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $1295
Availability: February 2013

Filed under: , , ,

Comments

Source: Apogee (1), (2), (3)

Focusrite launches Forte, 24-bit / 192kHz portable audio interface (video)

Focusrite launches Forte, 24bit  192kHz mobile audio interface

If you like your audio interfaces with added “on-the-go,” then the new Forte from Focusrite might be worthy of your attention. The two-input four-output device has two remote control preamps with 24-bit 192kHz analog / digital converters. If you are worried that the pocket-friendly form means less space for meters etc, fear not, as an OLED display with on-screen buttons provides visual feedback, along with control over levels and even some software (DAW) parameters. There’s a breakout cable included, and dedicated control software (PC and Mac) so even your devices with XLR connections will get a look in, while the aluminum casing should hold it all together nicely — not to mention make it look pretty. How much you ask? That’d be £399 / $600 when it lands in stores in October. Promo video after the break.

Continue reading Focusrite launches Forte, 24-bit / 192kHz portable audio interface (video)

Filed under:

Focusrite launches Forte, 24-bit / 192kHz portable audio interface (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:43:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |   | Email this | Comments

Focusrite launches iTrack Solo, a two channel interface for iOS and desktops (video)

Focusrite launches iTrack Solo, a two channel interface for iOS and desktops

There’s a stack of different plugs, cables and connectors aimed at piping sound into your iPad, but when studio-stalwart Focusrite makes one, we pay attention. The iTrack Solo is a two channel interface compatible with the iPad, as well as your Mac or PC, offering mobile recording all the way up to 24-bit / 96kHz. The onboard preamp is the same as used in the brand’s flagship Liquid Saffire 56 interface, and there’s phantom power for microphones. As well as the mic-in there’s a quarter-inch input for guitars etc., as well as a chunky volume control for monitoring. Front “halo” indicators change from green to red if your recording levels go too high, and the aluminum casing should prevent it from getting damaged at the bottom of any gig bag. Once you’ve created a masterpiece in Garageband (or other recording app), you can use the line-level phono outputs to run it through your sound system of choice. Sound like something you can get down to? You’ll be able to get your hands on the iTrack Solo starting next month, and it’ll set you back $160 at your local dealer — in the meantime, you can jam on the PR after the break.

Continue reading Focusrite launches iTrack Solo, a two channel interface for iOS and desktops (video)

Filed under: ,

Focusrite launches iTrack Solo, a two channel interface for iOS and desktops (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Sep 2012 11:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |   | Email this | Comments

Pioneer announces DDJ-WeGO two-channel DJ controller, provides entry-level jams

Pioneer announces DDJWeGO twochannel DJ controller, provides entrylevel jams

Remember that fancy-looking DDJ-AERO we saw from Pioneer recently? Well if that was a bit too “buttony,” or perhaps just too expensive for your beginner DJ pockets, how about that which you see above? Announced today, this is the DDJ-WeGO an (or is that another) all-in-one DJ controller — squarely aimed at the cheaper end of the market. With a suggested retail price of $399, it’s Pioneer’s cheapest controller to date, and comes bundled with Virtual DJ LE software. For your money, you get two platters and a mini-mixer, FX buttons, a choice of five colors (white, black, red, green or the pictured violet), as well as some built-in LED effects that help you learn to mix (the lights get brighter as the pitch of the two songs gets closer, etc.). On a more practical level, the unit is compact, USB-powered, and has a built-in audio-interface (no extra sound card required for headphone monitoring). You can get your spin on from next month, at the aforementioned quad-benjamin price-point, or tease yourself with the PR past the break.

Filed under:

Pioneer announces DDJ-WeGO two-channel DJ controller, provides entry-level jams originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 03:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |   | Email this | Comments

Denon launches MC2000 DJ controller, invites prospective spinners to ‘own the party’ (video)

Denon launches MC2000 DJ controller, invites prospective spinners to 'own the party'

Load and start track A. Load, and start track B on the next down beat. Adjust pitch / speed of track B to keep in time with track A. Now you know the very basics of DJing, you might want some hardware to practice it on. Fortunately, for you beginners, Denon has just released the MC2000 DJ controller. An entry-level device that should get you (and your tracks) up to speed. Along with the plug and play USB device, you’ll get a copy of Serato’s DJ Intro mixing software (for which it was specifically designed) to get you started. If that’s not for you, or perhaps you’ve already earned your spinning stripes, and are looking for something compact, no problem — full MIDI output means this can work with other software options too. There’s a basic two-channel mixer snug between the pair o’wheels, and all the usual buttons for hot-cues and loops etc. As is fast becoming standard, the audio interface is built-in, making the hook-up at parties and gigs a much simpler — and less computer-bothering — affair. If has ticked your boxes, it’ll be available from October, commanding an estimated £269 / €325 / $299 out of your record budget when it does so. In the meantime you can cue-up the promo video after the break.

Continue reading Denon launches MC2000 DJ controller, invites prospective spinners to ‘own the party’ (video)

Filed under:

Denon launches MC2000 DJ controller, invites prospective spinners to ‘own the party’ (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 18:13:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |   | Email this | Comments