Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Alesis Q49 49-Key Usb/Midi Keyboard Controller

Alesis Q49 49-Key Usb/Midi Keyboard Controller Review



Alesis Q49 49-Key Usb/Midi Keyboard Controller Feature

  • 49-key keyboard controller for use with virtually all music software and MIDI devices
  • USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI jacks for connection to Mac, PC and MIDI hardware
  • Pitch and modulation wheels, octave up and down buttons, assignable data slider
  • Send program changes from keys
49-key USB/MIDI keyboard controller, USB & MIDI jacks, pitch & mod wheels, octave +/-, assignable data slider


Monday, May 30, 2011

Akai MPK 49 Controller Keyboard

Akai MPK 49 Controller Keyboard Review



Akai MPK 49 Controller Keyboard Feature

  • 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys
  • 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total
  • 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
  • 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total
  • MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons
More than just a USB/MIDI controller, the Akai MPK49 USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard helps you maximize your musical ideas on-stage or in the studio. It combines a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. It also offers 48 total accessible pads via 4 pad banks, and you can control up to 72 different parameters via 24 assignable Q-Link knobs, faders, and buttons as well as optional footswitches.

A selection of MPC technologies are also built into the MPK49. MPC Note Repeat enables the MPK to automatically perform a rhythm pattern, such as 16th notes, for accuracy and speed. MPC Swing, sometimes referred to as "the heart and soul of hip hop," turns perfectly aligned sequences into beats and patterns with an unmistakable human feel. The MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.

Key Features

  • 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys
  • 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total
  • 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
  • 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total
  • MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator
  • 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total
  • MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons
  • Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display

Specifications

  • Number of Keys: 49 + 12 x 4 banks of drum pads
  • Type of action: Semi-weighted Aftertouch (Channel)
  • Computer Interface: USB/MIDI
  • Displays: Custom LCD
  • Foot switchable Patch Changes: yes
  • Number of Independent MIDI Ins/Outs: 1
  • Programmable Continuous Footpedals: 1
  • Programmable Footswitches: 1
  • Programmable controllers: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
  • System Real-Time Controls: MMC, MIDI START/STOP, MIDI CC
  • Dimensions: 28 x 11.75 x 2.5 inches (WxDxH)
  • Weight: 12.875 pounds


High-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted, aftertouch equipped keyboard with 12 genuine MPC drum pads (see larger image).



Ideal for hardware control of your digital audio workstation (DAW), software plug-ins or virtual instruments (see larger image).



Other features include Tap Tempo function, 32 presets to store preferred settings and the flexibility of either master or slave-to-MIDI clock operation (see larger image).

The Akai MPK49 lets you capture every nuance of your performance. Maximize your musical ideas on-stage or in the studio with the new Akai MPK49 performance controller. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds. The Akai MPK49 features MPC 'Full Level' and '12 Levels' functions on its pads, and MPC Swing can be applied to both Note Repeat and Arpeggio functions. Tap Tempo and time-division buttons allow for real-time control of Note Repeat and Arpeggio clock speeds. The Akai MPK49 delivers an amazing 76 assignable controls, with assignable inputs that include an expression pedal, footswitch, pitch bend and modulation wheel. More than just a USB/MIDI controller, the MPK49 captures the soul of your performance. Akai MPK49 Features 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and full-sized keys 8 full-sized, 360 degree rotation pots, each with 3 banks for 24 pots total 12 genuine MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity 8 full-sized sliders with 3 controller banks for each for 24 sliders total MPC note repeat and all-new arpeggiator 8 assignable backlit switches with 3 controller banks each for 24 switches total MMC/MIDI Start Stop transport buttons Large, easy-to-read custom LCD display Powered thru the USB connection or the included AC adapter


Sunday, May 29, 2011

Akai Professional Levys M17PL Chains and Padlocks Guitar Strap (Chains and Padlocks)

Akai Professional Levys M17PL Chains and Padlocks Guitar Strap (Chains and Padlocks) Review



IThe Akai KCF1 Keyboard Chord Finder fits in the palm of your hand, yet holds over 2,000 chords and variations for instant access to them. Designed for students and professionals alike, the chord finder has an easy-to-read keyboard LCD. The Akai KCF1 chord dictionary's find function helps you locate chord names from any keyboard position.


Saturday, May 28, 2011

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, etc., 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, May 27, 2011

MOTU BPM Beat Production Machine Virtual Instrument

MOTU BPM Beat Production Machine Virtual Instrument Review



MOTU BPM Beat Production Machine Virtual Instrument Feature

  • Complete rhythm production center for Mac and WindowsCombines state-of-the-art rhythm programming technology with playable virtual instrument operation inspired by the classic drum machines of the 80s and 90sProvides complete creative control, from recording and programming individual samples to building and arranging entire songsIncludes a comprehensive, expertly produced urban sound and loop library for urban, R&B, pop, rock, and other music stylesCombines drum machine programming, sampling, l
The BPM Beat Production Machine from MOTU unites drum machine-style operation with advanced virtual instrument technology to give you the ultimate rhythm programming experience. The virtual instrument software lets you combine drum kits, sequenced patterns, sliced loops, and instrument sounds to realize your rhythmic vision, mixing and matching any playing style with any drum kit. Or plug in your pad controller or MIDI keyboard to capture your live, groove-quantized performance directly in BPM.Explore a new universe of soundsBrowse BPM's vast 15GB sample library of expertly recorded and mastered 24-bit/96kHz rhythmic material for urban, R&B, hip hop, techno, electro, house, pop, rock, and other styles of music. Sample your own drum sounds directly into BPM's drum pads, or simply drag-and-drop clips from your computer desktop, to add infinite possibilities to your own, unique sound. Add further punch with BPM's Drum Synthesizer. MOTU's Beat Production Machine also enables you to combine unlimited sample layers per pad with programmable layer switching. Now add guitar, bass, and other multisample instrument sounds from BPM's included sample collection, MachFive, or any other MOTU or UVI sample instrument library.Let your beats flow, from start to finishTrigger scenes during live performance from pads or MIDI notes. Drag-and-drop scenes into a song to build an entire track in seconds. Finalize your track with MOTU BPM's comprehensive graphic mixer, unlimited effects processing, and dozens of world-class effects, including multi-band EQ, filter, delay, drive, distortion, and convolution reverb. Advanced features of this virtual instrument software include drag-and-drop audio import/export, multiple outputs, universal plug-in compatibility, and standalone operation.Sound libraries these days are awash with loops. And what is a loop, exactly? Someone else's beat. Isn't it time to take back creative ownership over your grooves? Isn't it time to once again release your own


Thursday, May 26, 2011

Akai MPC 500 MIDI Production System Sampler

Akai MPC 500 MIDI Production System Sampler Review



Akai MPC 500 MIDI Production System Sampler Feature

  • 32-voice drum/phrase sampler with up to 128MB RAM
  • Pattern-based 48-track sequencer with 16 MIDI channels
  • Velocity and pressure sensitive pads for responsive, accurate programming
  • 4-way sample layering and velocity switching per pad
  • Battery powered (6 AA's) or AC powered (with included power adaptor)
Sample and create music wherever inspiration strikes with the portable Akai MPC500 all-in-one Music Production Center. Whether you travel around the globe or across town, the MPC500 is the ultimate answer to your mobile production needs. It weight just under 3 pounds--a perfect fit for your backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase--and it can be powered for up to 4.5 hours on 6 AA batteries

The MPC500 combines a 48-Track MIDI Sequencer and a 32-voice Stereo Digital Sampler, with 12 velocity and pressure sensitive rubber pads. It comes standard with 16 MB of on-board memory and can be expanded up to 128 MB of RAM. When connected to a Mac or PC via its built-in USB port, you can simply drag and drop data between the computer and the MPC500's CF card.



Roam where you want to with the compact Akai MPC500 (see larger image).


Built-in analog I/O, headphone output, and MIDI in/out (see larger image).


Power with included AC adapter or 6 AA batteries (see larger image).

Key Features

  • Battery powered (6 AAs) or wall powered (AC adapter included)
  • Pattern-based 48-track sequencer with 16 MIDI channels
  • 32-voice drum/phrase sampler with up to 128 MB RAM
  • Velocity and pressure-sensitive pads for responsive, accurate programming
  • 12-level function places one sound on all pads with progressive level or tuning per pad
  • Compact Flash drive and USB port (Mass Storage Class)
  • Support for standard WAV files and MIDI sequences
  • Analog I/O, headphone output, MIDI I/O
  • Sounds included to get started quickly
  • Four-way sample layering and velocity switching per pad
  • Low-pass filter with resonance per voice
  • On-board effects: two stereo effects and a master effect

Specifications

  • Storage: Compact Flash: Type-II, support up to 2 GB card
  • Memory: 16 MB installed (Can be expanded to 128 MB with EXM-128)
  • Analog Input/Output:
    • (2) Balanced 1/4-inch Inputs
    • (2) Unbalanced 1/4-inch Outputs
    • (1) Headphone Output
  • MIDI Input/Output:
    • (1) MIDI Input [5-pin DIN]
    • (1) MIDI Output [5-pin DIN]
  • Other Input/Output:
    • (1) USB [Slave only]
  • Levels:
    • Analog Input = +10dBu
    • Analog Output = +5dBu
  • Sampler Resolution: 16bit/44.1kHz
  • Sampler Recording Time:
    • 136 seconds [16 MB/MONO]
    • 24 minutes 28 seconds [128 MB/MONO]
  • Sequencer Details:
    • 100,000 notes resolving at 96ppq
    • 99 Sequences with total 64 tracks per seq
    • 20 Songs with total 250 steps per song
    • 24 "Active (loaded)" Programs max
  • Pad Details:
    • 12 (velocity and pressure sensitive)
    • 4 Pad Banks [A, B, C, D]
  • Power Options:
    • 12V DC 500mA pin-negative power adapter (included)
    • (6) AA batteries [lasts about 4.5hrs continuous use w/backlight ON]
  • Dimensions: 10.5 x 1.73 x 6.89 inches (WxHxD)
  • Weight (net): 2.93 pounds
  • Data Compatibility:
    • MPC1000 -- SEQ, WAV, PGM
    • MPC2000/2000XL -- SEQ (saved as MID file only), WAV, SND, PGM (Most parameters of PGM file can be loaded.)
    • MPC2500 -- SEQ, WAV, PGM
    • MPC4000 -- SEQ (saved as MID file only), WAV, AKP (DRUM program only...No Keygroups. Only note assign and tune are loaded.)
    • MPC3000 -- SND (THRU Computer)
    • Z4/Z8 -- WAV, PGM (DRUM program only. Only note assign and tune are loaded.)
    • S5000/6000 -- WAV only (THRU Computer)
    • S1000/3000 -- No compatibility
The MPC500 is the first truly portable all-in-one Music Production Center, affording artists the ability to sample and create music on-the-go. Whether you travel around the globe or across town, the MPC500 is the ultimate answer to your mobile production needs. The MPC500 is fully compatible with the legendary MPC line, which means you can use the MPC500's built-in battery and drop your mixes back into your MPC2500 when you get back into the studio. The MPC500 combines a 48-Track MIDI Sequencer and a 32-voice Stereo Digital Sampler, with 12 velocity and pressure sensitive rubber pads. 16MB of on-board memory comes standard and can be expanded up to 128 MB of RAM. When connected to a Mac or PC via its built-in USB port, you can simply drag and drop data between the computer and the MPC500's CF card. Because the MPC500 is compatible with other MPC products, mobile producers and musicians will find it is the perfect way to extend their studios and accommodate their mobile lifestyles.


Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Korg nanoPAD USB Drum Controller, Black

Korg nanoPAD USB Drum Controller, Black Review



Korg nanoPAD USB Drum Controller, Black Feature

  • 12 Trigger Pads With Velocity And 4 Velocity Curves
  • X-Y Pad
  • ROLL Button
  • FLAM Button
  • HOLD Button
  • X-Y touchpad, ROLL Button
  • HOLD Button, FLAM Button
  • A Small Pad Controller That's Big on Control
Korg's nanoPAD is a compact pad controller featuring 12 highly responsive trigger pads, each one capable of sending up to eight notes--or eight MIDI control messages--simultaneously, in addition to an X-Y touchpad with roll and flam functions for realistic drum programming.

A small pad controller that's big on control. Click to enlarge.

One of three nanoSERIES controllers.

Also available in white.

The Korg nanoSERIES
The Korg nanoSERIES provide a keyboard controller, a pad controller, and a studio controller with dedicated transport controls. Each of these USB-powered, slim-line controllers is designed to make the most of your valuable studio space, and is small enough to take with you on any musical journey. Place one of our keyboard controllers in front of your laptop, rest a pad controller on your music workstation, park a studio controller on your recording console--or anywhere else you need versatile control over your DAW, virtual instrument, effect or DJ software. Although small in size, all three nanoSERIES controllers go HUGE when it comes to functionality, yet their intuitive layouts provide extremely easy operation for any user.

nanoPAD--A Small Pad Controller That's Big on Control
When Korg set out to make a drum pad controller, they did their homework - with unique features and exceptionally responsive pads, the resulting padKONTROL became and remains one of the most highly sought-after pad controllers on the market. Enter the nanoPAD, offering 12 excellent feeling and highly responsive pads in a new, smaller footprint. In addition, a new Chord Trigger function lets you enter chords onto a single pad, helping you to make the most of the work surface as you create. The pads are also able to transmit control change messages, making this a great interface for soloing or muting mixer tracks, turning objects on and off, or triggering clips during your live performances.

nanoPAD's X-Y pad offers 'Roll' and 'Flam' modes, to help you lay down ultra-realistic drum grooves. The X-Y pad will also send MIDI CC (Control Change), making it a go-to interface for any parameter within your software that requires full range MIDI control such as pitch, cutoff, volume and beyond.

What's in the Box
Korg nanoPAD, USB cable, Owner's Manual The Korg nanoPAD is a unique, exceptionally responsive pad that has inherited the terrific sensitivity and feel of the Korg padKONTROL, one of the most highly sought-after pad controllers on the market, in a smaller format! The Korg nanoPad offers 12 excellent feeling and highly responsive pads in a new, smaller footprint. In addition, a new Chord Trigger function lets you enter chords onto a single pad, helping you to make the most of the work surface as you create. The pads are also able to transmit control change messages, making this a great interface for soloing or muting mixer tracks, turning objects on and off, or triggering clips during your live performances. nanoPAD’s X-Y pad offers Roll and Flam modes, to help you lay down ultra-realistic drum grooves. The X-Y pad will also send MIDI CC (Control Change), making it a go-to interface for any parameter within your software that requires full range MIDI control such as pitch, cutoff, volume and beyond. With the KORG KONTROL Editor (downloadable free of charge from the Korg website) you can customize four scenes that address the pads and X-Y pad can be stored within nanoPAD to suit your control needs. That means you actually have access to 48 notes/chords, 60 MIDI controllers, or any combination of the two types of data at any given time. Also, select one of three velocity curves or a fixed velocity to tailor the nanoPAD to your touch. The nanoPAD also comes complete with a download code for Toontrack’s EZDrummer Lite, offering super-realistic, highly responsive drums in a convenient plug in, plus you can upgrade to the full version of EZDrummer for a special price, and a free downloadable Editor/Librarian to help you create setups to suit your specific control needs.


Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Behringer UMA25S U-Control 25-Key USB Midi Controller Keyboard

Behringer UMA25S U-Control 25-Key USB Midi Controller Keyboard Review



Behringer UMA25S U-Control 25-Key USB Midi Controller Keyboard Feature

  • Stage performer and producer keyboard featuring 25 velocity-sensitive, full-size plus half-action keys
  • Built-in USB audio interface to connect your instruments and mixer to your computer for recording and playback
  • Powerful multi-platform digital audio workstation software energyXT2 Compact BEHRINGER Edition included
  • Audacity audio editor, comprehensive podcasting software and over 100 virtual instruments plus more than 50 effect plug-ins included
  • 21 assignable controllers storable in User Presets: 8 knobs, 8 buttons (with transport-control option), 2 wheels, 1 fader and 2 pedal ports
The UMA25S MIDI Controller is an extremely flexible master keyboard with a control section for a wide range of applications from on-stage performance to podcasting. Do you need independent control of computer rack synthesizers? How about control over general MIDI sound modules and effects devices? Maybe you just want to operate sequencing software or computer plug-ins from a convenient remote location? The UMA25S offers total flexibility, tremendous ease of use and allows you to realize your ideas intuitively.

What is a MIDI Controller?
Simply put, a MIDI controller gives you the power to take command of any hardware device or software that understands MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface). This means that MIDI-addressable effects processors (such as delays, reverbs, etc.) and audio recording and editing software can be controlled with a single piece of hardware, a MIDI controller. This can be very handy indeed when you have lots of devices spread out all over your studio or workstation space. The MIDI controller sends a control message to the device or program you're using that turns notes on and off, adjusts the volume or changes any one of many addressable parameters.

View rear connectors. Click to enlarge.

High-quality headset with built-in mic for podcasting and recording.

Soft carry bag with enough pockets for cables, power supply, CDs, etc.

21 assignable controllers and 16 user presets
When it comes to remote control, the UMA25S offers more real-time options than the competition. You get 8 knobs, 8 buttons, 2 wheels (Pitch Bend & Modulation), 2 pedal ports (Expression & Sustain) and 1 fader, for a total of 21 assignable controllers--total control of your operating environment. Once you've assigned the parameters for a particular scenario, simply store it in one of the 16 available preset locations.

Here are a few more uses for a UMA25S:

  • For playing external sound modules, rack synthesizers and virtual instruments
  • For editing sound parameters of synthesizers, sound samplers and GM/GS/XG sound generators
  • Controlling parameters on effects devices and software plug-ins, such as eff ects processors, compressors and digital equalizers
  • Remotely controlling software mixers (functions for volume, pan, mute, etc.)
  • Remotely controlling transport functions (Play, Fast Forward, Stop, etc., which is also known as MMC, or MIDI Machine Control) on sequencers, hard-disk recorders, drum machines, etc.
  • Live control of volume and sound parameters of sound modules on stage

Functionality, Functionality, Functionality
There are some things that just bear repeating. Besides providing 25 velocity-sensitive keys for the slickest set of glissandos and the snappiest arpeggios, the UMA25S also functions as a full-fledged USB audio interface for recording and podcasting. This powerful interface features a built-in mic preamp with dedicated Gain control, a Phones Output with its own dedicated Volume control and stereo RCA I/O jacks for connecting external devices. The interface is so versatile, it even allows simultaneous recording of the Mic and Line inputs.

Speaking of Recording...
Because you'll want to take full advantage of the UMA25S' podcasting and recording potential we've included a massive software package including Audacity, Podifier, Juice, Podnova and Golden Ear.

You're ready to go live on your PC or Mac computer right out of the box! You also get more than 100 virtual instruments and over 50 effects plug-ins, making the UMA25S a complete mobile studio from input to output.

Three Different Power Supply Options
Because it needs to be ready for action in a variety of venues, the UMA25S can draw its operating power from any free USB port on your PC or Mac computer, 3 AA batteries or the optional external power supply. No matter what your performance calls for, the UMA25S is the ideal solution.

Accessories
MIDI controllers don't typically come with many extras. But the UMA25S is designed to do so much more than turn things on and off , so Behringer provide gadgets galore. In addition to the expansive software package mentioned above, you also get a high-quality headset with built-in mic for podcasting and recording; a soft carry bag with enough pockets for cables, power supply, CDs, etc.; and a guitar-style strap, so you can steal the spotlight from the guitarist and start building your own bevy of fans.

What's in the Box
UMA25S MIDI Controller, Shoulder Strap, Behringer HS1000 Stereo Headset, User's Manual, Software CDs, USB Cable, Gig Bag Ultra-Slim 25-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with internal Audio Interface, more than 100 Software Plug-Ins and energyXT2 Compact BEHRINGER Edition


Monday, May 23, 2011

Chicken Systems Translator Sample Format Conversion Software

Chicken Systems Translator Sample Format Conversion Software Review



Chicken Systems Translator Sample Format Conversion Software Feature

  • Translates data among most popular sampler software formats
  • Converts program information as well as sample format
  • Translator supports all the new breed of DOS-format hardware samplers
  • Hybrid CD Win/Mac
Translator? is the ULTIMATE program for dealing with professional sampler formats. Translator? handles more professional formats that people are using for music than any other conversion program. It translates quickly and accurately and in an easy, natural manner. Software Samplers Translator? led the way 3 years ago in reading proprietary hardware sampler CD's and hard drives, and making those sounds available for the new breed of computer-driven samplers. Gigasampler's power was unlocked by Translator's initial support over two years ago. HALion translations were released the day after it was released. The first software sampler, Seer System's Reality , is still only supported by Translator and no one else. Even today, no program reads and translates more proprietary disk formats. Translator reads 11 of them! Count: 1) Akai S-1000/3000, 2) Roland S-7x, 3) Roland S-50/550 Series*, 4) Emu, 5) Kurzweil, 6) Ensoniq*, 7) Fairlight*, 8) Peavey*, 9) Yamaha*, 10) Akai MPC, 11) Macintosh HFS - with even more coming! *unique to Translator Software samplers have been slow to amasse the programmability of hardware samplers, so Translator led the way in innovative designs that unlocked those features that other programs are just now discovering. Features like bidirectional and reverse looping, multi-stage envelope algorithms, and many more. Translator was the first to offer EXS-24 translations that truly stuffed more elaborate parameters into the global scheme of th...


Sunday, May 22, 2011

Akai APC20 Compact Ableton Controller

Akai APC20 Compact Ableton Controller Review



Akai APC20 Compact Ableton Controller Feature

  • Designed in partnership with Ableton, mapped for Live, and fully customizable
  • Clip Launch matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status
  • No mapping required; every button and fader is pre-mapped
  • Bidirectional hardware/software communication for visual feedback on APC20
  • Comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition software
Ableton Live software is a powerful, flexible environment for creating, performing, and producing music. This unique software demands an equally unique control instrument. Akai Professional and Ableton are proud to present the APC20 compact professional Ableton Live performance controller. The APC20 transforms your Ableton Live experience from constructing tracks on a computer to fluid, musical creation. The second model in the APC series, the APC20 offers a smaller footprint than the APC40, enabling musicians to more easily create a personalized setup with multiple APCs, effects controllers, and other devices.

The APC20 is the link between human and computer that perfectly balances analytical parameter control with creative expression. Whether you are an electronic music artist and Live is your canvas, a DJ using Live to mix or remix tracks, or a more traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, you will find the APC20 to the intuitive, powerful instrument that directly links your inspiration with Ableton Live.


INSTANT PERFORMANCE
Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC20 specifically for Ableton Live, you don’t need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC20 via USB and you're ready to make magic. The APC20 is plug and play, so you don't need to install drivers. First-time setup is literally three steps: load the included Ableton Live software, plug in and power up your APC20, and select the APC20 as Ableton Live's controller. That's it. No mapping, no setup, no hassles.

The APC20 comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software, so if you're new to it, you'll find using the APC20 to be easy to get around on. And if you’re an experienced Live user, you'll be happy to note that you can custom-map every single button and fader on the APC20 to completely customize the controls for the way you like to work.


VISUAL FEEDBACK
The APC20 talks directly to Ableton Live, and Live talks directly to the APC20. This bidirectional communication makes the APC20 an advanced controller in that it can receive feedback from the software and display it on its Clip Launch matrix. The Clip Matrix gives you an instant view of clip status: what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded. Each state displays in the grid in a different color so you can get a quick picture of clip state. You can shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set.


PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION

Ableton selected Akai Professional as its partner in developing the APC20 because of Akai Pro's leadership position in great-feeling controllers that are rock solid, rugged, and precise. From the legendary MPC series that changed the way music is made to the industry-standard MPD and MPK controllers, Akai Professional is revered by musicians, DJs, and producers everywhere for creating the feel that powers their creativity. The APC20 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. There’s no flimsy plastic here. Faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance.


CREATIVE CONTROL
The APC20 comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production. Owners of the standalone edition of Ableton Live 8 can also work seamlessly with the APC20. Live 8 has full support for the APC20.

The APC20 also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC20's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling you to access, control, and perform with an unlimited number of cells.

The APC20 has nine faders, which you can assign to volume control, pan, sends, and a choice of three user-mapped modes. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, and solo/cues. A new User Mode enables you to use the Clip Launch buttons to control instruments and the Drum Rack.

Designed in partnership with Ableton, the APC20 is the ideal controller for performers who like to perform in a small amount of space for maximum portability. It’s also perfect for players who want to combine multiple controllers in their setup thanks to its small footprint. Don’t settle for cheap, plastic imitations. From the company whose name is synonymous with the word production, the APC20 is the serious choice.

Power Supply:DV 12V 2.0A pin-positive, auto-switching (100-240V, 50-60Hz)
Communication:USB-MIDI with proprietary hardware/software handshake
Inputs:USB
Weight:3.8 lbs
Dimensions:29.5cm x 33.3cm x 5.7cm (WxDxH)
11.61" x 13.11" x 2.24"
(measured to the highest point, which is the CUE knob)

MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Mac: G4 / Intel recommended, OS X 10.3.9 / 10.4+ recommended
PC: 1.5GHz, Windows XP or Vista, Windows-compatible sound card / ASIO driver support recommended
512MB RAM / 1GB recommended, QuickTime 6.5 or higher, DVD-ROM drive, USB port