Thursday, June 30, 2011

Akai Pro MPD18 Compact Pad Controller

Akai Pro MPD18 Compact Pad Controller Review



Akai Pro MPD18 Compact Pad Controller Feature

  • MIDI controller for production and performance
  • MPC pads: bank of 16, velocity and pressure sensitive
  • Three pad banks for a total of 48 sounds accessible from pads
  • USB powered, requires no AC adapter
  • MPC Note Repeat
The MPD18 is the easiest way to add genuine MPC pads to your setup. This MIDI-over-USB pad controller for DJs, programmers, producers, and other musicians is built around the pads and controls from Akai Professional's industry-standard MPC series. The MPD18 is an expressive and intuitive instrument for the studio and stage. The MPD18 is built around the pads of the industry-standard MPC and contains some of the same technology that gives tracks made with the MPC an unmistakably human feel. The MPD18 is an expressive and intuitive controller for the studio and stage, and its compact footprint is easy to fit into any setup. When combined with virtually any MIDI software, the MPD18 delivers everything needed to create tracks that feel great. The heart of the MPD18 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Pro exclusive. You can access three different banks of sounds from the MPC pads for a total of 48 sounds at your fingertips. The MPD18 also borrows the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get an assignable Q-Link fader for natural, hands-on control of your most-used parameters, and MPC Note Repeat enables you to quickly input patterns such as hi-hat parts or drum rolls. The MPD18 also has 16 configurable presets so you can program it for the way you work with different hardware and software. The MPD18 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so you can use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD18 so the included USB cable is all you need for portable production. The MPD18 can control nearly any MIDI software, as well as MIDI hardware, such as synths, sound modules, samplers, sequencers, drum machines, and more. The MPD18 gives you the control feel of the MPC in a super-portable instrument with a compact footprint that's easy to fit in any setup.


Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Akai MPC4000 Plus 24-Bit, 96kHz Music Production Center (With IB-4ADT)

Akai MPC4000 Plus 24-Bit, 96kHz Music Production Center (With IB-4ADT) Review



The most powerful MPC ever takes its rightful position in the Akai Professional product line. Along with the MPC2000XL, and the MFC-equipped Ultimate XL the MPC4000 joins the legendary music production tools of our time. Using the new Z-96 sampling engine the MPC4000 boasts the first full feature sampler ever in an MPC product.


Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Akai MPD26 USB/MIDI Pad Controller

Akai MPD26 USB/MIDI Pad Controller Review



Akai MPD26 USB/MIDI Pad Controller Feature

  • Access 64 samples on 16 pressure and velocity-sensitive MPC pads with four banks each
  • MPC technologies include Note Repeat, Swing, 16 Level, Full Level, and Tap Tempo
  • Control virtually any 12 software parameters on assignable Q-Link knobs and faders
  • MIDI output over USB and traditional DIN MIDI I/O for controlling software and hardware
  • USB bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable
The MPD26 is a MIDI-over-USB pad controller with genuine MPC pads. It's perfect for producers, programmers, musicians and DJs. Its blend of intuitive MPC controls and technologies meshes with easy USB connectivity to bring the feel of classic beat making to the world of computer music production. The heart of the MPD26 is its bank of 16 velocity and pressure-sensitive MPC pads, an Akai Professional exclusive. You can access four different sounds from each MPC pads for a total of 64 at your fingertips. The MPD26 also features the MPC series' assignable Q-Link controllers, enabling you to control nearly any parameters in your software in real time. You get six assignable Q-Link faders and six assignable Q-Link 360¡ knobs so you'll spend less time with the mouse and more time making music. The MPD26 also gives you a dedicated set of transport controls for instant access to the most commonly used DAW or sequencing-software controls. The MPD26 sends MIDI information over its plug-and-play USB interface so you can use it with your Mac or PC without installing any drivers. The USB connection even powers the MPD26 so the included USB cable is all you need. The MPD26 also has traditional DIN MIDI input and output jacks so you can use it with MIDI hardware such as synths and other sound modules. The MPD26 comes with Ableton Live Lite and Editor Librarian software so you can start creating right out of the box. The MPD26 is the perfect interface between your creativity and the computer-based studio. Its blend of intuitive MPC controls and technologies meshes with easy USB computer connectivity to deliver the control instrument you need.


Sunday, June 26, 2011

Korg PS60 61-key Portable Performance Synthesizer With Plug-in Editor Bundle

Korg PS60 61-key Portable Performance Synthesizer With Plug-in Editor Bundle Review



Korg PS60 61-key Portable Performance Synthesizer With Plug-in Editor Bundle Feature

  • Korg PS60 61-key Portable Performance Synthesizer With Plug-in Editor.
  • Double X-Style Keyboard Stand.
  • Multi-Purpose Headphones.

Korg PS60 61-key Portable Performance Synthesizer With Plug-in Editor.
Designed for the gigging - or soon to be gigging - musician, the affordable Korg PS60 delivers premium sounds and professional effects in an easy-to-use package. Heavy on hardware, the PS60's new dedicated performance controls keep all the needs of the performer close at hand.
- Instant access to six essential sound categories - Piano, E-Piano, Organ, Strings, Brass, and Synth.
- 440 impeccably voiced, ready-to-play, sounds created by Korg's renowned programmers.
- Korg's latest EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis - integrated) sound technology.
- Create and save up to 20 split and layered "Performances"- on the fly!.
- Intuitive front panel layout with dedicated hardware controllers for frequently-used functions.
- Nine dedicated knobs provide live control of the master modulation, reverb/delay, and EQ effects.
- Free editing software allows the PS60 to run as a plug-in with your host DAW (AU, VST or RTAS).
- Great-feeling, responsive, semi-weighted 61-key Natural Touch keyboard.

Bundle Also Includes:
- Double X-Style Keyboard Stand.
- Multi-Purpose Headphones.


Saturday, June 25, 2011

Akai RPM8 8" Active Studio Monitor, ¹

Akai RPM8 8" Active Studio Monitor, ¹ Review



Akai RPM8 8" Active Studio Monitor, ¹ Feature

  • Two-way, active, bi-amplified, nearfield studio monitor with accurate playback 8" LF driver: woven-kevlar woofer, 80W RMS 1" HF driver: silk-dome tweeter, 40W RMS Extremely wide frequency response: 39 to 20,000 Hz Active, fourth-order crossovers High output up to 113 dB SPL Bi-color LED clip indicator Combination XLR-1/4" TRS inputs for compatibility with a wide variety of source equipment Low-resonance cabinet with dual front-panel ports
RPM8 reference production studio monitors are specifically designed for use with MPC music production workstations and production controllers. RPM8 studio monitors are two-way, active, bi-amplified, nearfield loudspeakers made for producers, recording engineers, remix artists, DJs and other musicians.The two-way monitors each feature an eight-inch woven-kevlar low-frequency driver with 80W RMS of continuous amplification for robust, full bass all the way down to 39 Hz. The monitors high-frequency system consists of a one-inch silk-dome tweeter with 40W RMS of continuous amplification, mounted on a custom, functionally optimized waveguide for excellent control of directivity and reduction of unwanted early reflections.RPM8 studio monitors contain active, fourth-order crossovers for outstanding separation and optimal power management. Their cabinet is constructed of industry-standard MDF for low resonance, and is dually ported on the front baffle for bass extension in any setting, including soffit-mounted installations.The bi-amplification, ported cabinet design and overall acoustical efficiency combine to produce a speaker that can deliver up to powerful 113 dB SPL and with accurate frequency response from 39 Hz to 20 kHz.RPM8 monitors feature a bicolor LED clip indicator, which assists in avoiding damage to your system. You can connect professional studio systems to the RPM8s combination XLR-balanced -inch TRS inputs for compatibility with a wide variety of source equipment.Specs: Frequency Response: 39 20,000 Hz 3 dBMaximum Output: 113 dB SPL @ 1mEnclosure Type: Ported, dual, front firingPowered/Unpowered: Powered, bi-amplifiedAmplifiers: 80W RMS LF, 40W RMS, HFInputs: XLR3 + 1/4" TRS combinationSensitivity: 123 dB SPLWoofer Size/Type: 8" woven KevlarTweeter Size/Type: 1" silk domeMagnetic Shielding: YesOperating Voltage: 100 230V ACCabinet Dimensions: 17.5" x 11" x 13.5"Weight: 32.5 lbs.Audio Input Wiring:+ = Tip = Pin 2- = Ring...


Thursday, June 23, 2011

Akai SYNTHSTATION25 25-Key Keyboard Controller For Iphone And Ipod Touch

Akai SYNTHSTATION25 25-Key Keyboard Controller For Iphone And Ipod Touch Review



Akai SYNTHSTATION25 25-Key Keyboard Controller For Iphone And Ipod Touch Feature

  • 25-key MIDI keyboard controller with dock for iPhone and iPod touch
  • Velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys for expressive performance
  • Pitch and modulation wheels, octave +/-, and sound-bank buttons
  • Stereo RCA line outputs and headphone jack
  • MIDI-over-USB for use with virtually all music software
  • Pitch and modulation wheels, octave + or -, and sound-bank buttons
  • Pitch and modulation wheels, octave, and sound-bank buttons
25-key keyboard controller for iPhone and iPod touch, w/SynthStation Studio App, USB/MIDI, line & phone outs


Wednesday, June 22, 2011

GarageKey

GarageKey Review



GarageKey Feature

  • USB MIDI Keyboard, Plug and Play
  • The Perfect Keyboard For GarageBand!
  • Small, elegantly designed MIDI keyboard that matches Apple's product styling
  • The only keyboard on the market designed exclusively for use by Apple computer users
  • 37 full-size, professional quality, velocity sensitive keys, octave up and down buttons discretely placed on the rear panel
USB MIDI Keyboard Flex cable products Garage Key The Perfect Keyboard For GarageBand We built the GarageKey simply because we love to play with Apple's wonderful GarageBand software, and, because there has just not been a small, elegantly designed MIDI keyboard available that matches nicely with Apple's product styling, and is small enough to actually put somewhere on most desks. The existing keyboards are bulky, complicated designs that may be great for trained keyboard players. But, they just don't match up to the real needs of most Mac users who decide to begin experimenting with GarageBand. That problem is now solved... with GarageKey. The GarageKey USB-MIDI keyboard is the only keyboard on the market designed exclusively for use by Apple computer users desiring to have a small, elegantly styled keyboard for experimenting with Apple's popular GarageBand software. The GarageKey has 37 full-size, professional quality, velocity sensitive keys. It has octave up and down buttons discretely placed on the rear panel. And, it is plug and play compliant with OS X USB-MIDI. Its clear acrylic over bright white styling, and its bright white keys, are made to precisely match Apple's desktop styling. Beyond GarageBand If you use a recent Apple computer with iLife and GarageBand software installed, you cannot imagine the fun you can have playing around with the music creation tools in GarageBand. And, if you want to preserve your desk space, and maintain that wonderful Apple styling of your system, the GarageKey keyboard is made just for you. GarageKey Specifications: Plug and play with Mac OS X, Windows XP, Vista exc. 37 full-size key, velocity sensitive octave up-down buttons Width= 20.5" Depth= 6.75" Height= 1.75" (at rear) Power= from USB USB Cable= 7 ft. length


Tuesday, June 21, 2011

64MB Memory for Akai S-5000 S-6000 72 pin SIMM Sampler RAM

64MB Memory for Akai S-5000 S-6000 72 pin SIMM Sampler RAM Review



64MB Memory for Akai S-5000 S-6000 72 pin SIMM Sampler RAM Feature

  • 72 pin SIMM
  • 64MB
  • Lifetime Warranty.
64mb 72 pin SIMM for Akai S5000 S6000 Sampler Memory Ram. You can install one SIMM at a time. To maximize the RAM to 256MB on your Sampler buy four 64mb SIMMs. Lifetime Warranty. Manufactured using Major brand memory chips. We do not sell "OEM" memory which may be incompatible, unstable or prone to early failure.


Sunday, June 19, 2011

MONO Cases EFX 365 DJ Pack Jet Black

MONO Cases EFX 365 DJ Pack Jet Black Review



MONO Cases EFX 365 DJ Pack Jet Black Feature

  • Backpacker-style shoulder strap and chest harness system evenly distributes weight Adjustable straps and strategically placed mesh pads Wide dimensions for maximum capacity Slim profile helps you slip through crowds Expandable record slot secures a small stack of vinyl records High-density padding 100% animal free materials Steel riveted straps Oversized cable stash pocket and Neoprene headphone pouch Side accessories pocket that will fit wallet, keys, needles, hard-drives, adapters, etc. Freest
The Mono Cases 365 DJ Pack is the result of extensive research and prototyping conducted among some of the world's most respected international DJs. When you wake up in a different country every week, mobility takes on a whole new meaning. The 365 backpack is built for life in motion. Mono has combined intelligent features, bombproof construction, and a low-profile form factor specifically for air travel. On the inside, smart storage puts everything in its place. On the outside, minimalist design detailing creates an element of mystery—keep them guessing. On the fly: The 365 features a backpacker-style shoulder strap and chest harness system to evenly distribute the weight of the DJ equipment inside. Adjustable straps and strategically placed mesh pads keep even the heaviest rigs comfortably in place. The wide dimensions allow for maximum capacity, while the slim profile helps you slip through crowds. Plug and play: Designed around laptop-based DJ setups, your equipment is always right where you need it. The extra-padded integral sleeve secures up to a 17-inch wide laptop while the expandable record slot secures a small stack of vinyls. Your cables stay coiled in an oversized cable stash pocket, deep side pockets fit a stack of gear, while the headphone pouch provides plush protection. Wear it out: Well, Mono dares you to try. Mono builds their cases to military specifications, using only materials with extreme resistance to abrasion and to the elements. Steel-riveted handles, high-density padding, and a waterproof shell ensure a safe journey through harsh conditions. Materials used are 100% animal free. Fitting: This DJ backpack fits laptops up to 17 inches wide, a small stack of vinyls, Serato-style interface components, hard drives, headphones, and cables. Removable inner divider creates extra space for a larger stack of vinyls, or for portable mixer or controllers such as the Akai APC40 and the Vestax VCI-300.


Saturday, June 18, 2011

AKAI MPK MINI Mini keyboard & drum pads with assignable controls

AKAI MPK MINI Mini keyboard & drum pads with assignable controls Review



AKAI MPK MINI Mini keyboard & drum pads with assignable controls Feature

  • 25 note mini keyboard
  • 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads
  • 8 assignable Q link knobs
  • program recall button to store up to 4 separate global settings
  • Usb powered
Ultra-portable software MIDI controller -25-note, velocity-sensitive mini keyboard -Eight backlit, velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads (2 banks, 16 total) -Pads can send note information, MIDI CCs and program changes -Eight assignable Q-Link knobs to adjust virtually any parameter -Built-in Arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and patterns -Tap-Tempo button to quickly adjust pace of the Arpeggiator -Dedicated Octave Up, Octave Down and Sustain buttons -Program Recall button to restore up to 4 separate global settings -Solid Akai Pro design -Powered through USB; no AC adaptor required Includes: --MPK mini controller --MPK mini software editor


Thursday, June 16, 2011

Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller Bundle

Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller Bundle Review



Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller Bundle Feature

  • Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller.
  • Samson SAHP10 HP10 Stereo Headphones.
  • 5 Feet MIDI Cable.

Akai APC40 Ableton Performance Controller.
- Designed in partnership with Ableton for Ableton Live.
- Unique clip matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status.
- No mapping required; every knob, button, and fader is customizable.
- Bidirectional communication between APC40 and Ableton Live.
- Solid, professional feel with rugged, metal chassis and premium controls.
- Comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC40 Edition software.
- Works with standalone editions of Ableton Live.
- USB plug-and-play connection for Mac and PC.
- Premium controller with rugged, metal chassis.

Bundle Also Includes :
- Samson SAHP10 HP10 Stereo Headphones.
- 5 Feet MIDI Cable.


Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Akai Professional APC20 (Controller for Ableton Live)

Akai Professional APC20 (Controller for Ableton Live) Review



Akai Professional APC20 (Controller for Ableton Live) Feature

  • Controller for Ableton Live
  • Steer Ableton Live with Your Hands! Control Surface s:ak_cash
Ableton Live - the name says it all. The only thing is that, without the right controller, Live doesn't really do much for you when you're performing. If you want to DJ for loops, or LoopJ or whatever the heck people are calling it now, then you're going to want an Akai APC20. Launch clips from the APC20's 8 x 5 LED-lit button matrix and get instant feedback as each button changes color to reflect its status. Now only does this feedback look really freaking cool on stage, but it also keeps you from hiding behind your laptop like you're checking Facebook during your set... not that you can't do that anyway. And you're not limited to just controlling five scenes worth of loops on eight channels, you can navigate all over your Live session to control any track or scene. Plus, the APC20 gives you a full set of transport controls, a complete bank of super-smooth faders, and (in case you're new to Live) Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition. Pretty sweet deal for the rig that'll change the way you make music, don't you think?Akai Professional APC20 Ableton Live Controller Features at a Glance:Dedicated USB performance controller for Ableton Live softwareCo-designed by Ableton and Akai Professional40 buttons for launching clips - bidirectional hardware/software communication for visual feedbackClip stop and scene launch buttons9 faders for getting your hands on your mixTransport controls let you take charge of your sessionCan be MIDI-mapped to override Preassigned functionsWorks "plug and play" with both Mac and PC computers


Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Akai MPC 5000 Music Production Center

Akai MPC 5000 Music Production Center Review



Akai MPC 5000 Music Production Center Feature

  • 64-voice drum/phrase sampler with 64MB memory built-in. Expandable up to 192MB RAM
  • Three-oscillator virtual analog synth engine with built-in arpeggiator
  • Over 300 Virtual Analog synth presets included
  • Over 40 all new effects available within a modular 4-bus effects processor
  • Built-in hard disk drive with an optional CD-R/DVD drive available
The Akai MPC5000 has a greatly expanded feature set and that legendary MPC feel! The MPC series set the standard for beat production. What would it take to make the ultimate MPC? Dozens of engineers, 20 years of experience and a new synth and drum sampling engine unlike any MPC ever. Introducing the MPC5000; the new standard for music production. Purchase the Akai MPC5000 today and get a FREE Download of the MC5000 OS 2.0 from www.akaipro.com! Check out the in-depth comparison chart for all the MPC's that Akai makes. Use it to find out exactly how much power you need! The MPC5000 is the first MPC ever to include 8-track streaming hard disk recording, a 20-voice, 3-oscillator analog synthesizer with arpeggiator, a new sequencing engine with 960 ppq resolution, pad and track muting and mixing, 64 continuous sample tracks. There's even a new FX engine with 4 FX buses and 2FX per bus. Akai MPC5000 Features 64-voice drum/phrase sampler with 64MB memory (Expandable to 192MB) Three-oscillator virtual analog synth engine with built-in arpeggiator Over 300 Virtual Analog synth presets included Eight tracks of Direct-to-Hard Disk recording Over 40 all new effects available within a modular 4-bus effects processor Master compressor and equalizer Built-in hard disk drive Optional CD-R/DVD drive USB 2.0 port for computer con


Monday, June 13, 2011

Akai APC40 Abelton Controller

Akai APC40 Abelton Controller Review



Akai APC40 Abelton Controller Feature

  • Designed in partnership with Ableton
  • Unique clip matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status
  • Exclusive bidirectional communication between the APC40 and Ableton Live
  • Comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC Edition, free upgrade patch for full versions of Live
  • USB plug-and-play connection for Mac and PC
Working in partnership with software developer Ableton, the Akai APC40 Performance Controller offers a control surface that's specifically designed for performance with Ableton Live software. Designed to be a powerful, intuitive controller for electronic music performance artists, DJs, hip-hop producers and traditional musicians using Ableton Live on stage and in the studio, the Akai APC40 transforms your experience from one of constructing tracks with software on a computer to one of fluid, effortless, musical creation.



Specifically designed for performance with Ableton Live software (see larger image).


Professional feel with rugged, metal chassis and premium controls (see larger image).


Requires no mapping for direct control of Live, and is completely re-mappable for advanced-user customization (see larger image).

Key Features

  • Designed in partnership with Ableton for Ableton Live
  • Unique clip matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status
  • No mapping required; every knob, button, and fader is customizable
  • Bidirectional communication between APC40 and Ableton Live
  • Solid, professional feel with rugged, metal chassis and premium controls
  • Comes with Akai APC40 edition of Ableton Live Lite, free upgrade patch for full versions of Live
  • Works with standalone editions of Ableton Live
  • Works with most MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software
  • USB plug-and-play connection for Mac and PC
  • Premium controller with rugged, metal chassis

Direct Design
Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC40 specifically for Ableton Live, you don't need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC40 via USB--thanks to its plug and play capabilities, you won't need to install any drivers. It comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software, so if you're new to it, you'll find using the APC40 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 knob, button, and fader on the APC40 to completely customize the controls for the way you like to work.

Virtual View
Because of the bidirectional communication between the APC40 and Ableton Live software, the APC40 can receive feedback from the software and display it on its clip matrix of 40 triggers and on LED rings surrounding each knob. 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 on the matrix 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.

The APC40 has 16 knobs, each surrounded by a ring of LEDs. These LED rings make it easy to see your settings on dark stages, indicating the currently selected parameters' values.

Premium Feel
The APC40 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. All of the knobs and faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance. It even features a high quality, replaceable crossfader for transitioning between clips and loops assigned to "A" or "B."

Creative Control
The APC40 comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC40 Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production. Owners of standalone editions of Ableton Live 7 or 8 can also work seamlessly with the APC40. Live 7 with the latest automatic update has full support for the APC40 and all versions of Live 8 are APC40-ready.

The APC40 has two banks of eight knobs. The first set controls Global parameters so you'll always have instant access to your main sends, pans, and other essentials. The second bank of eight knobs is dynamically reassigned to the Track you select. You can control eight track parameters at a time, and as you switch channels, the Track knobs follow your focus. For example, you might be working with the Beat Decoder on track two. When you switch to track four, the eight Track knobs that you had been controlling the Beat Decoder with are now controlling the Flangeverb on track four. You'll even notice that the settings for each knob load on the light rings so you'll immediately see each knob's status.

The APC40 also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC40'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 APC40 has a wide range of controllers. The eight Global knobs can access four banks of controls; the eight Track knobs control nine different track parameters each. This gives you a massive total of 72 controllers that are dynamically reassigned each time you switch tracks. Channel faders, bus faders, and a crossfader give you smooth control of key values. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, solo/cues, and two assignable footswitch inputs.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 16.88 x 13.13 x 2.62 inches (WxDxH)
  • Weight: 5.8 pounds
  • Power supply: 12V 2.0A pin-positive, included
  • Communication: USB-MIDI with proprietary hardware/software handshake
  • Inputs: USB, Two assignable footswitch inputs
  • Mac system requirements: G4 or faster/Intel Mac recommended, 512 MB RAM/1 GB recommended, OS 10.3.9, 10.4 or later. recommended, QuickTime 6.5 or higher, DVD-ROM drive, USB port
  • PC system requirements: 1.5 GHz or faster, 512 MB RAM/1 GB recommended, Windows XP or Vista, Windows-compatible sound card/ASIO driver support recommended, QuickTime 6.5 or higher, DVD-ROM drive, USB port
Ableton Live performance, perfected. The APC40 is the world’s finest Ableton Live control surface. Ableton and Akai Professional worked in a joint partnership to make the APC40 the perfect Ableton Live control surface. Whether you are an electronic-music performance artist and Live is your canvass, a DJ using Live to mix tracks, or a traditional musician using Live on stage or in the studio, the APC40 is designed for intuitive, powerful control. DIRECT DESIGN Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC40 for Live, you don’t need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC40 with its USB cable and you're ready to make magic. The APC40 is class compliant, so you don't even need to install drivers. And if you’re an advanced Live user, the APC40 gives you the ability to remap every one of its controls to suit your own style. VIRTUAL VIEW The APC40 talks directly to Live and Live talks directly to the APC40. This exclusive bidirectional communication makes the APC40 an advanced controller in that it can receive feedback from the software and display it on its clip matrix of 40 triggers and on LED rings surrounding each knob. 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 on the matrix 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. The APC40 has 16 knobs, each surrounded by a ring of LEDs. These LED rings make seeing your settings a breeze on dark stages, indicating the currently selected parameters’ values. This advanced visual feedback makes performing with the APC40 focused more on the music and less on squinting at the computer screen. In fact, you might even forget that the computer is there! PREMIUM CONTROLS Ableton selected Akai Professional as a partner because of its 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 APC40 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. Knobs and faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance. It even features a high quality, replaceable crossfader. CREATIVE CONTROL The APC40 comes with a special edition of Ableton Live Lite so you can use it out of the box even if you’re new to Live. There's also a free patch that upgrades full versions of Live so if you're already a Live user, you can take full advantage of the APC40. The APC40 has two banks of eight knobs. The first set controls Global parameters so you’ll always have instant access to your main sends, pans, and other essentials. The second bank of eight knobs is dynamically reassigned to the Track you select. You can control eight track parameters at a time, and as you switch channels, the Track knobs follow your focus. You also get special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC40's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling access to an unlimited number of cells. The APC40 has a wide range of controllers. The eight Global knobs can access four banks of controls; the eight Track knobs control nine different track parameters each. This gives you a massive total of 72 controllers that are dynamically reassigned. Channel faders, bus faders, and a crossfader give you smooth control of key values. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, solo/cues and two assignable footswitch inputs. Designed in partnership with Ableton, the APC40 is the most advanced Live controller for the most advanced performers.


Sunday, June 12, 2011

M-Audio Axiom 61 Advanced 61-Key USB MIDI Controller, 2nd Gen

M-Audio Axiom 61 Advanced 61-Key USB MIDI Controller, 2nd Gen Review



M-Audio Axiom 61 Advanced 61-Key USB MIDI Controller, 2nd Gen Feature

  • 61 piano-style, semi-weighted keys>musically satisfying playing experience
  • 9 mixer-style faders and 8 smooth rotary encoders>hands-on control over your DAW
  • angled top panel and centrally positioned LCD>better ergonomics on stage and in the studio
  • DirectLink mode>automatically map onboard controls to DAW mixer parameters-no complex setup required
  • Axiom Instrutment Maps>instant access to virtual instrutment parameters for a hardware synth-like experience
The M-Audio Axiom 61 controller combines all the production power and performance you need to ge the most from your music software and MIDI gear. More than jst a "date entry" controller, the Axiom 61 feaures piano-style, semi-weighted keys for a musically satisfying experience. Large dynamic trigger pads make i easy to program beats and trigger one-shot samples-while the knobs, sliders, and buttons deliver complete real-time control over your software. DirectLink mode provides easy, automatic access to common DAW functions including transport, mixer, track pan, and virtual instrutment parameters-no complicated setup required. Axiom 61 also features a sleek, angled top panel for easy viewing in any enviroment.


Saturday, June 11, 2011

Protec Soprano Sax Pro Pac

Protec Soprano Sax Pro Pac Review



Protec Soprano Sax Pro Pac Feature

  • Lightweight shock absorbing frame
  • Soft plush lining
  • Built-in organizer to hold pens, keys, and small accessories
  • Water and abrasion resistant 1680 gauge ballistic nylon exterior
  • Shoulder strap
This protective lightweight PRO PAC was designed for straight soprano saxophones with fixed or detachable necks. This case features an adjustable block for full body support of the instrument. Convenient exterior pocket with built-in organizer and shoulder strap.