Results for NAMM

Akai Professional has announced MPC Pro Headphones, MPC Headphones, and MPC Earbuds, premium personal audio devices each designed for professional music production with Akai Professional’s newest line of MPCs.

Akai Professional’s new MPC headphones and earbuds are designed to match each new MPC in design, quality, and purpose. Each is designed to empower producers with the ability to hear their tracks and hone their craft with unmatched clarity and precision. In addition, MPC headphones and earbuds provide an exceptional experience for simply listening on the go to a personal music library.

MPC Pro Headphones feature powerful 50mm drivers and an over-the-ear design for premium isolation and comfort in the studio, while MPC Headphones come with precise 40mm drivers and an on-the-ear design ideal for portability and music production on the move. Both feature Akai Professional’s unmatched expertise in tuning and frequency response, as well as fully adjustable headbands, pivoting ear cups, and gunmetal aluminum and steel construction for a solid, comfortable fit. Overstuffed leather cushioning on the headbands and ear cups provides a luxurious listening experience for even the most demanding studio sessions. An audio cable with 1/8-inch connector and 1/4-inch adapter is included for music production, and a communication cable with a built-in microphone is also included for use with mobile phones.

“Headphones are a huge part of the production process,” said Dan Gill, Akai Professional Product Manager. “With the MPC headphones and earbuds, we’re simply doing what we’ve always done—delivering the tools musicians need to get fully immersed in their craft.”

MPC Pro Headphones / MPC Headphones features

• Iconic Akai Pro build quality, tuning, and frequency response.
• Powerful 50mm/40mm drivers with neodymium magnets.
• Gunmetal aluminum and steel construction.
• On-ear design with overstuffed leather cushioning.
• Audio cable with 1/4″ adapter included.
• Communication cable with built-in microphone included.

Featuring lightweight soft-touch ear clips with aluminum trim and volume control, MPC Earbuds are flexible, powerful, and designed for the active producer.

They’re engineered to be multi-purpose with the ability to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth® to any compatible music player for casual cable-free listening, or to connect via the included professional audio cable for latency-free performance during music production. The built-in lithium-ion battery recharges easily via USB (cable included). MPC Earbuds deliver Akai Professional’s superior tuning and frequency response for any track via precise 13mm drivers.

Producers can go wired or wireless by connecting or disconnecting the included 1/8-inch cable from the Akai Professional medallion that is located on the cable between the earbuds. The medallion also includes a built-in mic for using MPC Earbuds with a mobile phone.

MPC Earbuds features

• Iconic Akai Pro build quality, tuning, and frequency response.
• Lightweight ear clips with aluminum trim and volume control.
• Built-in lithium-ion battery recharges easily via USB.
• Bluetooth wireless technology for cable-free listening.
• Cable with 1/8” connector for latency-free listening and music production.
• Medallion with built-in mic and 1/8” input.
• Precise 13mm drivers with neodymium magnets.

Akai Professional will display the new MPC headphones and earbuds at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

More information: Akai Professional

Numark has introduced Orbit, a first-of-its-kind wireless handheld DJ performance controller.

Numark’s Orbit is the next step in the evolution of the performing DJ. Made to be held in the hands, strapped to your body using its built-in clip, or placed on the table, Orbit packs an unheard-of amount of control into an ergonomic game-controller-on-steroids design, which has every inch, inside and out, tailor-made for live performance. Orbit can be used wired via the included USB cable, which also charges it, or wireless using 2.4 GHz ultra-low-latency connectivity. Orbit features 4 selectable banks of 16 backlit pads, 8 on each side, for adding and blending effects, launching hot cues and samples, and more. Located in the center of Orbit are 4 bank selection buttons, 4 virtual knobs, and a large aluminum-faced touchsensitive control wheel, which controls the selected virtual knob for instantly tweaking effects and filters.

“If you want to be a serious DJ these days, you need the guts and the gear to get out on the stage and perform,” said Chris Roman, Numark Product Manager. “Orbit embraces that reality to its core, empowering DJs with performance capabilities that will need to be seen and experienced to be believed. It’s intuitive, operating like an extension of the DJ—not to mention it’s the most fun you’ll ever have on stage.”

Orbit’s live-performance design extends even to the inside of the device, where it has an embedded 2-axis accelerometer, which can be assigned to 2 different parameters per bank and activated instantly via 2 shoulder buttons. All of Orbit’s controls are fully mappable, so DJs will be able to customize their settings for effects control, transport control, volume control, or any other MIDI parameter.

Orbit features

• 2.4 GHz ultra-low-latency wireless performance control.
• 16 backlit pads, 4 selectable banks, 16 virtual knobs per bank.
• Internal two-axis accelerometer with shoulder trigger controls.
• Use handheld, strapped to belt or body, or hung around neck.
• Illuminated aluminum-faced control wheel.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Numark will demonstrate Orbit for the first time at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

More information: Numark

M-Audio has announced their new M-Track Series of USB audio/MIDI interfaces.

Offering three distinct models, the M-Track Series combines a robust feature set with extreme ease of use to create versatile audio/MIDI interfaces for every level of musician.

M-Audio’s M-Track Quad four-channel USB Audio/MIDI interface.

Starting with phantom-powered XLR jacks, line inputs with guitar-level switching, TRS audio inserts, and latency-free monitoring, the M-Track Series provides a comprehensive range of inputs, outputs, and connection options designed to work efficiently in the modern studio or on the go. Simple controls, effective metering, and rugged chassis make the M-Track Series ideal for withstanding the rigors of day-to-day use. From the entry-level M-Track to the pro-line M-Track Quad, each model offers a reliable platform that can accommodate the myriad of devices that can come and go in a changing project studio.

“With a deep feature set and solid build, the M-Track Series provides each musician with the best value in audio interfaces available today,” according to M-Audio Product Manager Dan Steinberg. “Each model continues the M-Audio tradition of delivering a level of versatility, performance, and value that sets new standards among audio/MIDI interfaces. In addition, each interface includes Ignite by AIR music creation software; the Plus and Quad models also include Avid® Pro Tools® Express—complete with iLok—providing a tremendous advantage.”

M-Track Pro & M-Track two-channel portable USB audio/MIDI interfaces.

M-Track Series

• M-Track — This entry-level model offers two-channel operation. Each channel provides both XLR and 1/4″ inputs. Phantom power (48V) and guitar-level switching are provided. Professional audio converters and discrete preamp design deliver up to 24-bit, 48 kHz digital audio for use with virtually any software. 4-segment LED metering and multiple status lights provide real-time visual feedback. A single USB cable provides both power and data, making setup a snap. Intuitive controls include individual gain knobs, a convenient zero-latency mix knob, plus a headphone output with its own level knob. MIDI in and out jacks are provided, in addition to the balanced main 1/4″ outputs. Ignite by AIR music creation software and Ableton Live Lite 8 complete this powerful package.
• M-Track Plus — At home in the more advanced digital studio, the step-up M-Track Plus is built on the M-Track’s foundation, with the addition of coaxial S/PDIF digital input and output jacks on the back panel and a robust metal casing. M-Track Plus comes equipped with Ignite by AIR music creation software plus Avid Pro Tools Express, complete with the iLok USB key—a $49.99 value.
• M-Track Quad — The flagship of the family, M-Track Quad offers up to four simultaneous audio inputs. As with the entire M-Track family, the M-Track Quad features four individual mic inputs with selectable 48V phantom power, 1/4″ line inputs with guitar-level switching, and perchannel audio inserts. A second set of outputs operates independent of the monitor level control, providing extra versatility. The four-channel M-Track Quad includes an AC power supply plus three USB outputs, allowing it to function as a powered USB hub. MTrack Quad also comes equipped with Ignite by AIR music creation software plus Avid Pro Tools Express, complete with the iLok USB key—a $49.99 value.

M-Audio will be exhibiting at Booth 6700 at the 2013 Winter NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

More information: M-Audio

Numark has announced iDJ Live II, a new mobile DJ controller that offers versatile control over a wide variety of computer-based and mobile DJ platforms.

An updated and enhanced version of Numark’s iDJ Live controller, iDJ Live II features an updated low-profile design and USB connectivity, allowing it to perform with both laptopbased and mobile DJ platforms. iDJ Live II features a standard layout of DJ controls, including a crossfader, EQ knobs, and capacitive touch-activated platters. The design of iDJ Live II has also been slimmed down with redesigned platters that are now illuminated and lowprofile. A headphone/speaker splitter cable is also included.

“iDJ Live II enhances and builds upon our original vision for iDJ Live—give anyone and everyone real DJing capability in a compact, comprehensive, and fun package,” said Chris Roman, Numark Product Manager.

iDJ Live II features

• Works with iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, plus Mac and PC laptops.
• Seamless integration with Algoriddim’s djay and vjay apps (sold separately).
• Algoriddim’s djay LE software for Mac included.
• Crossfader, EQ controls, and capacitive dual-zone touch-activated platters.
• Headphone/speaker splitter cable and stand for iPad included.
• Available with USB and 30-pin or USB and Lightning connections.
• Core MIDI- and standard MIDI-compatible.

Numark will display and demo iDJ Live II at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show, show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

More information: Numark

Numark has announced the NS7 II, a dramatically enhanced and updated version of the industry’s most advanced and best-selling motorized DJ controller, NS7.

For more than 20 years, Numark has set the pace in the world of digital DJing, empowering DJs with cutting-edge technology that has continually advanced the art form. In 2007, Numark and Serato® released NS7, a controller that blends different eras of DJing so completely it makes them virtually indistinguishable from each other. Since then, the powerful experience offered by NS7 has defined the top tier of DJ performance, setting the standard by which all other controllers are judged.

Now, with NS7 II, Numark is pushing the modern DJ’s performance capability even further, incorporating iconic technology from Akai Professional, the world leader in music production technology and creator of the legendary MPC. NS7 II’s 16 MPC pads can be instantly assigned to control five dynamic performance features in Serato DJ: Cues, Loop, Roll, Sampler, and Slicer. In addition, each pad features RGB illumination, allowing for a virtually endless amount of color variations assignable via MIDI. Vinyl platter control has never felt more familiar with its high- and low-torque motorized platters with real slip mats and real vinyl sitting on 3,600 ticks of resolution. NS7 II’s four-channel mixer works with or without a computer and includes a full array of external device inputs. Capacitive touch-activated filter, gain, EQ, and effects knobs are other features incorporated from Akai Professional, which turn the knobs themselves into control surfaces. DJs can use them for instant-on parameter control, blending effects, and instant frequency kills. “NS7 II is an interactive playground,” said Chris Roman, Numark Product Manager. “It’s built to squeeze every ounce of capability out of Serato DJ and push your creative limits. It’s born to perform and to empower DJs with maximum live-performance creative capability.”

NS7 II features

• 7” motorized turntables with 3600 ticks of resolution.
• 4-channel mixer and 24-bit audio interface built in.
• 16 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC pads from Akai Professional.
• Capacitive touch-sensitive filter, gain, EQ, and effects knobs.
• High- and low-torque turntable settings, 33rpm or 45rpm.
• Comprehensive Loop, Sample, Slicer, and Hot Cue controls.
• Strip Search™ virtual needle-drop technology.
• Curve-adjustable CP-Pro crossfader.
• Dedicated iZotope® effects controls.
• Rugged all-metal construction.
• Integrated laptop stand.
• Serato DJ software included.

NS7 II will be unveiled at Booth 6700 at the 2013 NAMM show on January 24th.

More information: Numark

M-Audio has added three new Axiom AIR models to the upper echelons of their popular Axiom USB/MIDI keyboard and pad controller lineup: the Axiom AIR 61, Axiom AIR 49, and Axiom AIR 25.

Created in conjunction with AIR Music Technology, these keyboards were designed to deliver a high level of integration with a broad array of music software titles. These new models join the previously released and compact Axiom AIR Mini 32.

Unlike other keyboard controllers that include trial and demo versions of music software, M-Audio’s strong partnerships with AIR Music Technology and Avid® allow each Axiom AIR 61, 49 and 25 model to come complete with two exclusive and complementary music creation applications: Ignite by AIR and Pro Tools® Express from Avid.

By removing many of the hurdles associated with computer-based music-making, Ignite delivers the most streamlined means to quickly capture your best musical ideas. According to AIR Product Manager Samara Winterfeld, “Ignite was designed from the ground up to provide instant integration and controller mapping with Axiom AIR and every M-Audio keyboard. This is one less thing a musician has to worry about when inspiration strikes.”

From Ignite, musical ideas can be easily migrated to the included copy of Avid Pro Tools Express, providing customers with access to the production capabilities of the industryleading DAW software. Avid Pro Tools Express includes the required iLok USB key—a $49.99 retail value.

The bold white and brushed metal design of the Axiom AIR series features many aesthetic and ergonomic enhancements not found in previous generations of controllers. These features include illuminated knob and pad controls, angled backlit display, longerthrow faders, and clearance under the body providing a path for cabling, keeping studio and workspace tidy.

Pitch bend and modulation wheels allow for spontaneous expression, while octave/transpose buttons allow the keyboard to cover the entire note range, in any key. In addition to measuring how hard you strike, the pads also respond to pressure for enhanced control. Both keys and pads feature a wide range of touch curves to match any playing style.

The pads, buttons, and rotary encoder knobs feature three banks of controller assignments; the current bank is indicated by tri-color illumination. All controller assignments can be freely made from the front panel and easily identified using the dedicated Identify button. The unique Pad Learn function makes it easy to assign instrument sounds to pads. Best yet, each Axiom AIR model features M-Audio’s HyperControl to automatically map the controllers to popular recording software and virtual instrument titles.

Axiom AIR keyboards features

• Axiom AIR 25 — Ideal for the modern beat-making musician, the Axiom AIR 25 offers a generous 16 pads and 25 synth-action keys—with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs and 1 long-throw 70mm fader.
• Axiom AIR 49 — Balancing size and features to satisfy a broad range of players and composers, the Axiom AIR 49 features 12 pads and 49 synth-action keys—with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs, 9 buttons, and 9 long-throw 70mm faders.
• Axiom AIR 61 — Providing the accomplished keyboardist with an inspiring playing experience, the Axiom Air 61 delivers 61 TruTouch, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch. Assignable controls include 8 rotary encoder knobs, 9 buttons, and 9 long-throw 70mm faders.

M-Audio will be exhibiting at Booth 6700 at the 2013 Winter NAMM show, January 24-27 in Anaheim, California.

More information: M-Audio / Axiom AIR