Source Audio has announced the release of the Soundblox Hub v1, a MIDI Interface, port expander and multi-pedal scene saver.
The Hub introduces an entirely new “modular” approach to multi-effect systems. It has the power to unite up to five Soundblox 2 pedals into one thoroughly integrated, MIDI controlled, multi-effect machine.
“We’re very excited about what the Hub can do for musicians,” said Jesse Remignanti, Source Audio’s Chief Technical Officer and creator of the Hub. “It introduces a powerful new way to use effects pedals. For the first time, you can save the state of your entire pedal board as a single recallable scene. You get the flexibility and power of a complex multi-effects unit, but with the simplicity of using individual stompboxes. If you want to tweak something, just turn a knob – you don’t need to deal with the old hassle of navigating through complicated menus.”
With its ability to send and receive MIDI Program Change and Control Change messages, the Soundblox Hub unlocks the range of MIDI options in the entire line of Soundblox 2 pedals. Users can edit pedal parameters and save up to 128 pedal “scenes” easily recalled with an external MIDI foot-controller or computer MIDI interface. Recalling a saved scene activates the corresponding pedals used in the scene, complete with assigned external controllers like a passive expression pedal or the Hot Hand 3 Wireless Effects Controller.
The Hub dramatically expands the preset storage capabilities of each Soundblox 2 pedal, but it also allows users to keep their favorite “go-to” presets saved directly within each pedal. This approach gives musicians the option of interacting with their pedal board in the traditional way or with simple one-step MIDI switching.
Via the Hub’s USB port, the Hub Manager Software and latest pedal software and firmware can be downloaded directly from the Source Audio website. It is available for Mac or PC operating systems and can be used to edit saved presets and customize parameters within the Hub. As Source Audio continues to offer new features and custom arrangements, the Hub will enable users to upgrade their own equipment without the expense of purchasing an entire new setup.
The Soundblox Hub is available for $99 USD.
More information: Source Audio
