“One Knob is all you need to get the job done – That’s what she said” – Zeb Green
I’m not sure I’m for this or against these new version of plug-ins that Waves has been releasing. I think they have a place for people who just want good recordings but don’t really care about learning the fundamentals but it worries me people will get overconfident in their abilities and the people who want to learn will have a false sense of security in knowing the fundamentals of mixing.
But then again what do I know, I’ve slammed my hand in a car door.
Each of these plug-ins do one thing and do it very well.
You’ve got- Complete with Zeb commentary
Brighter: Adds Treble – “Do you ever wish there was a knob you could turn to make your life brighter, well now we have a knob that can do that to your muddy mixes”
Driver: Dirties up tracks with some overdrive. “Somebody call Morgan Freeman and let him have the day off, cuz Waves has your driver right here.”
Phatter: Which throws bump and lows into the mix. “The only thing that would give this more street cred is if it drank 40’s and hosted dog fights.”
Filter: Which adds a band pass EQ filter for those nice sweep effects like a telephone. “The only way you hear this effect is when I call your mom late at night.”
Louder: Makes it louder without pushing it too hard “That’s what she said”
Pressure: Allows the mix to breath with compression. “Thats what she said” That doesn’t work here “I’m on MEDS” *Throws Mountain Dew can at my head.
Wetter: Saturates the track in moisture (effects) “Someone needs to call Rhianna and ask to borrow her Umbeerrrella ella ellla ellla…” Wow…. Gold
Well “Ella, Ella” there “ELLA” … uhh you have it. ELLAAAA ELLLAAAA EHH EHH EHHH. SHUT UP ZEB I’M TRYING TO FINISH THIS POST.
*Throws Mountain Dew can at Zeb
*Zeb Whispers… ella
To buy click HERE
Waves One Knob Plug-Ins
Native Instruments Maschine Updates
I woke up this morning and something felt different. Sure it could’ve been from the hot dogs we grilled on my old iBook (that thing is like a stylish George Foreman grill) but it felt like something was just a little better. And I was right, Maschine got an update today thus making this already great hardware / software combo even better. I actually just bought one of these and it came in Friday, Friday gonna get down on friiii… *SMACK Thanks for that, I’m not sure what happened. Did you not expect me to make a joke about the possible worst song of all time ON A RECORDING NEWS SITE?!!!!!
Yes that is actually a picture of my own machine in EverythingRecording HQ. I was dropping a fat track the other day which I might put on here. Its a joyful little diddy about math. It was a project for one of my very close friend’s college class and as hokey as it sounds, its not bad sounding at all. Anyways, Native Instruments, Update, Maschine… Go…
Berlin, March 28th, 2011 – Native Instruments today released MASCHINE 1.6, a major free update for its acclaimed groove production studio. With the addition of plug-in hosting for instruments and effects, the new version significantly expands the scope and functionality of the system. MASCHINE 1.6 also includes a free download of the new KOMPLETE ELEMENTS bundle, and adds a multitude of other new features for studio production and live performance.
With added support for VST and AU plug-ins, MASCHINE 1.6 profoundly widens its creative possibilities, turning the system into a full-featured instrument host. Both the whole range of KOMPLETE INSTRUMENTS as well as all third-party instruments and effects can now be used directly in MASCHINE, complementing its integrated sampler and FX features. Due to an “Auto-Mapping” function, plug-in parameters are conveniently pre-assigned to the high-resolution knobs on the MASCHINE controller, allowing for intuitive sound tweaking directly from the hardware.
To give producers an even more comprehensive sound arsenal on top of the sample-based factory library of MASCHINE, the 1.6 update also includes a free download of the new KOMPLETE ELEMENTS instruments and effects collection. Based on the powerful engines of KONTAKT, REAKTOR and GUITAR RIG, it contains over 1,000 production-ready sounds selected from the studio-standard KOMPLETE 7 bundle, including Abbey Road vintage drums, Vienna Symphonic Library orchestral sounds, an assortment of sampled band instruments, various REAKTOR-based synthesizers, a versatile assortment of amp emulations and effect pedals from GUITAR RIG and more.
Further enhancements in MASCHINE 1.6 include an increased number of effect slots, a new “Pad Link” feature, individual swing per sound, clip and sample renaming, expanded Drag & Drop functionality, support for up to 32 audio I/O channels, full Mac OS X 64bit support, and a wide range of detail optimizations.
The 1.6 update and the KOMPLETE ELEMENTS bundle are available as free download for all owners of MASCHINE.
Seriously, You need this Maschine. I’ve played with it for a few days and from what I’ve messed with it, I love it and I come from a non control surface sequencing background but this makes the transition to MPC style production very easy.
To buy, Click HERE
For more info, Click HERE
Sontronics Debuts Drum Mics
Hey, remember THIS post from early February?
Me neither but anyways, Sontronics is finally releasing these awesome new mics. I can’t wait to pick up a couple and throw down some drum tracks. Who’s up for some a mediocre cover of a classic song?
Yeah, I wasn’t too pumped about that either… What is radio coming to? Ruining all of our songs… Anyways I would bet my Imaginary girlfriend that Sontronics doesn’t support this either. So go buy some of these great LIFETIME WARRANTY mics.
Dorset-based Sontronics, who enjoyed recent success and critical acclaim
with the stunning SATURN multi-pattern condenser mic, has moved further
into application-specific miking with the release of three condenser
microphones designed specifically for drums: the DM-1T, DM-1S and DM-1B.
DM1T with mountThe *DM-1T*and *DM-1S*are small-diaphragm pencil-style
condenser mics *designed to work on tom *(DM-1T) *and snare*(DM-1S).
With a cardioid polar pattern and switchable -15dB pad, the
characteristics of each mic have been tailored to pick up those specific
nuances from the different drums. Each mic comes with a metal drum mount
and mic clip.
Meanwhile, the *DM-1B*is a large-diaphragm, end-fire condenser mic that
*can cope with up to 150dB*(with the -15dB pad switched in)and comes in
an aluminium flightcase. DM-1B is designed specifically for kick drum
but also gives impressive results on bass instruments and bass guitar
cabinets.
The mics are available to buy individually, allowing producers to build
up their set with extra tom or bass mics, as suits their specific needs,
and perhaps throwing in a Sontronics STC-1S or a pair of ORPHEUS as the
ideal overheads, as their budget allows.
The DM-1T, DM-1S and DM-1B are all *covered by SONTRONICS’ Lifetime
Warranty*and come with a *free download of Toontrack’s EZdrummer Lite*.
All three microphones are available now from UK distributor Time+Space
and authorised dealers.
DM-1T and DM-1S: £119.99. EUR300**each*
*DM-1B: £299.99. EUR300*
To buy, click HERE
Native Instruments Razor
Discover the new cutting edge of synthesis with RAZOR – a refreshing, truly new instrument based on additive synthesis. Created by maverick Berlin producer Errorsmith in partnership with NATIVE INSTRUMENTS, RAZOR has a characteristically dynamic and precise sound suited to tense basses, bristling leads and shifting, sci-fi soundscapes.
RAZOR’s approach to additive synthesis is pragmatic and musical, providing detailed control without sacrificing usability. So shake off the virtual analog dust – go additive and carve a new path with RAZOR.
RAZOR runs in the freeREAKTOR 5 PLAYER andREAKTOR 5.5.
Ok… I figured I’d lead off with the quote here but there is reason for this. I want you to read the description of the synth and then listen to the samples HERE.
Personally, from owning Battery 3.0 and playing with other Native Instruments Synths, I’m not impressed. Everything I hear on the samples of this sounds very low rate and amatuer, just like the other synths I’ve heard. I guess I’m just not huge into the electronic scene but I did buy Maschine yesterday and I’m giving that a try. Here’s hoping my $600.00 doesn’t end up in my front yard due to frustration with the quality of the sounds.
Razor is $79.00 and is available HERE.
EastWest: Best Service Modern Pop
Ever wonder where all of these new pop songs get their samples, making them all sound homogenized and processed to the point where you can basically run them all together in one big song? Me neither but EastWest figured out the format and made some samples that sound enough like them but have their own unique flavor.
EASTWEST, the industry leader in virtual instruments, announces their distribution
of Best Service Modern Pop Multi-format Sound Library in the US market. Modern Pop
is a passionate and inspiring sound journey that combines the distinctive style of
modern electronic music with different types of pop music, lounge, chillout and
new age.
The defining characteristic of Modern Pop are its rhythmic elements, such as
percussion loops, drum loops and special grooves, as well as its harmonic elements,
such as melodies and chords, which are at times soft and gentle, at other times
dynamic and powerful.
In addition to the loops, percussion, brass, electric bass, guitar and piano sounds
from live recordings, this unique collection contains a great variety of
synthetically compiled loops, such as synth basses, moog sounds, synths, leads,
pads, bells, filtered sounds and modulated sounds. These were all created with the
most modern technology in a high quality studio setting. With a warm analog sound
and a diversity of loops and one-shots, Modern Pop can be used in a variety of music
productions, such as Pop, Electro, Multimedia, TV, Websites, Lounge, Chillout, New
Age, Alternative, Experimental and more.
Modern Pop is a fusion of all the elements that modern music producers need to stay
up to date with the newest trends.
Modern Pop comes on a 2.2 GB DVD and features 24-Bit / 44.100 kHz content made up of 35 Construction Kits, 800 Wav / Acid Loops, 400 Rex2 Loops, and 1000 Wav One-Shots. Modern Pop is available for order HERE for $89.95 MSRP.
IK Multimedia iRig Mic: Now Shipping
Well if you’re looking for that perfect mic to plug into your whatever version of Apple’s army of iThingies (There’s seriously too many to name now) well look no further. IK Multimedia, worldwide authority on all things “i” have started shipping their iRig Mic today. This is a good companion for the iRig guitar interface for those portable jam sessions.
iRig Mic is ideal for the vocalist and songwriter on the move, and it is also perfect for recording speeches, instruments, performances or any other sound sources in the studio, on stage or in the field.
The iRig Mic features a highly unidirectional condenser-electret microphone capsule that provides quality recording in both close and distant miking conditions. Its real-time monitoring with its dual mini-jack connector and rugged metal body makes it road-ready for the mobile musician.
The familiar shape of iRig Mic is perfect for handheld performance, plus it can be mounted on any mic stand leaving your hands free for operating the app on your iOS device. A three-level gain switch makes it instantly adjustable for any sound pressure condition from soft speaking to loud playing.
iRig Mic also comes* with a suite of IK’s apps: VocaLive Free (for vocalists and songwriters), iRig Recorder (the new IK free audio recording app … coming soon) and AmpliTube Free (for guitarists and songwriters).
iRig Mic also works with a wide variety of other vocal and audio recording and processing apps for the iOS platform.
iRig Mic features:
· Ideal for all vocal applications from singing to speech
· Great for all types of sound recording or processing for music, voiceovers or any other audio application
· Quality condenser-electret unidirectional capsule
· Dual mini-jack connector allows real-time monitoring on headphones, speakers, mixers and PAs
· Rugged, durable metal housing
· Easy to set-up for any sound source
· Can be handheld or placed on a standard mic stand
· Comes with apps for singing, speaking and songwriting
· Can be used with a variety of other apps including GarageBand for iPad
· Compatible with any iPhone, iPod touch (with mic input) and iPad
iRig Mic is now available directly from IK’s online store and from select music and electronic retailers worldwide for only $59.99/€49.99 (excluding tax).
For more info, click HERE and HERE
More Reason To Like Dave Grohl
There are already a massive pile of reasons to love Dave Grohl. He killed hair metal, He is very informative about non musical issues at his concert (you’d have to go to one to know), and he is obsessed with vintage gear and FRESH POTS! Now we have one more reason.
Glee is basically a televised musical colonoscopy and is getting too big for its low rise skinny jeans. Apparently, someone over there decided that Foo Fighters songs need to be butchered by glorified karaoke singers and “effeminated.” Yes I made that word up but think of a better one to decide what Glee does to everything.
Here’s what ol Grohl said about this:
“It’s every band’s right, you shouldn’t have to do f—ing Glee,” Grohl told THR. “And then the guy who created Glee is so offended that we’re not, like, begging to be on his f—ing show… f— that guy for thinking anybody and everybody should want to do Glee.”“And it’s just like, Dude, maybe not everyone loves Glee. Me included.”
Finally… and I thought that everyone in music had sold out and we offer Dave Grohl the Everything Recording Excellence In Judgment Award. This includes a huge bag of Dunkin Donuts Coffee laced with shredded drumsticks and every copy of Glee Season 1 DVDs in a 500 foot radius. You better appreciate that last part. I had to do a few B&Es in my neighbors’ house. Man… my neighbor to the right really likes Winger. I may have shredded a few of those albums in the brew as well.
Spectrasonics Bob MOOG Tribute Library
Spectrasonics pretty much rules the world of synth apps and now they’ve become a superpower by emulating one of the greatest analog synth designers in the business, THE Bob Moog. This expansion pack for is for Omnisphere and featuresa 2.4 Gig library.
Produced by Eric Persing, the new Bob Moog Tribute library consists of over 700 sounds for Omnisphere – created by 40 of the world’s top artists and sound designers. The new soundsources were developed using highly creative processing techniques with exotic gear like rare Buchla Modulars, the EMS Synthi AKS, Hans Zimmer’s massive Modular Moog and the OMG-1 itself. With so many different world-class artists contributing, the library is very rich in style and filled with inspiring, cutting edge sounds.
There is even a contest going where you can win one of Eric Persing’s new supersynth, The OMG-1.
For more info, click HERE
Rumor Mill: Black Lion Audio Brewin' Somethin'
Well this really isn’t as much a rumor. Its more of a hint of things to come very soon. Black Lion Audio is one of those companies that if you mention around the hard core gear-heads, their ears perk up and they instantly respect you and ask you to come to their birthday party. So basically these guys know their stuff and are HIGHLY respected among the elite.
On a side note, they can take a 002 or 003 rack version and put it on steroids with new converters and a pre amp overhaul. I tried to tempt them with beer and money to overhaul my 003 Factory but they said the console versions are knuckle busters and you know what, I believe them. The 003 Console is one of the oldest Digidesign pieces and is very finicky and I don’t think you could pay me to bust it’s guts open.
So basically why I’m writing this is to make you aware of Black Lion Audio and to tell you they have some great things in the works: The BLA Sparrow MkII. This is their new A/D and it packs quite a bevy of features
Here’s the scoop Black Lion’s very own J.D. let me know:
The new A/D is going to be a 2 channel half-rack space 1U high unit. It will have AES, S/PDIF and Optical outputs. There are going to be three different models available. They will have the same features, but sonically they will be different
They’re actually now taking preorders for these but you better act fast.
Keep your eyes peeled on this one. Looks like I know what might be replacing the A/D in my 003. Its really been acting up lately and needs to be put in it’s place… a garbage can.
To visit BLA’s Facebook page click HERE
To visit their site, click HERE
AnalogFactory SubBoomKicks
No no no not the same as the Analog Factory from the company on the review below but it almost fooled me. This is a sample pack of those massively low kick drum samples for just about any genre, with the exception of that tricky alternative polka genre. Those guys are hard to please with their leiderhosen or however you spell it and their silly hats.
All samples of this library have been sampled in 24bit/44.1khz, mono and are “unlocked” and editable in .wav format! This also means that you can map them in a sampler of your choice or simply use them as normal .wav file in any DAW of your choice. This gives and grants you a maximum of flexibility to use this samples in the context you need them.
Just listen to the demos HERE to get a first impression of Subbooom Kicks and get ready to rumble!
Price: $10.00 for a limited time. Then it goes to $12.99
