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IK Multimedia releases AmpliTube 4 for Mac/PC: hyper-realistic tone, control and feel
October 29, 2015 – IK Multimedia is proud to announce that AmpliTube® 4 for Mac and PC is now shipping. Offering exciting new features and gear, it marks a major upgrade to the world’s most popular and powerful guitar & bass tone studio: It includes the most advanced speaker cabinet section ever developed, new speaker modeling, 5 new British amplifiers, a new acoustic simulator pedal, a built-in 8-track DAW and a whole lot more. AmpliTube 4 offers more realism, more gear, better sound, more flexibility, more functionality, more tone and just plain more everything than ever before – quite simply, it’s the most powerful guitar & bass tone studio ever released. And there are now multiple versions that let musicians tailor their AmpliTube experience for their specific needs.
Tailored tone
There are now 4 ways for musicians to experience the tone sculpting power of AmpliTube 4:
AmpliTube 4 is the major upgrade for existing users of all AmpliTube products as well as new users who want to experience all the cutting-edge features of the latest version of the ultimate guitar and bass tone studio. It comes with 9 amplifiers, 10 stompboxes, 10 cabinets, 29 vintage and modern speaker models, 3 microphones, 2 rack effects and 2 tuners. Players can restore all of their previously purchased gear models using the “restore my gear” feature in the AmpliTube Custom Shop.
AmpliTube 4 Deluxe takes the standard version of AmpliTube 4 and kicks it up a notch with over 100 pieces of additional gear that includes amplifiers, stompboxes, cabinets and more. This version is perfect for players completely new to AmpliTube who want to jumpstart their inspiration with a massive spread of creative processing options to choose from.
Now users can enjoy the ultimate guitar and bass tone studio via three different versions and one limited-time-only bundle – each offering revolutionary features, powerfully inspiring gear and hyper-realistic tone, control and feel
AmpliTube Custom Shop is the free version of AmpliTube that’s a great way to check out the ultimate guitar and bass tone studio. It lets users demo amps from the Custom Shop – all new features and gear are available via Custom Shop purchase.
And, for a limited time, in addition to these three versions, users can purchase the AmpliTube 4 + AmpliTube MESA/Boogie® Bundle. This special bundle lets musicians grab the two newest AmpliTube products for one seriously discounted price for a limited time. AmpliTube MESA/Boogie is the official collection of the iconic brand’s most popular high-gain dream machines, all in one place. Players get official models of the Mark III, Mark IV, Dual and Triple Rectifiers and the TransAtlantic TA30.
Hyper-realistic features
If there’s one word that defines the upgrades that AmpliTube 4 brings to the table, it’s “hyperrealism.” It brings together a number of first-of-their-kind features that let users interact with and experience their virtual gear in a way that feels as realistic and natural as having an actual physical piece of gear in the room.The new Cab Room lets users mic their cabinets in a full selectable 3D recording environment with up to two microphones. It’s the most realistic and advanced cabinet section ever made. In fact, it’s so realistic that users can even customize their cabinets with different individually modeled speakers – AmpliTube 4 comes with 29 vintage and modern speakers to choose from. And they can pick and place different mics to find each speaker’s “sweet spot.” There’s even a mixer that lets musicians mix the levels of their speaker mics, room ambience, direct amp signal and more.
AmpliTube 4 comes with 5 classic British amplifier models with matching cabinets that give users access to some of the best British tones of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Each amplifier has been modeled utilizing a new-to-AmpliTube technology that precisely replicates the dynamic interaction between the power amp and the speakers.
Its new Acoustic Sim pedal lets players easily transform their electric guitar signal into a perfect acoustic guitar sound with the touch of a button. It also comes with UltraTuner, an extremely precise digital tuner and Looper, a 4-track MIDI-controllable recorder/looper that’s perfect for sketches, practice and experimental performance. And, for more complex arrangements, AmpliTube 4 now also includes an8-track DAW with full per-track EQ, pan, level, mute and solo functions.
But perhaps what’s most exciting about AmpliTube 4 is that these features are just scratching the surface of all the creativity and sonic potential awaiting within.
Pricing and availability
AmpliTube 4 is available now via the IK Online Store and select music instrument retailers for just $/€149.99* or 150 Gear Credits from the AmpliTube Custom Shop.AmpliTube 4 Deluxe is available now for $/€299.99 (or 300 gear credits) from the IK Online Store and Custom Shop, and in the United States it is exclusively available at retail from Sweetwater Sound.
And, for a limited time, users can purchase a new bundle that contains AmpliTube 4 and AmpliTube MESA/Boogie® as part of the AmpliTube Power Duo promo for just $/€199.99 (or 200 gear credits) – a savings of $/€100 off the combined retail price.
AmpliTube Custom Shop is available as a free download from the IK Multimedia web site.
*all prices excluding taxes
For more information, please visit:
www.amplitube.com/4A free version is also available here:
www.amplitube.com/csTo see AmpliTube 4 in action, go to:
www.amplitube.com/4videos
IK Multimedia introduces iRig Keys USB – the ultra-affordable MIDI keyboard controllers for Mac/PC
Sizes for all playing styles
Affordable, comfortable, expressive and musical describe IK’s newest range of keyboard controllers. Each option blends portability with playability in a way that’s guaranteed to inspire keyboard players of all kinds. Both iRig Keys 37 and iRig Keys 37 PRO feature a stunning 37 key keyboard – that’s a full 3 octave range plus 1 extra note. This is the widest octave range available for a mobile keyboard of this size. iRig Keys 25 cuts this down to 25 keys for the utmost in compact design and portability.
Portable performance
iRig Keys 25, iRig Keys 37 and iRig Keys 37 PRO are designed to be plug-and-play compatible with both Mac and PC. An included USB cable along with full MIDI and USB class-compliance make this possible. For true portability, they are all powered by their connected device – no batteries or extra power cables are necessary. All three can be used with IK’s comprehensive range of powerful software, and other popular music creation programs.
And while small, they all offer all the required controls and features that makes for a truly effortless portable playing experience. iRig Keys 25 features velocity sensitivity, octave up/down buttons and a volume/data knob. iRig Keys 37 and iRig Keys 37 PRO add to this feature set with modulation and pitch-bend wheels, an optional input for a sustain or expression pedal, 5 soft-touch backlit buttons and a “Set” button for storing and recalling up to 4 different alternate hardware assignments.
Plug-and-play out of the box
For immediate playing, all three keyboard controllers come bundled with SampleTank 3 SE, a special version of the ultimate sound and groove workstation for Mac/PC. It features an expandable 6.5GB sample library with instruments in categories that cover everything from acoustic to electronic and beyond. And, when users register their keyboard controller, they’ll also get a spread of free instrument collections. These collections include The Grid, a collection of cutting-edge electronic construction kits and drum kits plus 5 instrument collections of the user’s choosing from IK’s electronically focused Beats and Elektronika series. All in all, it’s a total of $/€340 worth of software products.
Pricing and availability
iRig Keys 25 is available for $/€59.99*, iRig Keys 37 for $/€79.99, and iRig Keys 37 PRO for $/€99.99 from music and electronics retailers and from the IK online store.
* All prices excluding taxes
In the United States, the iRig Keys USB line is available exclusively from Guitar Center®, Inc., Musician’s Friend® and the IK Web Store.
For more information, please visit:
www.irigkeys.com
IK Multimedia announces AmpliTube 4: hyper-realistic tone, control and feel
New hyper-realistic cab room
AmpliTube has always been about achieving the most realistic tone, and now that extreme commitment to accuracy is a part of its completely redesigned cabinet section. The new Cab Room feature is the most advanced cabinet section ever made, giving players a new level of customization and flexibility never before heard in software.
The cab room is a 3D speaker cabinet recording space that can be changed depending upon the desired “room” type and effect. Players can choose from a range of room types – from a cavernous “garage” to a full-on cabinet “dead” room – and mix the room effect and color into the overall sound.
On top of that, the cab room now has 5 distinct customization sections: There’s the cabinet selection, with size adjustment, where players can choose the speaker cabinet they’d like to match to their amplifier. There’s individual speaker selection where users can swap out individual speakers. There’smic selection and placement for finding each speaker’s “sweet spot”. There’s room selection where players select the surrounding recording environment. And there’s also a mixer section that lets players mix the levels of their speaker mics, room ambience, direct amp signal and overall main mix. Never before has such a level of control and customization been available for fine-tuning tones from the speaker section.
Dual 3D mic placement
Musicians can now mike their cabinets with up to two microphones in a full 3D space. With 18 highly coveted recording microphone models available in AmpliTube Custom Shop, AmpliTube 4 allows for a truly hyper-realistic recording environment. The room microphones can also be chosen from the available mics. This, coupled with its swappable speakers, allows for true cabinet miking with full speaker interaction – a digital first – making it easier to find that magic speaker “sweet spot” for an unprecedented level of tonal realism and control. Add in things like room ambience control, a new mixer for the cab section and gorgeous new graphics, and it’s easy to see that the new cabinet section is poised to revolutionize the way guitarists, bass players and other musicians utilize virtual cabinets in their music.
Individual speaker modeling
Never before seen in any other amp-simulator, AmpliTube 4 is the first software that now sports individual speaker modeling. This lets players swap out individual speakers in their favorite cabinets at will, allowing for creative speaker combinations that utilize the many precision-modeled speakers available for a level of tone customization that’s simply never been heard before. The AmpliTube 4 speaker cabinet section not only accurately reproduces the tonal characteristics of the individual speakers, but it also accurately picks up the harmonic interactions between the individual speaker models, the cabinet construction and the room, making it the most realistic speaker cabinet emulation available. AmpliTube 4 comes with 29 individual vintage and modern speaker models ranging from classic British to modern American and everything in between.
New hyper-realistic gear
AmpliTube 4 welcomes 5 new classic amplifier models to the mix that represent some of the best British tones from the 70s, 80s and 90s. Each amplifier has been modeled from scratch to embody a different aspect of powerfully classic British amplifier design: There’s the Brit 8000, Brit 9000, Red Pig, Brit Silver and Brit Valve-Pre – each sports its own matching cabinet. All of these new amplifiers have been created via the same methods and technologies that have made the AmpliTube brand name synonymous with world-class sound, hyper-realistic tone and extreme accuracy. These models also bring a new level of realism and sonic accuracy through a new technology that precisely replicates the dynamic interaction between the power amp and the speakers. This finally eliminates the “harshness” found in the upper frequencies of other amp modeling software. All of this new gear is exclusively available only in AmpliTube 4.
Acoustic simulator
AmpliTube 4 is all about exploring new tonal possibilities, and its new “Acoustic Sim” model pedal turns the electric guitar into a hyper-realistic acoustic. It delivers stunning realism and an amazing playing experience that can be tweaked via its intuitive onboard controls. Players can choose and blend between different 3 acoustic body styles and 3 types of top material to sound like a range of different acoustic guitars – it’s yet another technology premiere from the AmpliTube team. Now AmpliTube 4 guitarists can go from shred to strum with just one click.
UltraTuner
Also stock in AmpliTube 4 is an upgraded tuner section with IK’s patented UltraTuner technology. With tuning accuracy to 1/100th of a cent, this technology allows for the most precise digital tuner ever made. In fact, UltraTuner is so precise that it’s more accurate than mechanical strobe tuners – tuners that are widely considered to be the “gold standard” of tuning devices.
Creative connections and effects placement
New to the signal path in AmpliTube 4 is an effects “loop” insert slot situated between the preamp and power amp sections that can accommodate up to 4 daisy-chained rack effects. In addition to the new effects loop, any stomp or rack effect can now be placed into any effects slot. This means that stomp boxes can be used in the post “rack” section and rack effects can be used in any stompbox slot (on any pedalboard or in the effects loop section). This opens the door even more for creative tweaking and innovative sonic sculpting possibilities.
8-Track Recorder/DAW under the hood
When used in standalone mode, AmpliTube 4 now features a built-in 8-track DAW that makes recording ideas and songs a breeze. Its powerful sequencer-like waveform editing should be immediately familiar to any modern musician, making it easy for anyone to use it as a sketchpad for new ideas or as a full-featured recording solution on its own. Each track features standard treble, mid and bass EQ, pan control, level, mute, solo and record enable functions, plus there’s an FX enable button that allows for the application of different tone configurations to individual tracks.
As a learning tool, players can import any audio tracks into the DAW section, define loop points and use AmpliTube’s built-in speed control to slow down difficult passages without affecting pitch, and use the pitch control to change keys without affecting the speed. This feature is perfect for working out difficult solos or practicing different leads or melodies over a series of chord changes in a backing track.
A truly super looper
Rounding out AmpliTube 4’s new feature set is a MIDI-controllable 4-track looper. Dubbed the Super Looper, it’s an intuitive and full-featured 4-track looper that musicians can use to lay down multi-part backing tracks with speed and ease, and then practice leads, chords and melodies over the top.
Infinitely expandable
AmpliTube 4 comes with the built-in Custom Shop gear store feature that allows guitarists to add gear to their collections any time a-la-carte or in collections. The AmpliTube Custom Shop is the largest collection of virtual gear on the market. Its easily browsable selection of amps, stomps, cabinets and more includes officially certified models from the likes of such legendary greats as Fender™, MESA/Boogie®, Ampeg®, Orange®, Soldano™, Groove Tubes®, Gallien-Krueger®, Jet City Amplification™, THD® and T-Rex®, Fulltone®, Z.Vex®, Carvin®, Morley®, Wampler Pedals®, Dr. Z®, ENGL® and more. In addition to these well-recognized brands, there’s also signature gear from artists like Slash and Jimi Hendrix. AmpliTube 4 can also be expanded with legacy gear from previous versions of AmpliTube via the Custom Shop. Owners of previous versions can restore all purchases and gear with the “restore my gear” feature in the Custom Shop. All told, there’s over 290 pieces of professional-grade gear now available for trial and purchase in the AmpliTube Custom Shop! Gear released before AmpliTube 4 can be purchased individually or as bundles in either currency ($ or €) or in Custom Shop Gear Credits.
Plugging in to a world of sound
With IK Multimedia’s range of audio interfaces, getting tone from AmpliTube is as simple as plugging into an amplifier. iRig 2, iRig HD, iRig PRO and iRig UA are IK’s latest generation of interfaces that allow players to plug in and get pristine, pure sound quality from their Mac or PC (or iPhone, iPad or Android). Plus players can get the latest in wireless stomp control using iRig BlueBoard, IK’s Bluetooth MIDI foot controller (for iOS and Mac).
Pricing and availability
AmpliTube 4 is currently available for pre-order at a special limited-time price of $/€99.99* or 100 Gear Credits to everyone (users of AmpliTube 3, AmpliTube CS, AmpliTube collections and new users). AmpliTube 4 will be available in October via the IK online store and select music instrument retailers at a price of $/€149.99* and just 150 Gear Credits from the AmpliTube Custom Shop.
*all prices excluding taxes
For more information, please visit:
www.amplitube.com/4
A free version is also available here:
www.amplitube.com/cs
To see AmpliTube 4 in action, go to:
www.amplitube.com/4videos
IK Multimedia releases iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano for Android (Press Release)
August 27, 2015 – IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music creation, is pleased to announce that iGrand Piano™ and iLectric Piano™ apps are now available for Android on the Google Play and Samsung Galaxy App stores. Now Android smartphone and tablet users have full access to some of the best concert-quality acoustic and studio-quality electric piano sounds on the planet. Both apps come with all the controls, advanced features and extreme playability that’s made their iOS versions such enduring classics. Now musicians with devices running Android 4.2 or higher can play some of the best sounding piano instruments ever made anywhere, any time.
Pro quality acoustic and electric realism
iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano both offer an extreme degree of realism in their approach to electric and acoustic piano sounds. They feature world-class instrument sounds that have been painstakingly sampled at multiple velocities from the original sources – the same samples and process used in SampleTank 3, IK’s sound and groove workstation for professional musicians, engineers and producers – providing a supremely realistic playing experience. iGrand Piano comes with 8 instruments (plus 1 after registration) that offer a piano playing experience worthy of a concert hall. iLectric Piano comes with 20 instruments (plus 1 after registration) that are some of the most authentic sounding electric piano, electric grand and clavinet sounds ever made.
Full control
In addition to amazing sounding pianos and electric pianos, players have complete control over each instrument’s sound. Both iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano feature easy-to-use and adjustable controls that allow for intuitive tonal sculpting via the “Edit” panel. Real-time controls on the panel let iGrand Piano users adjust the amount of ambience, the position of the lid (open, closed or anything in between), brightness, envelope release, key transposition and tuning. Likewise, iLectric Piano users can adjust EQ, reverb, overdrive, tuning, transposition and a choice of 5 modulation effects (chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo and auto pan).
Both feature a convenient “Variation” save system that lets musicians retain their Edit panel settings in up to 4 writeable locations provided for each instrument. This system gives musicians 4 conveniently accessible buttons (found in the Edit Strip of either app) that can be used to store knob positions and tweaks for later use when recording in the studio, on stage performing or just practicing at home.
Sounds, sounds and more sounds
Both apps can also be expanded with additional piano model sound packs that are available for in-app purchase. These packs expand the sonic range of iGrand Piano’s collection of gorgeous acoustic pianos and iLectric Piano’s stunning collection of vintage and modern keyboards by making 22 additional instruments available for each app – in total, that makes for 40 possible instruments in iGrand Piano and 64 possible instruments in iLectric Piano. The additions, titled “Piano Expansion 2” for iGrand Piano and “Electric Piano Expansion 2” for iLectric Piano, unlock an entirely new tonal dimension for mobile keyboard players to explore.
The power of Soundcamp
iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano are both compatible with Soundcamp, Samsung’s free and full-fledged music studio app that lets musicians record and compose entire songs entirely from within their devices. Both apps can be used as plug-ins for Soundcamp, which means that musicians with a Samsung Professional Audio-compatible phone (Samsung Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edge or the Samsung Galaxy S5 or Galaxy Note 3 with Android 5 Lollipop installed) can use the full power of iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano in their mobile productions.
Pricing and availability
iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano for Android are available now on the Google Play and Samsung Galaxy Apps stores for an introductory special price of just $/€9.99. The “Piano Expansion 2” for iGrand Piano and “Electric Piano Expansion 2” for iLectric Piano sound packs are available individually for $9.99/€9.99. Free versions of iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano are also available.
For more information, please visit:
www.ikmultimedia.com/products/igrandandroid
www.ikmultimedia.com/products/ilectricandroid
To see the official videos of iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano in action, please visit:
www.ikmultimedia.com/igrandandroid/video
www.ikmultimedia.com/ilectricandroid/video
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IK Multimedia and Mesa Engineering announce AmpliTube MESA/Boogie for Mac/PC
July 23, 2015 – IK Multimedia is proud to announce AmpliTube® MESA/Boogie®, a new collaboration with the R&D Team at Mesa Engineering that brings some of the most legendary tones from the original boutique manufacturer’s amplifiers and cabinets to AmpliTube® 3 Custom Shop for Mac and PC.
Now guitarists, producers, engineers and anyone needing the power of “in-the-box” professional amplifier software can enjoy modeled versions of several of MESA/Boogie’s most famous high-gain sounds via 5 inspiring amplifiers and cabinets. These exciting new co-developed models deliver everything from gorgeous sparkling clean sounds to the percussive aggression and tight crunch of the Rectifier series to the violin-like sustain of the Mark series to the ultra-flexible mid-gain British leanings of the TransAtlantic TA-30, and everything in between.
This first-ever officially authorized by MESA® line-up includes the classic Boogie® V-Curve EQ’d crunch rhythm and singing lead voice of both the MARK III and MARK IV Series as well as what many refer to as the biggest sound in Rock, the crushing gain of the Dual and Triple Rectifiers – these are amps that have ruled the airwaves for almost two decades. As an added bonus, the TransAtlantic TA-30 (MESA’s upscale tribute to the classic British EL84 legacy) is included as well. It roams the elusive pushed clean and medium gain territories with both finesse and attitude.
And, like all AmpliTube virtual gear, these models have been meticulously crafted to sound, look and perform just like their hardware counterparts. Each model has been meticulously scrutinized, worked, re-worked and approved by the R&D Team at Mesa Engineering. The addition of these inspiring MESA/Boogie amp models to AmpliTube Custom Shop means the world’s biggest library of officially authorized virtual guitar gear just got infinitely more versatile, and certainly more toneful.
High-gain boogie on the desktop/laptop
Nothing says high-gain modern guitar tone like MESA/Boogie. MESA literally invented the concept when the original boutique amp company burst on the scene in the late ’60s with the now legendary MARK I Boogie®. Its innovative “cascading” tube preamp introduced guitarists to a new, never-before-possible world of sustain that was, at long last, separate from volume.
Leap-frogging all existing guitar technologies of the day, that original tone was a defining part of the sound of golden-era greats like Carlos Santana, Pete Townshend, Keith Richards, Robben Ford, Larry Carlton, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, The Grateful Dead and countless other recording artists throughout the 70s. And that original tone has also helped to set the stage for successive waves of era-defining high-gain tones over the years thanks to amps like the MESA/Boogie MARK II, III and IV and the inimitable Rectifier Series, which again completely re-defined MESA’s impact on the world of Rock. When the percussive, yet perfectly-scooped high-gain aggression of the Recto’s was unleashed on the radio via the music of Limp Bizkit, Korn, Linkin’ Park, Creed and other 90s greats, there was no turning back. Guitar forever more HAD to be menacing. Today the Recto’s continue to widen their footprint in defining Rock and Metal, and, after 21 years, they’re still in constant demand and uninterrupted production.
AmpliTube MESA/Boogie recreates this historic and diverse legacy in virtual form. IK software engineers worked relentlessly with the Mesa Engineering R&D Team to ensure that each amplifier and cabinet has been rendered with the same degree of integrity and attention-to-detail that goes into the company’s physical products – the operation of both the front and the back panel controls has been fully replicated to provide exacting performance and function. The amplifiers and cabinets available in AmpliTube MESA/Boogie include:
MESA/Boogie Dual and Triple Rectifier: THE standard for modern high-gain heavy guitar tone and more. The Rectifier amps are aggressive amplifiers for aggressive players. They’re some of the most recorded and widely visible amps on big-venue stages all across the world. Effectively two different power section versions of the same amp introduced in 1989, these amps deliver maximum tone flexibility and serious rock attitude. Both have played a major role in defining the sound of grunge, metal and countless other forms of hard and heavy music. Each amp offers 3-channel, 8-mode operation and varying levels of tube saturation, plus a virtual switchable tube/solid state rectifier section. Soul, personality and feel: the Rectifiers provide a tremendous range of sounds that can be everything from crushingly percussive to liquid and elastic. These amps provide a high-gain response that can’t be found anywhere else.
MESA/Boogie Mark III: This amp from 1984 is the first original 3-channel “Tri-Modal Amplifier” design. It features an amazing set of sonic sculpting tools; it sports the original three-channel setup: Rhythm, a distinct midrange “Crunch” Rhythm, and a Lead channel with independent gain and master volume controls. Just like on the hardware counterpart, it features a full spread of tone controls plus the vitally important Boogie 5-band Graphic EQ section. When combined, it provides for a huge range of additional tone tweaking options that make it easy for players to easily recreate the sounds they hear in their heads.
MESA/Boogie Mark IV: An improvement on a classic, this amp from 1990 takes everything that made the Mark III the standard for Boogie tone in that era and makes it even better. Three big sounds with individual controls define the tone palette for this powerhouse of a unit. Its three channels allow it deliver an incredibly wide sonic array that stretches from sparkling clean tones to ultra high-gain lead sounds that are rich with harmonics and sustain. It’s the very definition of MESA/Boogie’s signature high-gain sound, and it’s also the ultimate in versatility.
MESA/Boogie TransAtlantic TA-30: A decidedly British MESA/Boogie tribute that jumps back and forth across the sonic pond, this model captures the essence of what, for MESA, was an exercise in simplicity of operation and comprehensive tonal control. It features two-channel operation and 5 distinct “Mode” voicing choices that reference several classic British and American circuits. Throw in the Gain Boost feature, and two high-gain options (HI 1 and HI 2 in Channel 2), and this model covers everything from classic 60s to crushing contemporary, and everything in between. Each channel also features the flexibility of 3 levels of output power. This allows for a full range of power response and character that adds yet another level of accuracy and authenticity to its preamp sounds! This amp may be the most versatile yet simple-to-use MESA amplifier ever made, and it covers anything and everything the other models might miss due to their higher power ranges and gain structures.
Whole lotta gear
In the four years since its release in 2011, AmpliTube Custom Shop has established itself as the largest collection of virtual gear on the market. Its easily browsable selection of amps, stomps, cabinets and more includes officially certified models from the likes of such legendary greats as Fender™, Ampeg®, Orange®, Soldano™, Groove Tubes®, Gallien-Krueger®, Jet City Amplification™, THD® and T-Rex®, Fulltone®, Z.Vex®, Carvin®, Morley®, Wampler Pedals®, Dr. Z®, ENGL® and more. In addition to these well-recognized brands, there’s also signature gear from artists like Slash and Jimi Hendrix™. All told, there are over 280 pieces of professional-grade gear now available for trial and purchase in the AmpliTube Custom Shop!
A one stop tone shop
The AmpliTube Custom Shop for Mac/PC is a free DAW plug-in and standalone software that gives players 24/7 access to some of the most sought-after analog and digital music gear of all time. Once installed, it allows players to browse, audition and purchase collections from the world’s top gear manufacturers à-la-carte. Each model can be tested for free before purchase, just like trying out an amp or effect in a physical guitar shop. Gear models are sold in the Custom Shop using Gear Credits and are priced between 5 and 30 credits each. Gear Credits are sold in packs from a minimum of 20 credits to a maximum of 1,500 credits, with individual gear models starting as low as $/€3 each!
Plugging in to a world of sound
With IK Multimedia’s range of interfaces for mobile devices and Mac and PC, getting tone from AmpliTube is as simple as plugging into an amplifier. iRig 2, iRig HD and iRig PRO are IK’s latest generation of interfaces that allow players to plug in and get pristine, pure sound quality from their Mac or PC (or iPhone or iPad).
Pricing and availability
AmpliTube MESA/Boogie is now open for preorder at a special launch price of just $/€99.99* from the IK Multimedia online store and for just 100 Custom Shop Gear Credits from the AmpliTube Custom Shop.
The new AmpliTube MESA/Boogie bundle will be available from September 1, 2015 for $/€149.99 (150Custom Shop Gear Credits).
*Prices exclude taxes.
For more information, please visit:
www.amplitube.com/mesaboogie
Singtrix: Karaoke for Dads, Grads, and Music Enthusiasts (Review)
Singtrix
Singtrix.com
$349.00 Amazon, Sams, Target
The Singtrix karaoke machine is a microphone, a microphone stand, a “studio”, cables, and a 40-Watt speaker that uses your mobile phone or tablet’s music playlist for background music and helping vocals. It’s billed as “the next-generation karaoke machine that makes bad singers sound good and good singers sound amazing!”
It takes a few minutes to setup the Singtrix unit, because you have to assemble the microphone stand, plug in the cables, connect your phone or tablet, and tune the device. Tuning the device can take a while, as in perhaps an hour to tweak it so that it’s just right for the room you’re in. Tuning involves adjusting your phone or tablet’s volume control, the effects, and the volume, bass, and treble on the speaker. It’s not a trivial task to get it just right, but once you do, the fun begins.
You can adjust the singing voice in your song to very low so that it’s just barely audible as a helping voice. It’s fun to use one of the more than 300 voice effects that are interestingly named for songs that you’ll recognize, but careful not to infringe on copyrights.
The components are well made, clearly marked, and are of decent quality for creating some cool sounds. It’s easy enough to use for just about anyone. The controls are very intuitive and you can choose from no voice enhancement to extreme voice modulation, so there’s almost no limits to the range of possibilities.
The video below is on the Singtrix website, although I wouldn’t have included it there, it does show how versatile the Singtrix is and how impressively you can sound on it. The video shows the Singtrix inventors being a bit stubborn about getting an investment for the product launch, although I’m not completely convinced that the appearance on Shark Tank was for an investment. I think it was probably more along the lines of free advertisement for the product. I would have done the same thing.
This demo video shown in the link below is very good. And it’s 100 percent realistic. You really can get all of these sounds and effects out of the Singtrix.
For myself, I think the Singtrix is a cool, portable PA system. I’m not a singer and not even the Singtrix can make me sound good, but I do like it for its PA capabilities. I think it’s interesting in that respect and would use it for that extensively. My primary problem with the unit, besides how long it takes to get the sound right, is that it doesn’t provide the words to songs. Using an external device for lyrics is difficult because you can’t easily synchronize the song on your Singtrix-connected device to the lyrics.
My daughter and her friends who came over and played with it for an entire weekend, much to the chagrin of my wife and myself, loved it for how it made them sound when singing. My daughter explained to me that not having the words display for you is a sacrifice to be able to choose your own songs instead of ones that the company chooses for you.
She went on to say that you can look up karaoke version of your songs on your iPad, while your phone plays the song. She didn’t think there was a problem getting the two synchronized, so she loved it.
- From the same guys who created Guitar Hero.
- Features the Singtrix “Studio” vocal effects unit with more than 300 unique, studio-quality vocal effects, including pitch correction and harmonies.
- Plug in your phone, tablet, or mp3 player to play any song of your choosing while Singtrix lowers the vocals to create your own karaoke track from any song in your library.
- Bad singers become good singers, good singers become great singers and great singers turn into rockstars!
It must be an age-related complex. I’m used to “old school” karaoke machines and she’s willing to make something work. Your mileage may vary.
My best advice is that if you want to use the Singtrix as a karaoke machine, have some teenagers or preteens around to make that work for you, otherwise you’d better know all the lyrics to the songs.
Why it’s Frugal: The Singtrix isn’t frugal. It’s a luxury item that might not be for everyone at the $349 price. That’s not to say it isn’t worth the price; it is, but you should be someone who likes to sing to justify it or have a lot of parties.
I suggest that once you get the settings like you want them, leave them there. Tweaking even a little bit can cost you a lot of time and kids have short attention spans.
I don’t want you to think that this is a negative review because it isn’t. It’s a realistic one. I don’t want you to buy a Singtrix and not be satisfied because it’s a little less than falling-off-a-log simple to setup and use. I really like the Singtrix. It’s fun and you can have hours and hours of fun messing with the different voice effects, speaking like a robot, singing like a girl (if you’re a guy), singing or talking like Barry White, and more.
One final thing to note is that with the speaker pointed out toward your audience, you won’t be able to clearly hear the voice modulation. To you, you’ll sound pretty much the same as you always do, but to people in front of the speaker, your voice has changed. My daughter and friends had a lot of fun with the Singtrix. I had a lot more fun with it pretending that I was announcing plays at a baseball game or singing the National Anthem (poorly) with a lot of enhancement and Broadway stylings like many performers use. Why can’t they just sing it like Francis Scott Key wrote it? Some things shouldn’t be messed with and the National Anthem is one of them.
The Singtrix comes with everything that you need in the box to start singing and having fun. If you’re a good singer, you’ll sound like you’re in a studio. If you’re a bad singer, like me, you’ll need some help and the Singtrix has it with more than 300 voice modulations and controls. If you need to pump up the jam at your next family gathering, party, or kid sleepover; get a Singtrix and get ready to laugh and sing until you lose your voice.
Rating: 8/10
Recommendation: Try it, buy it, but be ready to tweak.
IK Multimedia releases iRig® Pads Editor software for Mac and PC
May 14, 2015 – IK Multimedia is pleased to announce iRig® Pads Editor for Mac and PC. It’s the companion application for iRig® Pads that allows musicians to completely edit and customize IK’s popular ultra-portable, universal MIDI groove controller to suit all music production styles and live performance workflows. iRig Pads Editor is available now as a free download on the IK Multimedia web site, under the User Area, for all current iRig Pads owners.
iRig Pads is IK Multimedia’s 4×4 MIDI pad groove controller for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and PC. Its ultra-compact footprint makes it an essential instrument for traveling beat makers and other musicians who want to unlock their creativity and make music while on the go. iRig Pads comes pre-loaded with multiple setups that make it easy to control the popular groove making software programs of today. And now users can customize these setups more and even create totally new configurations in a flash to suit their own unique workflow. With total customization, iRig Pads Editor gives iRig Pads the power to be the ultimate mobile pad-based groove controller.
iRig Pads features seamless integration with IK Multimedia’s SampleTank sound and groove workstation for iPhone, iPad, Mac & PC, and IK’s GooveMaker and DJ Rig apps for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. iRig Pads is also MIDI class compliant which means that it can be used with virtually any MIDI-compatible app — like FL Studio Mobile, iMPC Pro or GarageBand — or computer software — like MPC Software, Ableton Live, Maschine and more.
Custom control
iRig Pads Editor features an intuitive single-screen interface that lets musicians quickly reassign controls and features. Musicians can easily edit and save global configurations and individual scenes on their computer, and then transfer them to iRig Pads at will. All of iRig Pads’ surfaces and controllers can be assigned to send specific MIDI messages. iRig Pads Editor lets users assign MIDI messages to any knob, button, pad, slider or attached external controller (like an expression pedal or footswitch).
Deep dive
Users can edit the parameters of a control by simply clicking on it in the iRig Pads Editor interface. They can then assign the desired MIDI control message to the pad, knob, button, slider or external controller plugged into iRig Pads (such as an expression pedal or footswitch). iRig Pads Editor supports Note, Program Change, Control Change, MIDI System Real Time and MIDI Machine Control messages.
Multiple modes
A part of what makes iRig Pads Editor so powerful are its easy-to-use modes:
Note mode lets users assign the MIDI channel and the actual note to transmit. iRig Pads Editor also provides a choice between Temporary and Toggle mode. These modes determine whether note data will sound only while the pad is held down or whether it will “latch” onto the Note On message of the first press and the Note Off message of the second press. Temporary mode is best used when playing single-note instruments, like a drum or bass.
Toggle mode is useful for triggering loops: Musicians just have to tap the pad once to start a chosen loop. iRig Pads will then continue to play until the pad is pressed again. Toggle mode can also be used to send 2 different messages from a single button or pad. This makes it easy for a musician to switch between two different presets: These presets can be instruments — like 2 different bass, lead or pad sounds — but they can also be 2 different loop sets or effects settings. On the fly beat making has never been easier.
Big changes
iRig Pads Editor’s Program Change mode lets musicians set up iRig Pads’ knobs, buttons and pads (or slider) to change and transmit fixed or dynamic MIDI Program Change messages — it also lets users employ toggle mode to switch between 2 Program Change numbers with a single control.
Similarly, in Control Change mode, the user can assign handy MIDI Continuous Controller messages like volume, pan or expression. This mode can also be used to assign CC numbers to a parameter on a device that iRig Pads is controlling, such as a synthesizer, loop player, effects processor or even a full-featured virtual instrument like SampleTank 3. The values transmitted can be variable. For example, users can set it up so that when they tap a pad it sets the MIDI volume to maximum or pans the receiving instrument to a specific point in the stereo field.
iRig Pads Editor can also program iRig Pads to send MIDI System Real Time and MIDI Machine Control messages. This means users can conveniently start, stop, rewind or scan through a track without taking their fingers off iRig Pads.
Pricing and availability
iRig Pads Editor is available now as a complementary download for registered iRig Pads users. Mac and PC compatible versions are available.
iRig Pads is available from music and electronics retailers worldwide for $/€149.99 (excluding taxes) as well as on the IK online store.
For more information, please visit:
www.irigpads.com
To watch a video of iRig Pads Editor in action, please visit:
www.irigpads.com/videos
Warm regards,
Starr Ackerman
USA/CA/SA PR Manager
IK Multimedia. Musicians First.
954-846-9101 ext 313 | www.ikmultimedia.com
IK Multimedia updates iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano, studio-quality acoustic and electric piano apps for iOS
compatibility, user presets, new expansion libraries and more
Optimized for iOS 8
Compatibility is at the heart of the latest versions of iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano. Musicians can now use both with their favorite third-party audio apps, thanks to newly updated compatibility with Audiobus and Inter-App Audio in iOS 8. This new support allows for both practical and wildly creative combinations when combined with DAW-style recording apps like GarageBand for iOS or multi-effects modeling apps like IK’s own AmpliTube.
Versatile variations
Both iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano feature easy to use and adjustable controls that allow for limitless tonal sculpting. iGrand Piano has been updated to now include the same semi-parametric equalizer as iLectric Piano, meaning musicians can now tweak both with the power of 4 EQ knobs in addition to other app-specific parameters – like piano lid aperture in iGrand Piano or modulation effects in iLectric Piano.
Users can also now save specific edit panel settings in 4 writeable locations provided for each instrument using the newly introduced “Variation” system. This system gives musicians 4 conveniently accessible buttons (found in the Edit Strip of either app) that can be used to store knob positions and tweaks for later use when recording in the studio, on stage performing or just practicing at home.
Introducing new sounds
The latest update to both apps also introduces new sound packs available for in-app purchase. These packs expand the sonic range of iGrand Piano’s collection of gorgeous acoustic pianos and iLectric Piano’s stunning collection of vintage and modern keyboards by making 22 entirely new instruments available for each app – in total, that makes for 40 possible instruments in iGrand Piano and 64 possible instruments in iLectric Piano. The additions, titled “Piano Expansion 2” for iGrand Piano and “Electric Piano Expansion 2” for iLectric Piano, unlock an entirely new tonal dimension for mobile keyboard players to explore.
Pricing and availability
The latest versions of iGrand Piano for iPhone/iPod touch and iPad and iLectric Piano for iPad are available now as a complimentary update for existing users or individually as paid apps for just $19.99/€18.99 for new users. The “Piano Expansion 2” for iGrand Piano and “Electric Piano Expansion 2” for iLectric Piano sound packs are available individually for $9.99/€9.99. A free version of iGrand Piano is also available.
| iLectric Piano for iPad on the App Store: www.appstore.com/ilectricpianoforipad |
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| iGrand Piano for iPhone/iPod touch on the App Store: www.appstore.com/igrandpiano |
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| iGrand Piano for iPad on the App Store: www.appstore.com/igrandpianoforipad |
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For more information, please visit:
www.ikmultimedia.com/igrandipad
www.ikmultimedia.com/igrandiphone
www.ikmultimedia.com/ilectricipad
To see the official video of iGrand Piano and iLectric Piano in action, please visit:
www.ikmultimedia.com/igrandpiano/videos
www.ikmultimedia.com/ilectricpiano/videos
IK Multimedia’s GrooveMaker® 2 is now available for Android devices
The revolutionary remixing app that allows anyone to make non-stop mixes in real-time and sound like a professional DJ is now available for Android devices
January 19, 2015 – IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music creation technology, is pleased to announce that GrooveMaker® 2, its revolutionary remixing app, is now available for Android devices. With a full spread of features and an intuitive interface, GrooveMaker 2 lets Android smartphone and tablet users make non-stop electronic dance mixes in real-time and sound like a professional DJ.
Remixing reinvented on Android
IK Multimedia’s history as pioneers of the computer music industry dates back for 19 years when it released its first music software, GrooveMaker. History was made again when GrooveMaker made its debut on the App StoreSM as one of the first real-time audio apps for iPhone and iPad. Now with nearly 3 million downloads on iOS, GrooveMaker will help music fans make music with their Android devices anywhere in the world, regardless of skill level.Now available for smartphones and tablets running Android 4.1 and above, GrooveMaker 2 lets users manipulate pre-arranged sets of loops in real time – just like a DJ or live electronic music performer – thanks to its patented “groove generator” technology. These loops have been created to always sound good together, and they encompass virtually every style and sound imaginable.
A sound for every dance floor
GrooveMaker 2 gives users packs of loops organized as song packs. These song packs comprise a huge amount of musical styles: House, Dubstep, Hip-Hop, Techno, Trance, Electro, Drum and Bass, Reggae, Reggaeton, Rock and more – there are even signature song packs from artists like Ace from Skunk Anansie, Chris Domingo and Cool & Dre. Each song contains over 60 loops that cover essential categories like kick drums, basslines, pads, effects, percussion and more. GrooveMaker 2 also lets users import their own sounds and loops directly from their music library; its editing and auto-sync features allow for endless and effortless creative exploration.
Professional DJ results made easy
With GrooveMaker 2, getting great sounding results is easy as touching a button. Users can draw in grooves on its grid interface or use its Randomix feature to have the app automatically mix and match on its own. GrooveMaker 2’s intuitive controls make it easy to lock, solo and mute loops, change volume and panning and save favorite sequences for future use. Its groove length control and advanced time-stretch features allow for even further creative applications, allows GrooveMaker 2 to sync up with and be used as a performance tool in even the most sophisticated of DJ setups. When used with IK Multimedia’s mobile mixer, iRig MIX, GrooveMaker 2’s X-Sync feature detects the BPM from an external audio source and automatically syncs to the groove.
Killer special FX
In addition to its streamlined sequencing, GrooveMaker 2 also sports a suite of powerful effects that can be used for live performance. These include classics like Filter, Delay, Stutter, Flanger, Crush and Noise as well as more creative effects like Twist, Brake, Spin and Tail.
Pricing and availability
GrooveMaker 2 is available now for Android on the Google Play Store for $9.99/€8.99. A free version is also available.
For more information, please visit: www.groovemaker.com
To see the official video of GrooveMaker 2 for Android in action, go to: www.groovemaker.com/video
iRig 2: The sequel to the most popular guitar interface of all time
IK Multimedia announces iRig 2, the sequel to
the most popular mobile guitar interface of all time
The successor to the guitar interface that sparked the mobile music revolution improves sound quality, adds features and allows wide cross-platform compatibility
January 5, 2015 – IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music creation, is pleased to announce iRig® 2, the latest addition to its iRig range of products. The sequel to IK’s groundbreaking and best-selling iRig guitar interface, iRig 2 builds on the design that made its predecessor so popular. It pairs great sound and streamlined convenience with new updated features like versatile input gain control, a ¼” amplifier output jack and Android compatibility. iRig 2 makes for a versatile tool that’s perfect for practice sessions, live performances, jamming with friends, recording and more.Now everyone can plug in their guitar or bass to enjoy killer tone on their iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or Android device – with the release of iRig 2, the world’s most popular guitar interface is better than ever before.
Powerful performance
The biggest update that iRig 2 brings is its new ¼” amplifier output. This augments its 1/8″ headphone output by allowing musicians to use iRig 2 and their mobile device along with their favorite amplifier, without the use of an adaptor. This opens up a whole world of opportunities when paired with AmpliTube®, IK’s powerful guitar and bass multi-effects processor. iRig 2 now lets musicians easily use AmpliTube’s vast library of meticulously modeled virtual stompbox effects, amplifiers and other gear as a part of their physical rig.iRig 2’s added switch allows dual-mode operation: FX lets musicians send a processed signal to their amplifier’s ¼” output from apps like AmpliTube. THRU sends a clean signal, letting musicians use their mobile device as a tuner, recorder or other utility while using their classic analog rig, which maintains the purity of a 100% analog signal path.Made for both practice and performance, iRig 2 comes with a removable support that, together with a Velcro strip, allows easy mounting of iRig 2 on any mic or music stand, making iRig 2 perfectly at home on stage during live performance.
Plug and play simplicity on every device
iRig 2 has been made to be compatible with the widest range of instruments and mobile devices possible. Its built-in universal 1/8″ TRRS output connector provides a true plug-and-play experience on iPhone, iPod touch, Mac and Android. Likewise, its 1/4″ instrument input works with any guitar, bass or line-level instrument. To ensure the best sound quality, iRig 2 comes with an input gain thumbwheel that allows musicians to dial in the perfect setting for their setup – iRig 2 works just as well when its connecting a wailing 3 humbucker electric guitar to a Samsung Galaxy Note 4 as it does a jazzy archtop or mellow electric piano to an iPhone 6.
Killer guitar tone on Android
iRig 2 is now widely compatible with Android smartphones and tablets. Its 1/8″ output connector is compatible with many popular Android devices produced by manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Motorola, HTC and more – any device with an 1/8″ input that supports the CTIA/AHJ wiring standard works with iRig 2.Additionally, users with Android devices that support Samsung Professional Audio can enjoy AmpliTube for Android, a special version of the popular multi-effects processor that brings a full spread of meticulously modeled virtual gear to the Android platform.
A full suite of apps
iRig 2 is ready to go right out of the box. It comes with a powerful cross-platform suite of apps and software that includes free versions of AmpliTube for iOS, Android and Mac/PC. And while iRig 2 is the ideal companion to AmpliTube, it also works with any other recording, processing, tuning or music app.
Pricing and availability
The new iRig 2 interface will be available in Q1 2015 via the IK Online Store and select music and consumer electronics retailers worldwide for $39.99/€29.99 (excl. taxes).
For more information, please visit:
www.irig2.com
www.amplitube.com
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