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IK Multimedia debuts iLoud Micro Monitor – the smallest studio reference monitoring system in the world
January 20, 2016 – IK Multimedia is pleased to present iLoud® Micro Monitor, the smallest active studio reference monitoring system in the world. The latest addition to IK’s iLoud range of portable monitoring solutions, iLoud Micro Monitor is a serious and reliable sonic tool that provides high-quality sound in a small enclosure at a price that everyone can afford.
It comes with two bi-amplified speakers that deliver an expansive stereo image, an ultra-accurate true linear frequency response, superior bass and plenty of power in a truly portable package.
With iLoud Micro Monitor, musicians and producers now have a way to critically listen to their music no matter whether they’re mixing in a small makeshift recording space, mastering in a hotel room, producing in a larger studio or just listening at home.
Powerful and portable
iLoud Micro Monitor delivers stunningly clear and accurate audio. It’s able to do this thanks to its impressive technical specifications and smart design: Its two speakers are powered by four ultra-efficient class D power amplifiers that push out a combined 50 W RMS of power. Each speaker sports a ¾” silk dome tweeter, a 3″ paper cone performance woofer and a large flaring front-firing bass reflex port. Its sound is characterized by pleasing high frequencies, an exceptionally “open” midrange and a solid, controlled low end.
Sonically transparent in any space
iLoud Micro Monitor provides a flat and linear speaker response in any listening environment. It’s able to do this thanks to its on-board 56-bit digital signal processor (DSP). This DSP handles the frequency and phase response of the monitor and also manages the dynamic range so that the drivers are always controlled. It also acts as a digital crossover allowing for invisibly smooth transitions between the drivers themselves. This DSP can be adjusted to suit different listening environments thanks to three EQ switches: One for treble, one for bass and a “DESKTOP” toggle that lets users optimize iLoud Micro Monitor for use in either a free field or desktop setup. iLoud Micro Monitor can also be physically positioned at two angles of inclination.
iLoud Micro Monitor’s flexibility allows it to deliver stunningly accurate and detailed sound for mixing in any space – from cramped bedrooms to large studios – without the compromises in sonic quality normally associated with small monitors. Simply put, iLoud Micro Monitor’s sound is so good that it’s nearly inconceivable for a speaker system of this size and at this price point.
| Sound that travels Beyond its technical specifications, iLoud Micro Monitor is also incredibly portable. Its two speakers are small enough to fit in a gig bag or backpack – which makes it an essential travelling companion for anyone who needs to critically listen while on the go: musicians, producers, engineers, videographers and more.iLoud Micro Monitor can also be used with a variety of audio input options. It accepts both RCA and 1/8″ wired connections and can also be paired for Bluetooth streaming with all Bluetooth audio streaming-enabled devices. With its portability and comprehensive input options, iLoud Micro Monitor is able to provide ultra-linear sound anytime and everywhere. |
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Pricing and availability
iLoud Micro Monitor will be available early Q2 2016 from music and electronics retailers worldwide, and from the IK online store, for only $/€299.99 (excluding taxes).
For more information, please visit www.iloudmm.com
Fun in the sun with Secur’s Solar Media Player (Review)
Solar Media Player SP-5000
Secur Products
$49.99 MSRP
If you’re like me, I play music on my iPhone–a lot. Seriously, I connect it to my car’s stereo, to earbuds at work, or to a Bluetooth speaker when I’m outside messing with my plants or partaking in the never-ending task of weeding the flower beds. The problem with most music playing options is that they are a terrible drain on your phone battery. Plus the battery in the speaker also drains during music play. I might enjoy two hours-ish of continuous music playing with a standard Bluetooth speaker when I’m outside. The folks at Secur Products have solved this problem with a solar-powered, water-resistant media player, the SP-5000 Solar Media Player (SP-5000).
Not only can you get continuous music for as long as the unit is in the sun, your phone is safe inside the water-resistant case. Now I don’t have to leave my phone and Bluetooth speaker on the back porch far away from where I am in my fairly large back yard. I have to turn the speaker up so loud on standard Bluetooth speakers that it disturbs the neighbors who apparently have nothing better to do than to complain about my loud music. After all, I play good stuff and they should just enjoy it–it’s free. I digress, but you get the point.
The SP-5000 can sit closer to me and I don’t have to worry about a little dirt or even a little water that might accidentally drip onto it. I can also arrange the case so that the speakers point toward me for better (and lower) volumes, so that I don’t disturb my neighbor’s beauty sleep, groundbreaking scientific experiments, or focus on their great American novel efforts.
The SP-5000 charges itself while in the sun while you’re playing music instead of draining its battery too. If your phone battery begins to fade, you can plug it into the power adapter and charge/power your phone while you play music–all for free thanks to the sun’s abundant energy resources.
Product Details:
• Stereo speakers and amplifier
• Rainproof, dustproof, shock proof smart phone case
• Solar powered power bank
• Power bank charges speakers as well as smart phones
• Includes USB and stereo connectors
• Works with most MP3 players and smart phones including the iPhone 6 and Samsung Galaxy S5
• Includes carabiner for hanging
• Stereo Media Player – lets you play music from your smart phone or MP3 player
• Solar Powered Amplifier and Power Bank – charges by the sun
• Rainproof Protective Case Protects Your Smart Phone – perfect for the outdoors
Why it’s Frugal: The SP-5000 Solar Media Player is frugal because it not only protects your phone from the “elements,” but being in the sun is good for it. It charges your phone, protects your phone, and is a mobile music center all in one neat little, well-made package. At $50, it’s a steal–I mean, a frugal choice.
This product isn’t Bluetooth, so don’t be confused by my mention of Bluetooth speakers. You have to plug the attached 3.5mm jack into your phone, power on the unit, and then power on the speakers.
One reason that I say that the SP-5000 is frugal, although I often complain about product pricing, is that this unit is only $50. Most, if not all, Bluetooth speakers, that offer no charging feature and no protection for your phone. So, really you’re getting a very tough case, multiple cables, a solar charger, and two, 3Watt speakers for very little cash. If that’s not frugal, then please spend more money for a lesser product.
Nerd Stuff/Technical Details:
• 2000 mAh power bank
• 5.5V/70 mA solar panel
• DC input – 500 mA
• DC output – 500 mA
• 2 x 3 watt stereo speakers
• Battery charge indicator
• Water resistant protective case – IPX 64
• Size 7.28″ x 3.74” x 1.77″
• 8.3 oz
The Secur Solar Media Player SP-5000 is a well-made, quality product that is three products in one: media player (speakers), a protective case, and a charger. I’m not sure what else you can ask for in its price range.
Rating: 10/10
Recommendation: It’s a great product at an excellent price and if you ever listen to music outside, you need this. Strong buy.
About Secur Products
Secur Products is dedicated to constant product development and technological innovation to produce leading edge products for emergency preparedness, outdoor sports, portable power solutions and alternative energy. Secur Products is a division of Maverick Industries, Inc. based in Edison, New Jersey. For over 30 years, Maverick has been a leading manufacturer and distributor of household electronics and electric appliances.
Beacon Audio Phoenix 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Review)
Phoenix 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Beacon Audio
$59.95 Amazon (Prime)
$59.95 Beacon Audio (Free Shipping)
The Phoenix 2 portable Bluetooth speaker by Beacon Audio is a coffee cup-sized speaker that delivers big sound, handy two-way phone conversation capability, and long battery life all at a moderate price point. It would make a great gift or a cool conversation starter at any party. No one will believe the volume and depth of sound that you can squeeze out of this tiny box. The two speakers and single subwoofer might be a clue to that volume, although I’m not officially an audiophile.
The range is somewhere between 30 to 80 feet depending on where your music device and the Phoenix 2 are located. Walls, metal objects, and other electronic devices might interfere at varying levels. But outside in good weather with no obstructions, expect to be able to walk pretty far from the speaker or from your phone with no problems.
- Two speakers and a subwoofer
- 360-degree sound
- Microphone for phone calls
- Long-lasting (8-10 hours) rechargeable battery
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 3.5mm auxiliary jack
- USB charge connector
- Compatible with most devices
As you can see from the video, the Phoenix 2 is small, attractive, and ready to serve. I like it. I can’t find any flaws with it. That said, I do think that the price is a little high. $60 seems a little steep, but I’m kind of cheap, hence the frugal part of this blog. I think that a $30 to $40 range would be much better.
Why it’s Frugal: The Beacon Audio Phoenix 2 portable Bluetooth speaker isn’t particularly frugal. It does deliver an unexpected sound quality, even at the highest volume level, it is a luxury item, especially at the $60 price level.
If you’re looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that will pair with just about anything you have and doesn’t require an extra app or any hassle, then the Phoenix 2 is a great choice. It comes in a variety of colors and free shipping from Amazon or the manufacturer, so that’s a big bonus.
Rating: 8.5/10
Recommendation: Buy it. Have fun with it.
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