Kelly's Music & Computers

Farfisa Pocket FX-1000 Portable General MIDI Sound Module

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 31 May 2012 16:34:00 +0000

General MIDI Sound Modules are hard to find these days, especially with the widespread use of software synths. Even notation programs like Print Music, Finale and Sibelius all use built in software synths.

However, if you don't want to deal with the problems that can be caused by latency when working with software synths, a GM sound module is the perfect solution. (Latency is the delay between when you strike a key and when you hear the sound. This can be very frustrating and results in problems when recording into your computer. See our article on Eliminating Latency for more information.)

GM sound modules are also ideal if you have a keyboard that doesn't have any built in sounds. If you want to get sound out of your keyboard, you simply connect a MIDI cable from the MIDI Out of your keyboard to the MIDI In on a GM sound module and you won't need your computer anymore!

The PianoBox from MidiTech is a hugely popular GM sound module, especially since the price is very attractive. However, there is one big disadvantage - it requires a power supply.

This is where the Farfisa FX-1000 comes in! It sounds great, and its natural expressiveness make it perfect for anyone who uses MIDI. The FX 1000 can also play a “vintage section” realized with the modern digital technologies by using your computer. However, the big advantage is that the FX-1000 can connect to your computer through USB and is also powered through USB so you can power it from your laptop.

The FX-1000 offers up to 64 voices of polyphony. It is General MIDI compliant, which means it has 128 GM Sounds plus 133 Variation and 10 Drum sets. It offers two independent MIDI channels: "USB Midi 1"and "USB Midi 2 / Midi-In."

Yamaha i-MX1 IOS MIDI INTERFACE

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 29 May 2012 16:19:00 +0000

There are lots of ways to connect your MIDI device to your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, and now we bring you one more: the i-MX1 from Yamaha.

i-MX1 is a MIDI interface cable which enables iPad / iPhone to be connected to any MIDI instrument. What makes the i-MX1 unique is that there are also dedicated apps for Yamaha synthesizers which will expand the functions of your instrument. The Faders & XY Pad MIDI Control app controls your synthesizer’s sounds by sending MIDI control change messages from the iPad. The Keyboard Arp & Drum Pad is an app that transmits notes to the synthesizer. You can even edit the sound of a Motif XF or MOX using the large display of iPad!

Of course, the iMX1 will work with any MIDI instruments, and any Core MIDI compliant Apps on the market. For example, you can practice the piano songs using a digital piano and Notation App, record your drum pattern using an electronic drum kit and music production apps, or play a variety of sounds using synthesizers and virtual instrument apps. All these combinations can be realized in many ways by using i-MX1 and instruments.

Looking for something a bit less expensive than the iMX1? Check out these alternatives:

iRig Midi - uses the dock connector for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
Midiface II Thru or MidiLink Mini - uses the camera connection kit to connect to your iPad, also works with any Mac or PC

Check out all of our iOS accessories!

Lots of free stuff from Arturia!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:20:00 +0000

Until the end of June Arturia will provide you with some free software when you buy their hardware/software bundles:

Purchase Spark between May 1st and June 30th and receive the V-Collection free from Arturia!
Buy Analog Experience – The Laboratory and receive 3 free software instruments!
Order Analog Experience – The Factory and Arturia will give you 2 free software instruments.

iRig Stomp: a stomp box for your iPhone, iPod or iPad!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:16:00 +0000

iRig STOMP is the first stompbox guitar interface for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. For the first time, guitar and bass players can now integrate their favorite iOS signal processing apps into their existing live pedalboard setup for enhanced tone shaping and effects processing.
iRig STOMP is based on the wildly popular AmpliTube iRig interface and is compatible with any iOS guitar / amp / instrument app. With its compact, standard stompbox shape, iRig STOMP is packed with many smart features found here for the first time in an iOS audio accessory.

Features:
- Compact, durable yet lightweight, aluminum-cast enclosure integrates easily into any traditional pedalboard.
- Can be used inline with other effects pedals, or directly connected to amplifiers or PA systems using regular 1/4" guitar cables, with no need for adapters.
- Allows precise adjustment of the signal for perfect guitar and bass levels with its large input gain knob.
- Active battery-powered output circuit improves headroom, especially when used with high-gain amplifiers in the AmpliTube app, reducing feedback and crosstalk when recording.
- The bypass switch allows engaging or bypassing the AmpliTube app chain of effects – like a traditional stompbox – for seamless integration into any existing rig.
- Ultra-compact form-factor can be easily carried on the road.
- Features a 3.5mm/1/8" jack for silent practicing with headphones.
- Includes AmpliTube FREE app and can be used with any other guitar processing app that uses the iOS mini-jack
- Has an ultra-small, compact profile that can be carried anywhere with ease.
- Compatible with iPhone/iPod touch/iPad.

iRig Pre - a pre-amp for your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 17 May 2012 16:11:00 +0000

The iRig PRE is the ultimate solution for connecting any type of microphone – from regular stage microphones to expensive studio models – to any iPhone, iPod touch or iPad providing access to the widest range of recording applications.

iRig PRE is a high-quality microphone preamp designed specifically for iOS devices that allows musicians to use their favorite high-quality stage or studio mics with their iOS device. The microphone plugs directly into the standard XLR connector of iRig PRE with no need for extra cables or adapters.

Its adjustable thumbwheel gain control allows the user to easily make precise level settings. The onboard 9V battery provides the necessary voltage for phantom-powered studio condenser microphones for at least 15 hours of continuous use.

The 3.5mm (1/8”) standard stereo headphone output allows monitoring while recording. The lightweight housing sports a convenient cable for iOS device connection and also includes a Velcro strip slot for easy mounting on a mic stand or other stage locations. Like all other IK Multimedia microphones, it includes 2 free apps: iRig Recorder (an easy-to-use recording/editing app) and VocaLive (an effects processing app for singers).

The iRig Pre connects to your iOS device using the headphone jack, so it relies on your device's A/D converter. Battery life is approximately 40 hours with dynamic microphones and 15 hours with phantom powered condenser studio microphones.

Check out our complete list of iOS accessories!

Sibelius First 7

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 15 May 2012 16:08:00 +0000

Sibelius has upgraded their popular entry level notation program. Sibelius 7 First is now available and offers many of the features found in the full Sibelius 7, plus some great new features for sharing your music. Teachers and schools will be pleased with the new Lab Pack 5 option for $239.99, making it possible to install Sibelius First in your computer lab for less than $50 per computer!
Sibelius First 7 replaces both Sibelius 6 First and Sibelius 6 Student.

Big East West sale - until May 21st

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 10 May 2012 20:03:00 +0000

Almost all East West products are on sale until May 21. They usually don’t discount new products but almost everything is on sale, making it a great opportunity to pick up their popular software synths.

T-Racks Singles - 50% Off Until May 30!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Until the end of May, you can purchase a T-Racks Single for 50% off the regular price.

When you purchase a T-Racks single, you can download any one of the following from IK Multimedia's website:
- Vintage Tube Compressor/Limiter model 670
- Vintage Tube Program Equalizer
- Opto compressor
- Intelligent, multi-algorithm Brickwall limiter
- High precision, high definition Linear Phase Equalizer
- Classic T-RackS Compressor
- Classic T-RackS Multi-band Limiter
- Classic T-RackS Clipper
- Classic T-RackS Equalizer
- High quality, high precision, complete metering suite

T-Racks Singles support VST, Audio Units, and RTAS to fully integrate with all of today's popular DAWs .

Tratkor Scratch A10: Advanced DJ Audio

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 08 May 2012 14:55:00 +0000

This powerhouse unit sets the new benchmark for DJ audio interfaces. The successor of the highly acclaimed AUDIO 8 DJ has been carefully refined, now achieving a new level in connectivity and performance. With ten inputs, ten outputs, four phono preamps, MIDI I/O and mic input, TRAKTOR AUDIO 10 will satisfy even the most demanding DJs.

This premium DJ audio interface is built on the established and award-winning design of NI audio and hardware gear: Extra-robust metal casing, high-end Cirrus-Logic AD/DA converters, brand-new chip technology and completely revised driver architecture ensure top sound quality and low latency for professional use on stage and in the studio.

TRAKTOR AUDIO 10 is now available exclusively with the TRAKTOR SCRATCH A10 digital vinyl system. This pack contains the audio interface, the latest TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 software, time code vinyl and CDs, and all the cables you need for hooking this award-winning and incredible value DVS.

TRAKTOR SCRATCH A10 lets you spin digital files on four track decks using super-tight vinyl and CD control. The next generation of the award-winning digital vinyl system is easier to use than ever, and boasts incredible connectivity via the included TRAKTOR AUDIO 10.

Sibelius 7 Site Licenses (including upgrades) - 20% off!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:58:00 +0000

Until September 30th, Sibelius site licenses are 20% off. You can buy a new license, add seats to an existing license, or upgrade your current site license to Sibelius 7 - all at a substantial savings!

Buy Addictive Drums, get a free Adpak!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:56:00 +0000

Buy Addictive Drums from Kelly's Music between May 1 and May 30th and get 1 ADpak FREE from XLN Audio! (Note: Retro cannot be the free Adpak.)

Traktor Scratch A6 - incredible value for DJs

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:51:00 +0000

NI's popular DJ line has been updated and expanded with even more features. An incredible value, the TRAKTOR SCRATCH A6 is the straight-up digital vinyl system for spinning MP3s using super-tight vinyl and CD control. The included TRAKTOR AUDIO 6 interface, timecode vinyl and CDs, and the flagship TRAKTOR software provide pro credentials at a very attractive price.

TRAKTOR SCRATCH A6 is designed for DJs who need rock-solid performance, amazing audio quality and incredible ease of use. The included TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2.5 software with Remix Decks allows for a new level of creativity - seamlessly merge the worlds of DJing and live performance.

TRAKTOR SCRATCH A6 gets the remix treatment and now delivers an immense package for creative DJs. Using TRAKTOR SCRATCH DUO 2 as a jumping off point, TRAKTOR SCRATCH A6 now contains the flagship TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2.5 with Remix Decks software – at a new price that makes it the most incredible value out there.

Powered by the TRAKTOR AUDIO 6 interface - now available exclusively with this product - you can also expand your setup to include TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 for ultimate and intuitive control over the software’s Remix Decks.

Get ready to unleash the full sonic potential of your tracks thanks to the included TRAKTOR AUDIO 6, the high-gain audio interface for DJs who demand premium sound quality and extra-loud output. With six inputs and six outputs, the TA6 is destined to be the centerpiece of your live or studio setup.

It’s never been easier to spin digital files. Hook up the system in seconds thanks to the plug-and-play hardware and software integration. The software interface features an easy-on-the-eye Essential View, focusing on the important elements. Innovative TruWave colored waveforms let you see your tracks like never before.

mBox & mBox Mini with Pro Tools Express Now Available!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 01 May 2012 19:01:00 +0000

The popular mBox and mBox Mini USB sound cards from Avid now include Pro Tools Express! Pro Tools Express gives you many of the features of the full version of Pro Tools, while limiting you to 16 stereo tracks at 32 bit, 96Khz resolution. If you wish, you can always upgrade to the full version of Pro Tools 10 for a discount - contact us for more details.

Traktor Series Expands to Include Traktor Kontrol F1

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:48:00 +0000

The TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 is the definitive hardware for controlling the powerful Remix Decks in TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 – the flagship DJ software included with the F1. Finally, you can launch clips in a perfectly intuitive, DJ-centric way – control Remix Decks just like regular track decks, switching between up to 64 tracks, loops and one-shot samples on each deck. With your signature sound at your fingertips, it’s time to blur the line between DJing and live performance.

Get started in seconds – the KONTROL F1 includes around 2 GB of premium grade sound, pre-loaded as Remix Sets. Or you can import your own samples, and even capture loops and sounds live, using the controller’s stylish multi-color pads and ergonomic faders. Expand the creative potential of any TRAKTOR set-up – with or without timecode vinyl – and transform your DJ set into a dynamic live performance.

Four volume faders and four dedicated filter knobs provide full sonic access to the Remix Deck slots, and to add more flavor, you can route individual slots through TRAKTOR’s FX units. Scratch your live production via Native Scratch timecode control and then mix and fade into a ‘traditional’ track on another deck – fuse classic DJ workflow with the future of DJing.

TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 includes the full, flagship TRAKTOR PRO 2.5 software which is normally only slightly less than the cost of the F1, making it an incredible value!

Pro Tools 10 - Getting Up to Speed Video Tutorial

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:18:00 +0000

Need help with Pro Tools 10? Worked with Pro Tools in the past, but want to start using the new features more efficiently?

Check out the new Pro Tools 10 - Getting Up to Speed Video Tutorial. This tutorial is meant to bring you up to speed with whats new in Pro Tools 10. If you already use earlier versions of Pro Tools this tutorial will shed light on the new features and enhancements and the major differences from older versions and detail how they work.

Since Pro Tools 10 is not just simply a maintenance update, this simply isn't a “Whats new in Pro Tools 10” video. This is an in depth, under the hood look at the new features and system enhancements like 32 bit floating point audio support, enhanced disk performance, the new Pro Tools session file format, support for mixed audio file formats and the list goes on and on. There is enhanced import and export options and you can now add your songs to iTunes and SoundCloud direct from within Pro Tools.

The tutorial goes into extensive detail showing you the new AAX plug in format and the new plug ins available in Pro Tools 10 as well as the new edit enhancements like Real time cross fades the new clip gain, Audio Suite reverse and more. If you're new to Pro Tools this will make you want to dive right in and get started and feel confident on getting to grips with Pro Tools.

PRO TOOLS 10 STARTING OUT Video Tutorial

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:28:00 +0000

The industry standard recording platform just keeps getting better and better. The release of Pro Tools 10 boasts an incredible array of new features and enhancements. Pro Tools 10 is a power house of a Digital Audio Workstation and it will make your recording and editing a breeze with the new workflow enhancements.

ASK Video's new tutorial "Pro Tools 10 Starting Out" will go through every step in getting up close and personal with Pro Tools 10. You will go step by step from the very beginning of setting up your audio interface and go though the different edit tools and modes, how to create tracks, record and edit audio & MIDI and much more.

This is no Basic level tutorial. This is a turbo-charged information packed tutorial filled with tips and tricks and ways to get you up and running and using Pro Tools 10 FAST!

If you are new to Pro Tools, this tutorial is the perfect tool to get you recording and editing music right away. If you are an already existing Pro Tools user this is a great refresher that covers some of the new features and will show you a few new tips and tricks along the way.

IRIG MIC CAST - portable voice recording microphone

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:23:00 +0000

The new iRig MIC Cast from IK Multimedia is an ultra-compact, portable voice recording microphone designed specifically for recording podcasts, interviews, lectures, voice memos, speeches and more.

iRig MIC Cast provides a pocket-sized voice recording solution with crystal-clear audio quality. It features a tight unidirectional pickup pattern that minimizes background noise, making it ideal for single-source audio recording.

This makes iRig MIC Cast also great for business applications like recording meetings and enhancing the audio and voice quality of conference calls.

Not only does the iRig Mic work as a microphone, but it also features a stereo mini-jack headphone output which enables real-time monitoring of what is being recorded using headphones or speakers.

It also includes an adjustable desktop stand for convenient iPhone/iPod touch positioning during recording.

The iRig Mic Cast is less expensive than other solutions, such as Tascam's IM2. However, the IM2 includes its own pre-amp and A/D converter so the quality will be better than the iRig, which relies on your iOS device's A/D converter.

The real appeal of the iRig Mic is the small size and price. If you want to use your own, higher quality mic, and don't mind the space it takes up, the Ipface from MidiTech is a better choice since you can also use it to conenct a guitar to your iOS device.

Save big on IK's Classik Studio Reverb this month!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:14:00 +0000

IK Multimedia Classik Studio Reverb offers in a single product, a suite of four high-quality reverb plug-ins: an incredibly accurate plate, a fully configurable room, a rich hall, and a creativity-inviting inverse. All four are of the highest quality, matching even expensive individual products - and now for the month of April you can get it for even less! This an amazing, value so be sure to check it out if you've been looking to add some great sounding reverb to your mix.

iRig Mix - mobile mixer for iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:13:00 +0000

The iRig MIX is the first mobile mixer for iPhone, iPod touch or iPad devices. The iRig MIX offers the same controls you would expect from a professional DJ mixer (crossfader, cues, EQ and volume controls, etc.) in an ultra-compact mobile mixer that can be used with a huge variety of iOS DJ mixing and other apps.

A DJ Mixer
The iRig MIX allows DJs to use a traditional setup with two devices (one plugged into each of the independent channels) OR a single iOS device. For the single iOS device setup, the output of the single device is split into dual-mono and sent to the individual channels.

iRig MIX can also be used for mixing any type of audio source (coming from mp3 players, CD players, etc.) with an iOS device using automatic tempo matching and beat syncing. This is accomplished with X-Sync, a feature that works in combination with the DJ Rig free app from IK Multimedia that is included with iRig MIX.

Not a DJ?
iRig MIX also provides the perfect mixing solution for solo musicians or small ensembles that use one or more iOS devices to play live. It features an extra guitar/microphone input that facilitates processing with popular apps like AmpliTube and VocaLive or any other apps that offer real-time audio effects and processing. Its standard RCA output connectors provide direct connection to PA systems or powered speakers.

Free Apps!
iRig MIX includes 4 free apps (downloads from the iTunes app store): DJ Rig, the new professional DJ mixing app from IK, AmpliTube, the most popular iOS guitar amp and effects app, VocaLive the processing app for vocalists, and GrooveMaker, the loop based beat and groove making app.

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 14:11:00 +0000

If you need the most powerful digital audio workstation available, Sequoia should be at the top of your list. Sequoia Version 12 has just been released, making it a great time to upgrade. If you don’t already have Sequoia, be sure to check it out.

Sequoia is especially popular in broadcast. As an example, for radio productions, you can save valuable time with fast non-destructive, object-based editing, multi-synchronous cut and an advanced crossfade editor. In time-critical news production recorded audio material can be edited while the recording is still running and even be exported to a database system!

A rich set of superior audio restoration and cleaning tools is designed for preserving precious recordings or forensic audio analysis.

Loudness Metering comprising broadcast standard EBU-128 enables you to verify your production conformity during the creation process. Professional metering with standard broadcast scales supports the stand-alone use of Sequoia in mobile applications.

ToonTrack EZ Drummer, Superior Drummer and SDX On Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:54:00 +0000

Until the end of April, you can get EZ Drummer for the special price of $79.99.

Want the best? Get Superior Drummer instead for only $199!

If you already own Superior Drummer, now is the time to add more expansion packs, as they are on sale for $99.99.

SoundSaver - inexpensive way to convert your tapes or vinyl to CD/MP3

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:14:00 +0000

Looking for an easy way to transfer your tape or vinyl collection to your computer? Products like SoundSoap are an excellent choice if you want the best possible results. However, if you want an inexpensive solution that is also easy to use, then check out SoundSaver from Bias.

Simply connect, record, clean, and export — directly to iTunes, as MP3, or uncompressed WAV files for CD/DVD burning! Archiving your LPs and tapes has never been easier — SoundSaver delivers pro-quality results at an affordable price!

The Connection Page guides you through making the physical connection between your stereo system (or other audio source) and your computer. Once connected, it can automatically set the recording level for you (or you can set it manually).

We recommend using a USB audio interface such as the AudioFace II or the Stereo IO to connect your tape deck or turntable to your computer. They are super easy to use - just connect the included USB cable to your computer, and then use the RCA inputs to hook up your equipment. The results will be much, much better than using the soundcard built into your computer.

The Record Page is where you can start a new audio recording, and set up various recording options, such as a Record Timer, adding Track Markers, and adjusting the speed of 78 RPM records.
Once you've made a recording, you'll most likely want to clean up any clicks, crackles, hiss, hum, and rumble. In the Clean Page you'll find all the tools you need to make your recording squeaky clean!

Whether you're recording typical commercially produced records and tapes that have gaps between tracks — or continuous-play DJ mixes or live concerts, SoundSaver has you covered!

When you've finished recording and editing your project, it's time to export and enjoy it!
SoundSaver can export MP3 files (with embedded ID3 tags), high-quality WAV files for burning to CD, directly into your iTunes library, or as a SoundSaver project file.

FLEX CLAMP FOR IPAD

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:42:00 +0000

The GigEasy Flex Clamp Mount is easy to install on any solid surface such as a desk or table with a thickness from 5/8” to 1 3/4”. With the Flex-Arm’s multi-angle adjustable design, you can now securely position your iPad for optimal viewing and accessibility - while all controls, buttons and connection ports remain free from obstruction. Spring-loaded arms grip the iPad firmly and securely. Made in USA of sturdy injection-molded thermoplastic, and covered by a one (1) year warranty.
The Flex Clamp Mount includes the standard GigEasy iPad mount with integrated 1/4"-20 camera thread and a Flex-Arm with Clamp and 1/4"-20 mounting stud.

We carry the complete line of GigEasy mounts for easily mounting your iPad to mic stands, music stands and more!

iPFace - inexpensive 1/4" to iPhone, iPad

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:39:00 +0000

Need an inexpensive way to connect a 1/4" output from your guitar, bass, or dyamic mic to your iPad or iPhone? Check out the new iPFace for only $29.99! The iPface connects to your iPhone or iPad's headphone jack so you can still use your dock connector for charging. Works with any recording app, including GarageBand!

EastWest Sale - Symphonic Orchestra, Hollywood Brass & Strings & Pianos!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelly) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:04:00 +0000

Until the end of the month take advantage of amazing sales prices on popular EastWest libraries including Symphonic Orchestra, Hollywood Brass, Hollywood Strings and Quantum Leap Pianos!