Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[How would you change Native Instruments' Maschine Mikro?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/how-would-you-change-native-instruments-maschine-mikro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/how-would-you-change-native-instruments-maschine-mikro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/how-would-you-change-native-instruments-maschine-mikro/#comments How would you change Native Instruments' Maschine Mikro?

Native Instruments' gear is a must-have for those in the beat making world. We put the cheaper, dinkier Maschine Mikro through its paces and found that while we loved the portability, we weren't so hot on the lack of MIDI ports and absence of knobs for twiddlin'. That said, we weren't able to hate on the compromises that were made to bring it in under $600 and small enough to stow in a backpack, but how about you guys out there? When you've used this gear day in, day out, can you forgive its flaws in exchange for that extra cash in your hand, or do you wish you'd saved up a little more? If you were in NI's position, what would you have done differently?

How would you change Native Instruments' Maschine Mikro? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 May 2012 22:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatsHow Would You ChangeHowWouldYouChangeHWYCMaschineMaschine MikroMaschineMikroMikroMusicMusic MakingMusicMakingNative InstrumentsNativeInstrumentsSun, 20 May 2012 22:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Roland's Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/rolands-wireless-connect-lets-your-iphone-and-electronic-instru/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/rolands-wireless-connect-lets-your-iphone-and-electronic-instru/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/rolands-wireless-connect-lets-your-iphone-and-electronic-instru/#commentsImage
As if there weren't already enough devices out there for connecting musical instruments to iDevices, Roland's unveiled its latest entrant to the fray over at this year's Musikmesse. Combining a duo of iOS apps and a Netgear-sourced USB dongle, the company's created what's dubbed as the Wireless Connect system. Essentially, by plugging the USB stick into a select number of the company's electronic instruments, you'll be able to jam out using your iDevice as a cord-free aid. With its updated app version of V-Drums Friend Jam, drummers can work on their chops and share the results over the web (alternatively, the current computer variant requires a wired connection). Additionally, the Air Recorder app allows you to hook up with its Synths and V-Accordions to record your playing, jam along with songs from your iPhone or both at the same time. Notably, you likely won't get much use out of Wireless Connect at your next gig, though, as it requires a LAN connection with access to the internet for full functionality. While there's not word on a pricing just yet, Roland plans to have the system on store shelves by the end of spring. Interested musicians can glance at the press release and instrument compatibility details planted just past the break.

Continue reading Roland's Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords

Roland's Wireless Connect lets your iPhone and electronic instruments play nice sans cords originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Air Recorder appAirRecorderAppappleinstrumentiosiphoneminipostmusic makingMusicMakingnetgearnetgear dongleNetgearDonglerolandusbusb dongleUsbDonglev-drumsv-drums friend jamV-drumsFriendJamvideowirelesswireless connectwireless lanWirelessConnectWirelessLanThu, 22 Mar 2012 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Traktor Kontrol S2 digital DJ system shaves a few inches and bones off its big brother]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/traktor-kontrol-s2-digital-dj-system-shaves-a-few-inches-and-bon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/traktor-kontrol-s2-digital-dj-system-shaves-a-few-inches-and-bon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/traktor-kontrol-s2-digital-dj-system-shaves-a-few-inches-and-bon/#comments Traktor S2 Look, last year's Traktor Kontrol S4 was pretty damn awesome but, at $1,000 and about the size of your average Williamsburg DJ, it wasn't exactly for everyone. That's where the S2 comes in. Instead of four channels, it's a "2+1" setup that supplements the two standard audio ones with a dedicated sample channel. You still get the same high-resolution jog wheels and integrated 24bit / 96kHz sound card, but Native Instruments managed to shave a few inches, pounds and bucks off its predecessor. At $669 it's much more affordable -- still not exactly an impulse purchase, but within the range of most serious hobbyists. Check out the gallery bellow as well as the video and the PR after the break.

Gallery: Traktor Kontrol S2

Continue reading Traktor Kontrol S2 digital DJ system shaves a few inches and bones off its big brother

Traktor Kontrol S2 digital DJ system shaves a few inches and bones off its big brother originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>djdj controllerDjControllerKontrol S2KontrolS2musicmusic makingMusicMakingnative instrumentsnative instruments traktor kontrol S2NativeInstrumentsNativeInstrumentsTraktorKontrolS2S2traktortraktor kontrolTraktor Kontrol S2TraktorKontrolTraktorKontrolS2videoThu, 25 Aug 2011 20:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Robot band covers Marilyn Manson, renders sullen teenagers obsolete (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/robot-band-covers-marilyn-manson-renders-sullen-teenagers-obsol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/robot-band-covers-marilyn-manson-renders-sullen-teenagers-obsol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/robot-band-covers-marilyn-manson-renders-sullen-teenagers-obsol/#comments
Sure, we've seen robot bands before. But even when insecure and egotistical, they never quite capture the youthful disaffection we want from our mechanical pop stars. Until now. End of Life is a robot band consisting of a cello, and electric guitar, drums, and, for some reason, a flat-bed scanner -- maybe he's the cute one? The group recently covered Marilyn Manson's three-string anthem "The Beautiful People," and it sounds almost exactly like you'd expect: we'll call it "raw, visceral, and uncensored." We can't wait to see them sneer at Rock Band-playing robots too lazy to learn a real instrument. Catch them in the video after the break, and you can tell all your less-cool friends you knew them back before they sold out.

Continue reading Robot band covers Marilyn Manson, renders sullen teenagers obsolete (video)

Robot band covers Marilyn Manson, renders sullen teenagers obsolete (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artautonomousbandeolhackinstrumentmechanical bandMechanicalBandmusicmusic makingmusic videoMusicMakingMusicVideomyspacerobotrobot bandRobotBandroboticsRobotsvideoMon, 18 Jul 2011 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Mopho DJ uses your iPhone to track turntable movement (instead of your movements)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/mopho-dj-uses-your-iphone-to-track-turntable-movement-instead-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/mopho-dj-uses-your-iphone-to-track-turntable-movement-instead-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/mopho-dj-uses-your-iphone-to-track-turntable-movement-instead-o/#comments
We have to admit, we never thought of this one -- and it's pretty, pretty slick. Instead of using time-coded vinyl to interface your turntable with your computer as with Final Scratch Pro or Serato Scratch, Nicholas J. Bryan's Mopho DJ uses an iPhone. That's right, our man at Stanford University literally affixes his smartphones to his decks via a perspex disc and some sort of adhesive. The smartphones each run an app which sends accelerometer and gyroscope data to a computer, which then adjusts playback of your music accordingly. It's still a work-in-progress at the moment, but if you're in Oslo the first week in June make sure you check it out at the NIME (New Interfaces for Musical Expression) conference. This is definitely the kind of iOS location tracking we can get behind! Check it out on video after the break.

Continue reading Mopho DJ uses your iPhone to track turntable movement (instead of your movements)

Mopho DJ uses your iPhone to track turntable movement (instead of your movements) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 May 2011 19:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometerappledjgyroscopeiosiphonemopho djMophoDjmusicmusic makingMusicMakingNicholas J. BryanNicholasJ.Bryannimenime 2011Nime2011stanford universityStanfordUniversityturntablevideoSat, 14 May 2011 19:09:00 EST<![CDATA[FL Studio coming to iOS (unicorns, leprechauns, phat beats to follow)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/fl-studio-coming-to-ios-unicorns-leprechans-phat-beats-to-fol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/fl-studio-coming-to-ios-unicorns-leprechans-phat-beats-to-fol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/fl-studio-coming-to-ios-unicorns-leprechans-phat-beats-to-fol/#comments
We thought it was an impossible dream, like world peace or a second season of My So Called Life, but we finally have the answer to the immortal question: "When will FL Studio be available on operating systems besides Windows?" The answer? "Soon." That's right -- FL Studio Mobile is coming to all of your favorite iOS devices, and all things considered, it looks pretty, pretty good. 128-track sequencer, step sequencer for individual MIDI clips, a mess of drum loops, reverb, delay, equalizer, amp, and filter effects... how can you find fault with that? And when you get back to your PC, your mobile project can be mixed down to wav, exported to MIDI, or the session file can be loaded right in the desktop version of the software. Not bad, eh? At the very least, it sounds like it will give GarageBand for the iPad a run for its money. Sadly, we don't have a street date for the app right this moment, but you can get a pretty good look at what's in store in the video after the break.

Continue reading FL Studio coming to iOS (unicorns, leprechauns, phat beats to follow)

FL Studio coming to iOS (unicorns, leprechauns, phat beats to follow) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 May 2011 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawdigital audio workstationDigitalAudioWorkstationfl studiofl studio mobileFlStudioFlStudioMobilefruityloopsimage lineImageLinemusicmusic makingmusic productionMusicMakingMusicProductionportable musicPortableMusicsoftwarevideoThu, 12 May 2011 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Korg Monotribe has 1978 sound, modern mobility (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/korg-monotribe-has-1978-sound-modern-mobility-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/korg-monotribe-has-1978-sound-modern-mobility-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/korg-monotribe-has-1978-sound-modern-mobility-video/#comments

Meet the latest in Korg's analog revival, dubbed the Monotribe -- a portable, battery-powered groovebox with an old heart. This eight step sequencer expands on last year's Monotron, using the same classic Korg M-10 plus M-20 analog filters and ribbon keyboard as its older, pocket-sized brother. The new unit kicks it up a notch with expanded VCO, VCA, VCF, and LFO controls, as well as three-part analog drums. It's also said to last up to 14 hours on six AA batteries, so you can take your beats to the beach or simply drive your neighbors batty; it's nice to have options. Check out the demo video above, or the hit press release after the break for details.

Continue reading Korg Monotribe has 1978 sound, modern mobility (video)

Korg Monotribe has 1978 sound, modern mobility (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 01:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analoganalog synthAnalogSynthkorgkorg monotribeKorgMonotribemonotribemonotronmusicmusic makingmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentsMusicMakingSynthesizervideoWed, 20 Apr 2011 01:42:00 EST<![CDATA[KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/#comments
We've seen a few Zoybar-based behemoths since we were hepped to the modular guitar platform way back in '08, but few have caught our fancy like Kevin Rupp's KR1. Featuring a Korg Kaossilator synth, both the Pocket Pod and a wireless transmitter from Line 6, and the beloved Sanyo Pedal Juice battery pack, this bad boy can do double duty as both your ax and your backing band. But enough of our jabber jaw -- you want to see it in action, right? Check it out after the break.

[Thanks, TK]

Continue reading KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein

KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diydo it yourselfDoItYourselfguitarhackhomebrewkaoss padkaossilatorKaossPadkevin ruppKevinRuppkeytarkorgkr1line 6Line6modmusic makingMusicMakingpedal juicePedalJuicesanyovideozoybarTue, 05 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Native Instruments rolls out Traktor 2, Maschine 1.6 update]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/native-instruments-rolls-out-traktor-2-maschine-1-6-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/native-instruments-rolls-out-traktor-2-maschine-1-6-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/native-instruments-rolls-out-traktor-2-maschine-1-6-update/#comments
There isn't any hardware that will make you a better (or hell, a good) DJ, although we always seem to forget this whenever we see one of Native Instruments' invariably mind-blowing product demos. If you're a DMC-level DJ, it certainly looks like the newly available Traktor 2 will suit all of your needs nicely. If you're not? Well, you can always enjoy DJ Craze going wild on the video after the break (be advised, however, that the F-bomb drops about a gazillion times on the thing, so this might not be safe for your workplace). And while we're at it, if you own NI's Maschine, the 1.6 software that we first got a look at in early February is available: launch the NI Service Center app to upgrade.

Continue reading Native Instruments rolls out Traktor 2, Maschine 1.6 update

Native Instruments rolls out Traktor 2, Maschine 1.6 update originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>djdj crazeDjCrazemaschinemaschine 1.6Maschine1.6musicmusic makingMusicMakingnative instrumentsNativeInstrumentsnipro audioProAudiot2traktortraktor 2Traktor2videoThu, 31 Mar 2011 16:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: 37 years of Roland synths in one awesome animated GIF]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/visualized-37-years-of-roland-synths-in-one-awesome-animated-gi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/visualized-37-years-of-roland-synths-in-one-awesome-animated-gi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/visualized-37-years-of-roland-synths-in-one-awesome-animated-gi/#comments
You know how much we love our vintage MIDI gear, and apparently our friend Ronny from Das Kraftfuttermischwerk is every bit as big a fan as we are. To that end, he's taken Music Radar's recent guide to all-things Roland and turned it into an awesome (and headache-inducing) animated GIF. Apparently the collection lacks the TR and TB series instruments, otherwise everything the company has produced between 1973 and 2010 should be there. What are you waiting for? Check it out after the break.

Continue reading Visualized: 37 years of Roland synths in one awesome animated GIF

Visualized: 37 years of Roland synths in one awesome animated GIF originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animated gifAnimatedGifawesomegifMIDImusicmusic makingMusicMakingrolandsynthsynthesizervisualizedTue, 15 Feb 2011 20:59:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad / MIDI hardware options detailed, awesome (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/ipad-midi-hardware-options-detailed-awesome-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/ipad-midi-hardware-options-detailed-awesome-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/07/ipad-midi-hardware-options-detailed-awesome-video/#comments
If you have an iPad and you're looking for ways to incorporate it into your music-making setup, the kids at Create Digital Music have put together a handy guide to the wonderful world of iPad / MIDI integration. Featuring the Apple Camera Connection Kit (which plays well with MIDI USB, by the way), various apps, and quite a bit of video, there should be plenty to keep the music-lovin' geek entertained. Our favorite video, which we attached after the break, features an unholy collaboration between the FunkBox iPad app and a x0xb0x sequencer / synth. But what are you waiting for? Hit the source link to get started.

Continue reading iPad / MIDI hardware options detailed, awesome (video)

iPad / MIDI hardware options detailed, awesome (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleaudioaudio productionAudioProductioniosipadmidimusic makingmusic productionMusicMakingMusicProductionusbvideox0xb0xMon, 07 Feb 2011 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Native Instruments Maschine review and 1.6 beta first look]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/native-instruments-maschine-review-and-1-6-beta-first-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/native-instruments-maschine-review-and-1-6-beta-first-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/native-instruments-maschine-review-and-1-6-beta-first-look/#comments Since it first caught the world's attention at NAMM '09, Native Instruments' Maschine has made quite a stir in the world of electronic music production and performance. A modern re-imagining of Akai's legendary sampling sequencers, it takes the MPC's raison d'être -- recording and editing samples, sequencing samples to create tracks -- and uses it as the basis of a MIDI interface / software package that is both very familiar and quite unique. Maschine can run as a stand-alone application or integrate with your DAW (digital audio workstation) as a plug-in, and the company promises quite a bit as far as sound quality and improved workflow over the Akai's legendary instruments. But does it stack up? We've recently taken a good, hard look at the latest version of the software, 1.6 beta -- and we can't wait to share our thoughts with you. Check it out after the break.

Gallery: Native Instruments Maschine 1.6 beta

Continue reading Native Instruments Maschine review and 1.6 beta first look

Native Instruments Maschine review and 1.6 beta first look originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maschinemusicmusic makingmusic productionmusicmakingmusicprodutionnative instrumentsnative instruments maschineNativeInstrumentsNativeInstrumentsmaschinereviewsamplesamplerTue, 01 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Robo-guitar shocker! Gibson opening Firebird X platform to third party developers, app store imminent]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/#comments
We've seen the future of guitars, and it's an app store. At least that's what Gibson would have us believe, as it announces that it's opening the Pure-Analog Engine and the whole Firebird X platform to third party devs. Didn't know it was a platform, did you? Thought that it was an over-priced guitar with features that we didn't need (and a headstock we didn't particularly care for)? Same here. Apparently the company will soon be unleashing all sorts of Pure-Analog guitars upon the world, at all different price points. We don't know what this means for rock'n'roll, although we are fairly certain that the guy from Muse already owns three of these. Hit the source link for all the awesome deets.

Robo-guitar shocker! Gibson opening Firebird X platform to third party developers, app store imminent originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeAppStoreaudiodeveloperdevelopmentfirebirdfirebird xFirebirdXgibsonguitarmusicmusic makingMusicMakingpure-analogpure-analog enginePure-analogEngineshockerthat guy from MuseThatGuyFromMuseMon, 24 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Monome Arc OSC controller is simple, elegant, and expensive]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/monome-arc-osc-controller-is-simple-elegant-and-expensive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/monome-arc-osc-controller-is-simple-elegant-and-expensive/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/monome-arc-osc-controller-is-simple-elegant-and-expensive/#comments
If you're not familiar with Monome, the company designs and builds unique, minimalist controllers in limited editions for the discriminating music maker with deep pockets. The company's latest, Arc, features two anodized milled aluminum knobs, an enclosure made of black walnut (sustainably harvested in central Pennsylvania, of course), lead free printed circuit boards and circuitry, a felt slip mat made from wool purchased from small farms in the US, and -- well, that's pretty much it. Hand assembled on a farm in upstate New York, this device sends OSC data to a computer via USB. Each knob is circled by a ring of 64 LEDs, and each knob can be configured for whatever your musician's heart desires. On the video (after the break) it is paired with a Series Sixty Four controller to make a sample looper. Looks like fun! Too bad it costs more than our rent for the month. Available on February 18 in two knob ($500) and four knob ($800) configurations.

[Thanks, Zack]

Continue reading Monome Arc OSC controller is simple, elegant, and expensive

Monome Arc OSC controller is simple, elegant, and expensive originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcmonomemusicmusic controllermusic makingMusicControllerMusicMakingoscosc controllerOscControllerUSBusb controllerUsbControllervideoMon, 24 Jan 2011 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual pipe organist is the Phantom of his own living room]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/virtual-pipe-organist-is-the-phantom-of-his-own-living-room/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/virtual-pipe-organist-is-the-phantom-of-his-own-living-room/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/virtual-pipe-organist-is-the-phantom-of-his-own-living-room/#comments
If any instrument deserves to be geeked over, it is the pipe organ. Over the course of its almost 2,000 years of development, it has evolved from the rudimentary Greek water organ to the extremely complex device featured in cathedrals and concert halls all over the world. And this is all well and good, but what is an aspiring (or accomplished) organist to do when he wants to practice yet doesn't have access to the Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois in Paris? Well, he might go ahead and build his own -- at least that's what an Engadget reader named Rob Stefanussen did. The heart of the thing is a Mac Pro running Hauptwerk's Virtual Organ, and while the software is pretty impressive itself, what caught our attention was the baroque MIDI controller he built to play the thing. Featuring four keyboards, a pedalboard, pistons, and expression shoes, this thing plays like the real deal. And not to be undone in the sound department, he threw in six speakers and a sub-woofer, routing different sets of pipes to the different speakers to let the sound mix in the air for that authentic pipe organ sound. Wild, no? How would you like to hear it in action? Check out the video after the break to see (and hear) it for yourself.

Continue reading Virtual pipe organist is the Phantom of his own living room

Virtual pipe organist is the Phantom of his own living room originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesomediywarriorHomebrewChannelinstrument muzycznyInstrumentMuzycznymidimusic makingMusicMakingorganizingpipe organPipeOrganRob StefanussenRobStefanussenvideovirtual instrumentVirtualInstrumentTue, 11 Jan 2011 19:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect hack turns you into a punching, waving MIDI controller (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/kinect-hack-turns-you-into-a-punching-waving-midi-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/kinect-hack-turns-you-into-a-punching-waving-midi-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/03/kinect-hack-turns-you-into-a-punching-waving-midi-controller/#comments
If you're looking for an awesome, impractical way to make music with your computer (and who isn't?) please direct your attention to the following Kinect hack. Shinect, the brainchild of a YouTube user named Shinyless, uses motion detection to turn you into a MIDI controller! The current implementation gives the operator two virtual pads that can be activated by the old Jersey Shore fist pump -- and if that ain't enough, the sounds can be pitchshifted by raising / lowering the other arm. Pretty sweet, huh? This thing uses OpenNI, and while he's demonstrating it using FruityLoops it should work with any MIDI device. Things are pretty rough'n ready at the moment, although he promises big things in the future. In the meantime, check out the proof-of-concept in the video after the break.

Continue reading Kinect hack turns you into a punching, waving MIDI controller (video)

Kinect hack turns you into a punching, waving MIDI controller (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diyfruity loopsFruityLoopshackkinectMicrosoftmidimidi controllerMidiControllermodmusic makingMusicMakingopenniprimesenseproject natalProjectNatalShinectShinylessvideoMon, 03 Jan 2011 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/#comments
Sure, you can always plug your axe into a computer (or even an iPhone) and make sweet, sweet music with software. But what about those times you need an honest-to-goodness amplifier? Diago's Little Smasher is a full-fledged 5 watt guitar amp head that is only roughly the size of an effects pedal. The thing's quite stripped down -- active bass and treble (which gives you more control of the tone than passive EQs), gain, volume, 4-16 ohm output impedance (should work with any speaker cabinet), and that's pretty much it! We should probably also add that the carbon steel enclosure is a nice touch, and one that will be appreciated when you're fighting off a stage invasion at the next Lilith Fair. But you probably want to hear how it sounds -- and for that, we direct you to the video placed after the break. Available for $250 this January.

Continue reading Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video)

Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampdiagoguitarguitar ampGuitarAmplittle smasherLittleSmashermusicmusic makingmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentsMusicMakingvideoThu, 09 Dec 2010 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/#comments Remember The Fingerist, the guitar headstock-themed speaker and case for your iPhone or iPod touch? You know, the one with the shoulder strap for public (and private) performances with all of your favorite music making apps? Well, it seems that it's finally available in the states. Indeed, there has been so little fanfare behind this announcement that the company responsible, Evenno, hasn't even acknowledged it on its site. But don't worry: we found this bad boy for $150 on Amazon. And if that's not enough, iLounge has done a series of hands-on photos (see the More Coverage link, below). Or, if you're like us, you can skip the thing altogether and groove to Rick Wakeman after the break. We do have one more thing to say about the Fingerist, however: at least it's not endorsed by this guy.

Continue reading The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now

The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryair guitarAirGuitarampappappleapplicationappscontrollercrapgadgetevennofingeristgameguitarguitar ampGuitarAmpiphoneipod touchIpodTouchkeytarmusicmusic appmusic makingMusicAppMusicMakingoddperipheralpopularquirkyrick wakemanRickWakemanspeakerthe fingeristTheFingeristweirdTue, 30 Nov 2010 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Snyderphonics Manta controller takes on Ableton Live, looks (and sounds) great doing it (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/snyderphonics-manta-controller-takes-on-ableton-live-looks-and/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/snyderphonics-manta-controller-takes-on-ableton-live-looks-and/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/snyderphonics-manta-controller-takes-on-ableton-live-looks-and/#comments
We sure do love our obscure instruments here at Engadget. Even something as simple as the Monome, with its grid of 64 pads (and little else) can get the creative juices flowin' when partnered with the right software. Well, we just received word that SevenUpLive, the driver that gets Monome to play nice with Ableton Live (via Max / MSP), has just received support for Snyderphonics' handsome Manta controller. What's this all mean? Well, besides looking great, Manta features velocity sensitive plates and polyphonic aftertouch, which means a higher level of control than many of your boutique controllers. But you need a demonstration, right? Why didn't you say so? Video after the break.

Continue reading Snyderphonics Manta controller takes on Ableton Live, looks (and sounds) great doing it (video)

Snyderphonics Manta controller takes on Ableton Live, looks (and sounds) great doing it (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abletonableton liveAbletonLivelivemantamax mspMaxMspmidimidi controllerMidiControllermonomemusicmusic controllermusic makingMusicControllerMusicMakingsnyderphonicssnyderphonics mantaSnyderphonicsMantavideoTue, 23 Nov 2010 17:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple introduces MIDI to iOS 4.2, iPads the world o'er get ready to rave]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/apple-introduces-midi-to-ios-4-2-ipads-the-world-oer-get-ready/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/apple-introduces-midi-to-ios-4-2-ipads-the-world-oer-get-ready/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/apple-introduces-midi-to-ios-4-2-ipads-the-world-oer-get-ready/#comments Although musicians were quick to pick up on the iPad's possibilities as a control surface, the audio production corner of the App Store is still overwhelmingly devoted to things like guitar amp models and soft synths -- that's because until recently there was no way to send MIDI commands from iOS (not that some folks didn't figure out workarounds). That's why we were excited to hear about the appearance of MIDI APIs in iOS 4.2. What does this mean for all of you would-be Brian Enos? The gang over at Create Digital Music have put together a handy guide to what we might expect from a world where all out iOS devices can communicate via MIDI, whether through the USB cable or over WiFi -- and it is a brave new world, indeed. Intrigued? We were too! And we were pleased to find out that yes, the M-Audio Uno works with the iPad, and that the accelerometer can indeed be used to pitch bend. Unfortunately, we also learned that the Line 6 MIDI Mobilizer is a lot less exciting than we thought it might be (that is, until third party devs go to town on the thing). Hit the source link for all that stuff and more. Or just peep the video after the break, if you wonder what the next version of Pianist Pro holds.

Continue reading Apple introduces MIDI to iOS 4.2, iPads the world o'er get ready to rave

Apple introduces MIDI to iOS 4.2, iPads the world o'er get ready to rave originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abletonableton liveAbletonLiveapiappleiosios 4.2ios 4.2 betaIos4.2Ios4.2Betaipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchline 6line 6 midi mobilizerLine6Line6MidiMobilizermidimidi apimidi mobilizerMidiApiMidiMobilizermusic makingmusic productionMusicMakingMusicProductionosculatorvideowifiThu, 04 Nov 2010 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Moog Filtatron app makes your iOS band seem almost plausible]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/moog-filtatron-app-makes-your-ios-band-seem-almost-plausible/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/moog-filtatron-app-makes-your-ios-band-seem-almost-plausible/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/moog-filtatron-app-makes-your-ios-band-seem-almost-plausible/#comments
Lot of people these days use their iOS devices to add a little spice to their music-making, just as almost every company out there seems to be modeling their various synths and effects for handset use. Will the Moog Filtatron -- with its Ladder filter, various effects and ability to tweak both samples and real-time audio -- go the distance when compared to its hardware brethren? We don't really know, but we can tell you that this does look like it'd be a lot of fun on a long car ride. And the demo video is certainly awesome. Available now for $5. Video after the break.

Continue reading Moog Filtatron app makes your iOS band seem almost plausible

Moog Filtatron app makes your iOS band seem almost plausible originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefiltatronfilterinstrumentiosipadiphonemoogmoog filtatronMoogFiltatronmusic makingMusicMakingsynthSynthesizervideoTue, 19 Oct 2010 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Teenage Engineering OP-1 synthesizer gets priced at $799, can't hold out on us much longer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/27/teenage-engineering-op-1-synthesizer-gets-priced-at-799-cant/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/27/teenage-engineering-op-1-synthesizer-gets-priced-at-799-cant/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/27/teenage-engineering-op-1-synthesizer-gets-priced-at-799-cant/#comments Not since the debut of the Tenori-On have we seen so much buzz surrounding a niche music maker, and Teenage Engineering's OP-1 might just be the most anticipated synthesizer in the history of mankind. We've already seen just what it's capable of, and now it's starring in its very own music video. Better still, it's inching ever closer to shipping, with a recent newsletter affirming that it's 90 percent complete with respect to functionality. We're also told that it'll ship with a half dozen synthesizer engines and two sampler types, and a beta test is said to be "approaching." The outfit has just received its "golden sample" for the keyboard module, and it's waiting for a few more component suppliers to come through before belting out a final ship date. But hey -- at least you know it'll run $799 / €799, eventually. No time like the present to start pinching those pennies, right?

Continue reading Teenage Engineering OP-1 synthesizer gets priced at $799, can't hold out on us much longer

Teenage Engineering OP-1 synthesizer gets priced at $799, can't hold out on us much longer originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawmidimidi controllerMidiControllermusicmusic makingMusicMakingnammnamm 2010Namm2010op-1synthteenage engineeringTeenageEngineeringvideoMon, 27 Sep 2010 10:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Apples In Stereo man controls his Moog... with his mind! (and you can too)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/apples-in-stereo-man-controls-his-moog-with-his-mind-and-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/apples-in-stereo-man-controls-his-moog-with-his-mind-and-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/apples-in-stereo-man-controls-his-moog-with-his-mind-and-yo/#comments
We thought that our homemade Theremin was difficult to control, but this one is in a different league altogether! The, ahem, brainchild of Apples In Stereo's Robert Schneider, the Teletron takes a Mattel Mindflex game and uses it as a control voltage source for... well, any piece of musical equipment that has a CV input. In the video below, the musician / producer plugs it into a Moog analog synth and increases / decreases the pitch solely with his mind. At least the thing doesn't give you an electric shock when you hit the wrong note! But enough jabberjaw out of us -- see / hear it in action (and get some instructions, if you'd like to build your own) after the break.

Continue reading Apples In Stereo man controls his Moog... with his mind! (and you can too)

Apples In Stereo man controls his Moog... with his mind! (and you can too) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apples in stereoApplesInStereobiofeedbackbraincontrollerhackkidkidsmattelMattel mindflexMattelMindflexmentalmindmindflexmodmoogmusic makingMusicMakingRobert SchneiderRobertSchneidersynthsynthesizerteletrontoytoysTue, 07 Sep 2010 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Low-tech, homebrew Cappuccino synth oscillates wildly (with apologies to Moz)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/24/low-tech-homebrew-cappuccino-synth-oscillates-wildly-with-appo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/24/low-tech-homebrew-cappuccino-synth-oscillates-wildly-with-appo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/24/low-tech-homebrew-cappuccino-synth-oscillates-wildly-with-appo/#comments
If you're the type that eschews traditional instrumentation, the Cappuccino synth may be right up your alley. Instead of the oscillator of your analog synthesizer, our man Gijs simply built a pickup out of a rare earth magnet and 33mH inductor and places it next to things that are... you know, oscillating. Wildly, even. Simple, no? Could be just the thing to get your creative juices flowing the next time you engage in a little Saturday afternoon sound design. To hear what various metallic things sound like as they spin in place, hit up the video after the break.

Continue reading Low-tech, homebrew Cappuccino synth oscillates wildly (with apologies to Moz)

Low-tech, homebrew Cappuccino synth oscillates wildly (with apologies to Moz) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 03:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cappuccinocappuccino synthCappuccinoSynthGijshomebrewhomemadelo-fimodmusicmusic makingMusicMakingsynthvideoTue, 24 Aug 2010 03:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Traktor Kontrol S4 hardware interface set to make the scene this winter]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/traktor-kontrol-s4-hardware-interface-set-to-make-the-scene-this/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/traktor-kontrol-s4-hardware-interface-set-to-make-the-scene-this/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/traktor-kontrol-s4-hardware-interface-set-to-make-the-scene-this/#comments
Native Instruments today announced its new (and first) integrated hardware / software DJ system with a YouTube video wherein DMC World Champ DJ Shiftee rocked out to the Tetris theme and samples from Mike Tyson's Punch Out! (We guess someone knows their target demographic.) Traktor Kontrol S4 promises to take "functionality and control" to the next level with a new version of Traktor Pro that supports the hardware interface's many features, including: looping, cueing, effects, and track browsing controls, two sample decks, touch-sensitive jog wheels, a mixer, and more. Also included is a low-latency 24bit / 96kHz sound card. Available sometime this winter for an MSRP will be $999 (€899). See it in action after the break.

Continue reading Traktor Kontrol S4 hardware interface set to make the scene this winter

Traktor Kontrol S4 hardware interface set to make the scene this winter originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>djdj controllerDjControllerKontrol S4KontrolS4musicmusic makingMusicMakingnative instrumentsNativeInstrumentstraktorTraktor Kontrol S4TraktorKontrolS4videoMon, 16 Aug 2010 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/amplitube-for-ipad-available-yngwie-malmsteen-en-route-to-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/amplitube-for-ipad-available-yngwie-malmsteen-en-route-to-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/22/amplitube-for-ipad-available-yngwie-malmsteen-en-route-to-apple/#comments
Just a quick note for all of you virtual amping enthusiasts: IK Multimedia has announced that the AmpliTube is now available for iPad. As you'd expect, it works with your iRig hardware and the UI seems benefit from the extra screen real estate (let's be honest -- twiddling all those knobs and stomp boxes on the iPod Touch was a little bit much for us to take). It comes in two flavors: free (three effects, one amp, one cab, two mics) or $20 (11 effects, five amps and cabs, two mics). Either way it's cheaper than spending $350 for the OS X version. PR after the break.

Continue reading AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store

AmpliTube for iPad available, Yngwie Malmsteen en route to Apple Store originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amplitubeamplitube irigAmplitubeIrigappleguitarik multimediaIkMultimediaipadirigmusic makingMusicMakingYngwie MalmsteenYngwieMalmsteenThu, 22 Jul 2010 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Drumssette DIY drum machine was once a four track, perfect for your Big Audio Dynamite cover band]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/13/drumssette-diy-drum-machine-was-once-a-four-track-perfect-for-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/13/drumssette-diy-drum-machine-was-once-a-four-track-perfect-for-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/13/drumssette-diy-drum-machine-was-once-a-four-track-perfect-for-y/#comments
This is probably the most charming instrument that we've seen in a long time. It looks great, it's analog, and it's useful despite certain limitations (and, as any musician will tell you, sometimes you need limitations to get the creative juices flowing). Designed and built by Mike Walters (aka Mystery Circuits), the Drumssette is a drum machine derived from an old Tascam four track cassette recorder. It features sampled Roland TR-808 drum hits, a sixteen step sequencer, analog echo and digital delay, clock output for controlling the rhythmic phrasing of an external instrument (allowing it to act like an arpeggiator, except that it controls the phrasing of the note, but not the pitch) and more. It's pretty wild! This guy goes into extreme geeky detail as to the inner workings of this device, which you can see at the Source link if you're so inclined. If not, make sure you check out select videos of the thing in action after the break.

Continue reading Drumssette DIY drum machine was once a four track, perfect for your Big Audio Dynamite cover band

Drumssette DIY drum machine was once a four track, perfect for your Big Audio Dynamite cover band originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analogdiydrum machineDrumMachinedrumssettehackmike waltersMikeWaltersmodmusic makingMusicMakingmyster circuitsMysterCircuitsvideoTue, 13 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Fear Of A Nerd Planet: A Hip Hop Retrospective (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/30/fear-of-a-nerd-planet-a-hip-hop-retrospective-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/30/fear-of-a-nerd-planet-a-hip-hop-retrospective-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/30/fear-of-a-nerd-planet-a-hip-hop-retrospective-video/#comments
Hip Hop has always been a conspiracy between music and technology. Turntables? Gadgets. Samplers? Ditto. From the very beginning, the music was suffused with a sort of science fiction aura, and by 1982 (when Afrika Bambaataa dropped Planet Rock) it could safely be said that "nerdliness" (the state or condition of being a nerd) was embedded in the genre's DNA. Perhaps that's the reason that gadget fans love to compose their own rap videos, celebrating everything from the trackball of the G1 to Best Buy's supremacy over CompUSA. After one popped up today celebrating the Tesla electric car we thought it was a good time to offer you a retrospective of some of our favorite rappin' nerds. Check 'em out for yourself (and annoy your co-workers in the process) after the break. Do you have any that we might have overlooked? Drop 'em into the comments!

Continue reading Fear Of A Nerd Planet: A Hip Hop Retrospective (update)

Fear Of A Nerd Planet: A Hip Hop Retrospective (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesomehip-hopmusicmusic makingMusicMakingnerdrapvideoWed, 30 Jun 2010 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Book review: How To Wreck A Nice Beach: The Vocoder from World War II to Hip-Hop]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/29/book-review-how-to-wreck-a-nice-beach-the-vocoder-from-world-w/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/29/book-review-how-to-wreck-a-nice-beach-the-vocoder-from-world-w/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/29/book-review-how-to-wreck-a-nice-beach-the-vocoder-from-world-w/#comments
How To Wreck A Nice Beach: The Vocoder from World War II to Hip-Hop
by Dave Tompkins (Stop Smiling Books; $35)

World War II increased the rate of human innovation to a pace unseen in any other period of history. New technology from the era includes everything from synthetic rubber to the atomic bomb to magnetic audio tape, which the Germans successfully kept secret until the war's end. After the Nazis fell, Lt. Jack Mullin of the US Army Signal Corps shot footage outside of Hitler's home, grabbed one of the Fuhrer's piano strings for a souvenir, and brought two AEG Magnetophons (along with fifty reels of Farben recording tape) back with him to the states. He then sold a recorder to Bing Crosby, revolutionizing broadcasting and music-making in the process. Another device that made its debut in World War II only to be later adopted by the entertainment industry is the Vocoder.

Speech synthesis was the brainchild of a Bell Labs employee named Homer Dudley. Dudley surmised that human speech consisted of two things: the carrier (the noise that your vocal cords makes) and the formant (the sound formed from the carrier by your mouth, throat, and sinuses). Dudley went on to develop something called the Voder (Voice Operator DEmonstratoR), which used a carrier tone generated by a radio valve and a formant created by hissing air to create artificial speech. Hear a demonstration (and learn about how the Vocoder was used to defeat the Axis powers) after the break.

Continue reading Book review: How To Wreck A Nice Beach: The Vocoder from World War II to Hip-Hop

Book review: How To Wreck A Nice Beach: The Vocoder from World War II to Hip-Hop originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookbook reviewBookReviewcold warColdWardave tompkinsDaveTompkinsdefenseelectrofunkhip hopHipHopHow To Wreck A Nice BeachHow To Wreck A Nice Beach: The Vocoder from World War II to Hip-HowToWreckANiceBeachHowToWreckANiceBeach:TheVocoderFromWorldWarIiToHip-hopkraftwerkmusicmusic makingMusicMakingsigsalyu.s. armyu.s. army signal corpsU.s.ArmyU.s.ArmySignalCorpsvocodervoderTue, 29 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eigenharp Alpha's biggest fan pens 11,000 word guide]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/eigenharp-alphas-biggest-fan-pens-11-000-word-guide/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/eigenharp-alphas-biggest-fan-pens-11-000-word-guide/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/eigenharp-alphas-biggest-fan-pens-11-000-word-guide/#comments Earlier this month, lucky musician Geert unboxed an Eigenharp Alpha for the whole world to see. Now he's jotted down a few thoughts on the 132-key digital instrument... oh hell, let's just call it a primer. Calling out years of musical study as proof he knows what he's talking about, the man delves into enough detail about the mind-blowing multi-instrument machine to teach Eigenharp 101. If you want to know whether dropping £3,995 on the musical creature would be worth your while, you'll find all you need to know at the source link, but be aware the sheer complexity here may serve to daunt some would-be casual learners. If you need to regain your enthusiasm afterwards though, there's no quicker way than watching an Eigenharp jam session -- we recorded one at the company's London HQ, and you'll find it after the break.

Continue reading Eigenharp Alpha's biggest fan pens 11,000 word guide

Eigenharp Alpha's biggest fan pens 11,000 word guide originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaaudioeigenharpEigenharp alphaEigenharpAlphaelectronic musicElectronicMusicinstrumentinstrumentsmusicmusic makingmusicalmusical instrumentmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentMusicalInstrumentsMusicMakingTue, 22 Jun 2010 22:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew MIDI controller takes performance to a new, flashier level (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/homebrew-midi-controller-takes-performance-to-a-new-flashier-le/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/homebrew-midi-controller-takes-performance-to-a-new-flashier-le/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/11/homebrew-midi-controller-takes-performance-to-a-new-flashier-le/#comments
While programs like Ableton Live have truly democratized electronic music making, most hardware interfaces can't hold a candle style-wise to traditional instruments (or even the MIDI gear of the Awesome 80s). Rather than merely bemoan this depressing fact, however, a musician from Zurich named Zander Ander has built his own controller -- and it's truly a thing of beauty. Based on the uCApps.de MIDI hardware platform, this thing employs custom acrylic knobs, colored LEDs, and a whole bunch of buttons to bring his DAW controls into the real world -- while kicking the ass of controllers like AKAI's APC40 in the process. But don't take our word for it! Check it out for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Homebrew MIDI controller takes performance to a new, flashier level (video)

Homebrew MIDI controller takes performance to a new, flashier level (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anderdiyelectronic musicElectronicMusichomebrewmidimidi controllerMidiControllermusic makingMusicMakingvideoZurichFri, 11 Jun 2010 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Franz K's iTar transforms your iPad into a keytar, puts shame in your game (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/franz-ks-itar-transforms-your-ipad-into-a-keytar-puts-shame-in/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/franz-ks-itar-transforms-your-ipad-into-a-keytar-puts-shame-in/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/franz-ks-itar-transforms-your-ipad-into-a-keytar-puts-shame-in/#comments
You can say that we're a sucker for a ridiculous video -- such as the one recently provided for us by a certain VJ named Franz K. The unholy spawn of Jerry Only and that ShamWow! guy, his latest creation is called the Mantaray iTar. Essentially it's an iPad dock with a shoulder strap, but wait -- there's more! You can also mount effects processors (such as the Korg Kaoss pad), essentially transforming your tablet into a kludgey keytar. As our man says, "gadget music is the new punk rock!" But seriously, Franz -- do you expect us to pay $225 for the privilege of performing with iElectribe? Either way, this video must be seen to be believed. Peep for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Franz K's iTar transforms your iPad into a keytar, puts shame in your game (video)

Franz K's iTar transforms your iPad into a keytar, puts shame in your game (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleelecronic musicElecronicMusicfranz kFranzKipadipad dockIpadDockitarkeytarmantaraymantaray itarMantarayItarmusic makingMusicMakingvideoThu, 10 Jun 2010 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Eigenharp Alpha unboxed by one lucky musician (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/08/eigenharp-alpha-unboxed-by-one-lucky-musician-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/08/eigenharp-alpha-unboxed-by-one-lucky-musician-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/08/eigenharp-alpha-unboxed-by-one-lucky-musician-video/#comments
Dudes. DUDES. We know of at least one very happy electronic musician out there, as our pal Geert has finally got his hands on a £3,995 (roughly $5,760) Eigenharp Alpha. As you'd expect from something so pricey, it comes with a number of well-made accessories, including: a stand manufactured by K&M especially for the instrument, laptop / gig bag, cables, and a case. Jealous much? We know we are. Peep the video after the break.

Continue reading Eigenharp Alpha unboxed by one lucky musician (video)

Eigenharp Alpha unboxed by one lucky musician (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaeigenharpeigenharp alphaEigenharpAlphaelectronic musicElectronicMusicmusicmusic makingMusicMakingvideoTue, 08 Jun 2010 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[App review: Propellerheads ReBirth 1.1 for iPhone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/propellerheads-rebirth-for-iphone-1-1-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/propellerheads-rebirth-for-iphone-1-1-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/31/propellerheads-rebirth-for-iphone-1-1-review/#comments
As you're no doubt well aware, music geekdom and gadget geekdom go hand in hand. When they combine in a single device or app, however, the results can be magical. That's why we usually end up trying every music making app out there at some point or another. Indeed, we just received word that Rebirth for iPhone version 1.1 has just been released, and decided to take it for a spin. Promising new mods and some bug fixes, it's compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad (iPhone OS 3.1 or later). But how does it fare as a music-making tool? And is it worth the whopping $6.99? Read on after the break to find out.

Gallery: ReBirth 1.1 for iPhone screenshots

Continue reading App review: Propellerheads ReBirth 1.1 for iPhone

App review: Propellerheads ReBirth 1.1 for iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 May 2010 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappleipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmusic makingMusicMakingPropellerheadsrebirthreviewMon, 31 May 2010 17:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Floppy drives, Arduino board mangled into audio delay effects (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/27/floppy-drives-arduino-board-mangled-into-audio-delay-effects-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/27/floppy-drives-arduino-board-mangled-into-audio-delay-effects-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/27/floppy-drives-arduino-board-mangled-into-audio-delay-effects-v/#comments
If you're a DIY music hardware developer, there's a pretty good chance you're familiar with the charms of the Arduino. In this space alone we've seen it used for everything from controlling Max/MSP effects to an entire robot band. The above jumble of parts, however, might be our fave yet. Part of an ongoing project by a certain Daniel McAnulty, the Floppy Audio website details the use of the magnetic media inside a floppy disk for looping analog audio. The most ambitious of the lot even combines three floppy disk drives and the aforementioned Arduino to create a continuous tape delay effect! Things are still really rough, but he does have working prototypes, and he's not at all shy about sharing his methods and results with the rest of the world -- so feel free to hit the source link to get started yourself! If you're not the type to get your hands dirty, at least peep the videos after the break.

Continue reading Floppy drives, Arduino board mangled into audio delay effects (video)

Floppy drives, Arduino board mangled into audio delay effects (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analog delayanalog reverbAnalogDelayAnalogReverbaudio effectsAudioEffectsDaniel McAnultyDanielMcanultydelaydiyfloppy audioFloppyAudiohackmodmusicmusic makingMusicMakingreverbvideoTue, 27 Apr 2010 12:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Crazed turntablists transform sneakers into sound controllers, righteous beats result (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/16/crazed-turntablists-transform-sneakers-into-sound-controllers-r/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/16/crazed-turntablists-transform-sneakers-into-sound-controllers-r/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/16/crazed-turntablists-transform-sneakers-into-sound-controllers-r/#comments
We're generally quite wary of any video meant to "go viral" and "sell a lot of shoes" (or sell a lot of whatever), but from time to time something comes along and cracks our jaded shell. Case in point: the new Japanese campaign for Nike's Free Run+ running shoes sees experimental musician / DJ Daito Manabe and co. bangin' out a tune with the company's newest. The kicks are outfitted with flex sensors (which change resistance when bent), allowing some impressive control of effects via Max/MSP and Ableton Max for Live. Have you ever wanted to hear a hip-hop version of Thus Spoke Zarathustra? How about one performed on running shoes? You're in luck -- we got it for you after the break.

Continue reading Crazed turntablists transform sneakers into sound controllers, righteous beats result (video)

Crazed turntablists transform sneakers into sound controllers, righteous beats result (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abletonableton liveAbletonLivecontrollerfree run+freen run+FreenRun+FreeRun+maxmspmusic makingMusicMakingnikenike free run +NikeFreeRun+sound controllerSoundControllervideoFri, 16 Apr 2010 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Turn your iPad into a MIDI controller in 3,700 easy steps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/07/turn-your-ipad-into-a-midi-controller-in-3-700-easy-steps/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/07/turn-your-ipad-into-a-midi-controller-in-3-700-easy-steps/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/07/turn-your-ipad-into-a-midi-controller-in-3-700-easy-steps/#comments
It was only a matter of time before someone took a look at that 9.7-inch display and decided they wanted to do some serious dancefloor damage with it. Not to be outdone by the likes of Looptastic HD or iElectribe, our man Ryan Noise (dot com) has just posted a video detailing his experiments with the iPad as MIDI controller and, as long as you don't have your heart set on your instrument providing some sort of tactile response, it looks like things are working out pretty well. Using a combination of the TouchOSC open sound control app, Osculator, a Python script, and Ableton Live 8, we've seen this basic setup before: the iPad (or iPhone, or iPod touch) sends open sound commands to the Mac, which translates them into MIDI commands for your instrument / DAW of choice. But why read when you can watch? Peep the video after the break for the gist, and hit that source link for technical details.

Continue reading Turn your iPad into a MIDI controller in 3,700 easy steps

Turn your iPad into a MIDI controller in 3,700 easy steps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abletonableton liveAbletonLiveappleinstrumentipadlivemidimidi controllerMidiControllermusicmusic makingMusicMakingopen sound controlOpenSoundControlosculatorryan noiseRyanNoisetouchoscWed, 07 Apr 2010 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/#comments
If you're looking for a product designed to "transform novices" (that is, you) into "the next generation DJ" (that is, Sven Vath) you're in luck: Pioneer has just announced a CD deck / mixer combo that includes the usual compliment of features (looping capabilities, a visual beat display, BPM lock, so on, and so forth) as well as some computer-friendly touches, including MIDI integration -- allowing you to use either as a control surface for your fave DJ software. The CDJ will also play music off your thumb drive, and the mixer itself accepts external USB storage device for saving your mixes as WAV files. Sure, in our day all one needed were two turntables and a crossfader to rock the party -- but that was a long time ago, kids. The CDJ-350 and DJM-350 will be available in June 2010 for $850 and $750, respectively. We've only scratched the surface here, however -- peep the PR below for all the vital details.

Continue reading Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage

Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDCD deckCdDeckCDJCDJ-350DJM-350mixermusic makingMusicMakingpioneerpro audioProAudioFri, 26 Mar 2010 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Korg debuts pocket-sized Monotron analog synth, and we want it (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/24/korg-debuts-pocket-sized-monotron-analog-synth-and-we-want-it/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/24/korg-debuts-pocket-sized-monotron-analog-synth-and-we-want-it/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/24/korg-debuts-pocket-sized-monotron-analog-synth-and-we-want-it/#comments
Don't take this the wrong way -- we're glad to be in Las Vegas with all our friends at CTIA, playing with new handsets from Samsung and Motorola. But as you know, we also love us some new music gear, especially when it sounds good -- so we wouldn't exactly mind being in Frankfurt for Musikmesse right now, either. Currently on display at Korg's booth, Monotron is a two AAA-powered, pocket-sized analog synth featuring a ribbon keyboard, VCO, VCF, and LFO controls, and the same analog filter found in the Korg MS-10 and MS-20 -- and it sounds great. Check it out in the gallery below and in the video after the break to see / hear the thing in action. Look for it in May for about $67.

Gallery: Monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer

Continue reading Korg debuts pocket-sized Monotron analog synth, and we want it (video)

Korg debuts pocket-sized Monotron analog synth, and we want it (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analoganalog synthAnalogSynthkorgmonotronmusic makingmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentsMusicMakingSynthesizerWed, 24 Mar 2010 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[One man band rocks the iPod touch, rescues the MIDI clarinet from obscurity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/12/one-man-band-rocks-the-ipod-touch-rescues-the-midi-clarinet-fro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/12/one-man-band-rocks-the-ipod-touch-rescues-the-midi-clarinet-fro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/12/one-man-band-rocks-the-ipod-touch-rescues-the-midi-clarinet-fro/#comments
We've seen blow-hard electronic music makers in the past (one particular didgeridoo hack comes to mind) but still, when one makes us take note we feel like we just have to pass it along. Onyx Ashanti is an American living in Berlin and a one-man band to boot. His instrument of choice is a Yamaha MIDI wind controller for triggering audio and the TouchOSC app for iPod touch for controlling PureData audio processing. And the music he makes from the two is pretty, pretty wild... see for yourself after the break.

Continue reading One man band rocks the iPod touch, rescues the MIDI clarinet from obscurity

One man band rocks the iPod touch, rescues the MIDI clarinet from obscurity originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iPodipod touchIpodTouchmusicmusic makingMusicMakingone man bandOneManBandOnyx AshantiOnyxAshantiPureDatatouchoscyamaha ox5YamahaOx5Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:41:00 EST