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The second-gen iZotope Spire Studio is a big improvement at a big cost
If you liked the original Spire portable studio from iZotope, you'll love the second generation. But be warned, the solid upgrades come at a price.
Shure's $249 MV7 is a USB/XLR microphone built for podcasters
Shure's MV7 is its first microphone with USB and XLR interfaces. It's a clear play for podcasters and streamers who can't justify Shure's popular SM7B.
Blue's latest microphone gives streamers an XLR option
With the rise of livestreaming, easy-to-use audio gear has become a staple among YouTubers, podcasters and more. Blue has been catering to that group for a while now with its line of plug-and-play USB microphones, but at CES 2019 the company has a new XLR option aimed at streamers and professional recording environments. The Blue Ember is a $100 mic that's designed to cut down on background noise thanks to its "tight pickup pattern." Basically, the cardioid pattern of the microphone focuses on what's right in front of it to minimize any room noise.
Zoom's H5 brings high-quality audio recording to budget-minded pros
Are you serious about capturing high-quality audio away from a studio, but not so serious that you need a do-everything recorder like Zoom's H6? You'll want to look into the company's newly unveiled H5, then. While it should match the H6's audio quality and can use the same stereo microphone add-ons, it ditches two of the XLR /TLS combo inputs in the name of cost; you'll also find a monochrome display in lieu of the H6's color panel. The H5 has an analog output for backup recordings, and you can add two more XLR/TLS inputs through a module if your ambition ever grows. Launch details aren't available just yet, but we'd expect the new handheld's pricing to slot in between the $299 H4n and the $399 H6.
Samson Expedition Express PA does Bluetooth and XLR, ships this month for $200
It's been a while since we've looked at enhanced PA speakers, and one of the last big hitters in the category was a little ostentatious. Samson's new Expedition Express keeps things a little lower-key. The one-piece system will take both Bluetooth audio as well as quarter-inch and XLR instrument inputs, but it's subtle enough to feel at home at both the beach and the boardroom. It's also more portable than others -- the small, 10-pound box should be easier to shlep around and lasts a reasonable eight hours on its rechargeable battery. The Expedition Express won't be cheap when it ships this month for $200, and it certainly won't make up for our ham-fisted guitar skills. It might, however, be a solid choice for a backyard party soundtrack.
Focusrite launches Forte, 24-bit / 192kHz portable audio interface (video)
If you like your audio interfaces with added "on-the-go," then the new Forte from Focusrite might be worthy of your attention. The two-input four-output device has two remote control preamps with 24-bit 192kHz analog / digital converters. If you are worried that the pocket-friendly form means less space for meters etc, fear not, as an OLED display with on-screen buttons provides visual feedback, along with control over levels and even some software (DAW) parameters. There's a breakout cable included, and dedicated control software (PC and Mac) so even your devices with XLR connections will get a look in, while the aluminum casing should hold it all together nicely -- not to mention make it look pretty. How much you ask? That'd be £399 / $600 when it lands in stores in October. Promo video after the break.
Sony HXR-NX30 camcorder: built-in projector, 96GB storage for $2,500 (video)
Don't worry, lone gunslingers, today isn't just about the NEX-FS700. Sony's pro range has also been bolstered with the HXR-NX30 for videographers who need to travel light. This model sacrifices interchangeable lenses in favor of a palm-friendly form factor with a 26mm-260mm (35mm equivalent) Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T fixed lens. The camera sports Sony's 'Balanced Optical SteadyShot' technology, which means both the lens and the sensor assembly are floated as a single element to minimize camera shake. Unlike that of the larger NEX-VG20, the HXR-NX30's sensor is shrunken too: it's an Exmor R CMOS that's only slightly larger than 1/3-inch. The North American NX30U variant handles 1920 x 1080 at 60p, 30p and 24p, as well as 60i and 720/60p, stored as AVCHD on the camera's 96GB of internal memory. A detachable XLR unit takes care of pro-quality audio. Weirdly, the HXR-NX30 even houses a built-in projector that plays back 100-inch footage from a distance of 16 feet. It's an interesting feature, but will it be worth its weight? Further specs and a promo video await after the break.
Sony to launch NEX-FS700E 4K cinema camera for $9,000 at NAB?
What would you pay for the ability to capture cinema quality 4K video? $36,000? $18,000? Try $9,000. That's the expected price of Sony's rumored NEX-FS700E, which could launch at NAB next month with a June ship date. EOSHD reports that the camera will pipe 4K video to a dedicated external recorder over 3G HD-SDI. It will reportedly use the same NEX E-mount as its predecessor, the FS100, and may include a trio of neutral density filters to increase versatility. We haven't been able to track down an image of the rumored cinema cam (the model in that image above looks identical to the FS100), but we wouldn't be surprised to see another detail or two leak out before the broadcast community's annual Vegas gathering kicks off in a little over two weeks. For its part, Canon is also expected to announce a 4K EOS-format DSLR at NAB, as a less-expensive alternative to the $16,000 C300, while RED's Scarlet already has 4K capabilities, and a $9,000 price tag.[Thanks, Andrew]
MOTU sneaks in MicroBook II post-NAMM, ships this Spring for $269
Looking to add some muscle to your mobile recording kit? MOTU waited to pull the curtain back on the MicroBook II until after NAMM, revealing a revamped portable audio interface for those who fancy tracking on-the-go. The studio-quality kit plays nice with both Mac and PC, offering a compact 4-input / 6-output, bus-powered recording option with 96kHz recording and playback support. Sporting inputs for mics (XLR), guitar, keyboard and powered speakers, the MicroBook II connects to your computer of choice via USB 2.0 and boasts on-board volume controls. All four inputs can be recorded simultaneously while internal CueMix tech allows for a unique stereo mix for each output pair. Speaking of outputs, the diminutive box houses six of said channels alongside TRS 1/4-inch, stereo mini, S/PDIF, and 1/4-inch headphone offerings. You'll have to wait until Spring to snag one, but for now hit the PR after the break for a full list of specs.
iRig Pre makes iOS device a pre-amp
IK Multimedia is always coming out with new ways for musicians to use their iOS devices to assist in performing or recording. Now the company has introduced the iRig PRE, a mic preamp designed to let you use standard XLR mics with your iPhone or iPad. The unit (US$39.99) won't be available until the early part of the second quarter of 2012, but when it's finally in the hands of music makers everywhere, they'll enjoy the features of the iRig PRE. It's powered by a standard 9V battery, and can amp up a dynamic mic for up to 40 hours or a condenser mic for up to 15 hours. The dongle, which plugs into the headset port on your device, also has a 3.5 mm jack for monitoring your music, auto gain control, and the aforementioned XLR jack. IK Multimedia plans to ship iRig Recorder and VocaLive with the PRE, so if you're not already an owner of these apps you'll get a nice bonus. The full scoop from IK Multimedia is hidden below -- push the button, Frank. Show full PR text IK Multimedia presents iRig PRE The universal microphone interface for iPhone/iPod touch/iPad January 2012 – IK Multimedia is proud to present iRig™ PRE, the ultimate solution for connecting any type of microphone – from regular stage microphones to expensive studio models – to any iPhone, iPhone touch or iPad providing access to the widest range of recording applications. iRig PRE is the first 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 for 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). And like the entire range of iRig accessories, it's highly portable thanks to its pocket-sized form factor for recording anywhere. iRig PRE features -40 cm (15.75") TRRS cable to connect to any iOS device headset jack -XLR input connector for microphones -Gain control -+48 V phantom power -Headphone output -On/Off switch -Power/Phantom Power provided by 9V battery -Battery life is approximately 40 hours with dynamic microphones and 15 hours with phantom powered condenser studio microphones. Pricing and availability iRig PRE costs only $39.99/€29.99 (excluding taxes) and will be available in early Q2 2012 from electronic and music retailers around the world.
Line6 introduces StageScape visual mixer, lets you touch it up to eleven
It might seem like we've gone mixer mad around here, but with a huge music trade-show starting this week, it's no surprise there's a pile of new tech on offer. The StageScape M20d visual mixer from Line 6 being one such example. Of course, we have inputs (12 line / mic, four line-only, and two for USB/SD streaming) and outputs (four XLR monitors, two master) all strummed along by internal 32-bit floating-point processing. What piqued our interest, however, was that seven inch screen you see up there. Rather than fumble over a mash of faders, you thumb the instrument's icon to pull up its parameters. Other features include Kaossilator style X-Y multi-parameter control, and color coded pots -- presumably so you don't kill the guitar solo by mistake. A final flourish is remote control via an iPad, for mid-track sound tweaks -- though you might need one of these. Tap the PR after the break for more info.
Sing hello to the iRig PRE, turns iOS devices into on-the-fly mic preamps
IK Multimedia's never fallen short of giving you some of the better tools for all your on-the-go music-making utilizing your beloved iOS device as the main rig. Now, the peripheral connoisseur's taking the wraps off its iRig PRE, which aims to help you digitally process those glorious vocal chords by allowing you to plug in any XLR mic into it without the need for other adapters or cables. Furthermore, the dongle features a 3.5mm jack for audio monitoring, gain control and can squeeze a runtime of up to 40 hours (dynamic microphones) or 15 hours (phantom powered condenser mics) from a standard 9V battery. The PRE amp will also come included with two of iRig's usual suspect apps (iRig Recorder and VocaLive) to help you get started in your quest to be the next idol. We know you can't wait to get your singing on, but you'll have to wait until "early Q2" to do so, for a moderate price of $39.99 -- perhaps the iRig Mic can get you through the days in the meantime.
Pioneer's new DJM-250 budget mixer tries not to fade your balance
Sure, two turntables and a microphone might be where it's at, but you'll only get so far before you wish you had a mixer plonked in the middle. Makers of high end DJ finery, Pioneer, has just added a member to its exhaustive family, the DJM-250, and the sweetest sound it makes is the chuckle of a happy bank manager. Landing in at just a dollar shy of $400, the aforesaid outfit reckons it's the cheapest two-channel mixer on the market that boasts channel filters, for those silky smooth transitions. Aside from those, you'll enjoy up to eight inputs and club-system friendly balanced XLR outs, and a choice of two colors -- black and white! A December release date means it's likely to find it's way into a few Christmas stockings, though fans of white will have to wait just a little longer. Give the PR a bounce or watch the promo video after the break for more.
Sony NEX-FS100 review
We've been uncommonly keen to get our hands on the Sony NEX-FS100 ever since we first heard about it back in March. You see, this is no ordinary camcorder. Its spec sheet reads like a liturgy of filmmakers' prayers: a large Super 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor, interchangeable lenses, XLR inputs and proper, professional controls. Sure, it comes with a $6,600 price tag to match, but it also heralds a trend that should ultimately benefit pros and ordinary gadget denizens alike: the arrival of big, bold DSLR-style optics within dedicated camcorders. How do these optics effect the quality of the NEX-FS100's footage? Plant yourself somewhere comfortable and click past the break to find out. %Gallery-129298%
Samson's Q2U microphone does USB and XLR on a budget
Sure, there are a variety of ways to get your high-end XLR audio onto your PC, but the solutions we've seen before haven't been cheap. Shure's dual-purpose mics cost up to $250 and while the Icicle adapter is only $60, it's a strictly BYO microphone affair. Samson's $89 Q2U package includes all you'll need to become a podcasting wunderkind, most important being the mic itself, which comes with both XLR and USB cables. It also features an integrated 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring, includes a set of studio headphones, and even comes with a tripod so that you can wildly gesticulate while expressing your fury about the Dollhouse cancellation -- even if your 23 subscribers can't see you. It's all available now, so stop popping your P's and get with the ordering already. %Gallery-79474%
Shure wants to bring microphones to your USB port
Whether you choose a direct USB microphone or you're an audio-specialist XLR type, Shure has you covered on getting that audio routed to your computer's USB port. The PG27USB and PG42USB are direct-to-USB condenser microphones with a cardiod pickup pattern -- pick the $199 PG27USB for a flat response or the $249 PG42USB if vocals are your thing. Like we've seen from other devices, the $129 X2u will marry your favorite XLR-type mic to your USB port with zero-latency, phantom power and headphone monitoring. The Shure name is well-trusted in microphones, but check the full details after the break if you're still not, um, sure.
RED teases again with exposed ports
We've less than a week before RED announces something special on November 13th, but it's not letting you creep any closer to that magical day without two more teases (one after the break) beforehand. As it's already done on a number of occasions, RED's Jim Jannard has posted up a new duo of teasers of the purported DSMC (Digital Still & Motion Camera) DSLR, this time showing off a number of ports that you're surely anxious to slip your connectors into. Oh please, get your mind out of the gutter.
Blue Microphone presents the Icicle XLR to USB audio interface
To be honest, we were a little skeptical when we first saw Blue Microphone's Icicle. Isn't the USB audio adapter a little played out? But after a quick look at the specs our inner audiophiles came away quite interested. This XLR-to-USB audio interface offers 48V phantom power, an analog preamp with gain control and it should work with any of your favorite XLR mics. At 16-bit / 44.1kHz sound quality this device isn't going to replace any of your serious studio gear, but if you ever find yourself looking for a quick and easy way to grab audio with a condenser mic (and who hasn't?) this should do the trick nicely. Available sometime in December for a suggested retail price of $60.
Bryston's hand-assembled BCD-1 CD player
You read that headline right, CD player. No SACD, DVD, and certainly no format war-bickering HD DVD or Blu-ray. Just the most "perfect sound forever" Redbook audio the Canadians at Bryston can deliver. This player has high-end pedigree: premium DAC's, separate analog and digital power supplies, discrete op-amp Class A analog stage, and the usual output jacks + XLR and AES/EBU. If all the nuts and bolts in the kit aren't enough to let you know you've got a high-end piece of gear, then the 18 pounds of heft will. A cool $2395 puts the last CD player you'll ever need to buy in your rig.
