Native Instruments releases RADIANT HORIZON MASCHINE Expansion

Berlin, December 8, 2016 – Native Instruments today introduced RADIANT HORIZON – a new MASCHINE Expansion featuring percussive and effect-focused kits with sounds tailored to contemporary urban pop productions rooted in trap, moombahton, and bass music. The expansion focuses on diverse and easily interchangeable Caribbean-inspired rhythms as a backbone for bass-driven, forward-thinking pop. RADIANT HORIZON runs in the latest MASCHINE software on the entire MASCHINE hardware family and is available exclusively at the NI Online Shop. A compact version for iMASCHINE is also available via the iMASCHINE in-app store.

Created in collaboration with acclaimed UK sound designers Capsun ProAudio, RADIANT HORIZON provides a distinct fusion of expertly crafted drums, sub-basses, guitars, pitched vocals, and more – all sounds designed with the characteristic warmth of contemporary energized urban pop. The expansion includes a foundation of 50 exclusive Construction and Sound FX kits that make both rhythmic and melodic experimentation intuitive and easy – producers can load any kit and access detailed sound parameters in real time, providing a varied canvas for instant rhythmic and sonic variation. And 50 exclusive presets for the beloved MASSIVE and MONARK synths include powerful bass, lead, and accompaniment sounds that perfectly complements the modern sound signature of the drums and percussion included in the expansion.

Accompanying RADIANT HORIZON, Native Instruments has teamed up with finger drumming tuition app Melodics™ to bring NI customers an exclusive set of free lessons based on samples from the expansion. Users interested in honing their technique on the pads can get access by download Melodics™ and entering the promo code RADIANT-HORIZON during setup.

A compact version of RADIANT HORIZON is also available as an iMASCHINE Expansion, for creating beats on the go. Tracks can be exported to MASCHINE STUDIO, MASCHINE JAM, MASCHINE, and MASCHINE MIKRO for completion.

RADIANT HORIZON is available now at the NI Online Shop for $49 / 49 € / £44 / ¥ 6,280 / AU$ 79 and runs in the MASCHINE 2 software.

The iMASCHINE expansion is available at the iMASCHINE in-app store for $0.99 / 0,99 € / £0.79 / ¥ 120 / AU$ 1.29.

Additional information on RADIANT HORIZON is available at:
www.native-instruments.com/radianthorizon

Additional information on Capsun Pro Audio is available at:
www.capsunproaudio.com

The free Melodics™ fingerdrumming lessons are available at:
www.melodics.com/partners/ni/radiant-horizon

IK Multimedia announces and ships iRig Nano Amp - the versatile micro amp with a built-in iOS interface

iRig Nano Amp is an ultra-portable, battery-powered micro guitar amplifier and interface for iPhone and iPad that gives guitar and bass players access to unlimited tones in a compact, self-contained 3-watt amplifier that can drive up to a 4x12" guitar cab

December 8, 2016 - IK Multimedia once again redefines a product category for guitarists with the newly released iRig Nano Amp - the versatile micro amp with a built-in iOS interface. iRig Nano Amp gives players both a standalone portable guitar amplifier PLUS an interface that lets them plug their guitar into an iPhone or iPad and use AmpliTube for iOS to access an unlimited and inspirational world of guitar tones on the go. iRig Nano Amp is available now from IK Multimedia and music and electronics retailers around the world.

The first micro amp and interface for mobile guitarists
iRig Nano Amp is a super-compact, battery-powered, self-contained micro amp and interface for iOS that players can use by itself, with headphones or even an external speaker cabinet - this power-packed amazing little amp can drive up to a 4x12" guitar cab! But what makes it more versatile than any other micro amp available is that it features the iRig circuitry so that guitarists can plug their iPhone or iPad into it with the included TRRS cable and tap into the limitless world of AmpliTube guitar tone and more.

Dual Mode Operation - AMP/DEVICE 
What makes iRig Nano Amp so unique is that it operates in two different modes: AMP & DEVICE. In AMP mode it's a standalone amp for impromptu practice anywhere. In DEVICE mode it's used as an interface and amp for an iOS device. Plus, in both modes players can use the built-in speaker or hook up an external speaker cabinet - up to a 4x12" cab - for more volume and tonal clarity.

Glitchmachines - FRACTURE XT

Fracture XT is a patchable glitch processor designed to facilitate the creation of mind-bending malfunctions, contorted articulations and evolving digital textures. FXT is based on our free & critically acclaimed Fracture plugin, and builds on its strengths with the addition of a new granular processor as well as improved buffer, delay and multi-mode filter algorithms. FXT features four flexible LFO’s with various waveshapes, the ability sync to your host’s clock, run at very slow rates and feed multiple modulation targets simultaneously. Add to this a patchable modulation matrix and extensive randomization options, and you get a worthy evolution of one of our most popular plugins.

Our new grains processor makes it possible to create anything from moody drones to pointillist electronic patterns and beyond. Randomize the night away or get surgical and craft articulate patches with care. Process anything from drum and percussion sequences to synth lines, sound effects and real-time input from your hardware synths, drum machines and noise boxes. FXT’s intuitive interface and diverse features make it simple to give your projects a unique technical edge. FXT features 105 factory presets from Ivo Ivanov, Alex Retsis and Stephan Bobinger. From mellow dub delays to dense holographic grain clouds, FXT brings a broad range of exciting effects to your sonic toolbox.
FRACTURE XT is available now for $29

http://www.glitchmachines.com/products/fxt

IK Multimedia releases iKlip Grip Pro - the pro-quality 4-in-1 tripod and video handle for iPhone

The new iKlip Grip Pro provides users with a compact, secure and stable way to hold any iPhone or compact action video camera to capture photos and videos on the go

December 6, 2016 - IK Multimedia, a leading manufacturer of hardware, accessories, apps and software for iPhone, iPad and Mac, is pleased to announce the availability of the new iKlip Grip Pro - the professional quality 4-in-1 tripod and handle for capturing professional photos and video on the go with any iPhone or compact action video camera. iKlip Grip Pro lets users securely hold their iPhones while using the stand as a compact tabletop tripod, a video handle, a monopod or as a standard tripod adapter. iKlip Grip Pro features an integrated, all-in-one compact design that provides the highest level of convenience for capturing media on the go.

Ultimate Control and stability for the best shots
iKlip Grip Pro is the new large-grip, compact multifunctional iPhone and camera stand with an integrated detachable Bluetooth shutter control that is really 4 accessories in one: super secure tabletop tripod, large-grip video handler, monopod handler and standard tripod adapter. iKlip Grip Pro can securely hold any iPhone with or without a case, and features a standard mounting system for connecting small mobile video cameras like GoPro®, compact digital cameras and stand-mount audio field recorders. iKlip Grip Pro features a large, ergonomic handle that expands into a sturdy tripod, an integrated locking extension pole that extends up to 62 cm (24") for getting those "above the crowd" shots and selfies, plus a detachable Bluetooth shutter control for remote shooting.

Firm Grip - Securely holds any iPhone The secret to iKlip Grip lies in its ingenious expandable and secure holding bracket that allows users to precisely position their iPhone, with or without a case, at any angle for capturing photos, video and audio. iKlip Grip Pro features an expandable spring-loaded soft-touch rubber bracket that provides secure superior holding power. Repositioning an iPhone is as simple as expanding the brackets to release the iPhone, then re-securing it. Firm Support - the tabletop tripod iKlip Grip Pro features a new large ergonomic handle design that is super comfortable for most hand sizes. The new larger grip is perfect for stabilizing video and capturing "blur free" photos, especially in zoom modes. The handle base also can be transformed into a compact tabletop tripod for positioning on any relatively level surface for ultra-steady media capture. The trick lies in its ingeniously designed locking mechanism - when closed and locked, iKlip Grip Pro is a handle suited for most "handler" tasks like selfies or ultra-steady video shooting on the go. But when unlocked, the handle's three legs fold out to form a firm and sturdy tabletop tripod that is ultra-secure and steady. In tripod mode, users can easily shoot steady video and photos from a single location, or use the front-facing camera for hands-free FaceTime™ video chat or live broadcasts like Facebook Live, SnapChat or Periscope productions.

Firm Extension
iKlip Grip Pro also features an integrated ultra-stable, locking 4-segment telescopic extension pole. At any time users can simply unlock the pole and extend it to their desired length, up to a max of 63 cm (24.8"). And since the pole is integrated into the design, no additional assembly is required. The pole extension is perfect for the distant "selfie", but also ideal for getting "above the crowd" for audience-less band shots, closer-than-they-appear shots and anything in between. The extender also works in tripod mode so users can position an iPhone or compact camera at the perfect distance above the tabletop.

Pivoting 360° Positioning
iKlip Grip Pro has a pivoting ball-joint attachment point that provides a full 90° angle adjustment plus 360° rotation capabilities for freely positioning an iPhone in any orientation. This allows users to get just the right angle and position for that perfect shot.

Remote Control
iKlip Grip Pro comes with an integrated yet removable Bluetooth smartphone shutter remote control that lets users wirelessly activate the shutter button in video and photo apps. A holder clip on the handle provides "one handed" thumb-activated shutter control. When using iKlip Grip Pro as a table top tripod, the shutter control easily detaches for capturing shots remotely. The Bluetooth shutter control is universally compatible with iOS 5.0 and above and can be operated up to 10 meters away.

Tripod Adapter
When the spring-loaded iPhone holder is removed from the iKlip Grip Pro, users have two additional uses - a standard UNC ¼" 20 universal tripod and handle for small digital cameras and action video cameras, and a secure grip iPhone holder that can be used on standard tripods. This is convenient for capturing stills and video with an iPhone when a more professional tripod is needed in more challenging situations, and using iKlip Grip Pro with compact action cameras or field recorders.

Pricing and availability
iKlip Grip Pro is available now from Apple Online and Retail Stores worldwide and from the IK online store for only $/€59.99 (excluding taxes).

For more information, please visit:
www.ikmultimedia.com/iklipgrippro

Find iKlip Grip Pro at an Apple Store near you:
www.ikmultimedia.com/iklipgrippro/buy

Player Demand for Greater Musical Expression Fuels Five-Year Growth of Analog Synthesizers

-Analog synth market sees nearly 20% growth in total retail sales since 2010-

CARLSBAD, Calif. – December 6, 2016 – Following three decades of digital interfaces and sampler dominance, a new generation of musicians desiring a return to warm, pure sounds are fueling a resurgence in analog synthesizer retail sales. In the past five years alone, Moog Inc., Korg USA Inc., WMD and other brands who will present their synths and electronic products at the 2017 global music products NAMM Show, have helped drive the analog synth market to a 19.9% growth in total retail sales.

The data, provided by 2016 NAMM Global Report, underscores a re-emergence of players captivated by the tactile playing experience of analog control surfaces as musicians favor working knobs, faders and other features in lieu of digital displays and computer interfaces.

“Players are realizing that an analog synth is much more of a real, honest-to-goodness musical instrument,” says Dave Smith, founder of San Francisco-based Dave Smith Instruments. Nate Tschetter, Manager of Music Product Marketing at Yamaha adds, "Many are choosing analog because it’s immediate, and while analog is definitely ‘in,’ it’s more about the ability to create unique sound and having it sound good."

Tatsuya Takahashi, Korg Synthesis Chief Engineer and designer of the company’s minilogue synth, understands the importance of unparalleled usability and musicality. “Whenever I design a synth I try to break down barriers between man and machine - the musician needs to be inspired physically and emotionally to create their own music. It's evident that this thinking has resonated with current trends that turn away from difficult and complicated systems, often inside of computers, in favour for dedicated hardware that often do less functionally, but are great at what they do in a musical way.”

Beehive Headphone Named As Ces 2017 Innovation Honoree

New York, NY – (November 17th, 2016) – Neat Microphones, a division of Gibson Brands, Inc., announced today that it has been named a CES 2017 Innovation Awards Honoree for its Beehive headphone amplifier/digital audio converter (DAC). Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, independent engineers and members of the trade media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer electronics products across 28 product categories.

Neat Microphones’ Beehive will be displayed at CES 2017, which runs January 5-8, 2017, in Las Vegas, Nevada. A selection of Honorees will also be displayed at CES Unveiled New York, which features dozens of exhibitors and networking opportunities and runs 3:00-7:30 PM November 10 at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York.

IK Multimedia releases MODO BASS - the breakthrough physically modeled electric bass virtual instrument for Mac/PC

MODO BASS is the first physical modeling virtual electric bass instrument that gives players and producers limitless bass sound possibilities and a new world of unmatched realism and playability for their bass tracks

November 30, 2016 - IK Multimedia, the pioneer in analog effects modeling, is pleased to announce the release of MODO BASS®, the new breakthrough physical modeling technology that brings a completely new level of realism and playability to the world of virtual bass instruments. MODO BASS is a customizable physically modeled virtual bass instrument that recreates the sound of the electric bass and how it's played in real time - from all of the physical instrument components, the human technique of how the instrument is played, to the entire sound signal chain with effects and amplifiers.

Unlike traditional sample-based virtual instruments, MODO BASS utilizes modal synthesis technology and an ultra-optimized sound engine to model each string as a nonlinear resonator - the string's acoustic behavior is determined by its physical parameters as well as by the interaction of the string with fretboard, body and pick-ups of the instrument. The action of the player is then modeled as a nonlinear physical interaction with specific areas on the string surface. Then using IK's cutting edge analog modeling expertise, the amp and effects rig of the electric bass is added to the sound chain. This gives MODO BASS the ability to create hyper-realistic sound in real time.

Every electric bass sound imaginable
MODO BASS contains a collection of 12 physically modeled iconic electric basses that span the history of bass sound in recorded music - more bass models than available in most other virtual instruments. Models include "60s P-Bass" based on an Alder body 60s era Fender Precision Bass®, "70's P-Bass" based on an Ash body Fender Precision Bass®, "70's J-Bass" based on an Alder body Fender Jazz Bass®; "Modern J-Bass" based on an Ash body Fender Jazz Bass®, "Devil Bass" based on Gibson® EB-0; "Bass Man 5" based on Music Man® StingRay 5-string; "Rick n' Bass" based on Rickenbacker® 4003; "Studio Bass" based on Yamaha® RB5; "Violin Bass" based on a Hofner® Violin Bass, "Thunder Bass" based on a Gibson® Thunderbird, "Japan Bass" based on an Ibanez® Soundgear, and "Flame Bass" based on Warwick® Streamer.
Every detail of each bass has been meticulously analyzed and modeled to capture their true sonic character; the shape and type, the wood used for the body and neck construction, the hardware components, the original onboard electronics and controls - every aspect and detail has been recreated to provide the highest degree of authenticity of the original instrument. But the sounds available with MODO BASS extend far beyond the 12 modeled basses - with the available customization features, users can craft virtually every electric bass sound imaginable. MODO BASS is able to produce an unmatched and unlimited palette of bass sounds because everything can be customized.

Pluck, Slap or Pick - modeled playing styles
Once the bass has been selected, players can choose from 3 playing styles - pluck, slap or pick - and control parameters of each style and how they influence the sound. Adjustments can be made to the force applied to the strings, the position of the hand, the direction of the stroke, the fingers used to play the instrument and how the strings are approached, the impact of the thumb slap and the finger pull on the string and even the thickness of the pick and style of its attack. Every aspect of playing style has been modeled as a non-linear interaction with the strings to provide a dynamic, ever-changing sound output.

String Customization
IK painstakingly studied and recreated all of the factors that affect string tone and performance. Players can choose the number of strings on the bass, the construction type and material of the strings (round or flat wound), the gauge and age, plus the physical action height of above the fretboard. Each of these options contributes its own character to the output of the bass and introduces realism never before heard in a virtual instrument.

Custom pickup configuration
There are 20 iconic bass pickups from which to choose that can be freely interchanged and added to the instrument - up to 2 pickups per bass. Users can change the type of pickups used, neck or bridge single coil or humbuckers, and their physical location under the strings can be moved freely for unlimited playing and tonal variations - a feature virtually impossible in the physical world. MODO BASS also gives players the ability to mix in the sound of an under-bridge piezo pickup for added resonance and top end. Switching from Passive to Active electronics option also enables a 3-band parametric EQ to fine-tune the pickup output tone.

Customize FX and Amp choices
With MODO BASS, players have full control over the post-instrument signal path as well and get 7 bass stomp boxes and two classic bass amplifiers derived from IK's AmpliTube flagship software. Stomp box effects include an Octaver, Distortion, Chorus, Compressor, Delay, Envelope Filter or Graphic EQ. Each stomp box gives players full control over the effect applied to the signal, parameter adjustment and overall output volume into the next effect. Also available is a classic all-tube amplifier and 1x15 cab, or a solid-state model with a 4x10 cab.

Expressive control in real time
MODO BASS provides MIDI control of critical parameters that can be automated in real time. With the MIDI Control section, players control and adjust the application of vibrato, the playing style, the application of Mute technique and the amount of slide technique applied while playing.  The frequency of the vibrato, the amount of the bend, plus the amount of slide and detach noise while playing can all be controlled in real time on the fly.

Keyswitching in MODO BASS allows players to create amazingly real techniques like slides and percussive ghost notes. Users can switch on the fly between chord mode and note mode, the type of stroke used for playing, the fingers used and the method of playing, which provides the ability to completely customize the sound in real time.

Pricing and availability
MODO BASS is available now from the IK Multimedia online store for a special introductory price of $/€149.99* until December 4, 2016. After that date, MODO BASS will be $/€299.99* and a crossgrade will be available for $/€199.99 ** to qualified users.
*All prices excluding taxes.
**Any previous purchase of an IK Multimedia product with a value of $/€99.99 or more qualifies for crossgrade pricing.

For more information, please visit:
www.modobass.com

To see MODO BASS in action, watch the videos:
www.modobass.com/video