Few effects define a musical era in quite the same way that digital 1980s reverb does. Although we’ve seen so many advancements in audio since then, those classic ’80s reverb sounds are still popular and sought after today.

There are numerous factors that led to this – and few of them are completely rational – so together we’ll look at digital reverb and how to go about using it in your production.

We know it’s not purely due to the sound because we don’t use the same techniques as we did when digital reverb was first introduced. It must be a combination of factors, including the interface design and the nostalgic sentiment of using retro-styled creative tools.

The story of digital reverb

It begins in 1976 with the EMT 250. Digital reverb provided a controlled environmental ambience with a low noise floor, which was revolutionary in the recording process. Until that time, the use of plates, springs, and re-amping had been some of the methods commonly used to add spatial characteristics to a sound.

Studios also evolved drastically due to the introduction of the SSL 4000 E series(and later G series) consoles. This provided unprecedented routing flexibility and when combined with the newly available tools of the time like analogue synthesizers and digital samplers, we got the magical explosion in the record industry that was the 1980s.

Digital reverb units like the AMS RMX16, Lexicon 224X, Yamaha REV-7, and the Sony DRE-2000 became icons of this era. They were used on so many of our favourite records and engineering superstars like Chris Lorde-Alge still use vintage reverb units or their software equivalents in every mix.

Using 1980s reverb in your studio

Like many effects we use for tonal quality, reverbs are available in several formats. The set-and-forget approach we take with leveling amplifiers is often used with reverbs too. This is due to the rather involved technical process that comes with designing your own reverb patches.

Good reverb units were never cheap, but you can get great-sounding reverb without the risk of buying a temperamental and astronomically priced vintage reverb. There are factors to consider like the advantages of software vs hardware, so we’ll check out some options and find something suitable for your setup.

Reverb software plug-ins

Having multiple instances of quality reverb plug-ins available in a single click is an incredibly powerful creative tool. Software provides instant gratification without patch cables, which makes it extremely convenient.

Remember though, that some vintage reverb units were one-trick ponies in the studio. So, unless you’re after the sound of a specific make or model, ensure you select something that has some versatility.

UAD AMS RMX16 Expanded

Developed in collaboration with AMS founder, Mark Crabtree, the AMS RMX16 Expanded plug-in is an authentic emulation of one of the most famous reverb units of all time. The no-nonsense UI gives you the classic controls without menu diving, which makes it a pleasure to use.

Like most UAD plug-ins, it sounds great, but it also has all the original patches so you get a realistic feel of using the RMX16 reverb in all its glory. All the famous algorithms are included, like the ambience and non-linear reverb settings, and it’s now available natively for any DAW.

• More from Universal Audio

Universal Audio Custom Bundle – Pick Any 3 Download No customer rating available yet

Available for 217.00 € at

Slate Digital Verbsuite Classics

Verbsuite Classics puts all the famous reverbs in one easy-to-use plug-in. The controls are simple but effective, and the EQ and chorus allow you to shape the sound according to your desired application easily.

What it lacks in looks and features, it makes up for with its sound. Even if you never deviate from the patches, Verbsuite gives you a wide range of reverbs to choose from.

• More from Slate Digital

Slate Digital Verbsuite Classics Download

Customer rating:

(12)

Available for 149.00 € at

Lexicon PCM Native Reverb Bundle

The Lexicon PCM Native Reverb plug-ins have become an industry standard over the years. The bundle gives you seven different reverbs, each with its own patch library. The controls are reminiscent of the PCM96, providing detailed controls and visual EQ.

If you’re a lover of the Lexicon sound, this is an easy choice. Although it’s a considerable investment, it does offer a huge amount of flexibility and control beyond simply being a quality reverb.

• More from Lexicon

Lexicon PCM Native Reverb Bundle Download

Customer rating:

(23)

Available for 269.00 € at

Audio Ease Altiverb 8

Quite simply, Altiverb 8 is the Omnisphere of reverb plug-ins and one of the most powerful reverbs available in hardware or software. If you work as an engineer or sound designer in games, TV, film, or music – you’ve probably used it before.

Among its amazing spaces and IR designing capabilities, Altiverb also offers astonishingly realistic vintage reverbs from AMS, Lexicon, Yamaha, and many others. It is pricey, but at least you won’t be needing another reverb any time soon.

• More from Audio Ease

Reverb Effects Pedals

Not all reverb pedals are exclusively designed for guitars. Some offer line-level I/O to suit other instruments like synths and drum machines. This is great for using them on aux sends from your mixer, just like you would with outboard rack gear.

Apart from that, they offer great sounding effects and some even allow you to stack multiple reverb patches and create more complex layered sounds. The creative immediacy of working with a live tweakable instrument also has its own appeal.

Meris Mercury 7 and MercuryX

Inspired by Vangelis’ shimmering, modulated Lexicon 224 reverb sounds from the Bladerunner soundtrack, the Mercury 7 is a pedal version of its 500 series counterpart. The Meris 24-Bit AD/DA with 32-bit floating point DSP engine combined with true analogue signal path means you get studio-quality sound.

In addition, the Mercury 7 offers two different reverb algorithms (Ultraplate/Cathedra) and extensive tone-shaping capabilities. Apart from the EQ, the pitch vector allows you to accurately shift the wet signal for whichever instrument you’re using.

• More from Meris

Meris Mercury 7 Reverb Pedal

Customer rating:

(30)

Available for 349.00 € at

Meris Mercury X Reverb Pedal

Customer rating:

(4)

Available for 699.00 € at

Eventide Space

The Eventide Space pedal gives you 12 signature reverb combo algorithms and 10 knobs to design the sound to your liking. Furthermore, you get 100 patches designed by top engineers and producers like Richard Devine, Alan Moulder, and Flood.

The Space is well built with a metal chassis, so it’s rugged enough for the road. Also, it has great features like MIDI sync via DIN or USB to combine it with other hardware in your setup or even your DAW.

• More from Eventide

Eventide Space

Customer rating:

(103)

Available for 457.00 € at

Empress Effects Reverb

Empress Effects are known for creating some of the most innovative designs when it comes to pedals and the Empress Reverb is no exception. Not only is this an amazing-sounding reverb, but it’s also a very versatile creative tool with 32 reverb algorithms and the ability to further update the firmware via SD card.

Overall, it’s a great combination of good build quality and simple effective design. You will, however, need a re-amping device for it to function optimally as a line-level outboard processor.

• More from Empress Effects

Empress Effects Reverb

Customer rating:

(60)

Available for 549.00 € at

500 Series reverbs

500 Series effects give you much of the same quality as 19″ rack gear, but the more compact format provides certain benefits. In studio, these are great units if you don’t have much space and they offer excellent portability for live use.

All it takes is the right 500 series chassis and you can put your own rig together. Be aware of the space requirements before you look at purchasing these units, as some are larger than others.

Meris Mercury 7 500

The Mercury 7 500 has all the same features as the pedal version save for the swell and bypass switches. The fundamental difference is that the 500 series version is a single-space mono unit with more expandability.

It is both stereo and surround linkable, which makes it extremely formidable considering the cost of high-end studio reverbs. Overall, the approach of the Mercury 7 500 is refreshing, as it encourages real-time sound-shaping rather than sticking to one patch.

• More from Meris

Meris 500 Series Mercury 7 Reverb

Customer rating:

(1)

Available for 549.00 € at

AMS Neve RMX16 500

The RMX16 500 is AMS Neve’s rather recent reissue of the 1981 classic reverb. It takes up three spaces in your 500 series rack and has a very straightforward interface, making it a breeze to build and save patches.

Best of all though, it’s almost impossible to distinguish from the sound of the vintage RMX16. The character is captured in every way, with the I/O stages perfectly modeled and all the original patches maintained.

• More from AMS Neve

AMS RMX16

Customer rating:

(2)

Available for 1,369.00 € at

Rackmount reverbs

This is where we get into the higher-end side of reverbs available. You certainly don’t need to spend $2000 simply to create a decent 80s reverb sound. However, it will get you a top-of-the-line reverb capable of creating reverbs for any application.

The great thing about high-end hardware reverbs is that they don’t seem to date, lose much resale value, or go out of style. Once you have one of these in your rack, you are far less likely to keep buying every newly released product as you would with software.

Lexicon PCM92

Lexicon’s PCM92 has all the features you’d expect from a professional stereo reverb. This includes 28 new and classic reverb, delay, and modulation effects and a library of over 700 presets to choose from.

The PCM92 supports up to 96kHz sample rate with its 32-bit floating point system. In addition, It’s equipped with pro-industry connectivity formats such as AES/EBU, word clock, and ethernet. This makes it easy to slot into just about any studio or live setup.

• More from Lexicon

Lexicon PCM96 Surround D No customer rating available yet

Available for 4,990.00 € at

Bricasti M7

Bricasti was founded by DSP engineer, Casey Dowdell, and Brian Zolner – who has 20 years of experience working with Lexicon. The Bricasti M7 was launched in 2007 and fast established itself as the industry standard professional reverb unit worldwide.

With the ability to produce huge reverbs, transparent chambers, and anything in between, M7 owners are unlikely to ever need another digital reverb. The M7 gives you 100 presets with 12 tweakable parameters and all the pristine DSP you’d expect for the price.

• More about Bricasti

Bricasti Design M7

Customer rating:

(17)

Available for 4,979.00 € at

Quantec Yardstick 2496 S

The German answer to AMS and Lexicon, the Yardstick 2496 S is based on the classic Quantec QRS digital reverb from 1982. It’s just astonishing how transparent an early 1980s reverb algorithm still sounds today when compared to other professional reverbs.

The Yardstick comes with a web app that gives you comprehensive control over its wide range of parameters and the ability to easily match the reverb to the dimensions of the original recording space.

• More about Quantec

More about 1980s reverb and vintage effects:

• All about reverb
• Everything vintage
• Dub delay plug-ins

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The post Why do we still use 1980s reverb? appeared first on gearnews.com.

We catch up with the one and only Verdine White, best known as a founding member and the Bassist of the legendary band, Earth, Wind & Fire.

This interview was originally conducted by Paul Rigg for Planet Guitar.

Earth, Wind & Fire have sold over 100 million records, and siblings Maurice, Verdine, and Fred White have been at its heart from the start.

The band’s unique blend of Afro-pop, soul, jazz, funk, and R&B has led them to seven Grammy awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a string of hits, including September, Boogie Wonderland, After the Love Has Gone, Let’s Groove and Fantasy.

Verdine White Interview: Band of Brothers

Today Gearnews interviews bassist and co-songwriter Verdine White, who is happy to talk about his beloved brothers, favourite musical moments, and introducing his gifted granddaughter to rock royalty.

Gearnews: “Verdine, we are thrilled to welcome you!”

Verdine White: Good morning from Los Angeles!

GN: You are soon to tour Earth, Wind & Fire with Lionel Richie, how are the preparations going?

VW: Great! We are starting in the U.S. first, with 25 shows. It’s going to be huge!

GN: You will be with long-time colleagues vocalist Philip Bailey and percussionist Ralph Johnson …

VW: We are together almost every day. Our life is an ongoing plane ride!

Ibanez SR5005-OL

Customer rating:

(1)

Available for 2,399.00 € at

“…life is an ongoing plane ride!”

GN: Is there anything you are especially looking forward to?

VW: We are just happy the tour sold out so fast. I can’t even get a ticket! [laughs].

GN: Going back to your beginnings, you grew up in a big family; were you always close?

VW: Very tight-knit. There were nine of us and now there are five left…

GN: Was there music around from the start?

VW: All the time. We listened to the radio station WVON; had jazz and gospel that my father liked, such as Mahalia Jackson; and played down in the basement every day. All we did was music.

Starting on Upright Bass

GN: You started on double bass before turning to electric; did that process help you?

VW: Yes, upright bass was great because I had the chance to study classical with a wonderful teacher from the Chicago Symphony orchestra called Radi Lah, who I took lessons from on Thursdays, and then on weekends I learned bass with the late great Louis Satterfield from The Phenix Horns – so I had the best from both worlds.

GN: In 1969 Maurice was starting to make an impact, moved from Chicago to LA, and then asked you to join him; was that an easy decision for you to go?

VW: No, I was 18; nothing is difficult when you are 18! [laughs].

GN: Then began your meteoric rise. If you were asked to choose three highlights from your career, which come to mind?

VW: There are so many! Perhaps the first record with Shining Star; the movies, including [the 1978 film] Sgt. Pepper’s; and then about three years ago, when we did The Kennedy Center Honors. We were the first group of colour to receive those honors.

Warwick Streamer LX 5 Masterbuilt PG No customer rating available yet

Available for 6,549.00 € at

Topping the Charts

GN: With ‘That’s the Way of the World’ and ‘Shining Star’, you became the first Black act to top both the Billboard album and singles charts. Among your achievements how does that rate?

VW: Well, it was at a time when you didn’t really see African Americans reach the top of the charts. We must thank my late brother Maurice for his leadership and vision because he understood where a group like us should go.

GN: You’ve seen civil rights fought for from Martin Luther King to Black Lives Matter; do you believe that there has been progress?

VW: We are progressing, but there is always more to do. We hope we are leaving a legacy to inspire the next generation.

Verdine’s Community Work

GN: You also help young people philanthropically through the Verdine White Performing Arts Center….

VW: Yes, we are doing some great work. This is our twentieth year! We are feeding young kids in urban communities so they can have breakfast before school.

GN: How do the children react when you go?

VW: They love to take selfies! But some don’t know me and it’s their parents who get excited!

GN: And all proceeds from your Sadowsky signature go to the charity…

VW: Absolutely. Roger Sadowsky is a wonderful friend and I have been playing his basses for over 25 years. They sound immaculate…

Warwick RB Streamer LX 4 SB HP

Customer rating:

(2)

Available for 789.00 € at

Remembering his Brothers

GN: Sadly, your brothers Maurice and Fred have now passed; how do you remember them?

VW: They are in my heart forever. Fred passed away recently, on January 2. He was a wonderful person; we played music together as kids. Maurice was my mentor and leader. I couldn’t have asked for two better brothers.

Family is still at the core of what is most important to Verdine. This is shown, for example, by a touching YouTube video of his granddaughter ReinaNai singing September as he accompanies her on bass and glances at her proudly. He explains that she has just auditioned for a New York off-Broadway play and that he recently took her to Clive Davis’ (ex-president of Colombia Records) party where she met Sheryl Crow and Frankie Valli.

Additionally, Verdine has been married to Honey Cone founder Shelly Clark for 42 years and says if there is any ‘secret’ it is meeting the right person at the right time, with love and friendship. “She’s a go-getter with high energy; you’d like her more than me…” he laughs, “I should get off and let you interview her!”

Sadowsky MetroLine 21 Verdine White 5 W No customer rating available yet

Available for 3,699.00 € at

More about Verdine White:

• Verdine White and Jeremy Pope
• More Interviews

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The post Verdine White Interview: Band of Brothers appeared first on gearnews.com.

Welcome to Live Deals with CC8 Stereo Set from Austrian Audio, and more products from Yamaha & LD Systems – a regular feature that brings you the hottest deals in live sound, streaming and podcasting gear. From mics to mixers, you’ll find the hottest deals right here!

Live Deals

Welcome to the first in a new, regular series of live deals, bringing you the best deals from our affiliate partners at Thomann. We take the time to skim through the very best deals on offer, to find you the biggest bargains.

Yamaha MG10 XUF

Undoubtedly, Yamaha is one of the big names when it comes to live mixers. From the mini to the mighty, you’ll find a Yamaha mixer to suit all situations. This week’s Live Deals brings you the Yamaha MG10 ZUF? It’s a superb compact mixer that’s great for small PA setups, live streaming and home recording alike

You get 10 Inputs: 4 Mono, 3 stereo with four “D-Pre” XLR mic inputs along with “one button” compressors on each mono channel. You also get an inbuilt SPX processor with 24 different programmes. Finally, you’ll find the inbuilt USB interface ideal for streaming, recording, or playback direct from computer.

• Save up to 23% off on the Yamaha MG10 XUF now at $375.63
• Product Page for Yamaha MG10 XUF
• More from Yamaha

Yamaha MG10XUF

Customer rating:

(78)

Available for 349.00 € at

Austrian Audio CC8 Stereo Set

Without a doubt, it’s invaluable to have a pair of quality, small diaphragm condenser mics in your microphone setup. We’re big fans of Austrian Audio’s innovative, high quality and great-sounding mics; we’re chuffed to feature them as part of this week’s Live Deals. Now you can grab the CC8 Stereo Set for a great price (see our article here)!

Notably, the CC8 Stereo Set gives you a matched pair of the superb CC8 small diaphragm, cardioid, true condenser microphones. Additionally, you’ll also receive a stereo mic bar, windscreens and clip in a sturdy and attractive case.

Undoubtedly the CC8 Stereo Set is one of the best live deals on offer, and ideal for general-purpose instrument micing both onstage and in the studio.

• Save up to 23% off on the Austrian Audio CC8 Stereo Set now at $865.57
• Product Page for Austrian Audio CC8
• More from Austrian Audio

Austrian Audio CC8 Stereo Set

Customer rating:

(10)

Available for 799.00 € at

LD Systems Road Buddy 10 BPH 2

Finally, in this week’s Live Deals, we bring you this great combo deal from LD Systems. If you’ve ever needed a fuss-free PA system that will work anywhere, at any time, then this could be the system for you!

Notably, the Road Buddy 10 is a battery/mains-powered, self-contained PA system with a built-in mixer, media playback and wireless mic receivers. The BPH 2 bundle offered here, includes two head-worn mics.

• Buy the LD Systems Road Buddy 10 BPH 2 for just $953.51
• Product Page for LD Systems Road Buddy
• More from LD Systems

LD Systems Road Buddy 10 BPH 2

Customer rating:

(3)

Available for 888.00 € at

More About Live Deals like CC8 Stereo Set from Austrian Audio

• More about Live Zone
• More Deals

The post CC8 Stereo Set from Austrian Audio, Yamaha & LD Systems – Live Deals appeared first on gearnews.com.

If you’ve got keyboard skills, or even if you don’t, workstations provide an amazing set of tools for creating music. To help you navigate this process, we’ve selected some of the best workstation keyboards under $2500.

Workstations became extremely popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when producers like Timbaland and Scott Storch dominated the charts with the sounds from workstations from Yamaha and Korg.

As music moved into the button-bashing phase, the keyboard-driven production style waned in popularity. It’s still, however, a very effective way to get a unique and dynamic feel into the core of your tracks.

Choosing the best workstation keyboards under $2500

With the overall sound engine quality as a priority, we’ve selected keyboards based on sound creation and synthesis capabilities, arrangement and production features, as well as live performance functionality.

Yamaha MODX8+

The MODX8+ is an 88-key GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) synth workstation keyboard with Yamaha’s advanced Motion control synthesis engine.

There are 2 parts to this engine, each with 128 voices:

• The AWM2 (2nd-Gen Advanced Wave Memory) section with 5.67 GB of ROM waveforms and an additional 1.75 GB of flash ROM for user waveforms
• The incredibly powerful 8-operator FM-X synthesis engine with 88 algorithms

In addition, the MODX8+ has built-in effects and EQ for both the individual parts and the master section and a bank of over 2000 performance presets.

• More from Yamaha

Yamaha MODX8+

Customer rating:

(7)

Available for 1,699.00 € at

Roland Fantom-08

With the Fantom-08, you get an extremely versatile instrument with features for both music production and live performance. It’s equipped with an 88-key PHA-4 (Progressive Hammer Action) keyboard, 256-voice polyphony, and five sound engines.

Apart from the impressive sound library and sound-shaping tools, you also get a 32-band vocoder, an 8-voice pad sampler, and the onboard 16-track sequencer with step recording and TR drum programming.

The fun part about the Fantom series is you get a great collection of sound from classic Roland synths. When combined with the rhythm pattern creator, arpeggiator, or chord memory function, this can be seriously fun.

• More from Roland

Roland Fantom-08

Customer rating:

(10)

Available for 1,659.00 € at

AKAI MPC Key 61

The AKAI MPC Key 61 is a complete music production and DAW control platform with recording, sequencing, sampling, and synthesis capabilities. Although the MPC Keys can do it all, it can still become the center of your studio or keyboard rig.

With MIDI I/O, CV/Gate outputs, and an additional set of outputs, you can sequence other instruments, connect your Eurorack synth, or incorporate your outboard gear into your workflow.

As an instrument, the MPC Keys allows you to get started immediately with 25 instrument plug-ins, over 6000 preset sounds, and 100 different multi-effects.

• More from AKAI

AKAI Professional MPC Key 61

Customer rating:

(16)

Available for 1,298.00 € at

Korg Nautilus 88

If you’re looking for a complete keyboard-driven music production system, the Nautilus 88 provides creative tools in almost every aspect.

With up to 200-voice polyphony and 9 sound engines including SGX-2, EP-1, HD-1, AL-1, CX-3, STR-1, MOD-7, MS-20EX and PolysixEX, you’re well equipped to take on most modern music styles.

Apart from the 16-track sequencer, the Nautilus also provides sampling capabilities and a 24-bit 48kHz 16-track audio recorder with 16 different effects processors and 3-band EQ on every channel.

Korg Nautilus 88

Customer rating:

(5)

Available for 2,499.00 € at

• More from KORG

Kurzweil K2700

The K2700 is an incredibly versatile instrument from the expressive 88-key Fatar TP/40L keyboard to the realistic Kurzweil sound engines onboard.

These include the V.A.S.T, 6-operator FM, and VA1 Virtual Analogue synthesis engines, the KB3 ToneReal organ, and K.S.R. (Kurzweil String Resonance) modeling technology.

The K2700 has a 16-track sequencer and also offers a MIDI CC sequencer for automation which is useful, and the comprehensive effects section gives you so much creative power.

• More from Kurzweil

Kurzweil K2700

Customer rating:

(11)

Available for 2,879.00 € at

More about Workstation Keyboards:

• More about keyboards
• All about synths

Video:

*Note: This article contains affiliate links that help us fund our site. Don’t worry: the price for you always stays the same! If you buy something through these links, we will receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!

The post The Best Workstation Keyboards under $2500 appeared first on gearnews.com.

This week’s Synth Deals selection is a particularly exciting range of creative instruments for music production and live performance.

Synth Deals

From portable music creation gadgets to fully-fledged workstations, we’ve been blessed with deals on some truly inspiring gear. Let’s take a closer look at the offers currently available:

Yamaha SEQTRAK

Already affectionately referred to as “the budget OP-1”, the Yamaha SEQTRAK brings together a similar set of music production features and looks to the trendsetting Swedish pocket synth.

With the SEQTRAK, you have a range of sound generation methods, including AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) and FM synthesis engines, as well as the ability to use onboard or imported samples.

All in all, you have a total of 11 tracks, with seven drum channels, two AWM2 tracks, a DX synth, and a sampler. On the go, the battery provides 3-4 hours of use, and the built-in speaker and sampler add to the immediacy of its overall appeal.

• Save 10% on the Yamaha SEQTRAK now at $359
• More from Yamaha

Yamaha SEQTRAK (Black)

Available for $359 at

Yamaha SEQTRAK (Orange)

Available for $359 at

Empress ZOIA

The ZOIA from Empress Effects is a curious-looking contraption, capable of creating custom modular synthesizer instruments and effects chains in a compact pedal format.

With an active user base and support from the manufacturer, the ZOIA’s firmware updates can continue to expand the range of available modules, ready-made effects, and other features.

Its creative potential is vast, and the ZOIA also features up to 48kHz sample rates, with 24-bit AD/DA converters, and a 32-bit internal DSP engine. The sequencer might be a bit clunky, but you can easily link it up to other instruments for this task.

• Get 10% off the Empress ZOIA now at $485
• More from Empress Effects

Empress Zoia

Available for $485 at

KORG Minilogue XD

The KORG Minilogue XD is a versatile 4-voice hybrid synthesizer that combines two analogue oscillators with a digital oscillator per voice. Besides the classic saw, triangle, and square/pulse waveforms, you can layer digital FM, noise, and wavetable shapes.

Overall, the Minilogue XD is particularly enjoyable to use if you want to explore making sounds from scratch. The modulation capabilities aren’t that extensive but with the onboard step sequencer, you can achieve some exciting results.

Here, you can create basslines and melodic patterns, and the Motion sequencer allows you to manipulate various parameters in tandem with the patterns you build.

• Save 15% on the KORG Minilogue XD now at $549
• More from KORG

KORG Minilogue XD

Available for $549 at

AKAI MPC Key 61

The AKAI MPC Key 61 is a complete music production system contained within a 61-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch. You can quickly navigate the interface with the 7-inch multitouch screen and the built-in DAW permits audio and MIDI recording.

With 32 GB of internal memory, 4 GB RAM, and a SATA connector for external drives, you can install all the additional MPC content and plug-ins you need for your production workflow.

In addition, there’s a pair of extra audio outputs on the rear panel so you can incorporate hardware processors. Meanwhile, the MPC Key 61 will also function as a controller, so there are many ways to set it up.

• Get 22% off the AKAI MPC Key 61 now at $1,169
• More from AKAI

AKAI MPC Key 61

Available for $1,169 at

Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

The cultish Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field is a portable synthesizer, sampler, vocoder, drum machine, and sequencer with an array of creative features, created with the Teenage design philosophy.

With many different ways to create sounds, the OP-1 Field is a powerful catalyst for ideas, and its old-school tape emulations present an interesting and unbridled platform no matter which approach you take.

On a single charge, you’ll get up to 24 hours of battery life, and with a built-in speaker and microphone you can capture ideas with the freedom and spontaneity of your favourite TikTok influencer.

• Save 10% on the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field now at $1,799
• More from Teenage Engineering

Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field

Available for $1,799 at

More about Synth Deals:

• All about Synthesizers
• More Deals

*Note: percentage discounts may vary according to your region and currency conversion rates on the day of purchase. Displayed percentage discounts are guidelines only.

The post Synth Deals from Teenage Engineering, Yamaha, AKAI, and KORG appeared first on gearnews.com.

The NAMM 2024 show is just around the corner, and we have the latest, breaking news on all the hottest releases. Bookmark this page to keep up with our rolling news coverage of the latest music tech releases, as they happen!

NAMM 2024 will be running from January 25-28 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, California.

If you’re unfamiliar with the event, NAMM is a trade conference that has brought together manufacturers, professionals, and equipment dealers in the music, audio, and events sectors for over 100 years.

NAMM 2024 Rolling News Feed

As usual, we’ll be keeping a rolling news feed in the run up to, and for the duration of the NAMM 2024 show. Be sure to bookmark this page to keep up to date on the latest news at a glance!

Just to recap, let’s go check out some of the highlights from last year’s NAMM 2023 show:

• Yamaha DM3 live digital console
• WesAudio ng76 compressor
• Oeksound Soothe Live
• Warm Audio WA-MPX compressor
• Neumann KH 120 II studio monitor
• Hammond XK-4 portable organ
• Endorphin.es Ghost and Golden Master effects pedals
• ICON DAW controllers

What could we see at NAMM 2024?

From budget to high-end audio, we’ve had some exciting new gear releases recently like the new Focusrite Scarlett 4th Gen range, the Focal Trio6 monitors, and the Rupert Neve Designs Master Bus Transformer.

That being said, NAMM 2024 promises to be one of the biggest shows in recent years. So in the meantime, we’re theorizing as to what we could see on the showroom floor.

Will the big synth brands like Roland and KORG have something in store for us? Or will Waldorf steal the show with an insane monster synth we didn’t know we needed?

What are your theories and which products are you hoping to see launched? Please let us know in the comments below!

More about NAMM 2024:

• Attend NAMM 2024
• Become an exhibitor

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The post NAMM 2024: The latest news on the hottest releases. Catch it all here! appeared first on gearnews.com.

Yamaha Drums have launched a range of new finishes to their entry-level Rydeen range of kits, plus a new and versatile Hi-Hat stand.

Yamaha Rydeen New Finishes

You know how it is. You’re on a tight budget. You want some new drums or maybe your kid does. All the budget, affordable kits are black and boring. You want something that stands out. Heck, why should guitarists be the only ones with cool colours? Yamaha have been listening…

Rydeen is the affordable 5-piece range from Yamaha drums. These kits are super-affordable and do not scrimp on the quality to do so. And now they’re available in a total of eight new finishes! Five of these have launched today. They are:

• Orange Glitter
• Turquoise Glitter
• Champagne Glitter
• Gloss Pale Blue
• Sky Blue

Yamaha Rydeen Kit

Rydeen kits already represent great value for money. They’re available in two different kit configurations (one has a slightly bigger kick and floor tom than the other) and already use Yamaha’s standard stands and braces, meaning they’re easy to build on in the future. The shells are 6-ply poplar and with these new finishes, you can really stand out in the crowd, even if the band keep sticking you at the back!

More Information

The new Rydeen finishes is a new product announcements so check back soon for more purchase information.

Our affiliate currently stocks all other Rydeen kits. Check them out!

Yamaha Rydeen Standard Burgundy Gl.

Customer rating:

(3)

Available for 798.00 € at

• Yamaha Website
• More from Yamaha

Hi-Performance Hi-Hat

Most would argue that the Hi-Hat is the most expressive piece of metalware in your drum kit. So that very important member of your kit needs some solid hardware and that’s exactly what the new Yamaha Drums HHS9D delivers.

Based around Yamaha’s Direct Link system (no chains here!), it features a brand new LC9 clutch and harder felts. According to Yamaha, these felts lead directly to a significant sound improvement. The HHS9D oozes class with its mirrored foot plate and snazzy blue inserts. But it’s not all looks. There’s also an alloy spring tension dial with five tension increments and the double-braced legs can be set to almost any position you could wish for, allowing you to incorporate other pedals very easily.

Yamaha HHS9D

The HHS9D will be available soon.

Yamaha HHS9D

Available for $499 at

More Information

The new HHS9D is a new product announcement so check back soon for more purchase information

• Yamaha Website – HHS9D
• More from Yamaha

The post New Yamaha Rydeen Finishes and Impressive Hi-Hat Stand appeared first on gearnews.com.

Yamaha Pacifica models with Reflectone pickups are the latest high-end models from the music gear giant. These new pickups are a collaboration with Rupert Neve Designs. Four models of the Yamaha Pacifica Professional and Standard Plus series have just been announced.

Yamaha Pacifica 2024

Yamaha has chosen NAMM 2024 to launch a new range of Pacifica models. The Pacifica name is often associated with affordable, and mid-range guitars. However, they have had high-end models available in the past, but they were often hard to get hold of. Now Yamaha has released these new  Professional models.  All models in this Professional series are Made in Japan, so expect great build quality and hardware throughout.

Let’s take a closer look at the new 2024 releases.

Key Features

They feature an alder body with a bolt-on maple neck (Slim C profile), and a fretboard made of either maple or rosewood with 22 jumbo frets. The hardware uses Gotoh locking tuners and a Gotoh 510T FE-1 bridge.

Rupert Neve

Then there are three Reflectone pickups in the HSS configuration: two HS7n single coils (middle and neck) and one HH7b humbucker (bridge). The Japanese manufacturer developed them together with Rupert Neve Designs. They are wired via a five–way switch for pickup selection,  a master volume control, and a master tone control with a push-pull coil split.

Rupert Neve is better known for creating studio gear, so these new pickups could be interesting. Though, I am not yet sure if the general public will associate Neve with guitar pickups.

There are four models with rosewood fretboards: Shell White *, Sparkle Blue *, Desert Burst *, and Black Metallic *.

Yamaha Pacifica Professional BLK RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Professional DSB RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Professional SPB RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Professional SHW RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Then three models with a maple fretboard in the Professional series: Blue Burst *, Sparkle Blue *, and Black Metallic *.

Yamaha Pacifica Professional BLB MF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Professional SPB MF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Professional BLK MF No customer rating available yet

Available for 2,150.00 € at

Standard Plus

In addition to the Professional series, Yamaha Pacifica also has the Standard Plus series. Unlike the premium models, the Standard Plus guitars are not “Made in Japan”. Everything else when it comes to woods, hardware, and HSS equipment with Reflectone pickups, is the same.  There are also rosewood and maple fretboards available.

The Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus comes in  Ash Pink *, Sparkle Blue *, and Black * with a maple fretboard.

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus ASP RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus SPB MF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus BLK MF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

The Standard Plus series also includes rosewood fretboards: Shell White *, Sparkle Blue * and Black *

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus BLK RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus SPB RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

Yamaha Pacifica Standard Plus SHW RF No customer rating available yet

Available for 1,249.00 € at

More Information

• Yamaha
• More Yamaha news

The post Yamaha Pacifica adds high end models with Neve pickups appeared first on gearnews.com.

Yamaha drops the mic with the SEQTRAK, a very exciting-looking groovebox with DNA from its DX and AMW2-powered instruments. It’s also sleek as all get out. Is Yamaha coming for Teenage Engineering’s market share?

Yamaha SEQTRAK

NAMM is still a week away but things are already starting to heat up. One of the first big announcements to bring the fire is the SEQTRAK, a sleek, all-in-one groovebox from Yamaha with a drum machine, synthesizer and sampler sections plus a sequencer. Not the release I was expecting from Yamaha, to be honest, but I have to say I’m very intrigued.

The SEQTRAK is a portable device with a rechargeable battery in two different colour schemes: all-black and a very fetching grey and orange combo. It comes across a bit like a Korg SQ-64 meets a Teenage Engineering OP-1 and feels very modern. It’s great to see Yamaha stepping out of its comfort zone here.

Four Sound Sections

SEQTRAK is meant for quick song creation and so has four different sound-generating sections to play with. There’s the sample-based drum machine, with seven sound slots available: kick, snare, clap, two hats and two general percussion sounds. More can be loaded from the sound library, which has over 2000 sounds for use across the instrument.

Sounds continue in the synthesizer sections, which include DX, a four-operator FM synthesizer inspired by the company’s FM heritage, and two with the AWM2 engine (with 128-voice polyphony!). Lastly, there’s a sampler, which can record (16-bit/44.1kHz) from an external source, via USB, the built-in microphone or internally via re-sampling.

Sound Design to the Right

SEQTRAK allows you to tweak preset sounds via the onboard sound design section, which is located on the right of the unit. The knobs grant you access to functions like pitch, volume, pan, attack, decay and filter, while the SEQTRAK app (iOS/Android/Mac/PC) lets you go deeper into the synthesis.

SEQTRAK also features an effects section, with delay, reverb and modulation plus distortion, compression and more. There are effects for individual sounds and the entire mix. As with synthesis, the app opens up effects editing. The app even has a visualizer.

Of Course There’s a Sequencer

With a name like SEQTRAK, there has to be a sequencer involved, and indeed it’s a pretty big part of the package. There’s a step sequencer with up to 128 steps. You can capture synthesizer note information monophonically, polyphonically or in chord mode, with the step sequencer turning into a seven-note chromatic keyboard. There are different scales and keys available plus an arpeggiator.

Connectivity includes Bluetooth MIDI to connect to the app, Wi-Fi for wireless sample transfer, MIDI in/out, USB-C, an aux-in and a headphone out. There doesn’t seem to be a dedicated audio out although there is an onboard speaker.

SEQTRAK Thoughts

Yamaha’s SEQTRAK looks like loads of fun. I love that it has four-op FM and an on-board sampler. I also really dig the look of it, especially the grey and orange model. At $599 MSRP, it’s a good price too.

Yamaha SEQTRAK Black No customer rating available yet

Available for 399.00 € at

Yamaha SEQTRAK Orange No customer rating available yet

Available for 399.00 € at

More information

• SEQTRAK product page
• Yamaha’s homepage
• All about Yamaha
• All about synthesizers

The post Yamaha SEQTRAK – The Teenage Engineering Killer? Now available! appeared first on gearnews.com.