Alesis MultiMix 4 USB Four-Channel USB Mixer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In general, I like it, but it has warts. The biggest issue, which was mentioned differently in other reviews was the hum & noise when you're monitoring a live recording through headphones. The weird thing is that this noise doesn't appear on the finished digital file. Since I'm not taking this into the field, I'll live with this odd behavior because the other features be the heck out of all of the other USB mixers in this price range (here's a hint: there aren't any, or at least their weren't any when I bought this). Before I got my cushy desk job, I moonlighted as an A2 so part of me wants to cringe at the noise in my headset; however, in an earlier life I worked with the old Hitachi HR100 1" VTRs, and they had the same problem except for about 100 times more money. I can live with this, and it gets a 3 only because of the monitoring issue...otherwise this little baby excellent.


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Perfect for using in basic computer-recording setups, video editing and production studios, and portable podcasting setups, the Alesis MultiMix 4 USB outputs not only line-level analog audio but also stereo 16-bit, 44.1 kHz digital audio over USB for low-noise, easy computer connection. You can also monitor back from your computer through the same USB connection.
The MultiMix 4 USB mixer has four input channels, all of which can accept a 1/4-inch line input. You can plug XLR microphones into channels one and two, including condensers thanks to the mixer's switchable 48V-phantom power supply. You can also plug a guitar or bass directly into channel one's switchable high-impedance input.
Channels one and two offer switchable high-pass filtering at 75Hz to eliminate low-frequency rumble, handling and wind noise. Each channel has an independent pan control and channels one and two provide high and low-shelving EQs. Channels one and two have independent gain trims, while channels three and four are configured as a stereo pair at the level and pan controls.
Key Features
Four-channel mixer with USB stereo input and output
Low-noise digital 16-bit, 44.1 kHz signal on USB for easy computer interface
Four 1/4-inch line-level inputs plus RCA tape in/out
Two XLR mic inputs with gains, high-pass filters, and switchable 48V phantom power
High-impedance guitar input
Dual-band EQ on mic inputs
Multicolor LED metering
Main and headphone outputs with independent level controls

Specifications

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USB Roll Up Drum Kit for Free Play or Learning Game Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the Dream Cheeky USB drum kit. Buyers must be prepared for one quirk: the product stinks. Literally. It smells similar to a tire store but worse. If you're going to give this as a gift, I suggest removing it from the box to air it out before passing on.
The software is easy to install, starts up quickly, and is somewhat easy to use. I wish it had a mode like guitar-hero for practice. (At least, I haven't found such a mode.) It comes with various loops and beats and has graphics reminiscent of GH.
The pad itself is small and sensitive to hands as well as drumsticks. I bought this for my young son, but I think even an adult player would find it useful/fun.

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Install the software, plug in the drum pad, and you're ready to rock out in free play mode or with the learning mode, similar to popular play-along music video games! Features 6 playing pads, 6 drum samples, 48 rhythm patterns, 8 special effects, 8 bass drum loops, and adjustable tempo from 40-208 beats. Powered via USB port, no extra cables or power supply needed.Minimum system requirements:- Available USB port- Windows XP, Vista, or 7- 256 MB RAM- 200 MB available hard disk space- CD drive- 1.5 GHz or faster processor (Pentium 3 or equivalent)

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Rode NTK Tube Condenser Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)Great mic - excellent sound. I have been a pro voiceover artist for over 30 years and have dealt with a variety of studio mics. In building my own studio I really wanted a front end that had a clear and smooth full-range sound. The R0de NTK was recommended to me by another "big voice" artist, and completely lives up to the recommendation. Everyone I have talked to says it's about the best value out there. If you have cash to blow, you can get a "noyyyyyymannnnn" (raise eyebrows here), or you can enjoy the sound of this mic and take the extra $3200 and spend it on more gear. The hard plastic padded case for the mic and power supply are a nice touch. Don't forget to buy a shock mount for it!
Enjoy -

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The RODE NTK sets the standard for value in professional microphones. This is a tube mic designed exclusively for recording professionals who want what only the best can offer. The heart of the NTK is the Australian designed and manufactured HF-2 capsule. The electronic circuitry complementing this very sensitive transducer includes a hand-selected twin-triode 6922 valve and audiophile grade components and lay-out. The result is an ultra-wide dynamic range, very low noise, and stunning tube warmth. The NTK's rich valve sound is ideal for vocals, acoustic instruments, drum overheads, guitar amps and pianos. It includes a power supply, 30 foot cable, stand adapter and case. RODE NTK Features Large 1 inch capsule with gold plated diaphragm Class A valve circuitry Ultra low noise Wide dynamic range Hand-selected and graded 6922 twin-triode valve Dedicated Power Supply High strength heat-treated steel mesh head Durable satin nickel finish Internal capsule shock mounting High level of RF rejection When professional performance counts use only a Rode NTK tube microphone. AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Rode products.

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Tascam US-122L Audio/MIDI Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this Tascam about a year ago and I am very happy with so far. I am using a laptop running Windows XP and haven't had any problems with the device. I find the handling with the Tascam rather easy and think that for this price it is a perfect audio interface for beginners. (And even though it's a little embarrassing to me to mention how "badly" I treat my equipment sometimes, I have to say that I dropped the interface several times and it's still working fine! ;-)). I have connected my electric guitar with it, my keyboard (via both, 1/8 and midi) and I tried different microphones with the Tascam and each of them were picked up just fine.
I really didn't have problems with it and would recommend it as a "beginner's device".

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The follow-up to our mega popular US-122, the new US-122L delivers everything you'd want in a portable audio/MIDI interface.Record two tracks at a time with zero latency; whether you have a PC or a Mac, your song ideas go down in real time, real easy. Its size means you can take it anywhere you take your laptop, yet it's packed with features that make buying it an audio no-brainer. MIDI input and output, high quality mic inputs, 96kHz/24-bit recording (better than CD quality)-all the stuff you'd want without the fluff you wouldn't. The US-122L: the answer to your recording needs.

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M-Audio Torq Xponent Advanced DJ Performance/Production System Review

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(More customer reviews)So after scouring the internet for reviews of the xponent, and having used its cousin the Torq Mixlab and getting down the basics of CPU based DJing, I am proud to say that I couldn't be happier with the Xponent. I got it a few weeks ago, have a Macbook that runs great with it, and have so far had no problems whatsoever. The software is fast and loads my itunes library (over 16k songs) in about 30 seconds. One of the best features of the Torq software is how it figures out (or you can override) the beat of each song and SAVES it. This means that when you're spinning, you can sort by BPM and see the 20 songs that are close in BPM that you have used before. This makes song selection a pleasure!
All the switches and knobs are very responsive, and as a person who basically started DJing (beatmatching, mixing, cueing) a month ago, I feel right at home here. The loop features are easy to use and drop in, and the sampler is very powerful and easy to use. I just spun a big house party with this thing a week ago and it went great! The effects are fun, and using the mouse pad like a Chaos Pad allows for some cool remixing on the fly. I find that scratching is easy to do and there are various settings to determine how sensitive the wheels are.
All in all, this is a great product for a novice or someone who likes to pick music and wants to get into real mixing. If you're the person always holding the iPod at the party but want more control, this is definitely a great place to start (and as far as I'm concerned, finish). As for all the haters of digital DJing, I don't really care, its much easier than bringing vinyl and remembering BPMs and you can plug in someone at the party's ipod and use their music in real time. I find that the Xponent is extremely versatile, perfect for a beginner or seasoned DJ alike, and it and its grandchildren will be leading us into the future of DJing. Hope this helps, there is a lack of people talking about the Xponent and its a truly great device that has allowed me to finally do something I've wanted to do for years, but I've never had the resources to get set up with vinyl and dj lessons.
Cheers!
-DP


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The professional-grade Torq Xponent system seamlessly integrates high-performance DJ software with a fully functional hands-on controller, representing a new era in digital DJ performance and production. The Xponent hardware combines the features of a two-channel DJ mixer with CDJ-style tactile controls, letting you cue, mix and manipulate digital files without touching the host computer. In addition to the essentials, M-Audio Torq 1.5 software delivers a variety of real-time creative tools to take your sets beyond the ordinary--and the Xponent hardware control surface puts all that power right at your fingertips. This integrated solution opens the door to new techniques that are simply impossible with traditional DJ setups.

Rock-Solid Professional DJ Hardware The Torq Xponent hardware/software system delivers everything a professional DJ needs to perform with a computer. Xponent is both an advanced MIDI control surface for Torq software and a four-output USB audio interface that includes two stereo RCA outputs and a standard 1/4-inch headphone output for cueing. Every control on Xponent boasts the same rock-solid construction and rugged feel as traditional DJ hardware. So if you're ready to make the leap to the world of software-based DJing, you'll feel right at home with Xponent.
Get Inside the Mix Torq 1.5 DJ software makes it easy to go beyond basic beat matching and crossfading between tracks. With a 16-cell, tempo-synced sampler, easy looping capabilities and multiple cue points, you can chop up a song--on the fly--and reorder, remix and extend any section you want, all while staying perfectly in time. The QuickScratch feature lets you instantly scratch with any two loaded samples. Tempo Anchors remove tempo variations from your tracks--or cause other songs to adopt the tempo changes--making mash-ups and live remixes a breeze. Tempo Master synchronizes all tracks, samples and effects within Torq, while MIDI clock transmits tempo information to outboard hardware and other computers so you can collaborate with friends. And if you also want to produce, Torq is ReWire-compatible with Pro Tools M-Powered software and other popular applications.
Advanced Effects Processing Torq 1.5 gives you 10 essential effects right out of the box for dynamic manipulation of your tracks. Imagine the possibilities of stacking multiple distortion, filter, repeat, chorus or bit-reduction effects while mixing between songs. You can turn any track into your own original creation--and even record it on the spot with the integrated performance recorder. Torq also allows you to create recallable snapshots of your favorite EQ, effect and mixer settings, and even supports the vast world of third-party VST effects plug-ins.
Dynamic Control Over Torq 1.5 Software The best DJ tools allow you to get your hands on your music--from cueing to beat matching to scratching. M-Audio designed the Xponent control surface with full-size, DJ CD-player-style controls so you can get into the music and engage the crowd during each moment of your set. Xponent features 64 assignable backlit buttons (including Play, Cue, Seek, Loop, Key and Sync controls), two volume sliders, eight assignable knobs for effect control and two 100mm pitch sliders. The built-in touchpad/assignable X/Y controller allows you to control your mouse or the effects in Torq, so you never have to take your hands off the unit in the middle of a performance.
Made to Work Together Torq 1.5 DJ software for Mac and PC automatically configures itself to work with Xponent--every hardware control is pre-mapped to its corresponding function in Torq. It's easy to get up and running with Xponent because all of the hardware controls are located exactly where you'd expect them to be. The transition into digital DJing couldn't be simpler.
Plays Well with Others In addition to VST compatibility, Torq 1.5 software can interface with any ReWire-compatible host application. You can easily route the output of Torq to a program like Pro Tools M-Powered and explore even more performance, production and sound design possibilities. When ReWired to a host application, the tempo of Torq automatically locks to the current session tempo, so you never have to worry about syncing playback between Torq and your preferred DAW. In addition, the Xponent control surface can be MIDI-mapped to other digital audio workstation software including Ableton Live.
What's in the Box Xponent USB DJ Controller and Audio Interface, Torq CD-ROM (Torq Software, Xponent Drivers, and Documentation), USB Cable, 12VDC 1000mA Power Supply, Quick Start Guide

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Crown PZM-185 PZM Mic Battery/Phantom Review

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(More customer reviews)Specialized! Great for purchasers who understand this type of microphone. This type of microphone must be placed on a flat, hard surface for best results. A table, a sheet of suspended plexiglass, a desktop are examples of flat, hard surfaces. This type of microphone picks up all sound that reaches the boundary -- or surface -- on which the microphone rests. The plastic paddle features two (2), tiny and fragile "posts." You can either attach the paddle or remove it using these posts, which squeeze and insert into holes on the bottom of the microphone casing. The paddle isn't required if you want to mount the microphone on some other type of flat surface. I am a distance learning audio technician who works with far more expensive ceiling-mounted Tandberg "AudioScience" microphones (around $1,500). Believe it or not, this Crown PZM-185 is almost as good when mounted on suspended plexiglass! They call this a "PZM" or "pressure zone microphone." The pickup pattern is shaped like a half-sphere. So, if you put it on a table, then everything above the table will be heard to a distance of at least nine (9) feet. This model uses either batteries or, if you plug it into a mixer, you can use the mixer's "phantom" power to power the microphone. Amazing device for the money. Crown has better, more expensive models too. As I understand it, Crown's PZM line of microphones is now being marketed by AKG... a Harman company.

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An inexpensive version of the PZM-30 and PZM6 with XLR output, can be phantom or battery powered.The Crown® PZM®-185 Pressure Zone Microphone® is a microphone designed for general-purpose use. Ideal for applications such as conferences, group discussions, interviews, broadcast, home video production, lectures, and recordings. The mic can be placed on a large surface such as a table, floor, wall, or lectern. The PZM-185 is powered either by an internal AAA 1.5V battery or 12-48V phantom power. The boundary "paddle" can be detached so the mic will fit in your pocket. Attached to the mic is an 8-foot (2.438-m) cable leading to a tubular power module. The microphone’s low-profile design reduces "mic fright" and minimizes clutter. It is nearly invisible on camera. The PZM-185 minimizes pickup of vibration and handling noise. Its electret condenser capsule provides a wide, smooth frequency response from 50 Hz to 16 kHz. The mic’s hemispherical polar pattern allows clear pickup of everyone surrounding the microphone. The PZM-185 is protected against static and RFI. The output is balanced, low impedance, which allows long cable runs without hum pickup or high-frequency loss.Like other Pressure Zone Microphones, the PZM- 185 uses a miniature mic capsule mounted very near a sound-reflecting plate or boundary in the Pressure Zone. In this zone, direct sound from the sound source combines in phase at all frequencies with reflected sound off the boundary.

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Behringer BCD3000 DJ Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)This is EXACTLY what I was looking for! Although it comes with Traktor 3 LE, you can also use it with Traktor 3 Pro as well as Torq and Virtual DJ. When using with Traktor 3 Pro, all you need to do is use the .tks midi configuration file from the LE version and all of the controls will be configured for you. Check out the Traktor site for more information on how to do that.
On a PC you have some more advanced options for the sound driver than on a Mac. I use this on both systems with Traktor 3 Pro and have not had any issues. If you are thinking of getting this, do it. You won't regret it!

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The B-CONTROL DEEJAY BCD3000 DJ mixer lets you play, mix and scratch any MP3, WAV or other audio format with a real vinyl feel. Packed with mind-blowing features such as mixer, dual-player, effects, mic/phono preamps and a full-fledged monitor section, this four-channel USB audio interface perfectly complements the included Native Instruments Traktor 3 LE DJ software or most other DJ software, running on Windows XP/Vista and Mac OS X operating systems.

Fully featured The BCD3000 features a full-speed USB 4-channel audio interface plus high-resolution 24-bit A/D and D/A converters. It's an integrated, full-fledged audio mixer with a premium quality mic preamp, 3-band kill EQ per channel, ultra-precise faders, super-smooth crossfader and talkover function.
Feel Your Digital Files Get ultimate control over your virtual DJ machine and play, mix and scratch MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, WAV and AIFF files with vinyl feeling.
Vinyl Ready The BCD3000 is packed with two state-of-the-art phono preamplifiers, so you can mix your vinyl records alongside your MP3 files.
Sophisticated Headphone Section The BCD3000's headphone section lets you monitor using PFL Mix (both decks in both earcups), and directly listen to the master output mix.
DJ-Friendly Control Start/Stop, Cue, Loop and Pitch Bend functions all feature dedicated controls for intuitive Djing, and 4 user-assignable controls and buttons are available for an integrated FX section.
The two jog wheels are ideal for creative DJ performances like scratching, pitch bending and cue searching, and with three-band kill EQ, loop buttons, pitch and level faders, plus an ultra-smooth gliding crossfader with adjustable crossfader curve, you get total performance control.
Built-In Mic Pre The internal microphone preamp features its own level and EQ adjustments, perfect for MC performances or DJ talkover.
Includes Native Instruments Traktor 3 LE DJ Software Based on the award-winning TRAKTOR 3, this smaller version offers two decks and an integrated 2-channel mixer. Auto-sync, beat-accurate loops, and a host of other forward-thinking features and effects will have you mixing liquid sets in no time.
What's in the Box Behringer BCD3000, Software CD, User's Manual

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Korg MicroKey 37 Key USB Keyboard Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)The Microkey demonstrates that Korg learns from its failures and its successes. The Microkey's predecessor, the Nanokey, had some advantages: it was cheap and you could throw it in a laptop bag. Users soon found out that the Nanokey was too cheap. It wasn't sturdy, and the button keyboard did not win awards for usability. On the other hand, The Microkorg and Microkorg XL synthesizers have been hits with their mini-sized keys. Korg basically took the keyboard fromt eh Microkorg, put it in a no-frills controller case, and gave it a reasonable, [...] price tag. In short, the formula works.
With 37 mini-keys (3 octaves C-C), the Microkey is too big for a laptop bag, but it fits nicely in your lap or on a table. It plugs directly into your computer via USB. In my case, it was plug-and-play with Windows-7, with the computer automatically loading the driver; however I had to download a driver (no problem) for Mac OS-X. The small keys are easy to get used to, have a good feel and good velocity response. The Microkey does not transmit aftertouch. Other than the keys, the only controls are lighted octave shift + and - buttons (shifting up to 3 octaves in each direction), a spring-loaded pitchbend wheel, and an un-sprung modulation wheel. I knocked off a star for failure to include a jack for a sustain pedal, much less an additional jack for a volume pedal or continuous controller.
KORG LEGACY COLLECTION SPECIAL EDITION - This is what I really want to talk about. The Microkey is bundled with light versions of several software packages, the most notable being Korg's own M1LE. M1LE contains most of the sounds of Korg's bestselling hardware synthesizer/workstation of 1988, the Korg M1. Approximately 100,000 M1 synthesizers were sold for almost at almost [...]. In other words, the M1LE is pretty worthwhile on its own, but it really becomes worthwhile after you register your copy of M1LE online at [...], because registered M1LE owners qualify to buy a special edition of Korg's Legacy Collection software synthesizers for $99.00. The Legacy Collection Special Edition includes BOTH the analog edition and the digital editions of the Legacy collection. It includes the MS20, Polysix, Mono/Poly, Legacy Cell, Wavestation, and M1 (expanded). Recently Korg unbundled these software synths and started selling them individually for $49.99 each. So with the Legacy Collection Special Edition, you're basically buying all of these synths plus the hardware controller for $50.00 less than what you'd pay for just the software synths. Buying the Legacy Collection changes the Microkey from a good buy to a great buy. You have to download the synths one at a time from korguser.net, and the registration procedure is a bit of a pain. The license allows you to download the software on more than one computer that you own, but you can only use one at a time. Each computer that you install the software on must be individually registered. http://www.amazon.com/review/create-review There is no dongle or USB key needed for this version of the Legacy synths.
THE COMPETITION: For my money, the closest competition is Arturia Analog Experience - The Factory Hybrid Synthesizer, which, like the Microkorg plus Legacy Collection, gives you a compact controller plus thousands of sounds. Arturia's product, for just a little bit more than the Korg, Arturia gives you a more full featured controller (with aftertouch). It's a viable option that I almost bought (and might buy yet.) Another option (especially for Windows users) would be M-Audio's M-Audio Keyrig 25 25-note Synth-Action Keyboard and Midi Controller or M Audio KeyRig 49 49 Key USB Keyboard Controller I bought the Key Rig software separately several years ago. Here's a link to my review of the Key Rig Software, http://www.amazon.com/review/R1ZNFX9NE271ES. If your needs are simple, Key Rig may be all the software you need.

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Gain powerful control over your favorite music software, Korg-Style! For live performance stand alone soft-synth applications or as a music production studio tool, Korg's MicroKey is the perfect choice for controlling your computer music software. The microKEY is slim, lightweight, USB powered and compatible with all of your computer music software; use it to create your own compact and customized command center. Korg MicroKey Keyboard Controller Features USB MIDI keyboard - thin, lightweight, and USB-powered 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys Comfortable and easy-to-play Natural Touch keyboard Octave Shift and Key Transpose features access the full MIDI note range Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels add expression to your performance Dual USB connections are ideal for daisy chaining a nanoPAD or nanoKONTROL Natural Touch mini keyboard The microKEY features 37 velocity-sensing mini keys, using the same Natural Touch keybed found on the Korg microKORG XL and microSTATION. This keybed has been designed with careful attention to the touch and feel. The proportions of the black keys and white 'waterfall' keys have been adjusted for optimal playability, and the key touch makes it easy to play chords, glissandos, and rapid-fire phrases. The microKEY accurately conveys the dynamics of your performance to any software plug in. Extended Range and Expression The Octave Shift buttons extend the range of the microKEY by four octaves in either direction - up or down. The Key Transpose allows you to play in any key instantly. Used together, these two features provide access to the entire MIDI note range. For adding tasty expression to your performance, the microKEY is also equipped with both a Pitch Bend wheel and a Modulation wheel. USB versatility

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Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard with USB/Audio Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)MIDI keyboard controllers in general fall into a gray area between computer controller and musical instrument. Most seem to focus on the integration between device and DAW and fall very short on playability. I am a piano and guitar player and have reasonably good quality equipment in my recording studio. I wanted a keyboard that I could use in a different location, primarily for polishing up previously recorded tracks during the editing process. I settled on this 61 key unit because it has a sufficient number of scales to play a composition but is not so large to make it non-portable.
Here are the things I like about the keyboard:
1. It's light (about 10 lbs), so is easy to move about
2. Because it has limited MIDI controls, it is also thin, allowing it to be placed on a desk easily, then removed. In contrast, most other MIDI keyboards are twice as deep and require a permanent stand or position.
3. With Logic 9, the keyboard is plug and play. Logic recognizes it easily (an additional scan seemed to help the volume level). I haven't spent any time trying to assign controls, but the basic stuff seems to work nicely with Logic.
4. Full size keys. These keys are full size, or very close. They are not as large as the ones on the Roland stage piano I have, and not weighted, but they are large enough so that fingers are not tripping over each other.
Here are the most significant shortcomings of the keyboard.
1. It's light. Not titanium light, but cheap plastic light. This makes it portable but also quite fragile. I have the feeling that it will break. Soon.
2. Build quality. The rotary knobs are actually quite sturdy, but the little black plastic buttons make a loud and cheap clicking noise when depressed, as if I am doing something that they weren't designed for. The red color may be eye catching (or gaudy depending on your perspective), but it's already scratched in a few places even with delicate handling.
3. The keys, though full size, have very little feel or weighting, despite the company's claim that they are semi-weighted. I imagine that there are boards with even less feel, but this one offers next to no resistance to the touch. It's not a problem if you're entering a two finger bass line, but definitely is if you're used to the normal piano weighting of an acoustic or a good stage piano. I also realize that the lack of weighting keeps the unit light and portable, so I can accept this inherent limitiation.
4. Key sensitivity is also weak. There are three settings only-light, medium and heavy, where the keyboard responds with more or less sound. On the heavy setting, I have to literally smash the keys to get much sound, and on the light setting, everything played registers as the same volume. These are not keys that one can modulate at all.
5. As a MIDI controller, it's acceptable, but for someone using a full featured DAW, the eight knobs and a few buttons will be woefully inadequate to control complex parameters. I have a separate MIDI controller, so this is not an issue.
6. There is little documentation with the unit. I had to go online and dig about to locate a pretty sketchy manual on the product. I have not tried the included software, and do not intend to.
For what is available right now, this unit is not bad. It has no sounds of its own, but plays everything that Logic has in its audio library. Just plug in the USB connection and it is ready to go. In order to get a good keybed, such as one made by Fatar or Roland, one has to not only spend significantly more money (probably well worth it) but also has to put up with a footprint that is much bigger. It is this last part that really is the Behringer's strong suit. It's pretty svelte, while the rest of the bunch are enormous. Yet, in the final reckoning, I will not keep this unit. It just doesn't seem to be that well built, and I am not optimistic about it lasting. Moreover, while the size of the keys are nice, the playability leaves a lot to be desired, at least if one is used to real pianos.


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The UMX MIDI Controller is an extremely flexible master keyboard with a control section for a wide range of applications. Do you need independent control of hardware synthesizers or general MIDI sound modules? How about control over effects devices? Maybe you just want to operate sequencing software or computer plug-ins from a convenient remote location? UMX Series controllers provide total flexibility and tremendous ease of use, allowing you to realize your ideas intuitively.

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Blue Microphones Snowball USB Microphone Bundle (with Ringer Shock Mount) Review

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(More customer reviews)This WAS my third attempt at purchasing a microphone for some Web Based Multimedia Training that I am developing. The other two manufactures that I purchased were junk. They hissed and popped and just plain sucked! I was at my witts end. However, this Microphone by Blue Mic was an excellent investment. IT WORKS GREAT! I plugged it in and away we went. I use the Adobe products it worked out of the box with both Captivate and Presenter. I highly recommend this microphone.

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The Blue Mics Snowball USB Microphone is the world's first professional USB mic! The Snowball finally provides you with a USB mic that's not only easy to use, but sounds as good on your desktop as it does in a professional recording studio. Whether you're recording a guitar at your kitchen table or a complete band in the studio, the Snowball can capture it with detail unheard of before in a USB mic. The Snowball is a direct plug n' play mic that connects to either a Mac or PC - no additional software is needed. With its dual capsule design and unique three-pattern switch (cardioid, cardioid with -10dB pad and omni), the Snowball can handle everything from soft vocals to the loudest garage band - and it's ideal for podcasting. Check it out and you'll see why it's the coolest mic in town. Blue Mics Snowball Features Plug and play design - no software required! Professional studio quality performance - record both vocals and instruments Mac and PC compatible Blue's renowned circuit and unique two-capsule design Switchable mic patterns for a variety of recording applications Great for podcasting Includes custom mic stand and USB cable Add The Ringer for a few coins more! Designed for Blue's complete line of spherical microphones, The Ringer is a vintage-style suspension mount designed to isolate the microphone body from low-frequency energy when mounted on a mic stand. The Ringer also accommodates virtually any microphone with a standard thread mount.

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Stanton T92USB USB Direct Drive DJ Turntable Review

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(More customer reviews)The Stanton T92 is a solid built and excellent performing turntable. I bought it for converting my vinyl records to mp3 format and it works perfectly for that task. It comes with a Stanton 500.v3 cartridge which works very well for 33 and 45 rpm records. If you are going to record 78 records you will need to purchase an additional cartridge that is made specifically for use with 78 records. A hard acrylic dust cover would be the one thing I would like to see added to this already fine product.
In previous reviews of Stanton USB turntables, many have complained about not being able to hear the audio as it is recorded on the computer. If your equipment and software are configured properly, you can hear the audio as it is being captured.
My setup for recording is as follows:
1) The T92 is connected to the computer via the provided USB cable.
2) The computer soundcard Line Out jack is connected to a set of powered stereo speakers.
3) I use the free download of Audacity 1.2.6 available at [...] for capturing the recording. Be sure to set the Preferences in Audacity as follows:
- Playback Device: The computer's soundcard.
- Recording Device: USB Audio Codec - Input
- Check the "Software Play Through" box. (This is what allows you to hear the audio as you record it).
With this configuration you will be able hear the audio as you record it. The switchable Phono Out/Line Out capability also allows you to connect the turntable to your home stereo system when not using it with the computer for audio capture.
All-in-all a great flexible use turntable.


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The T.92 USB is a direct-drive professional turntable with built-in USB connectivity. The USB port and supplied software make it easier than ever to digitalize vinyl recordings. With features such as key lock and a pitch range of plus or minus 12%, the T.92 USB effortlessly fits in with a regular DJ setup.

Professional Quality Turntable The T.92 USB is a sturdy, professional quality turntable, with a high-torque, direct-drive motor. The standard three playback speeds (33, 45, and 78 RPM) are available, along with two start/stop switches for mix or battle setup.
A pitch control fader with DSP key lock lets you change the tempo without affecting pitch, and the pitch range is selectable--either 8 or 12 percent. Quartz lock lets you bypass the pitch control for unaffected playback speeds.
An S-shaped tone arm delivers superior fidelity with low distortion, and comes coupled with an audiophile-quality Stanton 500v3 cartridge mounted and ready to go.
Output Options The T.92 USB features standard RCA stereo outputs, which are phono/line switchable to accommodate your setup.
USB and S/PDIF outputs are also provided, ideal for easy transfer of your vinyl to your Mac or PC. The package includes software for transferring and editing your music files.
Cakewalk pyro Audio Creator LE Included pyro Audio Creator LE combines all the essential audio tools needed in today's digital age in one fast and easy-to-use program. With pyro Audio Creator's virtual toolbox, you are just a click away from recording & editing audio; burning & ripping CDs; converting and cleaning albums to CD or MP3; and encoding, tagging & organizing your sound library. If you care about your audio, there is no better choice than pyro Audio Creator LE.
What's in the Box T.92 USB Turntable, RCA Cables, Slip Mat, USB Cable, Dust Cover, Software, User's Manual

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Yamaha YPT-220 61 Key Personal Keyboard with AC Adapter, Deluxe Keyboard Stand and Professional Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had a keyboard as a kid and knew that it would go over well for my boyfriend's 8 y/o artist/musician/gymnast wanna be. While most of the features are too advanced for her, she's catching on!
I did a lot of searching. The price for just the keyboard was somewhat standard for a sale price at at least one store, but I couldn't find such a reasonable bundle anywhere. Any parent who considers this MUST, MUST, MUST purchase the headphones, and the stand is a blessing. It keeps it off the floor and makes for a more realistic piano lesson at home.
Good sound; lots of bells and whistles. Sure it doesn't have 88 keys, but most people don't use the top or bottom keys very often. I think this keyboard is just perfect!

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A great choice for beginners on the go, the 61-key Yamaha YPT-220 personal keyboard features 375 natural sounding voices--including Yamaha's world-famous grand piano sound--and the Yamaha Education Suite of learning tools (with 102 built-in songs) that make piano practice fun. Other features include 361 professional sounding XGlite voices, 12 drum kit sounds, 100 accompaniment styles, and rich reverb effect that adds concert-hall ambience to any performance.
This Premium Package also comes with professional closed-cup headphones, single x-braced stand, and power supply.


Key Features
Voices & Styles: Total of 375 high-quality instrument voices (Stereo Grand Piano, 361 XGlite voices, 12 Drum Kits and Sound Effect Kit) and 100 accompaniment styles.
Sound Effect Kit: Try out each key and enjoy the sound of a dog burking, running water, a creaking door and many other unique effects.
Yamaha Education Suite (Y.E.S.) is an advanced set of helpful learning tools built into the instrument, letting you teach yourself how to play and perform. Y.E.S. helps you master a song with easy lesson steps. Each lesson can be done in isolation with either your left hand or right hand, or both.
Portable Grand Button: Playing piano is fast and easy with Yamaha's Portable Grand function. One dedicated button brings up a great sounding piano, stunningly rich and authentic in its sound and exceptionally responsive to your playing touch, as well as setting up the keyboard to play as a piano.
Reverb: Different reverb types let you add rich, concert-hall ambience to your performance.

Specifications
Number of keys: 61 (organ style)
Number of voices: Stereo Grand Piano + 361 XGlite + 13 Drum/SFX/SE Kits
Display: Custom LCD
Tone generating technology: AWM Stereo Sampling
Reverb: 9 types
Number of preset styles: 100
Number of preset songs: 102
Amplifiers: 2.5W + 2.5W
Dimensions: 37.2 x 4.6 x 13.7 inches (WxHxD)
Weight: 9 pounds, 11 ounces

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Audio Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using this microphone for years. I have two of them, actually. I didn't buy them as a matched pair, so one is a bit brighter sounding than the other. That can be an advantage, as I use the darker mic for overly bright sound sources, and vice-versa. I've used these mics with good results in my project studio, on vocals, guitars, and hand percussion, and actually earned a major film festival award for music I created in that studio. I think the mics sound particularly good on female voices (as a number of reviewers have noted). The figure-of-eight pattern offers the flattest response curve, and I almost always use that for vocals. (The cardioid and omni pattern give more treble/upper mids boost--useful for some applications, but a little harsh on my voice.)
Bottom line: This is a well-made, versatile microphone that will do pretty much anything you ask of it.

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The Audio Technica AT4050 multi-pattern condenser microphone is like getting three completely different microphones for the price of one! Meet the studio condenser that captures every nuance. With three switchable polar patterns, the large-diaphragm Audio-Technica AT4050 exhibits a remarkable combination of qualities: high-SPL capability with transparent and airy uppers/mids complemented by rich low-end qualities. Its dual large diaphragms are gold-vaporized and aged for consistent, outstanding performance. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle provides rock-solid element stability and exceptional sensitivity. Ideal for studio use and live sound productions with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps, and more. Audio Technica AT4050 Features Transparent uppers/mids balanced by rich low-end qualities combine with advanced acoustic engineering for extensive performance capabilities and highest quality Dual-diaphragm capsule design maintains precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone The 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold diaphragms undergo a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics achieved remain constant over years of use Three switchable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-of-eight Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with A-T's stringent consistency and reliability standards Switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad Custom shock mount provides superior isolation AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Audio-Technica products.

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CAD Audio KBM412 Dynamic Microphone, Cardioid Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Good mic, nice pickup. The mount is a little shaky here and there, but thats mainly because of it being right at the back of the mic. Use a nice weighted stand to keep it steady, and on position, and youre away.

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KBM 412 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. Perfect for \'Kick" drum, Bass cabinets and rack/floor toms.

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M Audio KeyRig 49 49 Key USB Keyboard Controller Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is exactly the keyboard you need if have a computer that does it all. This keyboad is compact, well made, and has all the features you need for simple MIDI entry. I don't recommend it for performance, though - not at all rugged. Great for Apple-based studio (or Wintel).

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The M-Audio KeyRig 49 will turn your Mac or PC into a virtual keyboard workstation! The KeyRig 49 package includes award-winning Key Rig software for the PC and tons of virtual instruments to play with. You can audition loops and compose songs with M-Audio's Session, Apple's GarageBand, Ableton's Live Lite (included) or other music-creation programs. Key Rig 49 includes pro features like a pitch and mod wheels, an assignable volume slider, octave +/- buttons and sustain pedal input. It's powered via a single USB cable and works instantly with computers running Mac OS X or Windows XP. The KeyRig 49 has officially replaced the popular Keystation 49e. It's simply It's a better package at the same price! Full Features 49-note, synth-action keyboard for professional feel and response assignable modulation wheel and volume slider pitch bend wheel assignable octave +/- buttons edit mode button sustain pedal input USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 compatible connection and power via a single USB cable instant installation on Mac OS X and Windows XP computers-just plug and play includes award-winning M-Audio Key Rig software (PC only) featuring: four top-quality virtual sound modules: SP-1 Stage Piano, MS-2 Polyphonic Synthesizer, MB-3 Tone Wheel Organ and GM-4 General MIDI use stand-alone or with a sequencer variable velocity and controller settings split and layer modules for performance combinations module and master effects processors compatible with most popular software includes Ableton Live Lite music creation software AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of M Audio products.

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Mackie ProFX8 Professional Compact Mixer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you intend to record via USB using the ProFX8, beware that USB recording introduces a low-level, high-pitch tone (1kHz + harmonics) on the monitor send, main out, and headphones. You and your audience will hear this buzz during quiet passages and between songs. After receiving mine in February, 2009, I called the support people at Loud Technologies (maker of Mackie) and talked with Tom M. who claimed Loud is aware of this issue and there is no fix. That's a shame because the ProFX8 is otherwise worth 5 Amazon Stars and is noticeably quieter than my Behringer Xenyx mixer.
The ProFX8 is currently out of production while Loud engages another manufacturer - the original manufacturer apparently went out of business. Tom from Loud hinted that the USB-induced noise may be fixed in the next production run, but he admitted it was pure speculation on his part. I'll be interested to hear from other Amazon reviewers who purchase a ProFX from this second production run. Chime in folks!
My ProFX8 arrived with a defective effects unit. Getting Tom to issue the paperwork for the repair was a little dicey because I bought my unit on Ebay (at the time, none were available anywhere else). Apparently, there is a black market for these Chinese-manufactured units, and Loud doesn't want to warranty any they didn't sell to an authorized dealer. Getting a receipt from the Ebay seller was the most uncertain step in this process. When I finally sent the ProFX8 in for repair, I also listed the USB noise issue on the paperwork. When the ProFX8 was returned, the effects unit was fixed and mentioned on the repair ticket, while the USB noise issue was ignored. The repair turnaround was a reasonable two or three weeks using ground shipping.
Some other facts/tips about the ProFX8:
-As soon as you connect the ProFX8 to a computer via the USB cable, you may notice some (other) digital noise in the mixer. Fix this by adding a ground-lift adapter to the end of the power plug of the ProFX8.
-The 1kHz tone does not enter the USB recording itself unless the USB Thru feature is used. The noise is obviously coming from the USB playback path (again, only while recording via USB).
-The USB Thru feature can be used to achieve zero-latency multi-track recordings. This is done by engaging the feature for a second or so before performing a new track and recording a bit of the playback (like a test click). Afterwards, line up the playback audio with the portion that was recorded with the USB Thru.
Update (April 17, 2009):
I sold the ProFX8 via the Mackie forum (and this review) to a professional musician with a decent breadth of mixer experience. He had this to say about my ProFX8:
"The basic reverbs are noticeably better than in most other compact mixers (Behringer, Yamaha) at this price point. Not the equal of Soundcraft, Allen Heath or Dynacord mixers, but still as you commented, it is amazing how much Mackie put in this thing for $200. I'm curious to see how it holds up over time. Hopefully their re-release model will take care of the USB noise issues."


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The Mackie ProFX8 USB Mixer offers the most complete and professional feature set in its class. Features like integrated 32-bit RMFX gig-ready effects and 7-band graphic EQ enhance the sound of your shows, with minimal effort. The built-in USB port allows you to stream music from a laptop making DJ sets or intermissions a breeze. Mackie low-noise, high-headroom mic preamps ensure pristine signal from the start and ABS sidecheeks offer additional impact resistance to the already rugged steel chassis.

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DigiTech RP250 Multi Effect Pedal Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Lots of effects can be had with this versatile pedal, which is also easy on the budget. I'm still checking the features out. I find the settings are pushing me to play in certain directions hitherto unexplored. Very cool. The drum beats also try hard to provide variety, and yet, they remain mechanical, acting almost like a pendulum, keeping me on the beat. Good stuff for practice and for working leads around the rhythm. I still have a long way to go before the novelty of this nice piece of engineering wears off.

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Accessing superbly detailed new amp models has never been easier than with the Diti Tech RP250 Modeling Guitar Pedal! There are three easy steps to dial in the perfect sound with Digi Tech's Tone and Effects library knobs1. Pick one of 30 tone presets, 2. Pick one of 30 effects chains, 3. Dial in your effects level and rock on. You may never go any deeper into the infinitely - tweakable RP interface. Digitech's RP tone and effects libraries let you access pre-designed combinations of models as fast as you can turn the knob. From mellow and bluesy to scorch-the-face-of-the-earth-raw, you're going to find combinations that fit your playing style. It's a modeling guitar pedal with the raw power for real players and tone that deserves to be heard on stage and in the studio.

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