Product

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The Great Outdoors

Yorkville Sound announced the CO8CW and C12CW weather-resistant full-range speakers. These IP56rated outdoor speakers are the latest additions to the Coliseum line of installation products. The C08CW and C12CW are eight-inch and 12-inch two-way speakers designed with compact coaxial drivers. Both have the ability to operate at 70 volts, 100 volts or eight ohms.

yorkville.com

Justin Time

Justin Sandercoe, better known as simply JustinGuitar, is one of the most trusted and successful online guitar instructors in the history of the internet. Hal Leonard has been working with Sandercoe to publish print versions of his instructional methods and now released the “JustinGuitar Easy Guitar Songbook,” featuring 101 popular songs that can be played with up to eight open chords. Songs are presented in sequential difficulty order in chord/lyric format with lesson tips, chord diagrams and more. The collection includes top hits, including “Eleanor Rigby” (The Beatles), “Free Fallin’” (Tom Petty), “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” (Green Day), “Perfect” (Ed Sheeran), “Shallow” (Lady Gaga), “Zombie” (The Cranberries) and dozens more.

halleonard.com

Magic Elves

Trace Elliot introduced Trace ELF Combos. The ELF 1x8 Combo measures 12 inches by 10.2 inches by 13.3 inches and weighs 17 pounds, while the slightly stockier ELF 1x10 Combo measures 13.3 inches by 12 inches by 14 inches and weighs just 18 pounds. Both units are built to amplify the player’s skill and the tone of their instrument, while being expandable and flexible to meet the needs of the setting. ELF Combos feature a built-in Trace Elliot ELF ultracompact bass amplifier, which weighs just 1.6 pounds and is able to fit inside a back pocket. Ultra-high preamp input impedance at more than 10 megaohms provides maximum sensitivity when using passive pickups, while the post-EQ balanced XLR DI output with ground lift sends classic Trace Elliot tone to a mixing console or recording device, stated the company. A 1/4-inch headphone output allows for quiet practice.

traceelliott.com

A Smart Move

K&M’s latest holders each adapt to fit both smartphones and tablets with a clamping range from 5.1 inches to 8.8 inches. Infinitely variable positioning is afforded with the ball-shaped mechanism as well as a 360-degree rotating arm. The brackets and mounting surface are coated with non-slip rubber for added stability, as well as a gentle grip, stated the company. The 19800 table stand model also holds an Allen wrench in the base and features a convenient cable opening. The 19805 table clamp model fits depths of 0.39 inches to 1.37 inches, and its clamp surfaces are coated with rubber to protect the table. All K&M products come with a five-year warranty and 10-year parts replacement.

connollymusic.com

Pioneering Product

Gator released its custom foam-cut waterproof case for the Pioneer DJ CDJ-2000NXS2 professional DJ multi-player. With features like the patented easy-release Powerclaw latching system and impact-proof, lightweight NK-7 Resin, the case provides 360-degree protection. Built to ATA-300 certifications, the shell contains military-grade craftsmanship, making it the prime solution for the gigging DJ by protecting against the elements, stated the company. The gear inside is even further guarded with patented Powerclaw latches engineered specifically to keep the case closed during transport or in the event of a drop. Custom-cut foam inserts ensure a snug fit to help secure the CDJ-2000NXS2 when being moved around. A soft-grip carry handle promotes comfortable transport, added the manufacturer.

gatorcases.com

The Only ONE

Rane announced its professional motorized DJ controller, the ONE. It offers motorized seveninch turntable platters for a traditional vinyl feeling, complete with a customizable high/low torque setting. RANE ONE’s multi-function, independent performance pads provide access to Hot Cues, Saved Loops, Roll, Sampler, Slicer and Serato’s Scratch Bank feature. With six radio-style FX buttons, users can instantly activate any combination of software FX with a single press, fine-tune with depth and beat parameter controls, then activate with the independent aluminum paddle controls, stated the manufacturer. Finally, take full control of your sound with the three-band dynamic EQs and

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high/low pass filters on each deck along with dedicated loop controls. Each deck is switchable between two USB laptop connections as well as a line input that’s switchable to phono for traditional turntables.

rane.com

What Can Browne Do for You?

Browne Amplification released the T4 Fuzz pedal. The T4 is the Browne Amplification take on the classic four-transistor fuzz, similar to the circuits used in the Big Muff and countless other variants. What sets the T4 apart is a flattened EQ curve that allows the mids to come back in and cut through the mix better, stated the company. It also has been softened in the gain department. The T4 is equipped with three control knobs that provide level, sustain and tone for the pedal. It supports a standard nine-volt DC negative power input.

browneamps.com

Be Heard with Confidence

DigitalWirelessUSBMicrophones

Theeasiestwaytoimprovetheaudioqualityforvirtualmeetingsorvirtual learningistoupgradetoanexternalmicrophone. VocoPro ’ sUSB-CASTconnectsdirectlytothecomputer ’ sUSBdriveviaaUSB receiver.Nocables,nocomplicatedsetup,atrueplug-and-playonPCandMac. Nowyouwon ’tbeaskedtotalklouderorgetclosertothelaptoptobeheardwith USB-CAST.

FEATURES:

•TransmitterssynctotheUSBreceiverautomatically,withquick tap-to-syncfunctionalitytoavoidinterference •Twouserscanusethemicrophonessimultaneouslywithout interferenceorsetup •Operatesin900MHzawayfromradio,TV,andWi-Fiinterference

USB-CAST-BodypackIncludes:USBReceiver,BodypackTransmitterx2, HeadsetMicrophonex2,LavaliereMicrophonex2,InstrumentCablex2 USB-CAST-Conference MAP$149

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Wish You Were Here

C.F. Martin introduced two David Gilmour Custom Signature Edition D-35 guitars. The six- and 12-string models are both finished in vintage gloss, a process normally available only on the Martin Authentic Series models. It delivers a soft sheen patina somewhere between full gloss and satin. Gilmour chose Adirondack spruce for the top of the six-string model, as found on an early ’40s vintage D-18 that he also owns. Adirondack is a little stiffer than its more commonly used Sitka spruce cousin and offers more complex overtones. The top is torrefied using the Martin Vintage Tone System (VTS), a process that “ages” the wood, adding vintage sound characteristics without waiting years for it to happen naturally. The top braces on the six-string are 1/4-inch Adirondack spruce for added support and resonance, and they are scalloped and forward-shifted. The top of the 12-string is Carpathian spruce, grown in the mountains of Romania.

martinguitar.com

Taking Extreme Measures

D&A Guitar Gear introduced the BULLHEAD EXTREME Multi-Accessory Support System product line, featuring five products, all sold separately, that will allow the end user to convert and customize their BULLHEAD or BULLHEAD + Folding Music Stand into a full-blown live performance system stand that can accommodate a microphone boom arm, a tablet holder, a livestream/video camera, personal lighting and Dean’s new microphone cable-management clips. The BULLHEAD EXTREME Multi-Accessory Support System line consists of five new Accessories: the Tablet and Smartphone Holder, Microphone Boom Arm, Single Adapter, Trio-Plate with Three Adapters and Microphone Cable Clips.

dnaguitargear.com

Prophecy Revealed

Epiphone unveiled the Prophecy Collection. Featuring a modern take on classic Gibson blueprints including the Les Paul, Flying V, SG and Extura, its standard specs allow players to set new benchmarks in speed, sound and technique. Across the Prophecy Collection, each Les Paul, Flying V, SG and Extura features standard specs, including custom-voiced active Fishman Fluence pickups that deliver three distinct tones: a warm vintage humbucker, a hot modern humbucker, and a shimmering optimized single-coil, all accessed by push/pull volume and tone pots. Additionally, attention-grabbing color finishes with specially designed inlays, 24 frets for reaching new octaves, fast-playing necks and high-end appointments round out every guitar.

epiphone.com

A New Dimension

Spector Musical Instruments announces the release of its latest two series, the NS Dimension and NS Ethos. Expanding on Spector’s influential design legacy, these instruments feature compelling features like multiscale design, exotic wood tops and premium electronics. Spector’s NS Dimension Series combines iconic design with multi-scale construction, bringing a new level of playability and tonality to Spector’s dedicated legion of players, stated the manufacturer. In addition to the multi-scale, neck-thru construction, the NS Dimension features a variety of premium tone woods and Fishman Fluence electronics. The NS Ethos Series offers players a fresh take on this Spector’s now classic design with updated finishes and electronics from Aguilar.

spectorbass.com

Top 10

TASCAM announced the DR-10L Micro Linear PCM Recorder. The DR-10L’s OLED-backlit display provides clear, real-time information about record levels, SD card status and more — without the annoying distraction of bright LEDs that can be seen through clothing, stated the company. In addition to its support for 48kHz/24-bit BWF (Broadcast Wave Format) and WAV format recording, the DR-10L also offers MP3 recording at both 128kbps and 192kbps. Also included is the DR-10L’s poly-file dual-record capability with adjustable dB level that automatically makes a backup track to the SD card. Users can, for example, set the dB level of the backup track to -6dB or-12dB

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to ensure pristine recordings that are free from clipping or distortion. There is always a secondary track for worry-free “no second take” recording. Equally notable, level meters are now active during both recording and playback.

tascam.com

TOOLS FOR SERIOUS PLAYERS

V for V-Type

Celestion introduced the Neo V -Type guitar speaker. Featuring a unique neodymium magnet assembly, the Neo V-Type delivers the familiar and modern vintage sound of the company’s wellestablished V-Type speaker, but with a weight reduction of almost 50 percent. The Neo V-Type has been designed to be a costeffective, lightweight neodymium magnet guitar speaker option both for manufacturers and for after-market upgrades, with no compromise on tone. This speaker has a superbly balanced sonic signature that imparts a vintage musicality to an end users’ tone, stated the company. Clean sounds have just the right amount of upper-mid chime and HF sparkle to add clarity and definition. Crank it up for a sizzling overdrive and some raw rhythmic grind, but expect a little extra definition and note separation for searing, singlenote lead lines thanks to some neodymium “magnet magic,” the manufacturer added.

celestion.com

Studio in Eriza Verde Special Semi-Hollow in McCarty Burst Fiore in Sugar Moon Silver Sky in Polar Blue

With PRS designed and built pickups, these guitars pack some serious tone. Made to be clear, distinctive, and inspiring, our pickups give you the tools you need to stand out and be heard. Visit you’re local PRS dealer to check them out and find your sound.

Buzz

Game, Set, Match

PIRASTRO introduced the PERPETUAL Viola String Set, which provide the “largest sound volume and carrying power, combined with a precisely focused sound projection,” stated the company. The strings also offer vibrant tone attack and optimal string response to complement PERPETUAL’s sound qualities from fortissimo to the most sensitive whisper. The strings react in an ideal way to the finest nuances in bow speed and pressure, enabling the musician to play with an extreme range of dynamics and expression, the company added.

pirastro.com

Exuding Class

ddrum entered the headphone arena with the Studio Class Isolation Headphones. Inspired by drummers but designed for all musicians, these headphones fit comfortably around the ears to provide 36 decibels of passive sound isolation. While the headphones help reduce external volumes of other instruments, their internal speakers can deliver a well-balanced mix. Suitable for various genres and styles, ddrum Studio Class Isolation Headphones are a professional-grade solution every musician should have in their gig bag. They offer high-precision audio through 40-millimeter closed back speakers that extend frequency response of 20 to 20,000 hertz with 32-ohm impedance, providing excellent definition from bass to treble, stated the manufacturer. Further proving their capability, the headphone speakers deliver 114 decibels at one-kilohertz one-megawatt sensitivity when maxed out. They can also be hooked up to high-output rigs, with a 1,000-megawatt input power rating. The detachable eight-foot cable extension affords players freedom where needed, whether in the studio or on stage.

ddrum.com

Numero Uno

IK Multimedia announced UNO Synth Pro and UNO Synth Pro Desktop. Developed in collaboration with Italian boutique synth-maker Soundmachines, both these new analog synthesizers take the groundbreaking UNO Synth monophonic synth and expand it in nearly every section: more oscillators, more filters, more sequencer memory, more effects, more presets, more connections and more programmability. UNO Synth Pro puts this new sound engine in a rugged metal chassis with a 37-key synth-action Fatar keybed, while UNO Synth Pro Desktop provides a more portable form factor to travel anywhere. The UNO Synth Pro’s unique dual-filter, three-oscillator paraphonic design lets it create nearly any synth sound imaginable, and with 256 presets, a new 64-step sequencer and expanded CV/Gate and audio connections.

unosynthpro.com

Protect and Serve

The Music People, a division of Jam Industries USA LLC, debuted its Hybrid Series of guitar bags. These bags feature the protection of a hardshell guitar case and couple it with the lightweight feel of a gig bag. Along with a weather-resistant exterior that defends against the elements, the bags boast a rigid inner shell and thick, 22mm padding that shields the instrument from impact damage and keeps its finish looking fresh. Upper and lower pockets allow for plenty of storage for accessories. Backpack-style straps and a cushioned top handle allow for balanced and comfortable lifting and carrying. A twopull zipper opens and closes fully at either end or any point in between for easy loading and unloading. The Hybrid guitar bags feature a 600D nylon exterior, two accessory pockets and come in Charcoal Gray.

musicpeopleinc.com

Let’s Get It Started

Audient released its next generation (mark II) of two iD audio Interfaces, iD4 (MKII) and iD14 (MKII), along with the new EVO Start Recording Bundle. Audient has taken this opportunity to make significant upgrades to the audio performance and feature sets of both iD4 and iD14, making sure they are now comparable with its most powerful interface, the iD44. Both iD4 (MKII) and iD14 (MKII) now provide 120 decibels of dynamic range on the DAC’s and ADC’s, representing a huge step up in audio performance and ensuring users experience professional audio performance, stated the manufacturer. iD14 (MKII) is now completely bus powered via USB3.0 and benefits from the addition of dual headphones outputs, two extra line outputs and a USB-C connection, making collaboration, connectivity and portability easier, the company added.

audient.com

Buzz

On-Camera Talent

CHAUVET DJ introduced the Cast Panel Pack, a complete lighting solution for vlogging or any other on-camera project. Cast Panels feature built-in color temperature presets that make adjustments painless, stated the company. Separate control of warm and cool LEDs allows fine tuning to any color temperature. An included removable filter widens and softens light output. Because the Cast Panels are battery-operated, they can be set up anywhere with optional battery packs (sold separately). Cast Panel Pack comes with two light fixtures (with barn doors), two tripods, two carry bags and two external power supplies.

chauvetlighting.com

Un-Believe - able

By Anthony Vargas and Brian Berk

Gone were the in-person meetups, the glitz and glamour of parties and the excitement of live musical performances. These were all sorely missed from what an in-person NAMM Show provides. “Anyone who thinks The NAMM Show will not be back is sorely mistaken,” NAMM president and CEO Joe Lamond said to the audience, as well as his NAMM TV co-host, “Pensado’s Place’s” Herb Trawick, on Jan. 22 during Believe in Music Week. “If there is a world where we don’t have a physical show, I don’t want to be part of it.”

Most manufacturers and retailers alike that The Music & Sound Retailer spoke to agreed with this sentiment. However, many said NAMM did everything it could to make Believe in Music Week, which took place Jan. 18 to 21 and drew 93,226 registered guests, a great event. Many manufacturers told the Retailer that the goal of the virtual show was not specifically to write tons of MI retailer purchase orders. Instead, it was to support NAMM and the industry.

Lamond also mentioned the positives that a virtual show can bring and has suggested the likelihood that future NAMM Shows will be in-person, but complemented by a virtual component.

Although nothing can replace an in-person show, NAMM’s Believe in Music Week was the best a virtual event gets

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“We are 10 months into a global pandemic that has seen the entire world [turned] upside down. This is the first [non inperson] NAMM Show in nearly 80 years,” he said. “We have more than 180 countries registered for Believe in Music Week.” Although Believe in Music Week kicked off on Jan. 18, it really hit its stride on Jan. 21. That’s when, just one day after his electrifying performance of “Amazing Grace” during President Joe Biden’s inauguration, country music star Garth Brooks was honored with NAMM’s Music For Life award. Lamond, stationed at a San Diego studio, asked Brooks what he was thinking about when he took the stage in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 20. “Keep your gut sucked in,” responded Brooks, who added he would have taken his whole family to the event if he had known how special the inauguration would be. “I got to hug four presidents in 15 seconds,” said Brooks. Lamond shifted the focus to Brooks’ band and crew, and what makes them so special. “They are my family,” stated Brooks. “Nothing is below them. Nobody has a bigger heart or works harder than [drummer] Mike Palmer.” Brooks added that Palmer, who has played with the country music legend since 1989, is also a great entertainer with his 360-degree drum kit, as is the rest of his band. Post-pandemic periods often bring on periods of music renaissance, Lamond noted in a shift of topics. He expects this to be the case again when the world gets to a post-COVID-19 era. Brooks agreed. “There will be a gratefulness you never knew was there,” relayed Brooks. “There will be a passion like you have never seen from the artist, crew and audience.”

Grammy and Academy award winner Melissa Etheridge received NAMM’s second 2021 Music for Life award on Jan 22. Upon acceptance of the award, Etheridge discussed a number of topics. “When the pandemic started, I decided I wanted to do a free concert every day until it ended, thinking it would not last that long,” Etheridge said. “That stopped in May when my son passed away.”

Etheridge, along with wife Linda Wallem, a producer and writer for TV shows such as “Nurse Jackie” and “That ‘70s Show,” decided to create Etheridge TV, a paid subscription service. “Five days a week, we bring music to my fans,” said Etheridge. “We make music

three days a week, have chats one day and on Friday, we show old bootlegs of past concerts.”

Etheridge has even performed live concerts with 20 to 40 people watching from a separate location. This model has proven effective enough that Etheridge is looking into livestreaming her concerts post-pandemic in an effort to reach fans in countries in which she has never toured. However, Etheridge acknowledged livestreaming technology needs a lot of improvements. “We cannot replicate the experience of everyone together,” she said. “A lot needs to be done to make streaming better.”

The Grammy winner was also asked about her childhood growing up in Leavenworth, Kans., and her musical influences there. She recalled getting her first guitar at 8 years old and visiting both Urban Music Store and Tune Shop. “My first live concert was Buck Owens,” relayed Etheridge. “He was amazing.”

Lastly, Etheridge was asked about her widely acclaimed version of Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” that she performed with Joss Stone at the 2005 Grammy awards. Etheridge recalled receiving a chemotherapy treatment for cancer the morning of the performance and the warm reception she received from fellow musicians. “That is one of my top performances I ever did,” she said.

“We [musicians] have a gift. The gift needs to be given,” Etheridge added. “I am blessed to share it.”

Etheridge concluded the interview with a version of her hit song “Come to My Window.”