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The Producer Blog - Hardware

The best synthesizers 
The synth highlights in november 2022
In our current issue BEAT #203 we have again carried out various tests for you. We present the synthesiser highlights here.

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Attention recording 
USB condenser microphone for podcasters and musicians from R...
To record vocals or speech in the home studio, whether for music productions or podcasts, a professional condenser microphone is an advantage. This is what the new NT-USB from RØDE is designed to do...

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Spin the record 
Standalone DJ controller with Denon speakers
SC LIVE 2 and SC LIVE 4 are the new DJ controller duo from Denon that act completely standalone - their special feature is the WiFI interface for Amazon Music streaming. Beatport Link, Beatsource Link...

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Compact audio interface 
Recording on six channels with MOTU
An audio interface is indispensable for professional music recordings, live streams or podcasts. MOTU offers the new M6 for this purpose, which can process up to six input signals simultaneously. The ...

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Better creative control 
Complete studio with new controller keyboard from AKAI
MPK Mini Plus is the new controller keyboard from AKAI that brings an expanded feature set compared to its smaller brother MPK Mini. The compact design brings the advantage for mobile use and quick ja...

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Synthesizer 
The synth highlights october 2022
In our current issue BEAT #202 we have again conducted various tests for you. The synthesizer highlights are presented here.

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Microphone new edition 
New capsules and housings for condenser microphones from seE...
The developers at seElectronics have announced the reissue of the T2 and sE4400 condenser microphones, both of which have been optimized. A new feature is the die-cast metal housing, which should prom...

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Novation giveaway 
Novation celebrates anniversary with big raffle
Since 1992 Novation has proven itself as a specialist for fat beats, grooveboxes, MIDI controllers and synthesizers. Now the manufacturer celebrates its 30th anniversary with a big raffle. The winner ...

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Multitrack recording 
Mobile Recording with Zoom R12 MultiTrak (+Free Download)
Zoom has developed the compact R12 MultiTrak portable multitrack recorder for musicians and songwriters. With eight channels, eight tracks can be recorded instantly to an SD card. Learn more about the...

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Pickup deluxe 
True collectible: Exclusive turntable pickup from Audio-Tech...
To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Audio-Technica has released the AT-MC2022 dual moving coil stereo cartridge. The limited edition dual moving coil cartridge features a pickup needle. The integrated ...

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Let the bass kick 
Hybrid drum machine with sequencer from Korg
Korg's drumlogue wants to recommend itself as a triple hybrid drum machine for studio and live performances. The sound generation is analog, digital and sample-based. Up to eleven voices can be played...

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Mobile recording 
Laptop controller and keyboard from AKAI
LPK25 is the name of the new MIDI keyboard controller from AKAI in a very compact design, which, like the new laptop pad controller LPD8, is particularly suitable for mobile musicians. The LPK25 keybo...

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Drums Deluxe 
Powerful sampling pads from Roland - not only for drummers (...
As the big brother of the SPD-SX, Roland releases the SPD-SX PRO sampling pad. There are nine sampling pads in total, each with horizontal and vertical LEDs that always light up when triggered. The to...

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Studioacoustic special 
Hands-on: Calibrating the studio with IK Multimedia ARC Syst...
A precise measurement microphone, analysis software and a correction plug-in is all you need to improve the accuracy of your monitoring in any room. We'll show you how to do it with IK Multimedia's AR...

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And it went BOOM 
Mobile recording with Apogee audio interface plus DAW
Are you a musician, podcaster, video producer or live streamer who is often on the road? Apogee has developed the BOOM USB-C audio interface for creative professionals. The interface is not only compa...

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Synthesizer 
The synth highlights in August 2022
In our anniversary issue BEAT #200 we have again conducted various tests for you. The synthesizer highlights are presented here.

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Mobile audio interface 
Test: Presonus AudioBox GO
The "Go" in the name already indicates that the USB audio interface is primarily designed for mobile use. And the AudioBox GO scores with its format.

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Fat sound for the studio 
Surround capable monitors with measuring microphone from IK ...
IK Multimedia surprises with three new studio monitors: iLoud Precision 5, iLoud Precision 6 and iLoud Precision MTM. The smallest of the series, iLoud Precision 5, produces 135 watts of power and has...

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Luminously connected 
Luminous instrument cables for black light from Cordial
With the Blacklight Edition, Cordial introduces new instrument cables that glow under UV light, also called black light. They are offered in green or orange. With the help of a special dye composition...

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Studio acoustics special 
The studio acoustics rumors - debunked
They are widespread and lack any truth or scientific evidence, yet they persist. But we‘re going to clarify things for you now and refute the most common rumors about studio acoustics, which go far ...

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Studio Acoustics Special 
Hands-on: Measuring the studio correctly and optimizing soun...
The conditions in desktop or home studios are usually anything but acoustically optimal, as the rooms are often used for other purposes, for example as a study or bedroom. So on the way to good room s...

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Podcasts for beginners 
Better podcasts with USB audio interface from Focusrite
Ever wanted to start a podcast on your own or as a team? Focusrite's Vocaster One and Vocaster Two audio interfaces are the perfect way to get started. The models differ in that Vocaster One has one a...

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Analog synthesizer 
Studio Electronics SE-3X
The SE-3X is a further development of the almost 30 year old monophonic classic SE-1(X). The sound synthesis, which is based on the Minimoog, was supplemented by additional ARP- and Roland-style filte...

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Hybrid synthesizer 
Motorisierter Synthesizer von Melbourne Instruments
To kick off the synthesizer company Melbourne Instruments, the makers have announced NINA, a 12-voice multi-timbral desktop synthesizer that combines analog and digital synthesis. The sound generation...

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Synthesizer 
The synth Highlights in August 2022
In our anniversary issue BEAT #200 we have again conducted various tests for you. The synthesizer highlights are presented here.

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Bitwig workshop 
Crunchy Psytrance basslines
As in pretty much every music style, the bass is also the supporting element in Psytrance, but is further in the foreground and turns out comparatively percussive. While in other places it should soun...

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We call it Acid 
Test: Behringer TD-3-MO - What can the Acid clone do?
TD-3-MO is an extended version of the TB-303 clone based on the popular Devil Fish modification with Filter-FM, Overdrive and many other extras. With the TD-3-MO, Behringer introduces an enhanced vers...

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Mighty thunder 
Faster transfer with Thunderbolt interface from Antelope Aud...
Those who previously knew the Zen Go Synergy Core audio interface from Antelope Audio only with a USB port can now look forward to faster data transfers thanks to a Thunderbolt interface. The interfac...

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Analog synthesizer 
Finally available - All synthesizer sounds from Oberheim in ...
Oberheim has combined its synthesizer legends OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 from the 80s into its modern flagship OB-X8 and has announced the delivery. The eight-voice playable sound generator is based on a c...

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Acoustic modules for the studio 
Modular acoustic optimization of studio rooms with GIK Acous...
To optimize the acoustics in the studio, GIK Acoustics has developed the innovative Sound Blocks acoustic module system. Sound Blocks are very flexible due to their free configuration and easy assembl...

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Better studio acoustics 
Studio monitor in cube design with power amplifier from Aura...
Auratone has released the 5C Active Super Sound Cube, a cube-shaped studio monitor with an active design and integrated power amplifier. The speaker, which was developed in close collaboration with Be...

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Everything under control 
Jamming on the go with MIDI controller from ESI
For playing drums or recording a few chords on the go, ESI Audio has released the new Xjam MIDI performance controller in a slim design. The rugged, portable compact model is designed especially for m...

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Spin the records 
Standalone DJ controller with four toggles by Reloop
Reloop has brought out a new flagship as a 4-channel hybrid DJ controller with the Mixon 8 Pro, which is compatible with the DJ software programs Serato DJ Pro and Algoriddim djay Pro AI. The controll...

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Keep on scratching 
Portable scratching with 2-channel battle mixer by Pioneer D...
The guild of scratch DJs can look forward to exciting scratching sessions with the new battle mixer DJM-S5 from Pioneer DJ. The mixer has two channels and a Magvel Fader Pro as a crossfader, whose res...

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To the ears 
Variable monitor configuration with studio speakers from Foc...
ST6 is the new successor series of speakers from Focal, consisting of the Solo6 and Twin6 studio monitors and the Sub12 subwoofer. With the help of the W-diaphragm, a precise sound and acoustic reliab...

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Smart mixer 
Produce podcasts and music on 16 tracks with Rode
Successor to the Rodecaster PRO, which was heavily focused on the needs of podcasters and streaming users, RØDE is now opening up to musicians with the new Rodecaster PRO II. The production studio ca...

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Full control 
Novation keyboard giant for composers
Novation literally extends the Launchkey series of keyboard controllers with the Launchkey 88 with 88 lightly weighted keys. While the model is optimized for Ableton Live, it can also be used with qui...

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Expanding audio interface 
Clean transients and more dynamics with Focusrite
Freshly revised Focusrite has the 8-channel ADAT interface, which now bears the name Clarett OctoPre. Thanks to new low-noise converters, the model can boast a better dynamic range (118 dB) and lower...

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For tweakers 
DIY Groove Synthesizer to solder yourself from Dreadbox
You always wanted to solder together an analog groove synthesizer yourself? Then you've come to the right place with the new Dysmetria from Dreadbox. Delivered as a DIY kit, the model can be assembled...

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All Oberheim sounds 
The return of the Oberheim legends in one synthesizer
For more than 40 years, Oberheim's legendary analog synthesizer sound returns with the new OB-X8. The eight-voice playable sound generator places great emphasis on the completely analog signal path. T...

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Hybrid fidget 
Program beats and synths on 12 tracks with Elektron
A combination of drum machine and synthesizer has brought forth Elektron with Syntakt. Up to 12 tracks can be mixed and recorded. Of these, eight tracks are digital and can draw from ten selectable ma...

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Sound giant 
Space-saving modular system from Analogue Solutions
Compared to the monstrously huge Colossus modular system, Analogue Solutions has come up with a 50 percent smaller space-saving edition with the Colossus AS200 Slim. Even if the design evokes similari...

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Completely modulated 
Effektmodulation Galore mit Caelum Audio
Sound designers take note! A creative weapon for sound design holds the new multi-effect plug-in Flux Pro from Caelum Audio. The highlight is the three user-defined graphs that can be assigned to each...

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Add more value to your studio 
Win gear worth 2.800 Euro: The SUPERBOOTH22 gear giveaway
Hooray, we teamed up with Akai, Bitwig, Focusrite, Novation and u-he to extend your studio with some of the most innovative gear that is around! What you have to do to take part is simple: Just visit ...

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Sequencer Beats 
Crisp drums for the Eurorack from Behringer
Long-awaited Behringer presents the new drum machine RS-9, which should especially please friends of modular systems, because it was designed for the Eurorack. The prototype rack can fall back on ten ...

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Connected to stream 
USB mixer for live streaming from Yamaha
For podcasts, webcasts and streaming music, Yamaha has released two new compact mixers, the AG03MK2 and AG06MK2. The models are designed to connect to a computer via the built-in USB audio interface a...

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Everything under control 
Headphone mixes and more with monitor controller from SPL
SPL heralds the next generation with the MTC MK2 monitor and talkback controller. Based on the basic design concept and sound quality of its predecessor, there are also new features to report. In addi...

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This is how impressive drum recordings succeed! 
How do I record acoustic drums? The must-knows for successfu...
It is clear that a suitable beat drives the track forward. Depending on your imagination and working method, drum machines and MPCs are available for this purpose, which either draw their sounds from ...

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Under control 
MIDI Controller Keyboards for FL Studio by Novation
Novation has created the FLkey 37, a MIDI keyboard controller that has been specially adapted to the FL Studio DAW. Despite the compact design, the keyboard instrument has 37 velocity-sensitive keys i...

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Media Monitos 
Homestudio-Monitor mit Bluetooth von PreSonus
PreSonus introduces the Eris E5 BT as music and media speakers for the home studio. They are also suitable for streaming, podcasts and reference monitoring. The manufacturer places great emphasis on a...

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Mobile sampling 
Sampler and sequencer for live streams from Sonicware
Initiated with the help of a crowdfunding campaign via the Kickstarter portal, Sonicware wants to produce the sampler and sequencer SmplTrek ready for series production. The audio- and MIDI-capable de...

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To the ears 
Streamen und Musik produzieren mit Studio-Kopfhörern von R...
So far, Røde has mainly made a name for itself by manufacturing studio microphones. With the NTH-100, however, the Danes present their first dynamic studio headphones, which should be suitable for po...

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Mixing center 
Analogsound mit Studio- und Livemixern von Yamaha
The new trio on the horizon of studio mixing consoles Yamaha has brought out with the MG10X, MG12X and MG16X in the MG series. They are built into sturdy metal housings, so that they are also suitable...

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Sequencer and arpeggiator 
MPE sequencer with 128 pads from Squarp Instruments
Squarp Instruments wants to conquer the studios with the new standalone sequencer Hapax. The MPE-capable standalone device wants to convince with an intuitive workflow. The main focus is the 16x8 matr...

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Synthesizer alarm 
Behringer Synthesizer 2022: Das kommt noch alles
Rarely has it been so inexpensive to get the authentic sound character of synthesizer icons of past decades as with the clone synthesizers from Behringer. At times, new prototypes are announced on a d...

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Compact and mobile 
Powerful Dante audio interface from ESI Audio
In a very compact format and yet without loss of quality sound ESI Audio wants to impress with the Dante audio interface planet22c. As an audio over Ethernet standard, Dante has become especially popu...

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Under control 
Stable MIDI controller with 9 channels from Midique
Midique has come up with a respectable MIDI controller that is not made of plastic but of stainless steel instead of the usual models with the KNTRL9. The housing, which is carved out of solid wood (e...

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Better harmonics 
Automatisch Akkorde produzieren mit W.A. Production
For those who have always struggled to produce suitable harmonies for their track, W.A. Production offers an effective solution with the chord plug-in Chords. Chords automatically generates up to four...

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The drum expert 
Vermona DRM1 mkIV - die analoge Drum-Legende im ausführlich...
With a whopping 73 controls, this analog drum expander invites you to play around, and revised trigger inputs allow for dynamic integration. The DRM1 analog drum synthesizer can quite rightly be calle...

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Video camera for streaming 
Stream videos on the go in 4K UHD quality with Zoom
For DJs and musicians who want to stream their gigs or shoot a music video on the go, a portable mobile video recorder is an advantage. Zoom has released the Q8n-4K recorder in a compact design for th...

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Full power 
Lewitt combines tube with FET in one microphone system
Lewitt has created an innovative tube and FET microphone system with the LCT 1040, which is supposed to offer the possibility of combining tube and transistor technology in one microphone. The microph...

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Full bass 
Fetter Sound mit Studiomonitoren und Subwoofer von Focal
Focal is expanding its Alpha Evo series with the new Alpha 80 Evo and Alpha Twin Evo studio monitors in a bass reflex design. The third model, the Sub One, is a subwoofer. The Alpha 80 Evo consists of...

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Nubert nuPro SP-200  
Active multimedia monitors from Nubert with remote control
The nuPro SP-200 two-way active speaker from Nubert wants to recommend itself as a monitor for multimedia and hi-fi tasks. The smaller brothers of the nuPro X series are connected via connecting cable...

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More bass 
Headphones for monitoring and studio from Shure
SRH440A and SRH840A are de two upgraded closed-back, circumaural headphones from Shure that sound engineers can put on as both monitoring and studio solutions. Powered by dynamic neodymium magnets and...

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For sounddesigner 
Paraphones patching with Analogue Solutions
As successor of the monophonic character synthesizer Fusebox, Analogue Solutions has introduced its new paraphonic synthesizer Fusebox X. Now it is triple polyphonic playable and has more connection p...

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Compact synthesizer 
Granular synthesizer with touchscreen operation by 1010music
Sound designers who appreciate the sound of ambient pads to rough glitch textures should listen to the granular synthesizer nanobox lemondrop from 1010music. The compact four-voice playable sound gene...

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Special Better Vocals 
Recording 2022: Mixing vocals correctly
No musical element plays as much of an important role in the recognition value and success of a song as the vocals. In our special feature, we show you how to create great-sounding vocal recordings an...

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Streaming like a pro 
The perfect streaming mixer from Mackie?
For portable streaming sessions, Mackie claims to have created an effective streaming solution for musicians, DJs, podcasters, gamers, and streaming-savvy users thanks to the thoroughly redesigned M-C...

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Mobile keyboard instrument 
Compact MIDI controller keyboard from AKAI with fat software
In updated form of the MPK mini Play, Akai delivers the MIDI controller keyboard MPK mini Play mk3. The controls have been arranged in a more structured way. Preferably, the 25-minute key instrument c...

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For sounddesigner 
Design experimental sequences with Bastl Instruments
Together with Casper Electronics, Bastl Instruments has introduced the Softpop SP2 subtractive synthesizer, which aims to inspire with unconventional digital control in addition to an analog signal pa...

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Special better lyrics 
5 Songwriting Tipps: So gelingen bessere Lyrics
Besides a well thought-out arrangement, a catchy melody and excellent sound design, good lyrics belong to the supreme discipline in the field of music production. Although this branch of songwriting d...

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For the ears 
Bluetooth headphones for studio and mobile from Shure
Shure recently presented a wireless headphone for mobile purposes and for the studio at the CES trade show with the AONIC 40. The noise-canceling technology can be relied on to suppress ambient noise....

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Special Better Vocals 
Recording Workshop: Wie nehme ich Vocals richtig auf?
1. Let's go The most important link in the vocal signal chain is the microphone. In the following, you will learn what to consider when selecting, connecting and positioning the studio microphone. Whe...

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Book for sounddesigner 
Re-screw Hit Sounds with Ultimate Artists Synthesizer Secret...
Have you always been interested in how the top musicians of this world carve their instantly identifiable hit sounds? Oliver von Wieding has written the book "Ultimate Artists Synthesizer Secrets", wh...

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Synthesizer control 
Control hardware sound generators virtually with Momo Mülle...
If you are looking for suitable software controllers of popular hardware synthesizers, you should take a look at Momo Müller. The programmer has created a wide portfolio of inexpensive editors and co...

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Synthesizer control 
Control hardware sound generators virtually with Momo Mülle...
If you are looking for suitable software controllers of popular hardware synthesizers, you should take a look at Momo Müller. The programmer has created a wide portfolio of inexpensive editors and co...

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Get connected 
Multifunctional Bluetooth Headphones from AIAIAI
The Danish manufacturer AIAIAI claims to have created the world's first wireless headphones for the studio with the TMA-2 Studio Wireless . DJ superstar Richie Hawtin is said to have been involved in ...

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More dynamic 
Podcast microphone for vocals from sE Electronics
DynaCaster from sE Electronics wants to prove itself as a vocal specialist among microphones. The dynamic microphone with neodymium magnet was developed especially for speech and vocals, to realize po...

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Spin the record 
Learn from the master - DJ controller from Tiësto
Grammy-nominated producer and world-star DJ Tiësto has teamed up with music provider Beatport to develop his own DJ controller - The Next Beat. Entry-level DJs are targeted as the target group. The B...

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Compact synthesizer 
Analog hybrid synthesizer from Udo Audio in desktop format
Udo Audio presents a keyboardless desktop version of its Super 6 as a binaural analogue hybrid synthesiser. If desired, the mobile, compact synthesiser can not only be placed on the studio table, but ...

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Ear candy 
The ultimate studio and live headphones from Austrian Audio?
Austrian Audio's successful series of Hi-X6 headphones is to be continued with the new foldable, circumaural Hi-X60. The main areas of application include the studio for mixing and mastering, as well ...

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For the ears 
Affordable DJ headphones from Numark
DJs looking for an affordable headphone solution for their live gigs, Numark has unveiled the new HF175 model. But the red-silver-black headphones are also said to be ideal for on-the-go or for listen...

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Lighting control for DJs and performers by SoundSw... 
Compact lighting control
As a lighting controller for live gigs, DJs and live performers should look to SoundSwitch's compact Control One. The lighting controller is compatible with DJ software programs Engine DJ, Serato DJ a...

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Keep on scratching 
Compact standalone DJ controller with speaker by Numark
Numark introduces the Mixstream Pro, an inexpensive standalone DJ system with lighting and sound system that is supposed to eliminate the need for a computer connection. The DJ controller has built-in...

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Spin the record 
The new all-in-one DJ controller from Pioneer DJ
The next generation of Pioneer DJ's standalone DJ controller XDJ-RX3 is on the market. The 2-channel system for mobile events can now draw on the advantages of the club standard CDJ-3000. The most str...

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For the ears 
Monitor for DJs and producers by Pioneer DJ
Pioneer DJ presents the DM-50D, a new pair of desktop monitors that can be used by both music producers and DJs. The special feature is that on the monitor can be switched between the DJ and productio...

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Stompbox deluxe 
Wide sound with Chorus floor pedal from Eventide
As part of the dot9 series, Eventide announces the release of their fourth effect pedal, the TriceraChorus. The pedal is intended to appeal not only to guitarists, but also singers or keyboardists. Du...

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For podcasters and DJs 
Mobile streaming interfaces from IK Multimedia
For mobile streaming, IK Multimedia is dedicated to all podcasters, DJs or YouTubers with the two new interfaces iRig Stream Solo and iRig Stream Pro. The two interfaces are designed for connections w...

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Sampling compact 
Sampler legend from Roland - Finally more memory
Roland revives the legendary portable sampler SP-404 after 16 years of radio silence. With the new SP-404 MKII you get a 32x polyphonic playable sampler with 17 velocity sensitive pads. A capacity of ...

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For podcasters and streamers 
All-rounder USB microphone with fat software bundle from ESI
The cosMik uCast from ESI wants to prove itself as a universal USB microphone for podcasters, live meetings, streamers and YouTubers. The design corresponds to a condenser microphone, which was design...

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For mobile musicians 
Affordable USB audio interfaces for podcaster from Arturia
MiniFuse is Arturia's new series of compact audio interfaces designed primarily for mobile musicians, podcasters and streamers. While MiniFuse 1 is equipped with one XLR jack input, MiniFuse 2 has two...

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Mic check Mic check 
Linear sound with small-diaphragm microphone from Austrian A...
The CC8 small-diaphragm microphone from Austrian Audio is recommended for recording acoustic instruments and vocals in the studio. Its strengths are said to be particularly effective when miking strin...

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Take control 
New MIDI controllers from Alesis with MPC-software
Alesis has released three velocity-sensitive MIDI controller keyboards, available in 25-key (V25 MKII), 49-key (V49 MKII), or 61-key (V61 MKII) versions as required. The portable, lightweight USB keyb...

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Here's something for the ears 
Wide frequency spectrum studio headphones by KRK
KRK updates its line of studio headphones with the twin KNS 6402 and KNS 8402, which feature a closed-back, circumaural plastic design. The models share a wide frequency response of 10 Hz to 22 kHz (K...

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Full control 
Keyboard controller with arpeggiator and more by Keith McMil...
Keith McMillen promises an expressive MPE keyboard controller with arpeggiator or step sequencer with the QuNexus. Three tracks with up to 32 steps and 10 selectable arpeggiator patterns are available...

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Massive Drums 
More boom with drum machine and sequencer from Erica Synths
Perkons HD-01 is the new drum machine from Latvian sound tinkerers Erica Synths. The four-voice hybrid device acts on the one hand with a digital sound engine .regarding the oscillators, on the other ...

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Desktop-Synthesizer 
Sound like a Microwave with 96 Wavetables with Waldorf
Associating with the synth legends Microwave and Microwave II or XT, Waldorf wants to revive the identical sound of yesteryear with the new M compact synthesizer. The quad multi-timbral sound generato...

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Easy Editing 
Software editor, samples and more for Wavestate by Korg
The new update with the operating system 2.0 for the synthesizer Wavestate from Korg brings a powerful swing of new functions. The most important feature is the software editor, which makes it possibl...

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Win yourself new gear 
The SUPERBOOTH21 giveaway: You can never have enough synths!
SUPERBOOTH21 is just around the corner! Four days of music, modular madness, gear hunting, tech talk and loads of fun, yay! And just as every year BEAT magazine hosts the official fair guide. With exc...

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3 compact audio interfaces 
More dynamics in Focusrite audio interfaces
As an evolution of the successful Clarett series, Focusrite has modernized its 2 Pre, 4 Pre, and 8 Pre audio interfaces and announced them as the Clarett series. The D/A converters have been replaced...

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Review: Neuzeit Instruments Orbit 
Neuzeit Instruments Orbit
What would be the best name for a combination of Bitcrusher, Harmonizer, Filter and Envelope Follower? Manufacturer Neuzeit Instruments has chosen Orbit and presents us with its Eurorack module featur...

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Review:Focal Clear MG Pro. 
Review:Focal Clear MG Pro.
With a chic design and high-quality workmanship, these studio headphones are not only an eye-catcher, the magnesium domes also ensure excellent sound. The French company Focal has earned a good reputa...

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Mixing and Recording 
Mixer with recorder for podcasters from Tascam
You don't need an opulent studio to produce podcasts or radio shows. This is also proven by Mixcast 4, the new mixing console from Tascam, which can be used by up to four people at the same time. Conn...

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Replica of the modular legend at an incredible pri... 
Review: Behringer 2600
A few years ago you couldn‘t even dream of an ARP 2600, now there are convincing replicas for well under 1,000 Euros - golden times for synthesizer lovers!

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The legend is back 
Analog synthesizer from Sequential now compact and affordabl...
In compact design Sequential presents the analog synthesizer Take 5, which is not only outwardly reminiscent of the Sequential Pro 3, but also technically wants to continue the legend of the Prophet-5...

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Modular review 
Review: u-he CVilization
There are synths and modules with a very purist approach, and controls that all serve only one purpose each. And there are their counterparts, where each knob takes over various tasks. CVilization bel...

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Wireless 
Now transmit 70 meters with radio microphone from Mackie
EleMent Wave is the name of the new wireless microphone system with the designations Wave LAV and Wave XLR from Mackie. The lightweight system is designed primarily for content and video production, a...

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Review 
Review: Moog Subsequent 25
The Moog Subsequent 25 presents itself as a worthy successor to the Sub Phatty with duophony and more scope for saturation and distortion.

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Clone alarm 
Monitor controller from Behringer for three monitor pairs
Behringer continues the concept of successfully cloning well-known products. The latest achievement is the Studio XL monitor controller, based on Mackie's Big Knob. The controller not only contains an...

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Headphones duo 
Headphones for studio and stage from Austrian Audio
Austrian Audio's new foldable headphones Hi-X15 and Hi-X25BT are something for your ears! While the Hi-X15 operates exclusively analog, the Hi-X25BT also offers a Bluetooth interface. The imaging freq...

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Groovebox galore 
Test: Roland Verselab MV-1 - Grooving without DAW
As an all-in-one system for step sequencing & beat programming, this groovebox wants to prove its qualities in composition and songwriting as well. Curious? It‘s not uncommon for a song idea or ...

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Compact sequencer 
Review: Korg SQ-64 - Four-track sequencer without menu divin...
This compact four-track sequencer has 64 pads for direct access to the individual steps, but there are fewer controls than on the Beatstep Pro or an analog step sequencer like the Korg SQ-1. After Kor...

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Headphones for DJing and Studio 
Closed modular headphones from AIAIAI
TMA-2 Studio XE is the name of the latest headphone model from AIAIAI, which aims to convince sonically with clarity and detail through its closed but modular design. The material composition of the m...

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Scratch it! 
Battle mixer for professional DJs from Rane
Not only visually, but also technically, Rane enhances its 2-channel battle mixer Seventy with the special A-Trak Signature Edition. A-Trak, who may also be familiar to some as Kanye West's DJ and was...

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Feel the groove 
Test: Novation Circuit Tracks - Wonderbox for grooves
The new edition of the popular Circuit groovebox offers a little bit more of everything while retaining the proven concept. In addition to the two polyphonic synthesizer tracks and the four drum track...

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Spin the record! 
DJ Controller for scratching: DDJ-FLX-6 by Pioneer DJ in rev...
For newcomers venturing into a 4-Channel DJ controller, Pioneer aims to hit the clubs and events with theDDJ-FLX6: Its large jog wheels promise creative mixes and scratch interludes. Between the entry...

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Streaming expert 
Perfect streaming with audio interface from PreSonus?
Revelator io24 is the latest USB audio interface from PreSonus, designed explicitly for podcast production and live streaming. For the inputs, two XLR / jack combo connectors are available at the fron...

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Feel the groove 
Novation Circuit Rhythm - The new groovebox god?
As a sample-based groovebox, Novation is making its way into the studios and onto the stage with the Circuit Rhythm. The mobile, rechargeable sampler not only allows cutting, shaping and resampling, b...

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Analog machine in a chic design: The MonoPoly is c... 
Review: Behringer Mono/Poly
Behringer‘s cloning machinery continues to run at full speed. The latest object of desire is the MonoPoly, a replica of the Korg Mono/Poly with additional extras.

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DJ controller with speakers for beginners by Numar... 
Scratch it!
Small and compact, but with built-in stereo speakers and integrated lights, Numark wants to attract budding DJs to the decks with the Party Mix Live DJ controller. The three LED lights can be synchron...

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Connecting wireless devices with PreSonus monitor ... 
Correctly connected
To be able to conveniently switch between different monitors in the studio for the purpose of reference listening, a monitor controller is advisable. PreSonus' MicroStation BT is designed to do just t...

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Many options in a small space 
Review: System 100 - Behringer goes modular
At the beginning of the 80s, the Roland System-100m offered an affordable entry into the modular world. Since it was used prominently in the field of synth pop by musicians and bands such as Vince Cla...

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Battle of the Scratch Champions 
Review: Rane Seventy Two mkII vs. Pioneer DJM-S11
Battle mixers designed specifically for scratching and juggling were once considered narrow spartan mixers for Hip Hop DJs. But since that time, battle mixers have catapulted to creative high-tec...

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Combination of audio interface, DAW and huge softw... 
Review: Pro Tools Carbon - high-end price, high-end performa...
With Carbon, Avid delivers a comprehensive combination of audio interface, DAW and huge software package that is aimed primarily at bands and larger studios and is supposed to banish the problem of l...

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Exceptional VA synthesizer! 
Review: Modal Electronics Cobalt8
Packaged in the same chassis as the Argon8, the Cobalt8 offers flexible virtual-analog sound with plenty of originality.  Cobalt8 is a virtual analog synthesizer that looks confusingly similar to Ar...

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Special: Studio Acoustic 
Eight Studio Monitors for Every Budget
Desktop or home studios are in most cases anything but acoustically optimal, which makes an objective assessment of a mix enormously difficult. But how to get a handle on the most common acoustic prob...

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Super Synth for free! 
Win in March: Novation Bass Station II
Technically and sonically cutting-edge, the Bass Station II brings the concept of a compact analogue into the 21st century. For the 25th anniversary of the Bass Station, Novation had even given the ne...

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OffBeat: Beat Workshop with Florian Pilz 
New Life for Old Grooveboxes
Analog Drum Machines are very popular, but their digital brothers and sisters live in the shadows for many producers. It‘s high time to breathe new life into these often underestimated instruments. ...

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The quality of the recording - An important factor 
Market Check: The best setups for vocal recording
There is no question that in most musical genres, the human voice is the most important instrument. A good signal chain is essential for successful vocal recordings. On the following pages, we will in...

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Awesome battery powered mobile console! 
Review: Denon DJ Prime Go
After the successful launch of the Prime 2 and Prime 4 DJ controllers, Denon surprises us with Prime Go - a fully comprehensive 2-channel, battery-powered standalone solution. The most striking featur...

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Review: Chronovore 
Review: Michigan Synth Works Chronovore - 303 sequencer as r...
Fans of Roland‘s TR-303 will probably cheer now, while others will scratch their heads and ask why you should build a sequencer from 1981 into the rack. Clearly, the 303 is famous for more than its...

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Review: Vochlea Dubler Studio Kit 
Review: Vochlea Dubler Studio Kit - Finally singing beats an...
This topic is a perennial favorite: The hookline is in your head, but before all the right notes are found on the keyboard, it's long gone. If only you could just sing or hum a melody. You can guess w...

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FM synthesis in direct access 
Review: Korg opsix
When Yamaha introduced the DX7, the first affordable FM synthesizer, almost 40 years ago, it was a revelation for many musicians. Because the sound generation based on frequency modulation enabled pia...

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Compact & affordable! 
Review: PreSonus Atom SQ - DAW controller, not only for Stud...
This controller makes a solid impression. The eight large endless knobs have a pleasant resistance, and the buttons have a noticeable pressure point. The 32 multicolored, illuminated pads are smaller ...

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Power Producer: Novation LaunchKey mkIII 
Keyboard as an Inspiration
Keyboards are generally not considered the ultimate creative tools, but rather a means to an end. Some, however, can do a bit more, like Novation‘s LaunchKey, now in its third generation. Thanks to ...

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Power Producer: NI Maschine 
Arrange tracks autonomously
The Maschine has recently become commercially available. This standalone production system impresses with a great workflow and its inner values. In the second episode of our Maschine workshop, you wi...

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Power Producer: Novation LaunchKey MkIII 
Freestyle live performance
It‘s a fact that Ableton Live is made for performance, but without a concept it can quickly become hectic. And nothing‘s less sexy than a performer hunched over in front of a laptop, controlling t...

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Power Producer: NI Maschine 
Send Effects with Maschine+
The Maschine has recently been made available in stores. This standalone production system is impressive with its great workflow and its inner values. In this first episode of our Maschine workshop,...

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The 2-channel Battle Mixer Seventy with the Turnta... 
Review: Rane Seventy & Twelve MKII
Together with the Twelve MKII turntable controller, the 2-channel Seventy mixer promises Serato DJ Pro disciples vital scratch battles. Get to know the innovations and practicality of these DJ tools f...

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Like the EDP model, Behringer combines digital LoF... 
Review: Behringer WASP Deluxe
Between his replicas of legendary analog synthesizers and drum computers, Uli Behringer also likes to surprise us with an exotic model. Developed by the creative Chris Huggett (OSCar, Novation Peak...

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Super6 is inspired by Roland‘s classic Jupiter-6... 
Review: UDO Audio Super 6
This 12-voice hybrid synthesizer already caused quite a stir at the 2019 Superbooth trade show with its extravagant design and convincing sound. But it would be a good year and a half before the synt...

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Look Mum No Computer!? 
Win in February: Standalone groovebox Maschine+ by Native In...
For many Maschine users, Maschine makes a long-cherished dream come true. Finally, the intuitive Maschine workflow can be used without an additional computer. Since the user interface and equipment a...

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The modern Jupiter-8  
Review: Roland Jupiter X
The Jupiter X is the big brother of Jupiter Xm and thus the flagship of Roland‘s current series of virtual analog synthesizers. The differences between the two synthesizers lie primarily in the hard...

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Exceptional polyphonic analog synthesizer 
Review: Arturia PolyBrute
For a long time, there was speculation about a polyphonic synthesizer from Arturia as a complement to their monophonic examples such as the Micro-, Mini and MatrixBrute. In the fall of 2020, the Poly...

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Bass Station II in new design 
Review: Novation AFX Station
While the Bass Station II, with its dark gray plastic case, light blue accents and white poti caps, is not necessarily one of the outwardly most attractive synthesizers, the AFX Station comes in a mor...

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Cheap TR-606 replica with extras 
Review: Behringer RD-6
The Drumatix, which serves as the obvious Blueprint of Behringer‘s drum machine, was launched together with the legendary Bassline in the early 1980s, with the TB-303 as a virtual electric bass play...

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Compact! 
Win in January: Elite Acoustics StompMix 4 - Mixer with powe...
Like all Elite Acoustics products, this very compact digital mixer in pedal format is primarily aimed at guitarists; however, the extensive features in the robust housing also make this little box int...

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Look Mum No Computer!? Standalone-Groovebox & ... 
Review: NI Maschine+
In April 2009, Native Instruments introduced Maschine, a combination of audio software and a perfectly tuned hardware controller. Over the years, not only has the software been continuously enhanced,...

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Advanced version of the popular keyboard controlle... 
Review: Arturia KeyStep 37
The Keyboard in KeyStep 37 is the same as the model in KeyStep, but with 37 instead of 32 keys. The slim keys are among the mini keys with the best playing feel on the market ; touch dynamic...

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Standalone-Sequenzer 
Review: Kilpatrick Audio Carbon
Carbon can control up to six hardware synthesizers simultaneously with individual sequences or it can be used as a multi-track MIDI-to-CV/Gate interface.

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Reconstruction of a classic synthesizer 
Review: Roland JU-06A - The perfect Juno clone?
The successor to the limited edition JU-06 has an emulation of the legendary Juno 60 and numerous other improvements in addition to the original 106 emulation.

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Fluid has renewed the popular F-Series all around! 
Review: Fluid FX50
With dimensions of approx. 23 x 18 x 23 cm and a weight of almost 3.8 kilograms, this monitor box is pleasantly compact and perfectly suited for the desktop. Two threaded holes on the rear also allow ...

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MPC as mastering unit 
Akai MPC Workshop: Mastering in the box?
An MPC as a Mastering Unit? Right, this sounds unusual at first, but it‘s not that far-fetched because, on the one hand, there are an astonishing number of users who would like to produce without th...

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Special character 
Review: Waldorf STVC - string machine and vocoder
STVC is based on the popular Stringmachine Streichfett, supplemented by a high quality Fatar keyboard and an excellent sounding vocoder.

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Well equipped 
Review: Twisted Electrons MEGAfm
MEGAfm is a 12-voice FM synthesizer whose sound synthesis is based on the YM2612 chips from the legendary Sega Megadrive/Genesis game console.

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HS5 MP Review 
Review: Yamaha HS5 MP
Yamaha monitor speakers have been in use in studios around the world since the 1970s, most notably the legendary NS10M. The HS Series has been representing the philosophy of these loudspeakers with mo...

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Vocal effect, looper and microphone 
Review: Zoom V6 Vocal Proc
The Zoom V6 vocal effect aims to set itself apart from the competition with intuitive, direct operation and a novel expression pedal for formant editing. Although the relatively compact housing is mad...

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Eight-voice polyphonic FM synthesizer 
Review: Elektron Digitone Keys - Pure Performance Power
While the keyboardless Digitone FM Groovebox quickly gained popularity, the unusual style of the keyboard version, the Monomachine, had a tough start. Compared to the desktop version, Digitone Keys of...

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Microphone arm and new USB midi cable 
Sontronics - ELEVATE and XLR-USB. Perfect hold and lower lat...
Sontronics introduces ELEVATE, a table microphone arm for the PODCAST PRO or other broadcast microphones with three lockable joints, cable channel with locking clips, powder-coated aluminum, allegedly...

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Through infinity... 
Eventide Blackhole - As black and mysterious as the cosmos?
Eventide introduces the Blackhole, its ambient reverb effect in a compact, rugged effect pedal for guitar, bass, synthesizer and other instruments. Already in its first version - first in the flagship...

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Subharmonicon Review 
Review: Moog Subharmonicon
Moog continues its series of Eurorack- compatible desktop synthesizers with the Subharmonicon. The new companion to Mother-32 and DFAM also offers an innovative concept: two analog oscillators have be...

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Quality and flexibility 
Reloop Spodcaster Go - Professionelles USB-Podcast Mikrofon?
Quality and flexibility are more important than ever for musicians and podcasters today, according to Reloop. The USB condenser microphone continues the sPodcaster series in a retro design and is bu...

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PreSonus celebrates 
PreSonus celebrates 25th anniversary with AudioBox USB 96
As part of celebrating 25 years of designing and manufacturing recording and live sound products, PreSonus has released a special 25th Anniversary Edition of its allegedly best-selling AudioBox USB 96...

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Review: Mackie MC-350 & MC-450 
Review: Mackie MC-350 & MC-450 - Headphones for mixing &...
The MC-450 headphones are Mackie‘s new flagship and the manufacturer‘s first model with an open design. The Model MC-350 is the more professional version of the MC-250 with a closed-back design. S...

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Review: Sequential Pro 3 
Review: Sequential Pro 3 - The most powerful mono synth ever...
A few years ago, Sequential released the extremely popular Pro 2; however, the somewhat quirky sound of the digital oscillators couldn‘t convince everyone. Additionally, an audio input and built-in ...

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Keyboard controller in compact form 
Review: Arturia KeyStep Pro - controller with luxury feature...
There’s hardly a studio left that doesn‘t have at least one KeyStep, because Arturia‘s small keyboard with sequencer and CV/Gate connection for Eurorack & Co. is just too practical. So it wa...

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Mixer and audio recorder at the same time 
Review: Zoom LiveTrak L-8 - Allround Mixer for stage and reh...
The LiveTrak L-8 is not just a slimmed-down version of the LiveTrak L-12, because the compact mixer also offers a few advantages over the larger model, especially for podcasters. The first six channel...

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Mixing with Headphones  
Mixing with headphones: Is that even possible?
Not every producer has enough space in the studio to place speakers. Besides, even the best wiretap is useless if the room acoustics are not right. So, why not mix with headphones? We‘ll give you ti...

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Review: Elektron Model:Cycles 
Test: Elektron Model:Cycles - fat drummer in pocket size
With Digitone, Electron has already shown how to make clunky and difficult to program FM synthesis more accessible. Model:Cycles takes this idea a step further. Like with Model:Samples, they paid spec...

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Review: MOTU M2 and M4 
Review: MOTU M2 and M4 - Good converters and preamps at a lo...
With the M2 and M4 (checkout both products in the Thomann shop) models, MOTU offers USB audio interfaces in a lower price range for the first time. MOTU has been on the market for many years with r...

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Techno-Liveact without laptop 
DJ interview: Simina Grigoriu - DJs have to respond to their...
A bold move: a performance without a laptop, comfort and overview of the DAW. The performance has to be roughly in your head and all the moves have to be right. That takes time and sometimes nerves. B...

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Arturia audio interface with more connection optio... 
Test: Arturia AudioFuse Studio - Audio interface with all co...
Arturia continues to expand its line of audio interfaces with the compact yet feature-packed AudioFuse Studio for the desktop. Using the digital connections, AudioFuse Studio provides a total of 18 i...

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How good is the latest generation of Novations con... 
Review: Launchkey MK3
Launchkey MK3 is available with 25, 37, 49 or 61 keys, which offer a pleasant playing feel and good response. You have to do without aftertouch, though. All four models have the same controls and func...

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Fancy studio monitors with lots of space  
Review: Solo6 BE 40th
The Solo6 BE are very popular in the professional and semi-professional sector due to their compact size and neutral sound with detailed treble, tight bass and very good depth. The limited edition has...

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A mixer for all situations 
Review: Tascam Model 12
Compared to Model 24 and Model 16, Model 12 is significantly more compact and less expensive. Savings were made primarily on the channels, making Model 12 (Checkout Model 12 in the Thomann shop) the...

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Performance-Synthesizer/Sampler 
Review: Clavia Nord Wave 2
Eleven years have passed since the renowned Swedish manufacturer Clavia launched the Nord Wave. The combination of virtual-analog synthesis, sample player, FM synthesis and wavetables with a stage-rea...

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Good workmanship, professional look and balanced s... 
Review: ADAM Audio T8V
The T5V and T7V from ADAM‘s series of affordable studio monitors already knew how to please, because the build quality and sound are above average for this price range. Due to their design, however,...

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DJ mixing headphones: dynamic, closed, on-ear! 
Review: Sennheiser HD-25 Light
The HD-25 from Sennheiser is considered the standard in the DJ scene and countless club heroes have sworn by this classic for years. The headphones have also proved their worth in the studio and many ...

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Pad controller with hardware sequencer  
Review: Launchpad Pro MK3
A fter Launchpad X and Mini, the large model is now also available in a revised and updated version. Originally the Launchpads were developed as pure Ableton Live controllers. Although they now suppor...

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Sequential Pro-One clone with extras  
Review: Behringer Pro-1Sequential Pro-One clone with extras
The Pro-One has characterized numerous songs, from synthpop hits like Yazoo's "Don't go" to the early works of industrial legend Skinny Puppy. But the good sound was accompanied by a rather bad proces...

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Paraphonic analog synthesizer with four oscillator... 
Review: Moog Matriarch - The mother of all synthesizers?
Moog Matriarch is the new flagship of the Mother Series, previously consisting of the Mother-32 and Drummer From Another Mother (DFAM), Eurorack-compatible desktop devices and the Grandmother. With qu...

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