NAMM: KORG KAOSSILATOR PRO

"KORG KAOSSILATOR PRO

Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer/Loop Recorder

Announcing the KAOSSILATOR PRO – a supercharged version of the palm-sized KAOSSILATOR, reborn as a powerful track-making tool and loaded with live performance power.

As a trailblazer among the "instrumental gadgets" that allowed anyone to easily create melodies and phrases, the KAOSSILATOR gained a strong and dedicated user base, even among those without any performing experience. Today, the KAOSSILATOR continues to be enormously popular. Retaining these revolutionary features – while adding a wide variety of new ones as well – is the new KAOSSILATOR PRO. With 200 sound programs, a new Electribe-inspired gate arpeggiator, and four loop recording banks that can even record external audio sources, the KAOSSILATOR PRO is packed with features that make it ideal for both live performance and premium productions. In addition, USB connectivity with your computer and SD card memory storage allow the KAOSSILATOR PRO to be used not just for improvised performances, but also as a superbly intuitive, track-making music production tool.

Main features
* KAOSS X-Y touchpad offers intuitive, realtime control
* 200 sounds covering modern synth sounds such as lead and bass, and diverse acoustic sounds from piano to trumpet and beyond
* PCM samples provide dramatic drum kits and ready to rock percussion patterns
* Vocoder programs deliver scintillating vocal effects
* Access up to eight of your favorite sounds instantly using the assignable Program Memory buttons
* Loop Recording can layer both internal Program sounds and external audio overdubs
* Four Loop Record Banks each allow up to four measures of loop recording, with easy muting that allows expressive realtime layering and DJ-Style re-mixing – ideal for live performance.
* Gate Arpeggiator repeatedly triggers sounds in sync with the tempo. The slider controls either the gate time or gate speed.
* Choose a key and select one of 31 musical scales to easily create musical phrases. Limit the X-Y pad's note range for even more control
* Loop data, user settings and Program Memories can be stored on SD card
* Dedicated software lets you manage loop data, MIDI assignments, and user settings from your computer
* Performs double-duty as a MIDI controller for external equipment or software applications

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NAMM: Keyboard Magazine Flickr Shots

flickr set by keyboardmag
(click for more)

Pitcured here:
New Moog Taurus Pedals
Infinite Response VAX77 Red and Yellow folded
"Ernie Rideout and Stephen Fortner pal around with Alicia Keys at a Yamaha event."

Also see http://keyboardmag.com/

NAMM: Virus TI OS 4

Full details and samples now up on the Access site.

Press release previously posted here.

NAMM: History of Moog at NAMM 2010

YouTube via nsputnik
"Here is a display at NAMM 2010 with various historical documents and hardware relating to Moog. Music: "Minimoog's Heart" by LoCut. http://www.jamendo.com/en/a..."

NAMM: Update to Yamaha Tenori-On Firmware

Not sure if this one actually is NAMM, but I haven't posted the details so here they are. Previous post mentioning an update was coming posted back on Nov 5 here.

"Content of Update
1 - Tighter operation
Through internal software refinements the Yamaha engineers have successfully improved the overall processing performance, giving the Tenori-On player the experience of a ‘tighter’ and more instantaneous real-time performance instrument.
2 - Improved MIDI sync
A high percentage of Tenori-On owners use their instrument in conjunction with a computer-based DAW. This combination gives maximum sonic versatility. The new Version 2.0 firmware now responds to the F2 MIDI Song Position Pointer message allowing it to be seamlessly integrated into all popular DAW systems.
3 - Global Mute
Its now simple to Globally Mute the Tenori-On audio output for all tracks by using R4 and L1 top panel buttons. This allows performers, especially when using the Tenori-On with a DAW, to create dramatic mutes (and unmutes) via shortcut keys, without having to enter the deeper menu architecture of the Tenori-On.
4 - Reset Loop Timing
When changing loop speeds and accessing the unique Tenori-On layer loop points, its possible to have different tracks running out of sync with each other. This can create a unique musical feel however, at some musical moment, its good to be able to reset all loop points. In the original Tenori-On firmware this feature was buried deep within the menu structures however, with Version 2.0, this is now available from the top panel buttons. Simply by hitting the combination of L4 and R1 all tracks will reset to their original loop timing points.
5 - User Scale
A feature that has been highly requested by the Tenori-On enthusiasts is the ability to expand and edit the instruments global note scaling. Rather than being confined to a range of 16 consecutive notes per layer, its now possible to create a global ‘User Scale’ allowing different notes from different octaves to be accessed and sequenced within one single layer. This new function will open up many new musical dimensions for the Tenori-On player as any note can now be assigned to a layer.
6 - Swing
With a new ‘Swing’ function implemented in Version 2.0 its now possible to give the entire instrument a new level of musical ‘feel’. With a -23/+23 swing parameter its also possible to fine tune this ‘feel’ using the jog wheel in real-time. The new Swing feature is especially creative when Slaved to an external DAW as it allows the Tenori-On to swing while the DAW remains rigid."

NAMM: New Dave Smith Instruments Mopho Keyboard

Looks like Russ got it right in the comments of this post. Image is sure to come. If you have one, send it in. Nothing on the Dave Smith Instruments site yet.

Update: image via Keyboard Magazine's flickr set

via jabrockson in the comments.

http://keyboardmag.com/

Update: another image below. This one via Peff's Photos on FB.

Update more pics via Synchro1

NAMM: Waldorf Largo v1.5

Announced here and previously, but thought it was worth a note for NAMM.

Waldorf Largo v1.5 is on the homepage for NAMM.

Update: A second "unofficial" demo added to this post.

NAMM: ROLAND ANNOUNCES VP-7 VOCAL PROCESSOR

"Los Angeles, CA, January 14, 2010 — Now every keyboardist, regardless of vocal ability, can sing with the new VP-7 Vocal Processor from Roland. This portable processor sets up quickly on top of keyboards with free panel space and creates ensemble vocal sounds with a variety of PCM-based vocal sounds, or with Roland’s superior Vocal Designer® technology.

For keyboardists who want lush vocal backing tracks without singing into a microphone, the compact VP-7 includes four rich and expressive human voice sounds — Female Choir, Boys Choir, Gregorian Choirs and Jazz Scat — just by playing the keyboard.

Utilizing Vocal Designer technology derived from Roland’s Vocal & Ensemble keyboards, the VP-7 has three Vocal Designer algorithms that can automatically generate multi-voice backing harmonies that sing the same lyrics as a performer sings into the included DR-HS5 headset microphone. Keyboardists that sing lead vocals can blend the VP-7’s sounds with their own voice to create impressive backing. Or, when harmonizing with a lead vocalist, the VP-7’s sound can be blended with the live vocal harmony or used with 100% processing. The Vocoder button also lets you instantly switch to a vintage vocoder.

The VP-7’s super-simple interface features large, quick-access buttons and knobs, so it’s easy to call up preset sounds and adjust blends on the fly. Onboard ambience effects sweeten the sound with the twist of a knob, while a handy mute switch lets the user bring the VP-7’s processing in and out with the push of a button.

The VP-7 is scheduled to ship in May. For more information, please visit www.RolandConnect.com."

NAMM: ROLAND PRESENTS V-COMBO VR-700

"Los Angeles, CA, January 14, 2010 – Roland is proud to announce the V-Combo VR-700. Featuring the best of Roland’s acclaimed Virtual Tonewheel organ, full key multi-sampled piano, and pro synthesizer sounds, the V-Combo is perfect for players who need an all-in-one keyboard for a variety of musical settings, including houses of worship, stage performances, and rehearsal studios. The V-Combo offers powerful real-time performance capabilities in a simple-to-use-interface.

The V-Combo provides an authentic sound and feel to satisfy any organ player. Using Roland’s Virtual Tonewheel engine, the V-Combo simulates the unique structure and distinctive sound of vintage organs. The new amplifier and rotary simulator faithfully reproduces the sound needed for jazz, rock, funk or gospel, while the 76-key waterfall action captures the feel of a vintage organ. Add an optional PK-25 or PK-7A pedalboard for a more console-organ type feel.

The V-Combo takes its lead from Roland’s popular instruments, including everything from expressive full key multi-sampled acoustic grand pianos, classic electric pianos, to realistic strings, brass, bass and guitar sounds. With tone remain capability onboard, the 76 keys can easily layer two ensemble tones together, or layer and split with the organ tones.

In addition to the ten harmonic bars on the front panel, the V-Combo also incorporates a variety of expressive controllers for even more exhilarating performances. The red harmonic bard allows players to control the volume of the Ensemble tones. With the D Beam, players can create authentic organ-specific effects, such as wheel braking, or perform filter and level tone shaping on ensemble tones using an infrared light beam.

XLR and ¼" outputs make the V-Combo ready for any stage, while the USB port and Song Player function enables direct playback and control of backing tracks from USB memory. Keyboardists can also back up and recall Favorites and system settings from USB memory, making the V-Combo easy to share at rehearsal studios.

The V-Combo VR-700 is scheduled to ship in March with a suggested retail price of $2,329.00. For more information, please visit www.RolandConnect.com."

NAMM: Cakewalk® Announces New Mobile Studio Canvas

"New Portable Music Production Package for Mac and PC Features Next-Gen Roland Sound Module, Audio/MIDI Interface, SONAR 8.5 LE Recording Software, and Much More —

Anaheim, CA, Winter NAMM, Hall A, Booth 6700 (January 14, 2010) — Cakewalk, the world's leading developer of powerful and easy to use products for music creation and recording, announces the new Mobile Studio Canvas.

The Mobile Studio Canvas for Mac, PC, and standalone performance is the first such product in the Cakewalk hardware family. Capable of producing over 1,000 sounds, the Mobile Studio Canvas includes the Roland SD-50 Sound Module, redesigned GM (General MIDI) 2, and Roland’s Solo Tones sounds. The unit’s USB memory drive can playback MP3, WAV, AIFF, and MIDI files without a computer. It is also a 2-in/2-out audio interface as well as a 1x1 MIDI interface, and ships with SONAR 8.5 LE recording software for use with a computer (for Windows only).

The Mobile Studio Canvas is ideal for a wide range of users, including musicians looking for a great, general purpose sound source, karaoke and bar DJs, hobbyists and non-musicians who need portable MP3 and SMF playback, and any musician who needs instrument accompaniment for live sets.

Main Features
* Compact, portable USB Bus powered Audio & MIDI solution, perfect for laptop and mobile use
* Up to 128 voice polyphony
* 1,125 total sounds, including GM2, GS and three of Roland’s hyper-realistic Solo Tones, including Shakuhachi, Violin, and Trombone, as well as 32 drum sets great for a variety of styles
* 2-in/2-out, 24-bit/44.1 kHz audio interface with XLR/¼” inputs/Phantom Power/Hi-Z input, 1 x 1 MIDI interface, and V-Link support
* Built-in hardware DSP FX for Reverb, Chorus, and Mastering
* USB port for quick playback of MP3/WAV/AIFF/SMF (MIDI) files from a USB memory drive
* Enhanced Transport Controls for file playback including the ability to change keys, tempos, A/B Loop, Repeat, Center Cancel (for Karaoke) and more
* Powered by AC adapter, USB bus power, or batteries (6 x AA)
* Compatible with Mac and Windows computers — Includes SONAR 8.5 LE recording software (Windows only)
* Play List editor for Mac and Windows

”The Mobile Studio Canvas represents a new high watermark in Cakewalk’s continued efforts to bring leading-edge, ‘functional’ hardware to our customers,” said Michael Hoover, Cakewalk’s executive vice president of products. “It’s a perfect fit for a wide variety of music producers and consumers alike.”

Availability
The Mobile Studio Canvas will be available at select music and sound retailers worldwide in late April, 2010. For more information on Cakewalk's complete line of USB MIDI controllers and keyboard products, interfaces, studio hardware, and more, please visit http://www.cakewalk.com/hardware. Local prices may vary, please check with your local Cakewalk distributor, or your local retailer for more details."