RecordingVIP Music Equipment News

ASHLY GEAR CHOSEN FOR SEDONA'S ENCHANTMENT RESORT

SEDONA, ARIZONA - APRIL 2012: Words hardly do justice to Enchantment Resort
in Sedona, Arizona. The upscale retreat is tastefully nestled within a red
rock canyon in a way that makes the views from the pools, rooms,
restaurants, lounges, and spa breathtakingly open and serene. It is a rare
amalgam of backcountry camping's beauty and modern hospitality's comforts in
which neither aspect is compromised.

Enchantment Resort began an eight-million dollar renovation to its main
building, the Clubhouse, this past November. This building houses the
resorts front desk, restaurants, bar, specialty wine bar, pool and pool bar,
and an activity center. The Clubhouse renovation was completed and reopened
just in time for their peak spring break season, which typically brings 100%
occupancy. With an entire makeover of all restaurants, bars, public areas,
front desk, retail shopping, and a new pool almost three times the size of
the original pool, Enchantment's aging sound system was slated for a total
replacement. IT Director Bob Gassick sought out the modular Ashly ne24.24M
processor and paired Ashly NE-Series amplifiers to deliver a flexible,
modern system with reliability and fidelity worthy of Enchantment Resort's
understated poise.

GUILD® GUITARS RE-LAUNCHES OFFICIAL WEBSITE

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (April 5, 2012) ­ Guild guitars today announced the re-launch of its official website, www.guildguitars.com, unveiling a new theme and full range of re-designed features inspired by the brand's elegant look and feel.
   
"The re-launch of Guild¹s website represents a new, exciting direction for the brand," said Dave  Gonzalez, product manager for Guild guitars. "It will enhance our online presence and make it  easier for consumers to learn more about the brand and its products."

LECTROSONICS ON THE SET OF “COMMON LAW”

Sound quality, compact form factor, and bullet proof reliability are key attributes

New Orleans, LA – April 2012… When you have two Los Angeles Police Department homicide detectives who can't stand each other, their behavior toward one another leads to a variety of awkward—and comic—situations. Such is the case on Common Law, the upcoming comedy-drama television series created by Cormac and Marianne Wibberly for cable channel USA Network. Produced by CBS Television Studios and Junction Entertainment, the series stars Michael Ealy and Warren Kole, and their constant bickering prompts their commanding officer, Captain Mike Sutton, to send them to a couples therapist, Dr. Emma Ryan, in hopes of resolving the situation. When it comes to the show’s location sound requirements, keeping up with action is quite a challenge. That’s why wireless microphone technology from Lectrosonics is on the set.

WORXAUDIO TECHNOLOGIES DEPLOYED AT JENNETTE’S PIER

Surface mount and ceiling speaker models deliver robust performance

Nags Head, NC – April 2012… Part of the North Carolina Aquarium Society, Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head was recently re-built and now replaces what was the oldest pier along the state’s Outer Banks. The pier and its 16,000-square foot pierhouse, along with five acres of oceanfront property, serve as a unique outreach site for the nearby Aquarium on Roanoke Island. The architectural design of Jennette’s Pier is intended to complement the traditional Nags Head style seen in the weathered cottages that dot the shoreline. The building combines a gift shop / general store on the lower level (plus a few special fish tanks) with a multipurpose / banquet hall on the upper level. To ensure premium sound quality throughout the complex, a new sound system comprised of loudspeakers from Greensboro, NC-based WorxAudio Technologies was placed into service.

HOSA TECHNOLOGY INTRODUCES SECOND GENERATION ELITE SERIES GUITAR CABLES

Nylon webbing over PVC jackets and Neutrik® connectors upgrade performance

Buena Park, CA – April 2012… Hosa Technology, the leading innovator of analog and digital  connectivity solutions for the modern musician, is pleased to introduce a significant upgrade of the  company’s popular Elite Series guitar cables. Now available with Neutrik X-Series straight and  right-angle plugs plus a new nylon webbing over the cable’s PVC jacket, the Elite Series takes  advantage of the latest technological advances and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to  deliver performance attributes that are every bit on par—if not superior to—more costly boutique  cables.

FENDER® SHORT FILM SHOWCASES CREATION OF LEGENDARY STRATOCASTER® GUITAR

A Strat is Born reveals handcraftsmanship that goes into every Strat® guitar 

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (April 3, 2012) – Fender Musical Instruments Corp. has released “A Strat is Born,” a new short film that takes viewers on a high-speed ride through the creation of a Fender Stratocaster guitar. The film, shot in Fender’s main U.S. manufacturing facility in Corona, Calif., showcases the vast amount of consummate handcraftsmanship that goes into every Fender instrument, and presents the manufacturing process that can now be experienced at the Fender Visitor Center and Factory Tour, located next to Fender’s Corona-based facility. The piece is set to a high-energy soundtrack by Wayne Kramer, co-founder of the seminal Detroit rock group MC5 (Motor City 5) and Fender Signature Artist. “A Strat is Born” distills the impressive journey of materials into music and highlights the very essence of longstanding Fender craftsmanship into one four-minute viewing experience.

HOSA TECHNOLOGY INTRODUCES SECOND GENERATION ELITE SERIES GUITAR CABLES

Nylon webbing over PVC jackets and Neutrik® connectors upgrade performance

Buena Park, CA – April 2012… Hosa Technology, the leading innovator of analog and digital connectivity solutions for the modern musician, is pleased to introduce a significant upgrade of the company’s popular Elite Series guitar cables. Now available with Neutrik X-Series straight and right-angle plugs plus a new nylon webbing over the cable’s PVC jacket, the Elite Series takes advantage of the latest technological advances and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to deliver performance attributes that are every bit on par—if not superior to—more costly boutique cables.

GRUND AUDIO DESIGN ANNOUNCES GT-1220M AND GT-1520M FLOOR MONITORS

Two new models added to versatile GT Series product group

Council Bluffs, IA – April 2012… Grund Audio Design, a pioneering manufacturer of loudspeaker and signal processing products for the audio professional, is pleased to announce the GT-1220M and GT-1520M floor monitors—the company’s latest additions to their popular GT Series floor monitor product group. Featuring two-way, bass reflex and dual angle enclosure designs, these versatile floor monitors are ideal for both portable and fixed sound reinforcement applications.

SWITCH BY TIMBRE ROCKS WITH D.A.S. AUDIO

Timbre Group's newest bilingual live music concept deploys Aero and Avant loudspeaker systems

Singapore – April 2012 … From its dazzling airport and cityscape to a wealth of fashion emporiums along Orchard Road, Singapore sizzles with excitement. Nowhere is this high level of energy more evident than at SWITCH by Timbre, the latest live music restaurant and bar by the Timbre Group. Located in the arts and heritage district of Bras Basah, the 300-seat, bilingual venue sets the stage for the best up-and-coming Singaporean musicians proficient in Mandarin and English pop-rock and offers live performances nightly. As the third Timbre property to utilize D.A.S. Audio loudspeaker systems, SWITCH by Timbre relies on a potent sound reinforcement system drawn from the company’s Aero Series 2, Road, and Avant loudspeaker product lines.

LECTROSONICS INTRODUCES SM-SHAQUE BATTERY ELIMINATOR

The ideal power source when there’s a whole lot of shaking going on

Rio Rancho, NM – April 1, 2012… Lectrosonics, recognized the world over as a leading manufacturer of wireless microphone systems and audio processing products, is pleased to announce the introduction of a new key accessory for the company’s highly regarded SM Series dual-battery transmitters: the SM-SHAQUE ("SM Shake"). This new accessory is installed in the SMDB or SMQV transmitters as a battery eliminator and incorporates a small generator that is operated simply by shaking the unit.

COUNTRYMAN MICS ON THE SET OF MTV’S “PUNK’D”

B6 Omni .1-inch diameter lavaliere microphone ideal for discreet audio capture

Los Angeles, CA – March 2012… MTV’S “Punk’d”, airing March 29 at 10pm ET/PT, is a groundbreaking hidden camera series that features a different celebrity host each week playing complex, hilarious and fun punks on their famous friends. Whether it’s on the set or out and about, some truly outrageous responses get documented. It’s all in good fun, of course, and capturing these moments requires a variety of special equipment. That’s precisely why the B6 Omni .1-inch diameter lavaliere microphone from Menlo Park, CA-based Countryman Associates is on the scene. 

ALTINEX AND IAVI CELEBRATE A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR

Distribution agreement reached one year ago proves highly productive

Brea, CA – March 2012… Altinex, recognized globally as a manufacturer of Signal Management Solutions®, and IAVI, a leading Commercial Pro AV Distributor, recently reached the first anniversary of the two firm’s distribution agreement. The accord, which united the Altinex suite of computer video interfaces, distribution amplifiers, switchers, matrix switchers, software, and furniture connectivity products with IAVI’s display and audio equipment offerings, has proven highly beneficial to both organizations.

D.A.S. AUDIO DELIVERS SONIC PUNCH ABOARD THE GROOVE CRUISE

Aero, Aero Series 2, Variant, and Avant loudspeaker systems keep the party vibrant

Miami, FL – March 2012… The Groove Cruise, the world's largest fully charted dance music cruise experience, is geared toward those who love dance music and live by the mantra to 'Work Hard and Play Harder'. Involving 2,200 people, 40-plus artists, two islands, plus a massive cruise ship—with everything taking place over a period of 72 hours, the Groove Cruise is one of numerous vacation packages offered by Miami Beach, FL-based Whet Travel.  With crowds like these, the sound reinforcement systems need to pack plenty of punch. That’s why on a recent trip between Miami and the Bahamas, several systems drawn from the catalog of D.A.S. Audio were out in full force.

Signs of Spring: Cocobolo, Koa and Exotic GS Mini Limited Editions Arrive

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Tuesday March 27, 2012 - Boasting a fresh selection of gorgeous tonewoods, Taylor’s annual Spring Limited Edition guitars are here. This year’s beauties include a Cocobolo 800 Series, Hawaiian Koa 300 Series, a Baritone 416ce, and a trio of exotic-wood GS Mini guitars.

Cocobolo’s rich tonal palette and bold complexion give it a premium appeal that’s usually reserved for our top-of-the line Presentation Series and custom orders, but this spring it makes a guest appearance with the 800 Series as an 814ce-LTD and 816ce-LTD. Paired with a Sitka spruce top, the two models feature curly maple binding, a Venetian cutaway, and an abalone rosette. Proprietary CV bracing enhances the natural projection and tonal depth of cocobolo, and it all translates into great amplified tone with our onboard Expression System^® (ES) electronics.

LECTROSONICS WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY INTEGRAL TO LOCATION SOUND RECORDIST XANTI SALVADOR

Sound quality, compact form factor, and RF agility are key attributes

Maracaibo, Venezuela – March 2012… When you divide your time between residences in Bilbao (Basque Country of Europe) and Maracaibo, Venezuela and, similarly, your work encompasses both teaching and professional location sound services for TV and film, travel becomes a way of life. Such is the case for Xanti Salvador, a location sound recordist who is also a college level instructor of audio. Moving from city to city and project to project requires Salvador to travel efficiently and, so, it’s only fitting that his wireless microphone technology be equally as adept to ever-changing environments. That’s why Salvador relies on wireless technology from Rio Rancho, NM-based Lectrosonics.

Taylor Guitars Launches 2012 Road Show World Tour

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Tuesday March 20, 2012 - Back by player demand, the award-winning Taylor Guitars Road Show is returning to dealers around the globe. The fun and informative in-store event gives fans the opportunity to connect with Taylor factory staff, play exceptional one-off guitars, and meet like-minded players. The "hangout" sessions bring Taylor players the latest developments from the company, including the newest and yet-to-be-released Taylor models. 

Now in its sixth year, the Road Show features a format in which Taylor's product experts share insights on the company's guitar-making process, explain innovative designs such as the Expression System™ acoustic pickup, and demonstrate how different body shapes and woods affect tone. After each demonstration, guests are invited to take part in the "Petting Zoo": a hands-on playing session during which they get to test-drive a variety of different models. Admission to each Road Show is free.  

ALTINEX ANNOUNCES TP115-110 / TP115-111 COMPUTER/COMPONENT VIDEO + AUDIO UTP TRANSMITTER / RECEIVER

The ideal presentation solution when very long cable runs are required

Brea, CA – March 2012… Altinex, the leading manufacturer of Signal Management Solutions®, is pleased to announce the availability of the TP115-110 / TP115-111 Computer/Component Video + Audio UTP Transmitter / Receiver. The TP115-110 / TP115-111 are the ideal solution for integrators and AV technology managers looking for a means of distributing computer video and audio signals long distances to reach the presentation display or projector.

LECTROSONICS MOURNS PASSING OF MATT ROBERTSON

Rio Rancho, NM – March 2012… Lectrosonics is saddened to announce that Matt Robertson, the West Coast face and voice of the company for 12 years, passed away suddenly March 9, 2012 at the age of 59.  Matt's easy going personality, professionalism, and easy smile will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Our prayers and condolences go out to his family and friends. The professional audio and music community has lost a true gentleman and great guitarist.

LECTROSONICS WIRELESS INTEGRAL TO PRODUCTION OF HBO’S TREMÉ

Studio quality sound and robust performance ideal for popular show

New Orleans, LA – March 2012… Focusing on the lives of musicians, chefs, Mardi Gras Indians, and others in New Orleans as they work to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their unique culture in the aftermath of 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, HBO’s made for TV series Tremé has received critical acclaim. To ensure the show’s continued good fortune, the legendary sound quality and reliability of Lectrosonics wireless microphone technology has become an integral part of Tremé’s audio production.

BIATHLON WORLD CUP IN RUHPOLDING BROADCAST WITH LAWO EQUIPMENT

Toronto, Ontario, Canada – March 9, 2012… A shot is fired. The target is hit. Cheering breaks out everywhere. Every hit is celebrated frenetically by the audience. Magdalena Neuner continues on to the last lap of the sprint competition which she will finish in 1^st place.

For her, this year’s Biathlon World Cup is not only a goodbye gala: She also made the promise to win a total of six medals in this contest. Having already received a complete set – gold, silver, and bronze – puts her onto the right path to fulfill her promise. Host broadcaster ZDF has assigned two OB-Vans, the MP4 and the MP5, to cover this event, while BR employed its own FÜ HD1. However, both broadcasters fully rely on Lawo technology to guarantee optimum sound for this important sports event.

Rascal Flatts will Take A Piece of their Fans on the Road as CMT and Taylor Guitars Launch A Contest to Create the Official Tour Guitar

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Friday March 9, 2012 - It's not every day fans get to become part of one of the hottest tickets in country music.  This summer, one person will have the opportunity to do just that as CMT and Taylor Guitars have launched a contest to design the official guitar for the Farmers Insurance Presents "The American Band Tour."  In addition to the guitar being played by band members' onstage in cities across America, the winner will get a VIP experience to see the band live and receive his/her own autographed, custom-designed Taylor Guitar GS8 model.  Fans will have additional opportunities to win Rascal Flatts' autographed GS Mini guitars at select concert dates, on CMT RADIO LIVE WITH CODY ALAN and on CMT.com, provided by Taylor Guitars. In total, CMT and Taylor Guitars will give away 15 guitars throughout the summer-long promotion.

ALTINEX PREMIERES TNP128 AND TNP128C INTERCONNECT BOXES

Tilt ‘N Plug Jr. interconnect products facilitate easy boardroom connections

Brea, CA – March 2012… Altinex, a leading manufacturer of Signal Management Solutions®, is pleased to announce the availability of the TNP128 and TNP128C (custom) Interconnect Boxes, the latest additions to the ever-expanding line of Tilt ‘N Plug interconnect offerings. Available in both standard and custom configurations, the TNP128 and TNP128C interconnect boxes offer convenient, one touch access to a variety of video, audio, computer, network, and power connections—making the tabletop connection point attractive for any boardroom or conference room table.

ROYER LABS APPOINTS KEVIN PARKER DIRECTOR OF SALES

Company expansion calls for greater focus on sales operations

Burbank, CA … Royer Labs, recognized globally for its high quality ribbon microphones used by leading studio professionals, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Parker to the newly created position of Director of Sales.  With a background that encompasses sales management, marketing, strategic market development, artist relations, and retail aspects of professional audio and MI, Parker’s experience makes him an ideal choice for his new position with the company. He is stationed at Royer’s corporate headquarters in Burbank and commenced work in January 2012.

Taylor Guitars Website Redesign Celebrates Taylor Community, 2012 Line of Guitars

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Monday January 23, 2012 - Ahead of the 2012 Winter NAMM show in Anaheim, California, and with the launch of its new 2012 series of guitars, Taylor is giving its fans and players a wealth of new resources in a newly redesigned website. Located at Taylorguitars.com, the new website ties the vibrant community of Taylor players together through lifestyle-focused content featuring artists, videos, social channels, news and events, all in one dynamic resource.

An All-Koa Ukulele and Guitar Combo Usher in the Return of Taylor’s Builder’s Reserve Program

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Monday January 23, 2012 - Riding a wave of creativity and fresh innovations, Taylor Guitars is readying the release of a very special pairing through the company’s Builder’s Reserve program: an all-koa tenor ukulele and full-sized matching Grand Symphony guitar. The acoustic coupling offer players an exclusive tandem of instrumental voices that celebrate the musical heritage of the Hawaiian Islands.  

The Goo Goo Dolls' John Rzeznik Joins Taylor's Artist Showcase at NAMM

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Tuesday January 17, 2012 - John Rzeznik, singer, songwriter, and guitarist for the hit pop group the Goo Goo Dolls, will join Taylor's all-star lineup of artist performances at Taylor's NAMM showcase at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 21. Rzeznik joins an illustrious roster of Taylor-strumming artists that includes The Voice's Javier Colon, worship leader Israel Houghton, rising act The David Mayfield Parade, and more, to perform hits from the band's extensive discography on the Taylor guitars stage, located in room 213ABC.

Inspired Designs: The New 2012 Taylor Line

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Wednesday January 11, 2012 - With each new year, Taylor unveils a retooled guitar line that showcases our latest inspiration. From groundbreaking designs to ongoing refinements, our efforts draw from a wellspring of creativity that starts with Bob Taylor. Under Bob’s stewardship, our development team is fueled by a passion for crafting — and playing — great instruments.     

For 2012, we proudly introduce a raft of new aesthetic treatments across much of our acoustic/electric line. We also debut new mahogany versions of our Baritone and 12-Fret models, unveil a mahogany-top GS Mini, and aesthetically align our nylon- and steel-string series.

Javier Colon, Israel Houghton, The Silent Comedy, The David Mayfield Parade and More to Perform at the Taylor NAMM Showcase

By: Chalise Zolezzi

Tuesday January 10, 2012 - Ahead of the 2012 NAMM Winter convention in Anaheim, California, Taylor Guitars has assembled an all-star artist lineup to perform over three days of the annual trade show, held January 19-21. An eclectic array of acts will play on Taylor’s performance stage starting each day at 3:30 p.m.

Kicking things off on Thursday is the Wayne Johnson Trio, led by longtime Taylor product expert and Grammy^® winner, Wayne Johnson. The jazzy trio has been playing and recording together since the late ‘70s, and will enthrall fans with their stylings on a variety of Taylors. Next up will be Nashville-based country rock and rollers Sixwire, who received national acclaim as the runner-up on the FOX reality TV show The Next Great American Band. Comprised of Andy Childs, Steve Mandile, Robb Houston, John Howard and Chuck Tilley, the band is a perennial favorite for their rock medley, “The Beast.” This year marks their fourth appearance on the Taylor stage at NAMM.

WIRELESS FIRST/CLAIR GLOBAL PROVIDE LIVE AND BROADCAST AUDIO FOR CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR SHOW

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - DECEMBER 2011: The Country Music Television (CMT)
Artists of the Year celebration honors five country music artists who stand
at the top of the field with an evening of live music at Nashville's
Bridgestone Arena. This year, Rob Lowe hosted the proceedings, which
included heartfelt performances by the five honorees: Taylor Swift, Jason
Aldean, Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley, and Kenny Chesney. As in the past,
CMT hired Wireless First, a Clair Global Company to simultaneously provide
live sound reinforcement and broadcast sound (the show aired in
mid-December), along with RF equipment and expertise. In addition to the
impactful Clair i3 line array system, which stays out of television
sightlines, Clair Global brought two new products: a custom-built portable
RF microphone podium and the CF 1090 Fractal Antenna. Both provided tangible
benefits over existing technologies that allowed the crew to accomplish such
a multifaceted job with confidence.

TELEFUNKEN Awards Stereo Microphone Set in Recording Hacks Sweepstakes

South Windsor, CT, November, 2011 – TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is sponsoring this November's Recording Hacks sweepstakes and providing two ELA M 260 small diaphragm tube condenser microphones as the prize. Recording Hacks is a comprehensive Internet microphone resource, with over 1000 models documented and a unique frequency-response tool that allows precise microphone comparisons.

The TELEFUNKEN sponsored giveaway is open to musicians, producers, recordists, audio engineers, podcasters, voice artists, and studio owners. Winners will be asked to submit a photo of their home or commercial studio. The winner’s name will be drawn on November 30, 2011.

Avid Introduces Media Composer 6—The Industry’s Leading Editing System Raises the Bar with Openness and 64-bit Performance

New 64-bit Media Composer, Symphony and NewsCutter offer unparalleled workflow speed, flexibility and time savings; available for Mac OS and Windows

BURLINGTON, MA, 2011-11-03 - Avid^® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced new versions of its flagship video editing systems—Media Composer^®version 6, NewsCutter^® version 10 and Symphony^® version 6.  Building upon more than 20 years of product innovation and commitment to its professional users, these industry-leading professional editing systems today deliver new levels of openness, performance, collaboration and productivity—enabling independent professionals, post-production houses, broadcasters and all media companies to get their work done faster, work together on projects more effectively and reduce costs through greater productivity.

TELEFUNKEN Introduces ELA M 260 TRI-MONO System at AES in NYC

New York City, October 21, AES 2011 — TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik of South Windsor, CT, is introducing at AES 2011 the new ELA M 260 TRI-MONO System, comprised of three matched ELA M 260 small diaphragm tube microphones, a custom M 963 TRI-MONO three-channel power supply, and adaptor spheres to emulate the omni effect of the original "Decca Tree" configuration introduced in the 1950s. 

"First developed over 50 years ago, the 'Decca Tree' utilized three matched Neumann omnidirectional M50s," explained Jason Scheuner, TELEFUNKEN's artist liaison. "It is nearly impossible to find those mics today, and if you do, the price is extremely high. We have created this new TRI-MONO configuration using our own ELA M 260s plus two sets of adaptor spheres to emulate the original design, which accommodated small, medium, and large recording spaces." 

Avid Unveils New Pro Tools|HDX and Pro Tools 10 Software—Industry Leading Solution Makes Big Leap in Sound and Speed

The world's fastest, best sounding, and most powerful digital audio platform delivers state-of-the-art performance through revolutionary new hardware and software

Burlington, MA, 2011-10-20 - Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced the all-new Pro Tools|HDX digital audio workstation and Pro Tools® 10 software, delivering greater performance, higher sound quality, and innovative new capabilities that set new standards for audio post and music production. Both are designed to provide the most capable, highest quality, scalable solutions to meet the evolving needs of the industry, and deliver better performance, faster workflows, and easier collaboration than ever for professional users.

TELEFUNKEN Announces “Remix – The Brew” Contest with Valuable Mic Prizes

South Windsor, CT, October, 2011— As part of its ongoing R&D efforts, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik has recorded Massachusetts band The Brew and is offering the public a chance to mix the tracks and win valuable microphones from the TFunk locker.

"What I Want" was tracked by The Brew in TELEFUNKEN's research and recording studios, using a variety of the company's production and prototype mics. Individual instruments and vocals were captured using multiple microphones, providing countless tonal mix options. Contestants create their mix of the song "What I Want" using files provided by TELEFUNKEN and The Brew. 

Final Week to Enter NAMM’s SchoolJam USA Battle of the Teen Bands Competition

Last Call for Entries to Become ‘Best Teen Band in the USA’ is Oct. 21

CARLSBAD, Calif. , October 13, 2011—The deadline is drawing near for teen bands all across America to vie for the title of “Best Teen Band in the USA,” while raising funds for their schools’ music programs. 

Teen musicians between the ages of 13 and 19, with the majority of the band members currently registered in a U.S. middle or high school, are encouraged to enter by Oct. 21, 2011. Teen bands participating in SchoolJam USA may perform any genre of music as long as the song is original content or designated as “public domain.” For a full list of competition rules and regulations, and for information on how to enter, visit www.schooljamusa.com. 

Koa, Cocobolo and Inspired Inlay Designs Grace - Taylor's Fall Limited Editions

EL CAJON, Calif. - October 5, 2011 - Adding a fresh page to an annual tradition, Taylor Guitars has released its collection of 2011 Fall Limited Edition guitars. This year's offerings present a bounty of beautiful tonewoods, featuring rich cocobolo, premium-grade koa, and time-honored Indian rosewood, along with a bevy of fresh inlay designs and value-added upgrades. 

Anchoring the Fall LTDs are cocobolo and koa, two exceptional tonewoods with signature acoustic voices. Usually reserved for Taylor's exclusive Presentation Series or Build to Order menu, cocobolo is paired with Sitka spruce tops on two models: the GA-LTD and the GS-LTD. Additional cocobolo touches include top edge trim, and a backstrap, offset by creamy maple binding. Gorgeous AA-grade koa distinguishes a quartet of all-koa limiteds, which feature a shaded edgeburst around the body and neck, and bound with rich rosewood. The koa LTDs are offered as the GA-LTD, GS-LTD or in a pair of 12-Fret GA and GC models, and with an option of an optional Engelmann spruce top.  Both the koa and cocobolo LTDs feature Taylor's premium CV bracing for sweet, responsive tone and a Venetian cutaway.

Yamaha Music and Wellness Institute Receives $75,000 Grant From the NAMM Foundation

Funds will enable groundbreaking research using keyboards in the rehabilitation of stroke victims

Carlsbad, CA, October 5, 2011— The Yamaha Music and Wellness Institute (YMWI) has received a $75,000 grant from the NAMM Foundation for groundbreaking research to be conducted under the umbrella of the Karl T. Bruhn Memorial Research Fund.

 NAMM President and CEO Joe Lamond made the check presentation on behalf of the Foundation to YMWI at a special presentation held on October 5th at Yamaha Corporation of America’s headquarters in Buena Park, California. The majority of the grant will be used to fund a research project led by YMWI CEO, President and Director Barry Bittman, MD, titled, “Upper Extremity Rehabilitation for Non-Musician Stroke Patients Utilizing a Novel Keyboard Approach.”

Avid Announces Next Generation M-Audio Fast Track C400 and C600 Recording Interfaces; New Designs Deliver Best-in-Class Home Recording

Fast Track C400 and C600 combine advanced audio interface technology with hands-on controls and monitor management for fast, easy music creation

Burlington, MA, 2011-10-04 - Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced the release of the Fast Track® C400 and Fast Track C600—the next generation of the best-selling M-Audio® Fast Track line of USB interfaces. Extending Avid’s legacy of providing best-in-class solutions for customers of all skill levels—from advanced professionals to students and beginners—the new Fast Track C-series delivers exceptional audio quality plus hands-on controls for a superior user experience. The interfaces are available bundled with studio-standard Pro Tools® MP software or as standalone units.

Taylor Guitars and Guitar Center Team Up to Find the Nation's Top Unsigned Talent

EL CAJON, Calif.  - October 3, 2011 - Taylor Guitars and Guitar Center, the world's largest retailer of musical instruments and equipment, has announced "Guitar Center Singer-Songwriter," an artist discovery program which aims to find the nation's best unsigned singer-songwriter. Along with other leading musical instrument and accessory manufacturers, Taylor Guitars will join Guitar Center to award one career-altering prize package to the top singer-songwriter, which includes a three-song EP with Grammy Award-winning producer John Shanks, worldwide distribution through TuneCore, $10,000 cash, and gear from participating companies, including a Taylor 814ce for the grand prize winner and GS Minis for the semi-finalists. The contest, which is part of the companies' shared mission to support emerging artists, kicks off on October 3 and runs through November 30. Artists can sign up today atwww.guitarcenter.com/songwriter.

American PI of Ernst & Young Wins 11th Annual FORTUNE Battle of the Corporate Bands

Corporate America's Top Music Makers Head to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to Vie for the Title of 'Best Corporate Band'

Carlsbad, CA, October 2, 2011—In a competition that took executives out of the boardroom and onto the stage, American PI from Ernst & Young were named "Best Corporate Band" at the 11th annual FORTUNE Battle of the Corporate Bands finals competition, presented by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), FORTUNE magazine and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. The event was sponsored by JBL by Harman and Gibson Guitar. American PI battled against seven other corporate bands from around the world, selected in earlier regional, semi-final events held in Chicago, Dallas and San Francisco.

NAMM Hosts Member Exhibit at AARP Life@50+ Event and Expo In Los Angeles

NAMM Wanna Play? Music Pavilion Provides Fun Music Lessons and Product Demonstrations to More than 500 Expo Attendees Over Age 50

CARLSBAD, Calif. , September 27, 2011—The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) announced today that it once again brought the fun of playing music to attendees of the popular annual AARP Life@50+ conference, which draws an average of 25,000 attendees over the age of 50. 

Held this year in Los Angeles, NAMM and a host of Member companies provided lessons on harmonica, ukulele, guitar, percussion, piano and keyboards. In addition, demonstrations were provided on instruments and music-making equipment including home recording, video editing, accordion, drum kits, karaoke and organ.

NAMM Foundation Invites Music Products Industry College Students to Its ‘Generation Next’ Program at the 2012 NAMM Show

Program Fosters Industry Insight, Learning and Networking Opportunities

CARLSBAD, Calif. , September 27, 2011—The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) announced today that it is inviting college students with music business or music education majors to attend the “Generation Next” program at the 2012 NAMM Show. This unique program offers professional development sessions and networking opportunities to help students launch careers in the music products industry.

The 2012 NAMM Show will take place Jan. 19 to 22 at the Anaheim Convention Center, and is one of the oldest and largest music products trade shows in the world with more than 88,000 trade professionals attending each year. This is a rare opportunity for music education and music industry college students to attend the NAMM Show, as it is a “trade-only” event. 
The NAMM Show exhibitors are the backdrop to a rich learning experience about the music products business and global trade. The NAMM Show features more than 1,500 manufacturers from around the world exhibiting unique music materials and products, including pro-audio equipment and new music-making applications and technologies.

27th Annual TEC Awards Announces Nominees for Outstanding Technical Achievement

Nominees announced in 19 categories of hardware and software for sound production

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. , September 22, 2011—The TEC Foundation for Excellence in Audio today announced the nominees for the 27th Annual Technical Excellence & Creativity Awards, to be held Friday, January 20, 2012, at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, California. Co-presented by the TEC Foundation and NAMM, the TEC Awards is the pro audio industry's most prestigious awards show honoring outstanding achievement in product innovation and sound production.

The nominations announced today, comprising 19 categories of Technical Achievement in product design, will be followed by an announcement of nominees in eight categories of Creative Achievement in sound production. The nominations, based on product entries by audio manufacturers, were made by a select panel of over 160 professionals in numerous audio specialties. Nominated products and projects must have been introduced during the eligibility period of July 1, 2010 to August 30, 2011.

Avid Customers Recognized for Creative Achievements at 63rd Emmy Awards

Boardwalk Empire, Deadliest Catch, Futurama, Gettysburg and The Kennedys among Avid audio and video customers who took home top honors

Burlington, MA, 2011-09-21 - Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today congratulates its customers who have topped the list of Emmy® Award nominees and winners at the 2011 Creative Arts and Primetime Emmy Awards. Avid customers took home prestigious statuettes in categories including: Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Reality Program, Outstanding Sound Mixing for Nonfiction Programming, Outstanding Picture Editing for Reality Programming and Outstanding Sound Editing for Nonfiction Programming. The majority of the more than 90 nominees this year used one or more Avid systems such as Media Composer®, Pro Tools® and Sibelius® on productions including—Mad Men, Mildred Pierce, Modern Family, among others—to achieve their creative vision.

Rock Musicians and Industry Influencers to Judge Executive Talent in Eleventh Annual FORTUNE Battle of the Corporate Bands

Best Corporate Band in North America to Win National Title on Oct. 1

CLEVELAND, Ohio, September 20, 2011—An elite panel of five music industry judges comprised of rock legends and music professionals, will select the 2011 “Best Corporate Band” in the 11th Annual FORTUNE Battle of the Corporate Bands. Presented by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, the finals event will take place at The Rock Hall on Oct. 1 in Cleveland, Ohio. 

The judges panel for the grand final competition includes Starship bassist Jeff Adams, American rock drummer and former member of Billy Joel’s band Liberty DeVitto, Sheryl Crow’s guitar man Peter Stroud, .38 Special founding member Jeff Carlisi and Pro-Mark Drumsticks Director of Sales Worldwide, Pat Brown.

Music Educators Welcome at the 2012 NAMM Show

CARLSBAD, Calif. , September 20, 2011— The NAMM Foundation today invited music educators and school administrators from across the United States to come to Anaheim, Calif. to experience NAMM’s fifth annual “Music Education Days,” being held on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 21 through Jan. 22 at the 2012 NAMM Show.

Hosted by the NAMM Foundation, music educators and school administrators will have access to NAMM’s premier trade-only music products trade show, where they will be encouraged to see and try the many instruments and products relevant and useful to today’s music classrooms.

Brett Allen Nabs First TELEFUNKEN U47/48 Studio Set for SnowGhost

Whitefish, MT, September, 2011— Brett Allen, producer/engineer and founder of Montana's SnowGhost Studios, has purchased the first U47/48 large diaphragm tube microphone Studio Set. ShowGhost also has matched pairs of ELA M251 and C12 microphones, as well as TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik's most exotic microphone, a modern replica of the rare ELA M270 stereo tube mic.

SnowGhost is a full working studio featuring an all-analog SSL 9048K console, Studer 24-track tape machine, plate reverb, Sonoma 24-track DSD digital recording, Pro Tools HD, 80 terabytes of network storage, and a sizable stash of classic outboard gear and premium microphones. SnowGhost is also an independent music service that records and distributes both new and established artists.

NAMM Hires New Director of Membership

CARLSBAD, Calif., September 12, 2011—The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) announced today that Causby Challacombe will be its new director of membership.

Challacombe has developed marketing and membership departments for national and international associations over the past 11 years. Prior to joining NAMM, she was director of marketing and communications for the Professional Retail Store Maintenance Association. She spearheaded the growth and development of new membership programs and was instrumental in advancing membership engagement and retention. A native of Oklahoma, Challacombe received a bachelor’s in communications from Cameron University.

Avid Adds New EUCON Media Workflow Partners; Continues to Lead the Way with Open Solutions

Colorfront and FilmLight announce native support for EUCON; expanding media workflow options and delivering improved performance with Avid’s Artist Series Controllers

IBC (Hall 7 Booth #J20), Amsterdam, 2011-09-09 - Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced new additions to expand the open EUCON™ ecosystem of supported media applications, providing customers with more creative options in their audio and video workflows and reinforcing its commitment to supporting open, interoperable platforms.

Avid announced that FilmLight’s Baselight and Colorfront’s On-Set Dailies now offer native support for Avid’s EUCON protocol—enabling content creators to use Artist Series controllers to take deep, hands-on control over these applications. Colorists can now control the color grading features of Colorfront’s On-Set Dailies and FilmLight’s Baselight using the compact and affordable Artist Color. Today’s announcement reinforces Avid’s commitment to driving openness across the industry—following April’s announcement at NAB of partnerships with Assimilate, Blackmagic Design, Image Systems and Pomfort, as well as previous EUCON support announcements by companies like Apple, Autodesk, RED, and others.

Avid Significantly Enhances Leading Solutions for Small and Large Broadcasters with NewsVision and ISIS 7000 2.4

IBC (Hall 7 Booth #J20), Amsterdam, 2011-09-09 - Avid® (NASDAQ: AVID) today announced new versions of the Avid NewsVision™ turnkey solution and the Avid ISIS® 7000 shared storage system.  Avid NewsVision lets customers quickly create and deliver high-impact news, and promotional and long-form content.

The NewsVision turnkey solution is easy to implement for local and regional HD news production, featuring reliable broadcast-proven products Avid is known for, including Avid AirSpeed® Multi Stream video server, ISIS 5000 shared storage system, and a choice of NewsCutter® or Media Composer® editing tools. The latest release of NewsVision provides several options for customers to expand their workflow.