MOTU debuts ZBox guitar adapter, Ethno Instrument 2
updated 06:30 pm EST, Tue January 19, 2010
Ethno now offers 21GB sound library
MOTU at the 2010 NAMM Show announced the ZBox guitar impedance adapter, and a new major upgrade to its Ethno virtual instrument software. ZBox is designed to improve sound quality with software amplifiers by replicating the impedance levels found on classic guitar amps. Features include authentic matching circuits that emulate two-jack switching networks, and a built-in 16-inch cable for connecting to any guitar input. It offers plug-and-play installation and supports either Mac- or PC-powered audio interfaces equipped with preamps.
ZBox supports almost any device that has a preamp input suitable for guitars, including mixers, recording devices, wireless transmitters and effects processors. The device measures approximately 1- x 1.75- x 2.5-inches in size, with a lightweight aluminum casing and no need for external power.
Ethno Instrument 2 is the latest version of the company’s cross-platform software which provides a wide range of world/ethnic instruments, loops and phrases. The latest version doubles the size of its integrated sound library, bringing it up to 21GB, with new sounds from Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia and various other places around the world. Some of the sounds added in v2 include large African drums, thirty new instruments from India, and a collection of gongs and bells.
Aside from the added instruments, the update also provides eight new analog-modeled filters and support for uploading presets from version 1 of the program. Lastly, MOTU has added new keyswitch presets and the latest UVI Engine for enhanced performance.
ZBox is currently available from the company’s website and priced at $40, while Ethno Instrument 2 is planned for release in the first quarter of 2010 and will be priced at $400.
