High-fidelity audio component maker Orb Audio has released the Booster, an "integrated mini-amp" that lets users connect and manage up to four components along with a set of speakers, all controlled by a single remote. The small device (six inches square and 1.75 inches high) offers 20 watts per channel and four stereo inputs (two RCA, two mini-jack) along with subwoofer and speaker connectors.
Collins America on Thursday introduced the BagAmp, a portable amplifier system geared for musicians. The system features the company's "Audio Piston" technology that eliminates the need for the rubber ring that holds a typical speaker cone in place. The flat-faced drivers, measuring 3 inches, are claimed to produce similar sound to many 5-inch drivers.
QuickerTek has introduced its latest computer accessory, a USB transceiver designed for Macs. The device integrates a 1 Watt amplifier paired with a dipole antenna featuring 5dBi gain. Power is provided by a USB port, while the antenna connects to anything near the computer such as a notebook display. Users can also upgrade the detachable antenna later if needed.
IK Multimedia and Fender Musical Instruments have launched AmpliTube Fender, a software suite with over 45 Fender guitar and bass amplifier effects. The new software amps and effects have been designed using the same testing- and tuning-process of Fender hardware amps, with the goal of offering the same sound quality as a real amp. Among the 45 gear selections are 12 amps, 12 cabinets, six stompboxes, nine mics and six rack-FX effects. AmpiTube Fender also includes includes Riffwork T4 for guitar recording and AmpliTube X-GEAR for compatibility with other AmpliTube software.
Mark's Recording Studio has launched iRock 1.0, an app for the iPhone that converts it into a guitar amplifier. The app includes six amplifier simulations combined with five cabinet emulators. It has hi, low and mid tone controls along with gain and drive control. iRock supports recording performances and can playback the recording. It also contains a file server for downloading recorded performances.
Axiom Audio has announced the availability of its special edition Axiom Garage Speaker—a bookshelf unit. The device is tread-patterned, brushed silver exterior, and is comprised of a 1" titanium tweeter and 6.5" aluminum woofer, each speaker features anti-standing-wave cabinetry and vortex porting. The speakers will play with as little as a 10-watt amplifier, or can handle as much as 175 watts of input power. Axiom Garage Speakers also include a threaded mounting receptacle that accepts most speaker brackets including the company’s Full Metal Bracket. For horizontal mounting situations, Axioms Ceiling Bracket can be used. Axiom Garage Speakers are priced at $375 per pair.
Native Instruments has announced that Guitar Rig Session and Guitar Rig XE3 are are now available. Session is a new recording solution for guitarists, bass players and songwriters that provides studio-quality results at an entry-level price. Rig 3 XE software is the heart of the suite, which offers a selection of five true-to-life tube amplifier models and 12 cabinet types, as well as 21 stomp boxes and effect units. All components can be freely combined in the virtual Guitar Rig rack, allowing musicians to create sounds ranging from signature tones to unique sonic flavors. A library with over 150 instantly playable tones from different musical eras and genres is included, together with several tools including dual tape-decks, metronome, tuner, and a dedicated Live View.
Scandyna on Thursday unveiled the Dock Pack, a combined set that bundles its high-end iPod dock with the Micropod SE speakers. The Dock features a 2x15 watt RMS Class T amplifier and seven inserts for various iPods, while being operated by remote control. The amp also features an output line for an optional subwoofer, and the included power adapter charges the iPod as it plays. Scandyna is selling the setup for $300 in over 30 countries.
Gefen today unveiled new distribution amplifiers that deliver component video to 1080p with audio up ranging up to a 300 meter distance. The company's 1:4 Component/Audio CAT-5 distribution amplifier and the 1:8 component/audio CAT-5 distribution amplifier both enable the delivery component video to multiple displays. Each device features RCA (left/right) analog and digital (S/PDIF and TOSlink) audio inputs to provide an easy way of sending audio as well as video to four or eight remote locations from a single source. Gefen's 1:8 Cat-5 receiver is priced from $1,500, while the 1:4 receiver is available for $800.
Gefen today unveiled its new 1-to-5 HDMI 1.3 Splitter and 1-to-10 HDMI 1.3 Distribution Amplifier. The Gefen 1-to-5 Splitter for HDMI 1.3 accepts one audio/video input, such as a DVD player or set top box, and transmits the same signal to five displays. The 1-to-10 HDMI 1.3 Distribution Amplifier transmits one HDMI source to 10 displays, and both units accommodate larger distributions when 'daisy chained' with another splitter. Gefen's 1-to-5 splitter and 1-to-10 Distribution Amplifier are both rack mountable, and both are available for pre-order at $500 and $750, respectively.
Grace Digital recently unveiled a new line of iPod accessories, starting with the Hybrid PA-40Ti, a tube-based amplifier that combines retro technology with a modern industrial design. The amplifier features a four-channel input selector, allowing users to hook up phono, CD, or auxiliary audio connections, in addition to iPod connectivity. High quality speaker wire connectors, as well as a subwoofer and stereo headphone port handle output. Grace is selling the PA-40Ti for $450 through its website.
