— Rugged microphone is ideal for kick drum, toms and other highly dynamic instruments —

This year, Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology currently celebrating “50 Years of Passionate Listening,” is introducing a number of limited edition products featuring a distinct Audio-Technica Anniversary design and color scheme. Of special note is the ATM25/LE, which is a special reintroduction of A-T’s classic ATM25 Hypercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone, which A-T is bringing back based on overwhelming requests from loyal users.

The ATM25/LE has the exact same features and functionality as the original ATM25, but sports a silver-colored metallic finish with blue accents and a 50th anniversary graphic. Additionally, a unique serial number is etched on the surface of each ATM25/LE unit. The ATM25/LE is ideal for kick drum, toms, and other highly dynamic instruments, handling very high sound pressure levels at close range and big, warm low-frequency response with excellent presence. It also offers very full sound on close-up vocals and dialogue. The microphone features a multi-level grille and rugged construction, and it comes with a soft protective pouch.

The ATM25/LE Hypercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone is now available with a U.S. MSRP of $489.00.

For more information, please visit www.audio-technica.com.

— Special version of Audio-Technica’s coveted AT4050 marks Audio-Technica’s 50th Anniversary and features a stunning traditional Japanese urushi lacquer finish —

Throughout 2012, Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology, is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and the company is introducing special limited edition products to help commemorate the occasion. Of particular interest is the AT4050URUSHI, a visually striking version of Audio-Technica’s acclaimed AT4050 Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone. The AT4050URUSHI sports a stunning traditional urushi lacquer finish with hand-painted Japanese maple leaves, as well as an etched-on serial number. The microphone also comes with a beautifully crafted wooden carrying case. With its highly collectable design and renowned AT4050 functionality, the new AT4050URUSHI is an inspired commemorative piece, a wonderful example of Audio-Technica’s meticulous engineering and artful design during the past 50 years.

With three switchable polar patterns, the large-diaphragm Audio-Technica AT4050URUSHI and its standard AT4050 counterpart exhibit a remarkable combination of qualities: high-SPL capability with transparent and airy uppers/mids complemented by rich low-end qualities. The microphone’s dual large diaphragms are gold-vaporized and aged for consistent, outstanding performance. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle provides rock-solid element stability and exceptional sensitivity. The AT4050 is ideal for studio use and live sound productions with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps and more.

The AT4050URUSHI limited-edition Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone is now available with a U.S. MSRP of $2,495.00.

— Landmark occasion commemorated with special limited-edition anniversary products that pay tribute to “50 Years of Passionate Listening” —

Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology currently celebrating “50 Years of Passionate Listening,” is introducing a number of limited edition products, all featuring a distinct Audio-Technica 50th Anniversary design and color scheme. The products include ATH-M50s/LE Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, ATM25/LE Hypercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone, AE4100/LE Cardioid Dynamic Handheld Microphone, AE5400/LE Cardioid Condenser Handheld Microphone, AE6100/LE Hypercardioid Dynamic Handheld Microphone, AT4050/LE Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone and AT4050URUSHI Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone. Representing just some of Audio-Technica’s offerings in their product line, these products are limited-edition versions of A-T’s ATH-M50s, AE4100, AE5400, AE6100, AT4050 and the legacy product ATM25.

The LE/Anniversary limited editions, feature A-T’s classic silver-colored metallic finish with blue accents, and the AT4050URUSHI sports a stunning traditional urushi lacquer finish with hand-painted Japanese maple leaves. The AE4100/LE, AE5400/LE, AE6100/LE, AT4050/LE, AT4050URUSHI and ATM25/LE all feature a unique anniversary serial number etched on the surface of each model. The AE5400/LE, AT4050/LE and AT4050URUSHI come with a specially designed, beautifully hand-crafted wooden carrying case.

Of special note is the ATM25/LE, a re-emergence of the classic ATM25 Hypercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone. Based on direct input from end-users and dealers, Audio-Technica chose its 50th anniversary to bring back a special edition of the classic ATM25. The new ATM25/LE is ideal for kick drum, toms and other highly dynamic instruments; handles very high SPL at close range; provides big, warm low-frequency response with excellent presence; offers very full sound on close-up vocals and dialogue; and features a multi-level grille and rugged construction.
The Audio-Technica Anniversary Models are now available with U.S. MRSP’s as follows:
ATH-M50s/LE $209.00
AE4100/LE $329.00
AE5400/LE $629.00
AE6100/LE $329.00
AT4050/LE $995.00
AT4050URUSHI $2,495.00
ATM25/LE $489.00

For more information, please visit www.audio-technica.com.

Low Price Extended

San Diego, California January, 2012 …. Equator Audio Research recognized globally as a leading manufacturer of highly accurate studio reference monitors for mission critical recording applications has announced the intention to maintain the current $299.99 per pair price on the acclaimed D5 Studio Reference Monitors. As well as the $299 price, Equator will also continue to offer a 60 Day Unconditional Money-Back Guarantee.

The original plan of offering D5 sales through traditional dealer distribution at the January 2012 NAMM show changed when direct online sales quickly grew far beyond the projected sales numbers. Word of mouth spread very fast fueled by an extremely exuberant blogosphere. Gearslutz, Reaper, Studio Central and a host of other Pro Audio blogs have embraced the D5 as the new darlings of the small monitor world.

By achieving a higher production volume than originally more

— A historical look back – with a view toward the future – at one of the leading innovators in transducer technology —

Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology, is marking “50 Years of Passionate Listening” with its yearlong 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2012, including several limited edition commemorative products, special events and promotions for customers. From its early beginnings as a manufacturer of phonograph cartridges, Audio-Technica has expanded over the years to become a leading innovator in the design of microphones, wireless microphone systems, headphones, turntables, phono cartridges and more. A-T continues to advance the art and technology of electro-acoustic design with the manufacture of products for the professional recording, M.I., live sound, broadcast, fixed installation and consumer audio markets. On this historic occasion, Audio-Technica is taking the opportunity to look back, with a view toward the future.

Audio-Technica was founded in 1962 by Hideo Matsushita, who introduced the company’s first phono cartridge that year. A-T soon gained a reputation for producing a range of high-quality, award-winning phono cartridges for some of Japan’s leading electronics companies, and expanded its facilities in 1963 and again in 1965 to its current address in Naruse, Machida, Tokyo. In 1969, Audio-Technica began distributing an expanded range of products internationally, and in 1972, Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. was established in Akron, Ohio, moving to its current location in Stow, Ohio, in 1980.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Audio-Technica broadened its lineup to include products such as its groundbreaking VM Series dual-magnet phono cartridges; its ATH Series high-fidelity headphones; its first professional microphones, the 800 Series; and other innovations. Of particular note was the launch of A-T’s compact UniPoint microphones, which changed the landscape of business presentations and other installed communications with their sleek profiles and high-fidelity audio. Audio-Technica also established divisions in Europe and Asia during this period.

In the 1990s, Audio-Technica continued to refine and diversify its product range, and its wireless microphone systems, microphones and consumer and professional headphones became industry standards for their exceptional performance, reliability and value. A-T introduced the renowned 40 Series microphones, making the pristine sound of studio microphones affordable for the first time ever. Today, the 40 Series represents a benchmark in studio microphones for leading producers and engineers, as well as high-profile artists in all genres of music, both in the studio and onstage. Additionally, in 1993, Hideo Matsushita took the position of Chairman, and Kazuo Matsushita became President of Audio-Technica Corporation, a position he still holds today.

Since the dawning of the new millennium, Audio-Technica has continued to introduce breakthrough products and systems. In 2008, the company’s noise-canceling in-ear and over-ear headphones set new standards in environmental noise reduction and sound quality. A-T also revolutionized the audio industry with the introduction of its digital SpectraPulse® ultra wideband wireless microphone system. The SpectraPulse products are part of A-T’s Engineered Sound® line of contractor-exclusive offerings, another successful area of focus for the company. Other popular A-T products include the Artist Elite series of performance microphones, its 2000 and 3000 Series Wireless Systems, and its Artist Elite Wireless Systems, the 4000 and 5000 Series.

Today, Audio-Technica is the first choice for a variety of major artists including Kenny Chesney, Gwen Stefani, Jason Aldean, Justin Timberlake, Metallica, Linkin Park, Evanescence, Newsboys, Selena Gomez and many more. Audio-Technica products are used worldwide in numerous consumer and professional applications including live concert tours, broadcast and recording studios, corporate, government and house-of-worship venues, and in high-profile events such as the presidential debates, the GRAMMY® Awards, CMA Awards and the Summer and Winter Games, to name a few.

“We are extremely proud to mark Audio-Technica’s 50th anniversary,” said Phil Cajka, Audio-Technica U.S. President and CEO. “Throughout our history, A-T’s growth has been fueled by our customer-focused philosophy. The bottom line is, we are committed to being in tune with our customers and providing them with innovative, compelling products and outstanding customer service. At Audio-Technica, ‘always listening’ is much more than just a slogan. It’s how we do business.”

For more information, please visit www.audio-technica.com.

Grand Prize Winner to be Revealed in March

ANAHEIM, CA, JANUARY 19, 2012 ? The RapcoHorizon Company (2012 NAMM Show Booth 4558, Hall C), a leading manufacturer of audio/video interfacing and cable equipment, has extended its “Outfit Your Band” Promotion, the company’s largest to date. The final submission date is now Thursday, March 1, 2012. One Grand Prize winner, to be revealed online in March, will receive a 16×4 snake and every mic, speaker and instrument cable needed for his or her band’s performances.

To be considered for the “Outfit Your Band” Promotion, RapcoHorizon fans must go to the contest tab on the company’s Facebook page, located at http://www.facebook.com/RapcoHorizon. On this tab, contestants must enter their email address and local dealer store number, which can be obtained by visiting their local RapcoHorizon dealer and locating the store ID number printed on the promotional signage. The Grand Prize store winner will be announced through Facebook on Friday, March 2, 2012. The official individual winner will also be contacted by their vendor via email.

The RapcoHorizon Company, located in Jackson, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of audio, video, home theater, data and telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies. Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizon Company’s products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s website at www.rapcohorizon.com.

MIDLAND, TX, JANUARY 16, 2012—TOMCAT, a market leader in the fabrication of aluminum truss, structural components and custom stages for the entertainment, audiovisual, exhibition and worship industries and a brand of The Vitec Group, is pleased to announce that Mike Garl has joined the TOMCAT team as president and general manager. Garl, who joins TOMCAT from James Thomas Engineering, where he was previously the president and managing partner, will be responsible for all the day-to-day activities at TOMCAT. more

Music loving MP meets the engineers and sound experts at internationally renowned Oxford-based audio console manufacturer SSL

OXFORD, ENGLAND – 13 January 2012 – Directors at Solid State Logic in Begbroke invited local MP Nicola Blackwood in today to see the firm’s manufacturing facility and to discuss the firm’s current recruitment drive. Solid State Logic is the world’s leading manufacturer of analogue and digital audio consoles and control surfaces and its five-acre, 61,000 m² facility is the main base for its manufacturing. more

Mr. Bonzai Hosts Bernie Grundman, Gavin Lurssen, Stephen Marsh & Doug Sax

The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) has announced that the H.O.T. Zone will present “Mastering Engineers on Optimizing for Multiple Release Formats.” Hosted by Mr. Bonzai, the panelists are Bernie Grundman, Gavin Lurssen, Stephen Marsh & Doug Sax. The event takes place at 12:30pm on January 20 in Room 203 of the Anaheim Convention Center.

Mastering is described by panelist Bernie Grundman as “basically post-production for the recording industry — the final creative step before delivery to the public as physical vinyl, CD, or any of the various digital formats.”

The name Bernie Grundman is synonymous with Mastering. His world renowned facilities, responsible for a consistently large percentage of chart recordings, were launched in 1984, following Grundman’s 15-year tenure with A&M Studios. In 1997, Grundman opened his Tokyo mastering studios and in 1998 relocated to expanded facilities in Hollywood.

Gavin Lurssen established himself in 1991 as a prominent mastering engineer in the industry, and has earned three Grammy Awards and a Latin Grammy Award. Lurssen’s work has been recognized with two TEC awards in 2008 for Mastering and for Outstanding Facility as well as with a Berklee College of Music Distinguished Alumni Award.

A native New Yorker, Stephen Marsh came west at 19 to take a job at Sony’s West Coast Mastering operation, working under David Mitson. Having now spent half his life behind the mastering console, he has been fortunate enough to count Grammy(r) nominees and winners, multiple Gold and Platinum albums and numerous chart successes among the releases to his credit.

Doug Sax opened the doors to The Mastering Lab Hollywood in 1967, founding one of the first independent facilities in the world, as well as the most recognizable name in mastering. Now located in Ojai, California, The Mastering Lab remains a revolutionary, state-of-the-art company, utilizing unique signal flow concepts and unequaled electronics pioneered by Doug’s brother, Sherwood Sax.

“Providing relevant and high-value education programs to the thousands of pro-audio and live sound members of NAMM is one of our key objectives,” said Joe Lamond, president and CEO, NAMM. “The role of technology continues to expand and we believe that this unique educational opportunity at the 2012 NAMM Show makes attendance a must for anyone working in this important segment.”

The H.O.T. Zone is a feature of the 2012 NAMM Show, which will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center, Jan. 19-22, 2012. For more information, please visit http://www.namm.org/thenammshow/2012

Attendees Get an In Depth Look into PIX Features, Functionality and Workflow

LOS ANGELES, JANUARY 12, 2012 — Sound Devices, experts in production sound and video products for field production, will host a PIX seminar at the Los Angeles Film School’s LAFS Theater on Saturday, February 4 from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The presentation highlights Sound Devices’ new line of portable production video recorders, PIX 220 and PIX 240, and will explore the benefits of using an external recorder to acquire the highest quality picture and sound in the field.

With the increase in popularity of high-performance, portable external video recorders, along with Sound Devices’ recent introduction into this marketplace, the seminar will delve beyond the typical feature lists to highlight applications and usage of the product, from camera to post.

“We are excited to showcase the benefits and real-world functionality of PIX at the LA Film School,” says Paul Isaacs, technical development manager for Sound Devices. “A broader range of professional and DSLR-type cameras being used today has created a need for portable production video recorders. We are excited to further educate the industry on how to easily integrate our PIX recorders into their workflow.”

Sound Devices’ PIX 220 and PIX 240 connect to cameras with HDMI (plus SDI on the PIX 240) and record directly to QuickTime using Apple’s ProRes or Avid’s DNxHD codec. Since PIX recorders use ProRes and DNxHD, files recorded in the field can be used directly in post production, making the workflow simple and fast. The PIX 240 adds even more flexibility, with its time code and sync generator, simultaneous SDI and HDMI outputs, and hardware scalers. Both the PIX 220 and PIX 240 bring the company’s award-winning audio expertise and performance to their video products.

To RSVP for this event, register at http://www.sounddevices.com/pix-la/.

Sound Devices, LLC designs and manufactures portable audio mixers, digital recorders, portable video recorders and related equipment for feature film, episodic television, documentary, news-gathering and acoustical test and measurement applications. The thirteen-year old company designs and manufactures from their Reedsburg, Wisconsin headquarters with additional offices in Madison, WI and Highland Park, IL. For more information, visit the Sound Devices website, www.sounddevices.com.