I just got the Mixosaurus 122 GB Virtual drum library (comes on a hard drive!) and the TASCAM DR-100 portable digital recorder for review.

Our new APx525 system is up and running and it is a rockin’ test and measurement platform. Watch for our first bench test in the upcoming June issue of Mix.

Dolby Pulse is the newest solution from Dolby for online, mobile and broadcast markets. It lets broadcasters deliver stereo and 5.1-channel audio at the lowest bandwidth rates while maintaining high audio quality. Because it includes Dolby metadata, Dolby Pulse is also the one HE AAC solution that eliminates the need for a stereo simulcast within a 5.1 broadcast, further reducing bandwidth.

The all-digital StudioComm 76DB/77B Surround Monitoring System from Studio Technologies offers simple and effective monitoring of 5.1 surround and stereo audio material. Comprised of a Model 76DB Central Controller and a Model 77B Control Console, this system is especially well suited for broadcast master control and post-production applications with digital-input loudspeakers.

The Model 76DB Central Controller is rack mountable and offers two surround (5.1) and three stereo (2-channel) digital inputs that are compatible with AES3id sources. Sample rates of up to 192 kHz and bit depth of up to 24 are directly supported. Exceptional dynamic range and extremely low distortion ensure that the audio quality of each source is maintained. Sample rate conversion (SRC) is available on one input (stereo input C).

Instrumentalists of all kinds will want to check out the 4099 mini cardioid mics DPA brought to the show. It attaches gently to the instrument, offers superior gain-before-feedback and is wireless compatible and can also be used as a standard 48V phantom powered microphone via the included XLR connector.

Genelec showed the new 1038CF Tri-Amplified Active Monitoring System. It features loudspeaker drivers, slim speaker enclosure (only 9.25″/235 mm), dual eight-inch long throw bass drivers, multiple power amplifiers and active, low level crossovers. Designed for medium-sized control rooms, this system is ideal for music recording studios, project studios, film and video postproduction and broadcast monitoring. Based on the 1038B 3-Way Monitoring System, the 1038CF features a limited bass response, with a -2.5 dB point at 57 Hz, as the focus is on Mid/High performance. The system is intended to be used in combination with a subwoofer in either stereo or multichannel applications. The 1038CF’s very compact, sealed enclosure measures a mere 24.02″ (610 mm) H x 18.5″ (470 mm) W x 9.25″ (235 mm) D, making it highly suitable for on-wall, free-standing or flush-mounted applications. The system has a built-in tri-amplifier unit, delivering a total of 420 Watts into two 8-inch (210 mm) long-throw bass drivers, a 5.12″ (130-mm) proprietary Genelec midrange driver and a one-inch (25-mm) metal dome tweeter.

The 1038CF uses Genelec’s advanced Directivity Controlled Waveguide™ (DCW™) technology, with provides excellent stereo imaging and frequency balance, even in difficult acoustic environments. Versatile crossover controls allow for precise matching of the speaker system to different acoustic conditions. The system can be used in both vertical and horizontal orientation by simply rotating the DCW unit.

D&M Professional, manufacturer of the renowned Marantz® Professional PMD series of professional recording products, released the predecessor to the PMD660, the PMD661 Compact Digital Recorder.

The handheld PCM / MP3 recorder, the PMD661 offers a streamlined form factor, a upgraded feature set, and the use of SD flash media. Major new design innovations include a smaller footprint and an improved top facia layout with fewer buttons and more highly developed use of multi-functional operation. Measuring a mere 6.5″ x 3.7″ x 1.4″ (165 x 93 x 36 mm), the PMD661’s small footprint, combined with the improved control layout, ensures comprehensive single-handed operation.

Other features include stereo speakers, optional wired remote, improved mic preamps, digital in, mic/line in on XLRs, RCA line outs and included editing software.

Street price is estimated at $599.

Audio-Technica introduces its smallest lavalier offering to date, the BP896 Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone. Intended for capture of high-quality audio with unobtrusive profile, the BP896 provides maximum intelligibility and clean, accurate reproduction for broadcasters, lecturers, church/house of worship users, actors and presenters. The BP896 capsule measures a mere 2.5 mm in diameter, making it ideal for applications requiring minimum visibility. The microphone operates on phantom power and includes a complete accessory kit. The BP896 is available in black and beige wired and wireless models. The wireless offerings include a multitude of terminations designed to work with Audio-Technica and other manufacturers’ wireless systems.

Euphonix offered a range of new broadcast updates for both the System 5-B/BP and Max Air Digital Audio Mixing Systems. The updates include a new 1,536×1,536 broadcast router, and a new software release which includes a remote diagnostic logging feature.

The new SH624 router is now available for integrating Euphonix System 5 and Max Air digital audio mixing systems with facility routers, using the ES-Switch Protocol, including Harris – Leitch, Nvision, Pro-bel, QuStream, Sony, Thompson-Grass Valley and Utah Scientific systems. The SH624 includes 24 MADI ins and outs for a maximum of 1,536 x 1,536 signal paths at 48KHz, doubling the size of the current SH612 router.

The latest system software version 4.1.5 is due out in May and includes a Remote Logging System that logs every action on the control surface in real time so that engineers can trace both technical and operator errors. The feature includes filtering so actions on a specific fader or channel strip can be examined.