News archive
Technical Update 28.4.11
- Mac OS X 10.6.7 is now qualified with the following Pro Tools versions: Pro Tools HD, LE, and M-Powered 8.0.5, Pro Tools HD 8.1.1, Pro Tools HD 8.5 (for HD|Native only), Pro Tools 9.0.2 and Pro Tools HD 9.0.2. As usual use the combo update (liked below) instead of Software Update in Apple menu.
Mac OS X v10.6.7 Update Combo download

Meet Us At Prolight + Sound in Frankfurt
If you come to Frankfurt to see the latest and greatest gear and beer, give us a ring. We’d be happy to introduce you to the people who actually make the tools and toys you use every day. We’ll be around Thursday and Friday so don’t hesitate to give us a call and demand a free beer.
Prolight + Sound 2011

Waves April Specials
This April Waves offers 20% dicount on all Native products and up tp 50% discount on several TDM bundles. Let us help you to find the right processor collection to fit your specific needs and offer you better-than-online deal for your Waves desires.
[contact]

Technical Update 29.3.11
Windows 7 Service Pack 1 with Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate (32 and 64-bit) is now officially qualified with the following versions of Pro Tools:
- Pro Tools 9.0.2
- Pro Tools LE 8.0.5, M-Powered 8.0.5, SE 8.0.3, M-Powered Essential 8.0.3
Note: Windows 7 Service Pack 1 not tested or qualified with other versions of Pro Tools.

Technical Update 28.3.11
- If you’re still running VENUE D-Show 2.8, VENUE D-Show 2.8.6 Console Software Update is now available fixing issues with plug-in processing and firmware. We recommend upgrading to 2.9 anyway as it brings loads of new features.
VENUE D-Show 2.8.6 Console Software Update

Trash Your Tracks For Free
The all new SoundToys Devil-Loc is inspired by the classic Shure Level-Loc. Devil-Loc adds huge sucking compression, grit, dirt, distortion, and takes drums (but try it anywhere) to a wonderful hellish nightmare. And the best thing is that Devil-Loc is free.
Get Your Free Devil-Loc Plug-In

Technical Update 11.3.11
- Pro Tools HD 8.1.1 update available with loads of bugfixes
- Pro Tools HD/LE/M-Powered 8.0.5 update available with dozens of bugfixes
Pro Tools HD 8.1.1 update
Pro Tools HD/LE/M-Powered 8.0.5 update

McDSP March Sale up to -60%
Don’t miss the opportunity to stack up your processor collection with McDSPs high-end plug-ins,
used by the top guns in film and music industries. McDSP HD plug ins are now up to 60% less, native plugs up to 50% off, and upgrading from LE to Native is now 30% less expensive.
Contact us for a better-than-online offer today.
McDSP plug-ins

Technical Update 10.3.11
- Pro Tools 9.0.2 update available, including massive amount of bugfixes and enhancements.
Pro Tools 9.0.2 update download

New Mac Book Pros with Thunderbolt
Apple introduced today the new Mac Book Pro models with the new, long-rumored I/O technology Thunderbolt (codename LightPeak). Developed by Intel and Apple, Thunderbolt is the holy grail of connectivity we’ve been waiting for since the first heard rumors about it couple of years ago.
One bus to rule them all, Thunderbolt is compatible with PCI Express, FireWire, USB, eSATA, HDMI, DVI, VGA, FibreChannel and Ethernet via adapters. 20 x faster than USB2, 12 x faster than FireWire 800, Thunderbolt also delivers 10W power to peripherals, allowing professional interfaces to run without PSU. First real-life tests confirm the mind-blowing speed - you can transfer a DVD worth of data literally in few seconds.
Other new MacBook Pro features include up to two times faster new i5 and i7 processors up to four cores, up to 3 times faster graphics with Intel HD 3000 chip, FaceTime HD 720p webcam, up to 7h battery life etc.
MacBook Pro

VENUE IO16 Option Card for SC48 Shipping
With the VENUE IO16 Option Card, you can connect your favorite outboard gear to VENUE SC48. The card makes it easy to integrate third-party effects processors, digital music players, and other hardware devices for additional mixing options. Ideal for corporate AV events, concert sound, and houses of worship, you get the best of both worlds - access to a wide array of studio-standard plug-ins "in the box," plus the flexibility to connect more outboard processors and sound sources.
Features
- 8 channel pairs of analog I/O through 1/4-inch female TRS connectors
- 8 channels of AES digital inputs through four XLR3-female connectors
- 8 channels of AES digital outputs through four XLR3-male connectors
- Use all analog and digital I/O as inputs and outputs for playback or recording, or as hardware inserts
- Easily route audio using the VENUE software patchbay
- Get fuss-free operation with automatic Sample Rate Conversion (SRC) on all digital inputs, eliminating the need for a separate Word Clock when interconnecting digital devices
VENUE IO16 Option Card

Waves V8 Available
Waves V8 adds the vintage-modeled V-Series to selected Waves bundles, and brings a fresh new look to several classic plugins like L1, C1, S1, Q10, DeEsser, TrueVerb, and AudioTrack. In addition, more Waves plugins than ever are now available individually. With many new features including an improved preset management, enhanced ICON support, and mouse-wheel control, there's never been a better time to rev up your rig. Call us for our better-than-online Waves pricing.
Waves plug-ins

Technical Update 10.2.11
- VENUE 2.9.1 Console Software Update available. It's recommended for all VENUE 2.9 users, addressing issues with plug-in processing and Firmware.
VENUE 2.9.1 Console Software Update

Technical Update 7.2.11
- Pro Tools HD 8.1 Guide now available in German, French, Italian and Spanish. You can easily use it for 9 as well.
- Avid Interplay 2.3 adds support for Pro Tools|HD & HD Native 9.0 and 9.01 on Mac OS X and Windows 7. Pro Tools HD 8.1 is also supported on Windows XP.
- Euphonix Artist Series EuControl 2.5.7 supports now Windows.
Pro Tools International User Guides
Avid Interlpay requirements for Pro Tools
Euphonix Artist Series downloads

iLok 2 In Stock
We finally got enough hot new iLok 2s to keep them in stock.
Added features of iLok 2 “black” against iLok “blue”:
- About 500 licenses (against appr. 100 of iLok "blue")
- Way smaller, can be inserted side by side in adjacent USB ports
- Even tougher construction.
- You can add your own custom labelling underneath a protective sleeve
Want the Black Beauty? Just drop us an order:
[contact]

Roger Nichols Needs Your Help
One of the greatest engineers of all time, Roger Nichols, needs your help. And he’s not looking for an assistant engineer or someone to help dust his Grammy Awards. Roger quite literally is fighting for his life.
Last summer, Roger was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. Although quite serious, many of those afflicted survive for years with proper treatment. Unfortunately, the medical costs and bills have devastated the Nichols family, leaving them nearly bankrupt, making any chance of Roger taking part in some promising new treatments nearly impossible. We're talking about USA here - you pay or you die. Even if you have a good health insurance, it typically covers only the first few treatments.
Roger has done so many legendary productions that have brought so much joy to so many people's lifes, from Steely Dan to Placido Domingo. Considering him being one of our all-time audio heroes, we were very pleased to get to know Roger - few years ago we even had the honor to organize a Master Class with him in our showroom. It was truly amazing to listen Steely Dan multitracks and listen to his hilarious as well as gut-wrenching war stories.
Help us to help Roger and donate - even a little amount - through the link below.
Roger Nichols Needs Your Help
Donate Here - Rogernichols.com

Sonnox Fraunhofer Pro-Codec - a Dream Come True
The hottest new plug-in at NAMM came from Sonnox. Developed with Fraunhofer IIS, Pro-Codec revoluitionizes mixing and mastering workflows. Pro-Codec enabels you to listen several codecs live while mixing or masterng. But the real kicker is that you can also listen to the “minus” or difference signal - i.e. what you lose with the data compression - in real time. All major codecs, including mp3, mp3 Surround, AAC-LC and HE-AAC are supported, as are lossless codecs such as mp3 HD and HD-AAC.
Integrated FFT display shows the input signal, output difference signal and a unique graphical indication of the codec-induced noise. Bitstream integrity meters reveal potential decode overloads. Loads of more clever features for comparison of the codecs etc. are included as well. We don’t want to hype but it’s hard to imagine a serious mixing or mastering engineer who does *not* want this plug-in. Stay tuned for availability later this spring, we can’t wait to get our hands on it.
Sonnox Fraunhofer Pro-Codec coming soon

Upgrade to VENUE - Save 18%
Why do you see more VENUEs than any other consoles touring with top acts? Sound, reliability, plug-ins, and super tight intergation with industry standard DAW, Pro Tools incl. Virtual Soundcheck.
Now you can bring the studio quality to your gigs and have all that for 18% less when you trade in your analog or digital console to VENUE system. But hurry up to profit from the deal, this special offer is valid only until 18.3.11.
Contact us for details and a demo system.
[contact]

Back From NAMM
NAMM 2011 motto was - what else - “take it to eleven”. And they sure did, especially in the guitar and drum halls. At the recording end of the show it was all about Pro Tools 9. Even the fiercest competitors were advertising their gear as Pro Tools 9 compatible. The message was clear: The DAW wars are over, it’s all Pro Tools now, not only in the high end where Pro Tools HD has been the standard for a decade already.
Besides NAMM, we also visited couple of interesting post facilities like Todd-AO, Sony Pictures and John Ross’ 424 inc. Obviously all facilities were running on Pro Tools HD, usually 5 HD systems tied together to Euphonix system 5 with input counts around 600 channels. We had great time in the machine rooms exchanging war stories with the techies and had a glimpse of couple of next summer’s blockbusters in the big mixing rooms. But we can’t really talk about that or they’d have to kill us.
On the music side, we did Euphonix training in Will Smith’s Boom Boom Room, a super cosy but very high tech studio in the Valley. Great crew, great gear and chilled athmosphere made it a nice experience to get into the Euphonix 5 MC which will arrive in our showroom soon. We also had nice dinners with couple of multi-million selling producers, engineers and songwriters which is always a great opportunity to learn more.
Want to hear more about how the top guys in the world work? And what happened in Vegas? Just visit us in the showroom for a cup of Lavazza. And go eleven with the spankin' Les Paul, SG, Tele and StingRay5 that we added to the showroom collection...

Technical Update 25.1.11
- Mac OS X 10.6.6 is officially qualified with all versions of Pro Tools 8.0.4 and higher, including Pro Tools HD, LE, and M-Powered 8.0.4, Pro Tools HD 8.1, Pro Tools HD 8.5 (for HD|Native systems only), Pro Tools 9.0 and 9.0.1 and Pro Tools HD 9.0 and 9.0.1. As usual, use the Combo Update instead of built-in Software Update in Apple menu.
Mac OS X v10.6.6 Update Combo

NAMM in Los Angeles 13-16.1.
It’s a tough job but somebody’s gotta do it. We’ll go to NAMM this year to see the impact of Pro Tools 9 and to find out the hot new trands, gear, and software for you.
If you’re attening NAMM as well, drop us a line or give us a ring and we’ll take you to the people in the know and show you the latest and greatest.
NAMM

Technical Update 7.1.11
- Pro Tools 9.0.1 update available fixing issues with VocAlign, EuCon, controller firmware updates, Structure installation, downward compatibility, OMNI fan behavior and Workspace.
Pro Tools 9.0.1 Update download

Waves Prizes Frozen To Xmas Special -40% Pricing
Waves froze all prizes to the Xmas special of last year. This means that from now on you can buy Waves processors for around 40% less than perviously. And as usual, we beat the online prizes - just ask for an offer. All plugs are now also available individually enabling you to build your own bundles for you special needs.
Waves Plug-ins

Technical Update 27.12.10
- Mac OS X 10.6.5 is officially qualified with all versions of Pro Tools 8.0.4 and higher, including: Pro Tools HD, LE, and M-Powered 8.0.4, Pro Tools HD 8.1, Pro Tools HD 8.5 (for HD|Native systems only), Pro Tools 9.0 and Pro Tools HD 9.0. Also Pro Tools SE 8.0.3 and Pro Tools Essential 8.0.3 are qualified for 10.6.5.
- As always, use the "Combo Update" for updating to the latest Mac OS X version.
Pro Tools Compatibility & Upgrade Information
Mac OS X v10.6.5 Update (Combo)

Happy Xmas!
No, you didn’t get a postcard from us. But we’ll give you something better: A song.
This is a little Xmas gift from us and our kids. They wanted to record a Xmas song and we happily agreed thinking about the far-away kids we send our Xmas money every year. If you like it pls drop a franc or two to the kids in India, Ghana and Bolivia. They will appreciate it!
gandhicare.org -
chance-for-children.org -
stiftung pro huancarani
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) 2010 by Julia, Anna-Tina and SEC Studio Orchestra

Technical Update 15.12.10
- All VENUE systems are now fully qualified for use with Pro Tools 9 and Pro Tools HD 9. This qualification includes all regular audio recording, playback and editing functions, as well as the new VENUE Link interoperability features introduced in VENUE 2.9 software.
Pro Tools 9
What's New in VENUE 2.9 Software

New VENUE 2.9 Software Talks Directly With Pro Tools
The new VENUE 2.9 features VENUE Link - an intelligent, two way communication between VENUE desks and Pro Tools. 2.9 also adds support to more I/O options for Mix Rack and SC48 systems. With the new HD Native card and VENUE 2.9, adding a tightly integrated 64-track recording capability to your Profile or D-Show system is a no-brainer. Ask us for a complete package deal - it's way less than you'd might expect.
Features:
- Create Pro Tools sessions based on your VENUE show file
- Import VENUE channel names into Pro Tools
- Sync VENUE snapshots and Pro Tools markers
- Increase your output options with Redundant Output Mode
- Adds support for the VENUE IO16 Option Card with SC48
- Adds support for the IOx Option Card with Mix Rack systems
What's new in VENUE 2.9 Software

HD Converter Shoot-Out at Metropolis
Check the link below for an A/B test of four AD/DA converters for Pro Tools HD: 192 I/O, HD I/O, Apogee Symphony and Prism ADA-8XR.
The test was conducter in Metropolis Studios Studio A by world-class engineers as a real double-blind test, no sales guy blahblah or blue LEDs blinking on your face. All inputs and outputs were calibrated to 0.1dB accuracy and same clock source was used for all I/Os for practical reasons. Check out the video, you might be surprised. The most expensive is not automatically the best. We will conduct a similar test soon, stay tuned.
HD Converter High Noon

New HD I/Os In SEC Showroom
All new Avid HD I/Os are now wired up and ready for your ears in our showroom.
Some say that they "Sound really really good, seriously good actually and totally smoke the 192" but as we always say, don’t believe the hype, believe your ears and hear for yourself how the new HD I/Os can make your music sound better. Bring your own Pro Tools session, CD, DVD or Blu-Ray and hear why the industry is buzzing about the massive jump in quality. Call us or drop us a mail to fix a date for a listening session or let us know when you’d want to have the new I/Os at your place for your own testing.
[contact]

Pro Tools 9 - The Wait is Over - This Changes Everything
Did you ever dream about this in your laptop:
- Full Pro Tools HD features
- Automatic Delay Compensation
- 192 Audio Tracks
- 128 Intrument Tracks
- 512 MIDI Tracks
- 160 Aux Tracks
- 256 Buses
- VCA Mixing
- Advanced Automation
- 64 Video Tracks
- Core Audio up to 32 channels
- Time Code
- Surround up tp 7.1
- EuCon compatibility
- MP3 Export
- AAF/OMF/MXF file exchange
Now you can. Introducing Pro Tools 9. Hardware independend. Use any I/O you want. Or no I/O at all, just headphones on a laptop. Edit or mix full HD sessions in trains, planes and automobiles. Or at home or in a coffeshop. Did we already say this changes everything?
Pro Tools 9
Pro Tools software feature comparison chart

TC Drops Plug-in Prices
TC Electronic radically dropped the plug-in pricing - up to 80% in some cases. At last the outstanding processors ported from System 6000 and groundbraking helpers like LM5D loudness Radar Meter are available at affordable prices. Let us know what you need and we’ll make you an hard-to-refuse offer.
TC Electronic plug-ins

Waves -45% Extended
Due to colossal popular demand, we continue the Waves 45% offer until the end of November.
All bundles and upgrades are part of the massive discount so don't miss the opportunity. Contact us for details.
[contact]

SEC Office Closed 01.11.10
Our office is closed Monday due to an official holiday.

Thx Everybody!
Big thanks to everybody who stopped to say hi at Luzern Light & Sound!
Also big hand to Avid and Waves crews who helped us to manage the immense interest in the new gear. We hope to see you soon in our showroom for a more hands-on and ears-on time with the new Pro Tools HD I/Os, VENUE desks, Barefoot loudspeakers and Smyth A8 Realiser which ended up being one of the hits of the show. See you in Uznach or in two years again in Luzern.

Technical Update 20.10.10
- New Mac Pros now qualified for Pro Tools HD 8.1 including Mac Pro "Westmere" (8 and 12-Core 2.4, 3.33GHz).
- MacBook Pros now qualified for Pro Tools HD 8.1 with Magma Expansion Chassis. An Express Card slot is required, that’s why models with SD card slot won’t be compatible.
- Magma Expansion Chassis now qualified for Pro Tools HD 8.1 with Mac Pro: Magma 6 slot (PCIe to PCI-X chassis) PE6R4, Magma ExpressBox7 (PCIe to PCIe chassis) EB7.
- Magma Expansion Chassis now qualified for Pro Tools HD 8.1 with MacBook Pro: Magma ExpressBox1 Pro, Magma ExpressBox2 and Magma ExpressBox4.
Pro Tools HD 8.1 Qualified Apple Computers
Pro Tools HD 8.1 Qualified Expansion Chassis for Mac OS X

Technical Update 19.10.10
- Pro Tools HD 8.1cs2 Update for Mac and Windows available
- Pro Tools HD/LE/M-Audio 8.0.4cs2 Update for Mac and Windows available
Both fix several bugs, details in the link below.
Pro Tools CS Updates

New Pro Tools HD Native
Imagine full Pro Tools HD software features, full track count, 64 audio channels of in/out, Automatic Delay Compensation. For a fraction of the price of a Pro Tools HD.
Meet Pro Tools HD Native:
- One PCIe card
- Pro Tools HD 8.5 Software
- 192 tracks, 128 buses
- 1.6ms Latency
- Automatic Delay Compensation
- Max. 4 HD I/Os for 64 ch in/out
- Up to 192kHz/24bit
- Legacy “Blue” I/Os compatible
- Core Audio and ASIO for 64 I/O channels
- Low Latency Bus for monitoring
- VCA Mixing, Surround, AFL/PFL
- Input Monitoring
- Destructive/Track Punch Recording
- Machine Control, Video Satellite compatible
- ICON, C|24, Euphonix compatible
- VENUE compatible
- RTAS plug-ins (no TDM)
- Mac OS 10.6, Windows 7
- Compatible with new Mac Pros
- Supports Magma PCIe chassis for laptop setups
- 64bit Floating Point Mixer (equivalent to 48bit fixed point of HD cards)
The new Pro Tools HD Native is a perfect solution for those who thought they can’t afford a Pro Tools HD system, offering all the professional features that and LE system just can’t touch. It’s also a magnificent 2nd system for editing and mixing with the perfect HD sound quality as well as 100% same workflow and features as TDM-based Pro Tools HD systems. The Pro Tools HD Native Card also supports 64 channels of I/O for VENUE systems so it’s a no-brainer for offering affordable yet state-of-the-art multitrack recording for live concerts.
Meet us at Light & Sound and we’ll tell you all about the new Pro Tools HD Native and show you the brand new HD I/O, OMNI I/O and MADI I/Os as well. Drop us a line for free tickets.
Pro Tools HD Native

All Waves 45% Off in October
This is the best chance ever to upgrade your studio with Waves processors.
This October only, Waves offers everything at 40% discount. And we’ll throw 5% extra from our pocket on top of the already crazy offer so don’t miss this golden opportunity.
Waves plug-ins

New HD, MADI, OMNI I/Os in Stock at SEC
We just got the first delivery of all the new Pro Tools HD I/Os. If you want to be the first kid on the block you better hurry because this shipment is almost pre-sold out already. But no worries if you didn’t order yet and can wait for few days as we’ll get more tomorrow or next week.
As we always say, don’t believe the hype, believe your ears, so give us a ring if you want to come and have a listen in our showroom or if you want to have a demo unit at your place for more thorough testing.
Or come to Light & Sound Luzern 16-18.10, stand 408. We’ll have all the new HD gear there and much, much more cool stuff for your ears and eyes - obviously these things sound great but they kinda look cool as well.
Pro Tools HD I/Os

Avid Webinar - Mix Smarter and Faster with C|24
Mix music and audio the proper way - with your ears instead your eyes.
Join Thomas Graham and Richard Furch, mixer (Prince, Usher, Macy Gray) as they discuss how C|24 enables you to focus on your mix and not on your computer screen.
Register now for the Webinar and...
- Get a walkthrough of the C|24 surface
- Discover C|24 features that’ll speed up your Pro Tools mixing efficiency
- Learn how to insert plug-ins and assign sends right from the board
- See what you can do with C|24 that you can’t do with a mouse
- Get your questions answered after the presentation in a live Q&A
Pro Mixing Webinar Registration

Mbox - 3rd Generation
Avid released the new “G3” Mbox line-up. On top of the completely updated digital and analog components for better sound quality, the new Mboxes come with new drivers for Logic, Live, Record, Reason, Fruity Loops, Cubase, Nuendo, Sonar, and more. So now you can have the Avid I/O quality with all of your DAW apps, developed by the engineering team of Pro Tools HD. And although Mboxes now support a bunch of 3rd party software directly, a copy of Pro Tools LE is of course in the package as well.
Mbox Mini has pretty much retained the functionality of the last generation, only with better components, wider software support and sleek looks. The new Mbox and Mbox Pro include now onboard DSP for flexible cue mixing and reverb as well as built-in guitar tuner and much more flexible connections. As requested by users, monitoring capabilities have been updated as well, all the way to 5.1 monitoring with Mbox Pro. The maximal sample rates have been doubled, Mbox now going up to 96kHz and Mbox Pro up to 192kHz, depending on software used. All in all, Avid has introduced loads of new capabilities and flexibility requested by users. Stay tuned for more details.
Details here

Waves Renaissance Maxx -35%
Renaissance Maxx delivers the warmth of vintage gear with the precision control of the digital domain. This is the classic Waves sound-heard on countless hit records and major motion pictures worldwide. Only until the end of this September for 35% less.
Waves plug-ins

Two New Sonnox Bundles - at 30% Discount
Sonnox today revealed two new plug-in bundles, Sonnox Broadcast (EQ, Dynamics, Inflator, Limiter, SuprEsser) and Sonnox Post (DeClicker, DeBuzzer, DeNoiser, EQ, Dynamics, Limiter, Reverb, SuprEsser). These new bundles have been assembled due to the needs of specific workflows needed in broadcast and post studios.
The best news is that both Broadcast and Post bundles will be introduced with 30% discount until the end of October.
Sonnox plug-ins

Waves Supermodels -35%
Until the end of September, you can get Waves Supermodels at 35% leaner price than usual. All the classic emulations of SSL 4000, API, V-Series (Neve) and Studio Classics now give you those phatt tracks with slim price.
TDM and Native, new bundles as well as upgrades are all discounted so this is the time to get that classic gear into your Pro Tools.
Waves plug-ins

Technical Update 23.8.10
Pro Tools HD 8.1.cs1 Update available including new versions of DigiTest, SYNC HD firmware and fixing issues with import session data, etc.
Pro Tools CS Updates

New Pro Tools HD OMNI I/O
The OMNI I/O is a completely new I/O concept for Pro Tools HD users offering great flexibility in a small package. On board are two digitally controlled mic/line/DI preamps, same converters as in the flagship HD I/O, surround monitoring, "Curv" analog soft knee limiter, AES/EBU, ADAT, S/PDIF connectivity, headphone out, in/out metering, etc. Basically you can replace several high-end components with OMNI and save space and money.
Avid

New Pro Tools HD I/O
The new HD I/O replaces 192 I/O and has much better specs and sound quality but is available at even more affordable price in a bundle with Pro Tools HD. HD I/O is available in two versions: 8x8 (8 analog in, 8 analog out, 8 digital in/out) and 16x16 (16 analog in, 16 analog out). The all-new AD and DA converters, redesigned analog section with state of the art filtering and design, new PSU, lower latency and new "Curv" soft knee limiter have already had great responses at VIP listening tests.
"The new I/O sounds amazing. They sound really natural, really transparent." (Butch Vig, Garbage, Nirvana, Green Day). On the digital side the new HD I/O adds support for single-wire 192kHz over AES/ EBU and S/PDIF as well as ADAT S/MUX 2 & S/MUX 4.
Avid

New Pro Tools HD MADI I/O
Avid has been listening to customers who needed MADI connectivity and released a complete new MADI interface today with exactly the features people were asking for: Both coaxial *and* optical connections, 64 channels of audio, real-time sample rate conversion and guaranteed Pro Tools HD compatibility, all in a tiny one height unit. To use all 64 channels you need at least HD2 as each HD card supports up to 32 audio channels.
Avid

New Pro Tools HD 8.1
Avid released the new Pro Tools HD 8.1 adding support to the new I/Os and significantly enhancing the I/O setup. Now you can abstract the Pro Tools mixer from the physical inputs and outputs which makes moving sessions between studios much easier. Pro Tools HD 8.1 runs on Snow Leopard and Windows XP and it is a free update to Pro Tools HD 8 owners.
Avid

Avid chooses SEC as the Swiss Avid Audio Elite Partner
We’re proud to announce that Avid has chosen SEC as the only Avid Audio Elite Partner in Switzerland.
Elite Partner is the highest level of Avid dealership, working directly with Avid to provide the best solutions for professional clients in audio, post and broadcast industries. Only Elite Partners can provide the full palette of Avid solutions and know-how all the way up to D-Control and complex post-production systems.
After over 20 years of working with Avid, formerly known as Digidesign, we’re very pleased by the trust Avid has invested us and are looking forward to offer even better service to current and future clients. But before that, we'll pop a cork of something sparkling. Cheers!
Avid

Barefoot MM35 Finally Here
These babies are hard to get. Barefoot simply can’t build them fast enough - that’s the downside of hand-crafted high-end products. But the upside is incredible quality and sound, known from the Barefoot MM27s which have been the most sought-for loudspeakers for some time now.
MM35 brings the Barefoot sound to smaller rooms and more affordable budgets. Less SPL but the same legendary sound and incredible frequency response in a 3-way active closed cabinet design. If you’re looking for near/midfields that can keep you enjoying your work for hours and hours, you need to listen to MM35 before shelling out that hard-earned cash. Come and listen them against other world-class speakers in our acoustically treated showroom or request for a demo pair for your own studio.
- 3 Way Active with 2 x integral 7” aluminum subs
- 35Hz - 30kHz (+/- 3 dB), 37Hz - 20kHz (+/- 1.5 dB)
- Bass response: -3dB @ 35Hz, Q = 0.707, Slope = 12 dB/octave
- Tweeter 1" soft dome, Rear waveguide chamber, 50 W
- Midbass 5" poly cone, Sealed rear waveguide, 100 W
- Dual Subs 7" aluminum cones, 3/4" movement, 200 W
- 37x24x37cm
Barefoot Sound

New Argosy G-Series
Perfect for the new breed of compact audio and video controllers, the new Argosy G-Series makes your Euphonix MC series look like a big time console. Sturdy construction, cool looks and up to 18 rackspaces for outboard gear lets you have all the knobs at your fingertips in one ergonomic package.
Ask us for an offer for different configurations, display arms, etc. including shipping to your doorstep.
Argosy

Technical Update 9.8.10
Eleven Rack Firmware Update Version 1.0.3 available improving features including FX loop, display, tremolo, knob tracking, tuner responsiveness and feel, specific configurations for external expression pedals etc.
Eleven Rack firmware download

New Dozen-Core Mac Pros Coming Soon
Apple finally announced the long rumored new Mac Pros which will be available in few weeks in 4, 6, 8 and 12-core versions. Base configuration is still a single chip Quad-Core, speed bumped to 2.8GHz and the new 6-core Xeon “Westmere” is also available as a singe chip configuration at up to 3.33GHz, peaking at 3.6GHz in Turbo Boost mode.
The dual chip 8-Core middle-class-model - usually the best for Pro Tools - also gained more speed, now clocking 2.4GHz. The dual chip 12-Core model is available as BTO (Built To Order) and goes up to whopping 2.93Hz. All models support Hyper-Threading to create double amount of virtual cores, i.e. applications see the 12-Core Mac as 24-Core silicon.
The Mac Pro now comes with the ATI Radeon HD 5770 graphics processor with 1GB of GDDR5 SDRAM and the even faster ATI Radeon HD 5870 with 1GB of memory is also an option. Both display cards support three displays out of the box with 2 Mini DisplayPorts and 1 dual-link DVI. Maximum internal storage is now 8TB with 4 x 2TB drives and SSD is now also an option for the ultimate speed an reliability.
18x SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) is standard and the case still has place for a second optical drive. The processor-integrated memory controller supports up to 32GB of DDR3 ECC SDRAM at either 1066MHz or 1333MHz. Connectivity has remained the same with with four PCI Express 2.0 slots (dual slot for display card), five USB 2.0 ports, four FireWire 800 ports, AirPort Extreme 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR.
Stay tuned for availability and Pro Tools compatibility info, you’ll find both here sooner than later.
Apple

ICON D-Control In-Depth Videos Online
Avid produced a series of short videos showing the advantages of using ICON D-Control as your main tool. Starting with six videos about Console Layout, Channel Strips, Encoders, Focus Channel, Tracks and Groups and mapping plug-ins to Custom Faders, the videos let you discover why D-Control has become the preferred console in film, broadcast, and music industries. See for yourself how you can use the ultimate tool to unleash the power of Pro Tools HD.
ICON Tutorial Videos

Sonnox Summer Madness - All Plugs -35%
Apparently the sanity-melting hot summer temperatures have reached even the Thames Valley because until the end of August, Sonnox offers massive 35% discount on all new Oxford plug-in sales.
Whether you want to fill in the gaps in your Oxford collection or go for the Elite Bundle you always wanted, this is the time. But only until 31.8 so order now. This is the stuff, our first choice here at SEC.
“If I just want to hear the voice and not the EQ, Sonnox is the one. It’s literally on almost every vocal channel and acoustic track I ever mixed” - Kevin Churko (Ozzy Osbourne, Shania Twain, The Corrs)
Order Here

New Speedier iMacs
Apple refreshed the iMacs with faster, 32nm Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, more storage and speedier graphics. The dual core processors are clocked from 3.06 GHz up to 3.6 GHz, and quad core processors from 2.8 GHz up to 2.93 GHz. For internal storage, a 256GB SSD option is now also available as well as hard drives up to 2TB. The 27” model has even space for both SSD and HDD simultaneously. SSDs are still expensive but offer mind boggling track counts for audio use or super speedy system performance when used as a boot disk.
Standard RAM includes 4GB of 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM in four slots, maxing out at 16GB. Graphic options now include the ATI Radeon HD 5670 (512MB) and 5750 (1GB) and the new models support the SDXC memory cards.
Apple

New Apple Magic Trackpad
The long-rumored Magic Trackpad from Apple is finally available. It uses the same multi-touch technology and swipe, pinch and scroll gestures like the trackpads in Mac Book Pro, but with 80% larger size. The wireless Bluetooth device with durable glass surface - which also acts as a giant button - sounds like a perfect match to the new Pro Tools Custom Keyboard.
We’ll check it out with Pro Tools as soon as our initial order arrives. Let’s see if it can replace the classic Kensington trackball for heavy duty users who want to avoid the dreaded “mouse arm” syndrome.
Apple Magic Trackpad

Sunhill Goes HD
Sunhill Project Studio recently took the big step up to the industry standard when they upgraded their 002 system to a full blown Pro Tools HD3. Accompanied by Lynx Aurora 16 HD and large selection for high-end plug-ins, Sunhill is now fully file-compatible with major studios worldwide. After evaluating Pro Tools HD prior to the upgrade, Patrik Schwitter, the owner of Sunhill said “The final decision took about 3 seconds after hearing the first notes through Pro Tools HD, it just sounds so much better”.
Sunhill Studio

Technical Update 8.7.10
- Pro Tools 8.0.4 is now available also for LE and M-Powered. 8.0.4 adds full support for i5 and i7 iMac and MacBook Pro models, full support for 32-bit and 64-bit Windows, new Windows drivers, various tweaks for automation, editing, Avid Unity and Interplay workflows, recording, MIDI, stability, relinking and importing.
Pro Tools 8.0.4 downloads

McDSP Classic Pack Sale -58%
This is the time to get the Classic processors of McDSP for unbeatable price. Including Analog Channel saturation modeling, CompressorBank dynamics, FilterBank EQ and MC2000 multi-band compressor, the Classic Pack Bundle gives you all the classic McDSP plugs at one go. But only until Thu. 8.7. so order now.
Order here

Waves Platinum 25% off in July
This July you can save 25% with Waves Platinum Bundle, TDM or Native, new and upgrade. With over 30 plug-ins from dynamics, equalization, and reverb to pitch correction, spatial imaging, and beyond, Platinum is ideal for tracking, mixing, mastering, and sound design.
Waves Plug-ins

New Pro Tools Custom Keyboard In Stock
The most important Pro Tools controller just got a swanky update. The new Pro Tools Custom Keyboard for Mac is based on Apple’s latest full sized Aluminum keyboard. It’s a perfect match to all new Macs and a must-have for every serious Pro Tools user.
The same color coding and shortcut labeling as in ICON D-Control gives you direct access to editing and transport commands, seriously speeding up your work and lowering your stress hormone levels. We seriously couldn't work without them. In our stock now, order yours today and be the first kool kid on the (studio) block.
Contact SEC

New Mac mini
Apple introduced today a completely new Mac mini sporting many major improvements. Available with Core Duo 2 2.4GHz and 2.66GHz chips and two times faster graphic performance than the previous model, the new Mac mini allows up to 8GB RAM - easily upgradeable through a removable bottom panel. New features include also HDMI, built-in power supply and SD card slot. Sounds like a perfect machine for your living room or for Pro Tools LE after being tested and approved by Avid.
Apple

Technical Update 14.6.10
- New firmware 07JUN2010 available for Smyth Realiser A8 with big fixes and more precise tweaking modes. Creating 7.1 measurements with just one loudspeaker is now much easier.
Smyth Realiser A8 Firmware download

Pro Tools LE to HD Upgrade - Last Chance to Save 50%
The phenomenal success of LE to HD special has transformed countless hobby studios to professional facilities. But all good things must come to an end so don’t miss the opportunity to get your studio up to the pro level with upgrading your LE to HD at up to Fr. 13’000.- savings.
Just let us know what kind of productions you do and we’ll help you to choose the right Mac, storage, and the rest to get you smoothly up to the world standard of audio production. And to be sure you won't be left behind, call us now to avoid last minute order processing complications.
Specials

McDSP Retro Pack Bundle -60% 15-17.6.
Whoa! McDSP offers a killer deal to go with the LE to HD upgrade: 60% discount on Retro Pack Bundle, including 4020 Retro EQ, 4030 Retro Dynamics and 4040 Retro Limiter. This is the chance to get the smooth retro sound for truly old-fashioned price for both HD and Native rigs. But only for 3 days from 15.6. to 17.6. so don’t miss it.
McDSP plug-ins

Technical Update 9.6.10
- Pro Tools HD 8.0.4 available for Mac Pro, G4 and G5 not supported. 8.0.4 is not yet available for LE and M-Powered 8.0.4 but coming soon.
Pro Tools HD 8.0.4 for Mac OS X 10.6.1, 10.6.2, and 10.6.3 (Snow Leopard)
Pro Tools HD 8.0.4 for Windows XP SP 3 (Home or Prof, 32-bit), Vista SP2 32 bit

TC plugs -50% Until 15.6.
TC Electronic drops a bombshell Summer Special: All TC plug-ins at half price. Now you can have the legendary algorithms from M6000 plus loads of other essential high end plugs at unbelievable discount. Contact us for details.
TC Electronic Plug-ins

Only In June: Waves Mercury -35%
This month you’ll get the mother of all plug-in bundles, Waves Mercury, for sweet 35% less. All plugs from Waves - over 250 of them - in one phatt package. But order now before the price goes up. As usual we can get you a better deal than online so simply call 055 280 50 62 to get all the tools you need at once.
Waves plug-ins

MacBook Speed Bumped to 2.4GHz
The most affordable laptop from Apple got a speed bump today. New features of the white MacBook include Intel Core 2 Duo CPU bumped from 2.26GHz to 2.4GHz, battery life upped up to 10 hours from 7 hours and new NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics chip which replaces NVIDIA GeForce 9400M. The rest stays the same (2GB or 4GB RAM, 250GB, 320GB or 500GB HDD, 8 x SuperDrive).
Apple

Technical Update 14.5.2010
- Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 updates for Pro Tools 8.0.1 HD, LE, and M-Powered now available, compatible with PowerPC Macintosh, original Mbox, and Expansion|HD chassis. Fixes issues with Relinking, Solo, Locked Region Groups, Conforming, MIDI, Scoring, Playlists, Launch, Open Directory, CD Importing and ICON D-Command (HD only).
Pro Tools CS Updates downloads

SNS EVO 2.1 Available
The new EVO 2.1 shared storage offers twice performance, twice the capacity, Fibre Channel, iSCSI, NAS, up to 64 TB, multi-stream 2K video and much more. With EVO, you can share 32TB internal RAID 5 storage in one box, without the need for expensive Fibre Channel Switches.
Studio Network Solutions EVO

Revolutionary Smyth Realiser A8 - Any Studio, Any Speakers, Anywhere
Imagine taking any loudspeaker system, any control room, up to 7.1 surround, anywhere you want - in headphones. Calibrated to your own ears for completely convincing “being there” effect. To the point that you can’t hear the difference between headphones and the loudspeakers.
Crazy? Magic? No, Smyth Research Realiser A8.
Loaded with massive DSP and knowhow of Dr. Stephen Smyth who developed industry changing DTS and APT-X100 algorithms, Realiser A8 causes more dropped jaws than anything we’ve ever seen. Love to see people instinctively turn their heads in surprise when you solo a surround channel in the back. And when they look back, the surround *stays* in the position because your head movements are continuously tracked. The result is so real that you end up taking the phones off and on again and again in disbelief.
The package comes complete with the 8-channel main unit, miniature in-ear mics, remote control and a head tracking system so you can measure any room and loudspeaker system yourself. No one-size-fits all phase mess approximations here. Don’t take our word, come and hear for yourself. We have an A8 with various headphones ready for your ears. For early birds we offer a free calibration in our acoustically treated control room with several high-end loudspeaker systems.
“My first inclination was to pull the headphones off. Which I did. Suddenly I’m not hearing anything! The room was as silent as a tomb. Suddenly I realized that the only sound in the room was coming out from the Stax [headphones].” - AV Guide
"This unimposing box houses some extreme technology and a breakthrough in surround sound listening via headphones. It is not some gimmicky manipulation of phase to simulate 5.1 surround, it is a totally new concept and process, and I can tell you, hello, it works." - StereoMojo
Smyth Research A8 Realiser

Off Topic Updated
An artist with amazing vocal range, beautiful album covers that touch your soul, the wonderful world of death metal, and much, much more complete tastelessness awaits you in our updated off topic page. Enjoy and have a nice weekend.
Off Topic

Free Elysia Niveau Filter
Check out the Niveau Filter section of the famous mpressor plugin. Add punch to muffled snares, reduce the harshness from active pickups, create some wonderful Dub and LoFi sounds, etc. It's fast, efficient, and sounds great - listen to the examples at the link below. And yeah, it’s kinda reasonably priced as well. Can’t beat Fr. 0.-.
Free Elysia Niveau Filter download

2nd Barefoort MM27 Demo Pair Ready To Meet Your Ears
Boy, these babies are hard to get but we finally managed to get our second demo pair of Barefoot MM27s for on-site client demos. The industry-wide buzz about Barefoots has created a massive backlog which is even increased by the fact that Thomas Barefoot insists on hand crafted quality made in USA.
So book your slot now before somebody just keeps them and and wants to send us money instead of the loudspeakers. Actually, that’s exactly what usually happens. The hyper flat frequency response, huge sweet spot and incredible transient reproduction tend to convince even the most sceptic ears.
Barefoot MM27

New SoundToys Decapitator
Analog saturation is the secret ingredient that many mixers have been adding to their mixes with exotic vintage gear, creating also all the unwanted side effects like noise, hum and ever changing sound. Many convolution plug-ins offer static recreations of known outboard units but SoundToys followed another road with the new Decapitator. Decapitator is more than just an emulation of the analog sound. You can hear the subtle changes reacting to the track, following the dynamics of the instrument.
Decapitator allows you to get that sweet analog glue to your mixes or create over the top distortion, all with one plug-in, with total control over all the aspects of the sound.
“I like it on everything. I’m addicted.” Tchad Blake – Peter Gabriel, Sheryl Crow, Brazilian Girls
SoundToys plug-ins

New MacBook Pros
Apple introduced today the refreshed MacBook Pro line. Available at familiar 13”, 15” and 17” scree sizes, the new models offer new Intel i5 and i7 CPUs at faster clock speeds up to 2.66GHz (15” and 17”), up to 10h battery capacity(!), 4GB RAM as standard, and trackpads supporting "inertial scrolling" à la iPhone. The graphics systems have also been revamped with dual graphic chips with on the fly switching for flexible power and display speed management. Build-to-order options include now SSD and sharper 1680x1050 display for the 15” model.
Apple

Avid Buys Euphonix
Avid, the parent company of Digidesign, today announced that they will acquire Euphonix. Avid plans to further develop an open standard protocol that greatly expands the ecosystem of compatibility between the Euphonix control surfaces and a wide range of Avid and third-party audio and video applications, including Media Composer and Pro Tools. For existing Euphonix customers, Avid will continue to support EuCon protocol that enables its control surfaces to interface with third-party software.
Avid Press Release

Technical Update 1.4.10
Pro Tools 8.0.3cs2 updates for Pro Tools 8.0.3 HD, LE, and M-Powered are available for download, fixing issues with relinking, automation, session close, MachineControl, CD importing, launch, Open Directory, shared storage, Avid Unity.
Pro Tools CS Update downloads

Fourth HD|3 System at Hardstudios
Hardstudios upgraded their mobile studio to the same DAW power as the three main studios. Used for live broadcast and multitrack recording, the HardMobile now offers a complete Pro Tools HD|3 studio on wheels with 64 inputs for even most demanding jobs.
“Before we were using dedicated harddisk recorders without any visual feedback, which made things a bit complicated, especially when quick overdubs were needed. Now we have the industry standard system in the mobile as well and overdubbing is as easy as in our other studios.” says Michael Brändli. “And with the HD|3, we’re not only 100% file compatible with our main studios for superfast workflow, now we can even use it as a full blown studio when A, B and C are full.” Already booked for jobs for Swiss TV and Radio, the HardMobile is going to have a busy summer around the country.
www.hardstudios.ch

Free Sonnox App for iPhone
Check out the free Sonnox App for iPhone and iPod touch. You can download tutorial videos and demo videos for later viewing as well as read interviews of top engineers telling how they use Sonnox plugs.
Sonnox App

Sourmash Upgrades to D-Control ES
Sourmash Studio is the latest Swiss D-Control studio, sporting a 32-fader D-Control ES as the heart of the totally rebuilt studio in Döttingen, Aargau. Run by Dave Snow, the specialist for hard-hitting rock and metal, Sourmash offers a true rock’n’roll atmosphere for relaxed sessions where the gear doesn’t get in the way of the creative flow. The integrated ICON solution consisting of Pro Tools HD|3 and D-Control offers a total recall of all session parameters down to the remote-controlled mic pres form Digidesign and Grace Design, and guarantees a complete control over the project from the first note to the final mix.
According to Dave: “For me it was clear that the only kind of system that can keep up with my speed was a seamlessly integrated DAW/controller package. And since Pro Tools HD is the industry standard and only D-Control could offer all the features that are crucial for my way of working, the choice was easy in the end. And it didn’t hurt that the D-Control ES looks super cool.”
www.sourmashstudio.ch

Technical Update 15.3.10
- Eleven Rack 1.0.2 firmware available fixing various issues and adding new features
- Latest versions of Sonnox plugs are now Pro Tools 8.0.3 compatible. Software installers are available by using the download URL contained in your Sonnox plug-in registration email.
Eleven Rack Firmware 1.0.2 download

TV Icon Nik Hartmann goes ICON
Swiss radio and TV icon and a Pro Tools user since 15 years, Nik Hartmann had his D-Command ES system installed by SEC recently. Geared up for broadcast audio and video post production, the 24-fader ICON system includes a Pro Tools HD3, Mac Pro 8-core, Digidesign PRE, calibrated Genelec 5.1 digital monitoring and a formidable plug-in collection. The D-Command ES controller is integrated in an Argosy Mirage console, providing superb ergonomics and smooth looks.
"For me it's a kind of a mix of a project studio and an idea factory. It's important to me that when an idea comes, everything functions as expected - and with this system, it does. I'm extremely happy with the setup and after working some time with the D-Command, I find it simply sensational" says Nik.
medienmacher.ch

Sonnox Restore Spring Cleaning - Thx!
Big thanks to everybody who came to see and hear how Josep from Sonnox showed his cleaning tricks. Many people came with some truly hair-raising old recordings and it was extremely interesting to see what could be done with the new Sonnox Restore to dig the audio up under the noise, distortion and crackle.
The most fun to watch were the astonished faces - including us - when Josep pulled all his tricks and made horrifying buzz, pops and hiss to disappear in few minutes with just one plug-in suite. Until now most of the attendees were using at least three different products to achieve anything comparable. To us it’s pretty clear what we will recommend as the first choice for audio restoration, Sonnox Restore offers clearly the best price-to-feature ratio in the market.
Sonnox plug-ins

Welcome To Spring Cleaning With Sonnox Restore Wednesday 10.3.
Join us for the Sonnox Spring Cleaning event next Wednesday in our showroom as Sonnox Oxford Product Specialist Josep M. Solà presents the brand new Sonnox Restore Suite.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover how to restore old recordings and get rid of noise, buzz, clicks, crackle & pops that mess up your production sound. Already getting rave reviews from the press, Sonnox Restore is the long-awaited new member of the award winning Sonnox Oxford plug-in family.
Not only fresh plugs but also cold beer and hot coffee awaits you so book your free seat now by clicking the link below. We’ll then send you a confirmation with a plan how to get here. Important: The happening is not in our office but in our showroom in Uznach. Call us for a personal demo in the afternoon with your own material, few slots are still available.
Book Your Free Seat Now

Technical Update 2.3.10
- Virtual Katy VK Premium Collection 3.0.2 is now compatible with ProTools 8.0.3 on both OS X Leopard and Snow Leopard.
VK Premium Collection downloads

Waves March Specials -25%
This March the following bundles are 25% off: SSL 4000, API, V-Series and Studio Classics. As always: We can make you a better price than Waves Store, you don't have to expose your credit card to internet, and last but not least, we can take care of the Waves’ dreaded online authorization for you. Order from us and you’ll have the iLok licenses ready in no time and a normal Swiss invoice for your tax deduction.
Waves plug-ins

Elysia Available at SEC
We’re proud to welcome Elysia plug-ins to SEC. The first, mpressor is modeled after the famous Elysia hardware compressor of the same name in collaboration with the experts of Brainworx. It’s not another me-too dynamics plug-in, but offers a brand new perspective to dynamic processing.
Or as somebody who should know what he’s talking about, says: "The mpressor redefines the meaning of compression. It looks at it from a different angle and basically throws the whole traditional concept on it's head." - Michael Bauer (The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Coldplay)
Elysia plug-ins

Free Brainworx bx_cleansweep V2
Brainworx now offers a free, nifty tool to clean up your mixes. A hi/lo filter with gain trim as the first plug in is always a good idea to keep the unnecessary rumbling out and leave space upstairs for other instruments. Bx_cleansweep V2 is a 2-band EQ offering the new "AntiCrush" 6dB HP & LP filters. They are taken from the critically acclaimed mastering EQ bx_digital and have been modeled after analog 1st order filters.
Brainworx bx_cleansweep V2 free download

Off Topic Updated
Father to son-wisdom, A&R negotiation strategies and a practical guide over native DAW vs. Pro Tools HD. These are this week’s pearls in our Off Topic page. Have a sunny weekend.
OFF TOPIC

Avid Kaufleuten - Thxxx!
Thanks to everybody who came yesterday to the Avid extravaganza in Kaufleuten. Two halls plus foyer filled with spankin’ gear and steep knowledge left our brains buzzing with fresh data (not only because of the drink coupons). Thx also to the hardworking Avid crew, it was great to have the big time show with top professionals in Zürich.
See all of you next time!

Avid Creation Tour Kaufleuten - Book Now To Secure Your Seat
Although couple of hundred tickets are gone already, there are still some seats left for the premium professional audio/video event of the season. Avoid the dreaded Kaufleuten queue and book your free ticket online now. If the guys on the stage can help Prince, Tom Jones and Grönemeyer sound as good as they do, they can help you sound better too. See you soon.
Detailed Program and Registration

Prism Sound Page Online
Prism Sound makes absolutely top notch AD/DA converters, winning numerous awards and listening tests. Having a deep knowledge about digital audio from their test and measurement gear business, Prism Sound offers truly astonishing quality and flexibility for the most demanding studios.
"We tried them and they were better" - Mark Knopfler
Prism Sound

Lynx Page Online
Since over ten years, Lynx manufactures fine I/O boxes and PCI cards for hooking up your computer with myriad of audio formats. Both Aurora 16 and Aurora 8 I/Os are available with a Pro Tools HD I/O card option and offer plenty of I/O in a small one rack height package. The new Aurora 16-VT also includes onboard gain pots for accurate gain control for your analog gear.
Lynx

AKA Design Page Online
You may only see gear when you look at your control room but your clients see also where the gear is screwed into. Even an expensive Mic Pre will look cheap in a shoddy rack you bought from that guy's garage sale 10 years ago.
The best way to pimp up your studio is to put in some decent purpouse-built furniture, designed to work together and look cool. AKA Design offers desks for mixing consoles and controllers as well as complete custom solutions. We even offer a free design service with AKA, just drop us a plan of you place, which gear you need to integrate, and we’ll send you back a drawing how it will look like with proper ergonomic furniture. Visit our showroom to get not only the look but also the feel of the classy designs.
AKA Design

Technical Update 12.2.10
- Audio Ease Speakerphone 2.0.3 available for download, offering massive improvements in automation as well as several bug fixes
Speakerphone download

Off Topic Updated
Our notorious Off Topic page got an update. Topics like cheese, Coldplay and truth in advertising are welcome additions to our popular collection of bad taste and questionable behaviour. Broken links were fixed as well for your enjoyment. Have a trashy weekend
OFF TOPIC

Minnetonka Page Online
Check out Minnetonka’s encoding and decoding plug-ins for Dolby E and Dolby Pro Logic II on our new Minnetonka page.
Minnetonka Plug-ins

Brainworx Plug-ins Page Online
We’re happy to welcome Brainworx to our plug-in repertoire. These German guys are famous for a different approach to common mixing problems, offering bunch of completely new ways to solve myriad of audio problems with M/S technique. Brainworx plugs are not only brilliant-sounding and innovative, they also offer completely new ways of working with ICON controllers - especially the surround panner EQ is simply genius.
“I just wanted to tell you that I was blown away with the Brainworx plug-ins! I can't remember the last time I got a smile from ear to ear when I started tweaking the parameters of a plug-in. [...] I think your design is extremely well done and it shows a visionary type of attitude that I appreciate.” David Reitzas (Madonna, Frank Sinatra, Seal)
Brainworx plug-ins

Technical Update 8.2.10
- ProTools Prefs & Database Helper has been updated to version 2.3, tested with Pro Tools 8.0.3.
ProTools Prefs & Database Helper download

Sonnox Elite February Special -25%
Until the end of January you have a great chance to join the top engineers of the world who love Sonnox plugs for crunching out hit singles. The Elite bundle (Oxford EQ, Dynamics, Inflator, Transient Modulator, Reverb, Limiter and SuprEsser) has already 40% better price than individual plug-ins and now you can get all seven with an additional 25% discount - that’s less than half the price of the individual plugs. But not for long so order now.
“What I like about the Oxford EQ is how clean and pristine it is; so when I’m looking for an open, airy EQ the Oxford is always my first choice ... The Dynamics plug-in is awesome! It has tons of capabilities, a great gate, a limiter and some very cool algorithms for the different types of compression.” Charles Dye (Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Shakira)
Sonnox Oxford Plug-ins

Powerplay Doubles I/O Capacity of Studio A
As a part of the big upgrade, Powerplay Studios doubled the analogue I/O capacity of studio A’s Pro Tools HD to 48 simultaneous ins and outs with two new 192 I/Os, each sporting an additional AD and DA card. The 192 I/Os were a special order with Extra Low Output Modification to complement the levels of Studio A’s classic SSL 4000 E/G+.
According to Studio Manager Gian A. Caprez, “We wanted to give our clients the freedom of using all inputs and outputs of our 48 channel SSL simultaneously. The flexibility offered by over 200 inputs in various formats of the four 192 I/Os also lets us interface our 2” Studer A800MK3 and 48-track Studer D820 DASH machines without a fuss.”
We were very happy to provide Powerplay the tailored solution, our only problem was that they refused to pay in U47s as we originally requested and forced us to take money instead. Check out the link for the refreshed look of Powerplay Studios.
Powerplay Studios

Grace Design Page Online
Grace Design's gear keeps delighting our ears day after day. They share our philosophy: What goes in, must come out. The best gear is the gear that you don't hear. If you use a transparent high-end mic pre, you have way more freedom to sculpture the sound afterwards. You can always glue up your mixes with distortion from all kinds of gizmos and plug-ins if you want, but if you go into the box with a bad signal, your hands are tied before the mixing starts.
The same goes for monitor controllers; if you can't hear what you are doing due to a bad monitoring chain, you lost the game before it started. Check out the new Grace Design product page below.
Grace Design

Old News