TK Audio unveils the DP-1, a new dual mic preamp.

The new DP-1 preamp is a hybrid between vintage and modern circuits. Germanium stage, silicon transistors and integrated circuits, all in the same box. DP-1's various sound-characters extends over several decades, the germanium sound from the mid 60's, British class-A from the early 70's and a more modern tone from the 80's and 90's.

The input stage is built around a Swedish Lundahl transformer and an IC that operates in class-A. The preamp section is followed by a germanium unity-gain stage for coloration. Finally the DP-1 has two different output stages that you can switch between, a transformerless IC-based outputstage or a discret transformer-balanced class-A stage, built around a heavy Carnhill output-transformer. The IC-based output stage is less colored. In the vintage class-A mode the sound has a fat, punchy low-end with more mid character, the germanium mode will add even more harmonics to the sound.

Pricing :

. 1.158:- USD
. 880:- Euro ex VAT
. 818:- GBP ex VAT

In order to give customers greater access to the workings of Origin, the new-generation modular synthesizer, Arturia announces at Musikmesse two major updates to be released this year.

Version 1.1, to be released in June 2009, includes :

Hercules presents an audio interface specifically designed for DJs: Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6.

Features :

- 4 preamplified inputs, each featuring a view-meter
- Two modes: a 4 input/4 output mode and a 2 input /6 output mode
- A built-in 3-port USB 2.0 hub supplied by an external power adapter
- A steel casing to handle the most intensive uses.

Hercules Deejay Trim 4&6 will be available end of June 2009, at the suggested retail price of $249.99.

Rob Papen unveils SubBoomBass, a new virtual instrument filled with "excessive amounts of low end ammunition to detonate your tracks". Here is the official dscription found on Papen's website :

"With presets designed by the legendary Rob Papen and other guest artists, this dedicated bass synth will supply you with huge cone-rattling sounds that will devastate any music track. This software instrument is great for Hip Hop and RnB but can also be used for Dubstep, video game music, film scores and more...

Based on the award winning Predator engine, SubBoomBass has been carefully crafted to provide you with the tools to create fresh new bass lines. It includes unique tuned drum percussion samples which are great for Hip Hop and RnB basses but can also be used to add rhythm flavour to your tracks. Also check out the innovative 'Wave-sequence' feature which will open up brand new sonic possibilities for your music.

Other features included are two effects slots which can be modulated using midi from any of the synthesizer parts. SubBoomBass also features a great 'Easy Edit' page and the unique 'Quick Browser' system that will allow you to find the sounds you need quickly and easily."

With a release scheduled for the third week of April, SubBoomBass will be available for Mac OS X and Windows in VST, AU and RTAS formats.

Tascam presents a new series of mixing consoles with 16 input channels, featuring numerous connections, a compact size and light weight, equally suitable as keyboard mixers or sub-mixers on stage, for home-recording purposes or at the heart of a small mobile or fixed PA system.

M-164, M-164FX, and M-164UF are analogue mixers with 16 input channels outstanding for their versatile connection concept, compact and stylish appearance and little weight. These consoles are perfect as keyboard or sub mixers on stage or for home recording or can be used as the heart of a small PA system on the road or installed in conference rooms, shops or restaurants.

Each model is equipped with six Mic/Line channel strips with XLR and TRS connectors as well as five stereo channel strips allowing virtually any possible audio source to be supplied to the mixer. A mini jack on the units' top panel, for instance, allows users to plug in their MP3 player. And a Phono input for a vinyl turntable is also available.

M-164FX and M-164UF feature an additional digital effects processor with 16 presets, and the M­164UF is additionally equipped with a USB audio interface providing 16 audio inputs and two audio outputs on a connected computer – ideal for multi-track recording in a home studio or on the road.