Fizzkicks Music Cards

Price: Packages start at $9.99/month
Fizzkicks.com is a new website that allows musicians to design their own music cards that can then be used by fans to download music. Through Fizzkicks, musicians can create pre-paid music cards either to sell for profit or distribute as promotional materials. The service enables touring and recording artists to bypass producing CDs and lugging them from show to show, processes that can be expensive, difficult to manage and space-consuming. With Fizzkicks, once artists have designed cards using the service’s online music card builder, they can simply print them out from any computer and printer and sell or distribute them as they deem appropriate. Artists are given complete control over the price of the cards and the number of songs on each card, as well as how many cards are printed. Each card comes with its own unique code used to access the music online. Additionally, the cards never expire as long as the artist’s account is active. Fizzkicks offers multiple packages based on the artist’s needs, and provides much more immediate turn-around by eliminating the need to wait for the duplication of CDs. Artists are also given their own Fizzkicks.com page that includes a 20-song flash media player, two streaming video sections and areas for news, bios, photos and shows. Artists can sign up for a free 60-day trial, and then continue that subscription for $9.99/month or $99.99/year. Cards run at $19.99 for 120 (the first 120 cards are just $9.99).

www.fizzkicks.com

Novation nio 2|4 Interafce

Price unavailable at press time
Novation recently introduced the nio 2|4, a USB-compatible portable interface. Ideal for those seeking the ability to incorporate real-time effects into live performances, the unit features Novation’s Direct FX technology, which provides a host of effects at very low-latency. Among the choices are filters, delay, chorus, phaser, flanger, distortion, EQ, reverb, tremelo and guitar amplifier simulations. The nio 2|4 provides excellent user flexibility through instrument and XLR (with phantom power) inputs, coupled with two RCA inputs and four outputs. Independent switching between three different monitor mixes, dual 7-segment LEDs and flexible metering enhance the unit’s live functionality. Yet, with two headphone outputs, PC and Mac compatibility via USB and user-friendly software, the interface also offers many options for home recording.

www.novationmusic.com

AKG Elle C Microphone

Price unavailable at press time
New from AKG, the Elle C condenser mic is specifically designed for live female vocal performance. Having been optimized for the acoustic and ergonomic requirements of women’s voices, such as frequency patterns and aesthetic preferences, the Elle C offers reliable, natural fidelity through durable construction and high-quality engineering. With a frequency range of 60Hz to 20kHz, the mic emphasizes the high-end of the spectrum. Features include an XLR connector module with 24-carat gold plated pins and corrosion and humidity resistance. A spring steel wire-mesh grill reduces pops and wind interference and reinforces the mic against the rigors of touring and live performance. Available in high-gloss metallic or white pearlescent, the Elle C provides female performers with a unique and well-designed option for the live setting.

www.akg.com

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Speakers

Price: $199.95
M-Audio’s new Studiophile AV 40 powered desktop speakers provide home recordists with studio-quality sound at a friendly price. Magnetically shielded to prevent electronic interference from nearby monitors and computer equipment, the space-saving AV 40s pump out 20 watts per channel thanks to top-of-the-line Class A/B internal design. The unit’s fidelity is bolstered by M-Audio’s own Optimage III wave guide technology, which improves the tweeter’s overall efficiency and time-aligns the drivers. The end result is a level of sound clarity not normally heard from such compact speakers. Design features include 4” polypropylene-coated drivers and 3/4” ferrofluid-cooled silk dome tweeters that allow for uncolored response across the spectrum.

www.m-audio.com

Soundcraft FX16ii, EFX and MFX Mixers

Soundcraft has extended its versatile, multipurpose mixer range by recently introducing three new models: the FX16ii, EFX (pictured) and MFX. Each new model features 32 Lexicon(r) 24-bit digital effects, a user settings store function, three parameter controls and tap tempo. The FX 16ii boasts 26 inputs, 16 direct outputs, four stereo returns and a rotating connector pod that allows cables to connect behind the rack to save space. The Soundcraft EFX is the smallest console in range, available in eight- and 12-channel versions. With the Soundcraft GB30 mic preamp and one aux and one FX send on each channel, the EFX suits a variety of applications. Finally, the MFX is a Soundcraft MPM with the added Lexicon effects built in. It comes equipped with two group busses, two aux sends, one FX send on each channel and two stereo input channels. Three frame sizes are offered: eight, 12 and 20 inputs. The MFX is a helpful solution when performing in small venues. All consoles in the Soundcraft FX range can be rack-mounted using optional kits.
www.soundcraft.com

Roland VG-99 V-Guitar System

Price unavailable at press time
The latest in Roland’s line of modeling-based guitar processors, the VG-99 offers dual modeling engines and three new processors to provide enhanced user control. By modeling two signal paths (guitar and amp) at once, the VG-99 allows the user to play two different guitar sounds simultaneously. These can then be dynamically switched, layered or combined to experiment with unique combinations. The switching behavior can be controlled between virtual guitars and/or amps by foot controllers, buttons/knobs on the unit or according to picking dynamics. Furthermore, each modeled guitar can be separately assigned to individual guitar strings. This most recent unit also includes new COSM electric, acoustic and bass guitar models, as well new synth waves like the GR-300. Users can customize each guitar’s tuning as well. A guitar-to-MIDI converter enables direct connection to keyboards, computers, etc. Built-in stereo XLR and 1/4-inch outputs are provided for live performance needs, while a USB audio output allows for easy recording.
www.rolandus.com

Tweak Head Technology ToneFREQ Jr.

Price: $119.95
Tweak Head Technology recently introduced the ToneFREQ Jr., a new product that allows players to improve the sound of their instruments, cables and amplifiers, run longer cable lengths without experiencing signal degradation and boost low pickup signal output. Running on a single, standard 9-volt battery, the ToneFREQ Jr. can easily be secured to straps. Featuring both a mechanical bypass that allows players to listen to their unaltered instrument tone at the turn of a knob and Ignition, which improves range, players can hear the full frequency response of their guitars and significantly improve their sound. The ToneFREQ Jr. also comes equipped with Throttle, a completely variable 18 dB gain boost that can be used to make amplifiers overdrive at lower volumes, creating excellent tone.
www.tweakheadtechnology.com

Casio CTK-810 Digital Piano

Price: $149.99
New from Casio, the CTK-810 expands the company’s portable digital piano line as a cost-efficient, compact unit.
The 61-key piano boasts an advanced HL sound source that responds in varying volume and brightness depending on the way the keys are struck. Likewise, the CTK-810 sustains note reverberation naturally, even during rapid passages, thereby emphasizing a grand piano effect. This feel is furthered by the hammer action keys. Additional features include 515 tones, 120 rhythms for piano, expanded song memory, touch response, and USB and MIDI compatibility. A 32-note polyphony allows for a virtual and simultaneous wall of sound. The unit’s registration memory can store 32 setups (eight banks with four presets each), as well as 100 preloaded songs. Four reverb and chorus effects add to the user’s level of control. With excellent versatility and a small price tag, the CTK-810 offers recording musicians a convenient and user-friendly choice.
www.casio.com