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ALESIS MULTIMIX FIREWIRE MIXER SERIES: Portable Mixers with Direct FireWire Interfacing

Alesis announces its new line of MultiMix mixers featuring FireWire data connectivity. The MultiMix FireWire Series includes 3 different tabletop mixers, all featuring exclusive DICE II FireWire technology. Allowing for transfer of multiple audio data streams from mixer to PC using a standard IEEE-1394 interface, these mixers provide lightening fast connectivity to a wide range of PC-based audio production applications.

The MultiMix FireWire mixers are compact mixers featuring low-noise analog electronics, 100 studio-grade 28-bit digital effects, and rock-solid construction. The mixers are available in 8-, 12-, and 16-channel versions all featuring high-gain mic/line preamps, phantom power, auxiliary send/returns and on-board effects engine including: reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, 3-band EQ per channel with high/low shelving and mid band pass/reject.

Additional features of the MultiMix FireWire series include separate 1/4” balanced main and monitor outs, headphone out, integrated FireWire port to transfer audio directly between the mixer and your computer, and 24-bit stereo simultaneous input/output over a FireWire 1394 connection. Plug and play operation is available under Windows XP and Mac OSX. The FireWire mixers also come bundled with Cubase LE recording software. Available April 2005.

For more info check out www.alesis.com

ALESIS IO|2 USB: Portable 24-bit/96k USB interface

Alesis also announces the IO|2 USB, a tough-as-nails, portable 24-bit/96k USB interface that’s unbeatably priced. This ultra-sturdy device features aluminum housing and is USB powered. Complete with low latency ASIO 2.0 drivers and Cubase LE recording software, just add a computer and record right out of the box.

The IO|2 is equipped with professional mic-pres, phantom power and comprehensive metering. Its flexible inputs can handle everything from mics to guitars and basses to keyboards. Channel inserts are provided for outboard processing. The unit even has full MIDI and S/PDIF I/O, eliminating the need to buy or carry any additional gear. The IO|2 is about half the size of other USB interfaces, so it can easily fit in a laptop case or small backpack.

The interface is USB powered so there’s no need for an AC plug, or carrying around an external power source. The carefully designed, low-power circuitry is optimized for minimal laptop battery drain.

Available since January 2005.

For more info check out www.alesis.com.

Ultimate Support Resets the Standard with New V-Stand™

Ultimate Support, the leading innovator in the design and manufacture of high quality, solution-oriented stands for musical instruments and gear, is excited to announce the introduction of the V-Stand™.

Since its introduction 20 years ago, the Apex Column Keyboard Stand has been the signature keyboard product for Ultimate Support as well as the stand of choice for both professional and amateur musicians. With that in mind, Ultimate Support set out to create the next-generation stand for live performance, resulting in the V-Stand™. Benefits include: greater foot pedal clearance, height and angle adjustment for standing or sitting, and the importance of portability. The Ultimate Support V-Stand™ is the result of user-driven design.

The most portable keyboard stand on the market quickly sets up and adjusts to accommodate any size instrument. The V-Stand™ also folds compactly and is all one piece.

The V-Stand™ for Keyboards also accommodates DJ coffins. And with its sleek new design, serves as a great alternative to existing DJ live performance support methods such as cinderblocks and tables. In addition V-Stand™ accommodates portable audio and lighting consoles.

MSRP of $299.00 with an approximate street price of $199.00.

For information on the new V-Stand™ for Keyboards, call Ultimate Support direct at 800-525-5628, or check them out online at www.ultimatesupport.com.