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10.31.2011

Compressors Explained

Compression is a form of Dynamics processing which is any device that preforms automatic gain changes. Other Dynamics processors are Noise Gates, Maximisers, and De-Essers.

A 'vintage' style software compressor

Compression

Compression is an effect that can take a while to understand because the results are not always as obvious as other effects. To explain it as simply as possible, when a signal goes into a compressor, it gets turned down. That’s it. How it does this, how fast, and smoothly is what makes each one unique.

Featured Equipment Of The Week: KRK KNS-8400 Closed Back Headphones

KRK KNS-8400 Closed Back Headphones
Headphones for Educated Ears.
Looking for a pair of headphones that are specifically designed to replicate music as it should be heard with the ability to satisfy experienced ears? Get your head around this: KRK has always been focused solely on accurate monitoring. The KNS 8400 -- with their ability to reveal exactly what you have on the tracks is an ideal choice for critical listening. Being able to discern the most subtle differences in pitch, timbre and tone helps you to get it right every mix, every take, every performance. Isolating memory foam in the ear cushions delivers improved low end response and because they gently conform to your unique head shape you'll be comfortable wearing them all day.
Find out more | KRK KNS-8400
PERFORMANCE

  • Accurate, natural and wide frequency response
  • Class leading KRK sound clarity, very low-distortion
  • Precise Imaging and extended LF response
  • High isolation for both noise rejection and leakage
UTILITY

  • Detachable and replaceable locking cable
  • Rotating ear cups for travel and storage
  • Durable, impact resistant materials throughout
  • Replaceable ear and head cushions
COMFORT

  • Lightweight construction for use over long sessions
  • Adjustable low-pressure headband system
  • Ear and head cushions utilize advanced memory foam
  • Self-aligning yoke system ensures the best possible fit
Buy KRK KNS-8400 in the Revolution Audio Online Store - In stock now!

10.24.2011

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Pro Tools 10

Pro Tools 10
Pro Tools 10 is here!
The next generation of the best sounding, most powerful audio production software for recording, composing, editing, and mixing music and sound for picture.
See all the details | AVID Pro Tools 10
 WHAT'S NEW
  • Speed up editing and mixing with Clip Gain, and easily adjust and match gain levels, pre-mixer (watch the video)
  • Use multiple audio formats in a session—including interleave—without file duplication
  • Record and master higher resolution sound with more headroom in 32-bit floating-point format
  • Get great responsiveness on slower hard drives with the enhanced disk handler
  • Record in low-latency mode, with direct monitoring when using third-party audio interfaces
  • Get the sound of System 5 console EQ and dynamics with the Avid Channel Strip plug-in
  • Get access to over 500 additional Pro Tools commands when using EUCON controllers (watch the video)
  • Work more easily with AudioSuite-rendered clips with reverse processing, handles, and more (watch the video)
  • Create extra long-format projects for sequential versioning with the extended 24-hour timeline
  • Open fade-heavy sessions faster and get better responsiveness with real-time fades
  • Export mixes directly to SoundCloud to share and promote your music to the world
Buy AVID Pro Tools 10
in the Revolution Audio online store Get Pro Tools 10 Upgrades

10.17.2011

Featured Equipment Of The Week - Primacoustic IsoPlane & IsoWedge

Primacoustic IsoPlane & IsoWedge
What's the most affordable way to improve the sound of your monitors? Decoupling.
For just $40, the Primacoustic IsoPlane or IsoWedge foam monitor isolation pads will stop speaker vibrations from transmitting to stands or desktop allowing the monitors to sound how they should.


The IsoWedge and IsoPlane are monitor isolation pads designed to decouple the sound from the loudspeaker so that it will not resonate with the desk or shelf. This helps reduce an effect called comb-filtering that occurs when various frequencies add or cancel with each other when coupled.

The IsoWedge is angled while the IsoPlane is flat. This allows the user to select between either platform shapes to optimize the studio setup. The IsoPlane can also be used to decouple turntables and other devices that can be adversely affected by sound resonating through the floor and furniture.

Sold in sets of four units, the IsoWedge and IsoPlane are designed to be used in pairs and spaced under the monitor as a means to distribute the weight. The cost effective design makes them ideal for home studio use and other applications where vibrations are an issue and decoupling is required.

TOP FEATURES
  • Eliminates resonance from loudspeakers to shelf
  • Made from high density open cell acoustic foam
  • Down-fire angle to optimize monitor placement
  • Cost effective solution for home studio recording

Mail-In Rebates for Audio-Technica Wireless Systems

From now to the end of the year Audio-Technica is offering some nice rebates when you purchase new wireless systems.

Audio-Technica wireless systems are available as special order through Revolution Audio.
Email sales[at]revolutionaudio.ca for a quote and more information.


$40 Rebate on 4000 Series Wireless Systems
Outstanding clarity and versatility for live performance, regional touring, fixed installations and more.
  • 996 selectable UHF frequencies per band
  • IntelliScan™ finds & sets best available frequencies on linked receivers
  • True Diversity operation reduces dropouts

$30 Rebate on 3000 Series Wireless Systems
For the wireless user ready to step up to an advanced system.
  • 996-1001 selectable UHF frequencies per band
  • Nine pre-coordinated frequency scan groups simplify multi-channel wireless system setup
  • True Diversity operation reduces dropouts

$20 Rebate on 2000 Series Wireless Systems
Easy setup, clear sound & automatic scanning.
  • All 10 channels are compatible for easy use with multiple systems
  • Automatic frequency scanning
  • True Diversity operation reduces dropouts

For qualifying products purchased between October 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011. Claims must be received by January 31, 2012 to be valid. 

10.15.2011

Reverb Explained

Digital Reverb Technology
There are two ways of creating a reverb effect in the digital world, by using mathematical calculations to create a sense of space, which is called Algorithmic. And by creating an impulse response, a snapshot of a real space, and applying that to the sound, which is called Convolution.
Reverb is essentially a series of delayed signals, and Algorithmic reverbs work pretty well to recreate this. Most reverb plugins, stomp boxes, and racks are algorithmic style.

10.14.2011

KRK KNS Series Headphones - What's the difference?

We just added the KRK KNS-6400 and KNS-8400 Closed-Back headphones to our online store. KRK are well known for making great home and pro studio monitors but are relatively new to the studio headphone market.
These headphones have been getting great reviews! Performance, comfort, construction quality are all top notch and are very affordable at just $99.99 (kns-6400) and $149.99 (kns-8400).


What are the differences between KNS-6400 and KNS-8400 Headphones?
At first glance, the two models seem almost identical. By looking closely at the specifications you will see a few key differences. We've summarized these differences below.
Sensitivity: KNS-6400 will reach 95dB SPL before distortion. KNS-8400 does slightly better with a 97dB SPL rating.
Frequency Response: KNS-6400 = 10-22,000Hz; KNS-8400 = 5-23,000Hz
Isolation: KNS-6400 will isolate up to 26dB of ambient sound and the 8400's will isolate 30dB. (That's even higher than most 'isolation' headphones. Very impressive.
Ear cushion type: The specs say the 6400 have 'Acoustic Cellular foam' and 8400 have 'Acoustic Memory foam'. As you can guess, the memory foam will conform to your head and ears better, improving isolation and comfort.
Cable type: The KNS-6400 have a detachable 2.5M cable. The KNS-8400 adds an inline volume trim.
Weight: The only slight negative for the KNS-8400 is that they are 30g heavier than the 6400 (232g vs 202g). Either could still be considered lightweight compared to other studio headphones.


The KRK KNS Series headphones are available in the Revolution Audio Online Store
KNS-6400 Closed Back Headphones
KNS-8400 Closed Back Headphones

10.10.2011

Featured Equipment Of The Week: M-Audio Keystation Mini 32

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32
The M-Audio® Keystation Mini 32 is the ideal choice for players on the go. Designed by the company that pioneered mobile music production, this ultra-portable keyboard delivers unmatched playability in its class. Simply plug it into your computer or iPad* and perform two-hand parts with 32 great-feeling, low-profile mini-keys. Customize the keyboard sensitivity to your playing style with highly musical velocity curves—including one specifically for drum programming. Control your performance with four assignable controls, including a rotary knob. And easily play and write music using the included software. With USB bus power and plug-and-play** functionality, Keystation Mini 32 is the easy way to create and perform on the go.
Find out more | Keystation Mini 32


Top Features
  • 32 low-profile, velocity-sensitive mini-keys > great feel in an ultra-portable design
  • 4 assignable controls—three buttons and a knob > real-time control of your DAW and virtual instruments
  • Selectable velocity curves including one for drum programming > customize the keyboard to your playing style
  • Robust, high-quality build > withstands frequent, mobile use
  • USB bus-powered and class compliant > easy plug-and-play operation with your computer or iPad*

Buy M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 at Revolution Audio

10.08.2011

New M-Audio Fast Track C Series USB2 Audio Interfaces

Transform your ideas into professional-quality music with two new interfaces and Pro Tools MP music creation systems

The original, best-selling* M-Audio Fast Track recording interfaces set the standard for quality and ease of use. Now the new Fast Track C-series audio interfaces make it simpler than ever to transform your ideas into professional-quality music. Get the Fast Track C600 or C400 bundled with industry-leading Pro Tools MP recording software—or buy the interfaces separately for use with your favorite software.

With Fast Track C600 and C400, top-panel controls make it easy to stay in the creative flow. You’ll capture amazing performances with built-in reverb and delay effects, sound incredible with an all-new signal path, and easily check your mixes on multiple sets of speakers using the built-in monitor management system. You’ll also enjoy the flexibility to record with your favorite music software—including Pro Tools. Fast Track C-series interfaces give you the freedom to make music at the speed of your creativity.



Buy M-Audio Fast Track C Series USB2 Audio Interfaces At Revolution Audio:

10.03.2011

Featured Equipment Of The Week: Radial Re-Amping Kit

 Radial Re-Amping Kit
Re-amping kit contains J48 and X-Amp in rugged case. PSU included
Find out more | Radial Re-Amping Kit


Radial J48
The Radial J48 is a great sounding active direct box that has been optimized to produce maximum headroom while working within the limited current available from standard 48V phantom power. By employing a unique switching power supply, the J48 is capable of peak transients to 9 volts without choking. The result is lower harmonic distortion, half the inter-modulation distortion and significantly improved dynamics over other DIs.

Features include a -15dB pad, 180º polarity reverse, a unique merge function to mix two signals to mono, an 80Hz high-pass rumble filter, and ground lift. Like all Radial products, the J48 is built to handle the abuse on the road and features a unique welded I-beam construction for years of trouble free performance.

Radial X-Amp
The Radial X-Amp is an active re-amping device that presents the engineer / producer with a new and innovative creative tool that allows a pre-recorded track from a line level device to drive two guitar amplifiers or effect pedals simultaneously. This opens the door to explore new musical sounds and spur on the creative process.

Features include balanced line level input with LED peak indicator and level control, Class-A circuit topology for optimal reach and frequency response, direct and isolated guitar amplifier outputs, 180º polarity reverse to bring both amps into phase, and dual ground lift options for noise-free operation.

Buy Radial Re-Amping Kit at Revolution Audio

10.01.2011

EQ and Filters Explained

The terms EQ and filter seem to mean different things, Filtering is generally what we say when we want to remove frequencies, and EQ is when we want to shape the sound by boosting and cutting.
The truth is, it’s all filtering.



Universal Audio Total Studio Upgrade Promotion


Buy a new LA-610 MKII between October 1st and Dec 31st 2011 and you will qualify for a UAD-2 DUO PCIe or Satellite FREE!

If you are interested in this special offer, email us for details. sales@revolutionaudio.ca