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When it comes to great track records, Yamaha has plenty to be proud of with their 028 digital mixer. Though it's been out for a while now, the original 028 is still a highly sought-after centerpiece for digitally interconnected studios. With the 02896, Yamaha may have another hit on their hands. As you may have guessed by the name, the 02896 supports 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution. But this is only the beginning.
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Once again the annual Musikmesse international trade show exceeded 2002
our expectations for exciting new instruments and production tools. More software and hardware synths debuted. A parade of software updates and upgrades unfolded. Editor-in-chief Greg Rule and I stuffed ourselves with schnitzel and pilsner. [Ignore that one. -Ed.]
As we were being pulled into booth after booth, our heads began to swim with virtual studio fantasies. Who could blame us? With the curtains pulled back on Cakewalk's mouthwatering Sonar Cyclone or Propellerhead's Malstrom for Reason 2.0, how could we be expected to concentrate? Then, of course, there was all that fine German pilsner.
We managed to slip away one evening to the MIPA awards ceremony, during which Clavia, Digidesign, Korg, Native Instruments, Propellerhead, Steinberg, Yamaha, and others were awarded top honors in various categories. Get the full scoop on page 34.
After returning to Keyboard central, Greg and I compiled a Messe hit list of instruments, effects, computer peripherals, and software. Instead of separating everything into categories, however, we organized it all alphabetically. Enjoy. JOHN KEOGH
Ableton Live v1.5, $349 (free update)
The big news with Ableton's audio sequencer is that it now supports ReWire, so you can run Live alongside and within compatible programs such as Reason, Sonar, Cubase, Logic, and Digital Performer. An improved render-to-disk feature has been implemented, along with a full-featured reverb plug-in, and Mac OS X compatibility. Download the free update from www.ableton.com.
Access Virus C-series synths
What could be better than a Virus synth? According to Access Music, a bigger, badder, and sexier Virus! The stepped-up C-series offers more polyphony (32 voices), more effects (up to 98 simultaneous), and an improved user interface that brings a number of controls such as arp on/off to the surface. Undo/redo has been added, too. Three models are available: tabletop ($1,995), 61-note keyboard ($2,595), and two IU rack versions ($1,195 standard; $1,795 XL). All Virus C synths feature a new sleek black design, four oscillators, two filters, three LFOs, audio inputs, and nine mod matrix destinations. A Virus-specific Emagic SoundDiver editor/librarian is included free of charge, so users can back up and customize sounds, or create entirely new ones from a Mac or PC. k
Access Virus Indigo 2, $2,595
If silver is more your thing, or you just dig synths you can tuck under your arm, the Indigo 2 is for you. It's all the power of the new C-series Virus synth housed in a tough-yet-inviting frame. Highlights include a 37-note aftertouch sensitive keyboard, six analog outputs (which can be used for surround sound), a fierce arppegiator, and more.
Arturia Storm 2.0 & modular synthesizer, $199, free to registered users
Good news from the Arturia camp: Soon they'll be releasing a virtual modular synth (Mac/PC, stand-alone or VST/DXi/MS/RTAS) with 12 slots to accommodate oscillators, filters (multimode or 4-pole lowpass), LFOs, loopable ADSR envelopes, a VCA with envelope, and three built-in effects. No news yet as to its name.... Building on the "all-in-one" virtual studio, Storm version 2.0 includes an online service with news, chat, peer-to-peer file-sharing, tips, and tutorials; the program itself adds a composition wizard, improved sample libraries, support for Windows XP/Mac OS X, and the ability to sync two Storms running on the same computer.
Cakewalk Sonar 2.0 & Sonar 2.OXL, $479, $79 (upgrade from Sonar 1.0), $599 (XL version), $169 (upgrade from Sonar XL 1.0)
Lots of buzzworthy items have been folded into the latest version of Sonar and Sonar XL. Behind closed doors, Cakewalk kicked things off by showing one of Sonar's new monster loop tools, the Cyclone DXi groove sampler. It's a 16-part, Acid-compatible groove sampler, composition tool, and loop editor wrapped up in a single DXi synth. You can load up to 16 loops or phrase samples and fire away, and spontaneously create loop-based music using any MIDI device, MIDI track, PC keyboard or mouse to trigger samples. Individual loop elements, or slices, can be mixed and matched with slices from other loops. When you have a loop you like, you can quickly and easily export it as a stereo file for use in Sonar or other program. Additional support for control surfaces has been included, as has a multi-port drum editor, which features a grid/pattern programming interface and custom drum mapping. Another big addition: ReWire 2.0 support. It's now possible to integrate Reason, ReBirth, and other ReWire apps.... Sonar XL provides all the same features of Sonar, plus two 64-bit, fully automatable DirectX 8 mastering effects: the Sonic Timeworks EQ, which doubles as a 30-band spectrum analyzer, and the Sonic Timeworks Compressor X. FXpansion's DR-008 drum sampler workstation has also been brought into the XL package.
Creamware Noah, under $2,000
Creamware is busting out of the computer world and manufacturing their first hardware synth, called Noah. Using some of the same DSP smarts found in Creamware's software instruments and plug-ins, Noah offers subtractive
(Minimax module), FM, vector (Li la the Prophet VS), and wavetable synthesis. An expansion option for sampling and PCM sound will be available. Physical models of guitar, bass, and drawbar organ are provided, along with a built-in analog-style drum synthesizer and a 22-band vocoder with integrated synthesizer. On the effects side, Noah is loaded with more than thirty 32-bit algorithms, including reverb, modulation, and dynamic effects. A programmable step sequencer and arpeggiator are optimized for live performance applications. Noah doesn't require a computer, but can communicate with software sequencers via USB and MIDI. Noah's instruments can be treated in the computer like plug-ins; Noah configurations can be created onscreen and uploaded into the synthesizer. The keyboard version offers two 2x40 indicator displays (the rack has only one), and 16 controls/pushbuttons (the rack has four). Both versions have stereo ins and outs, eight individual outs via ADAT lightpipe, MIDI in/out/thru, a USB port, and a slot for Compact Flash data storage.
DSound VL2, $249
Inspired by the legendary TLAudio VL1, DSound's VL2 Multichannel Valve Interface plug-in (Mac, PC) is designed to fatten up sounds by simulating tube saturation. The VL2 is only available for TC Works PowerCore.
Eband computers
Making preconfigured computers for music is not a new concept, but Eband does this with a twist. With an Eband machine you get online servicing (a technician can analyze your computer online), automatic updates for hardware drivers, free sounds, forums, and more. Prices vary depending on system configurations.
Emagic EVB3, $199
Another virtual B3 has arrived. Emagic's EVB3 is a modeling-based Logic instrument with two onscreen keyboard manuals and a pedalboard. Both keyboards provide instant access to different drawbar combinations via 24 preset buttons, available to each manual. The EVB3 also offers additional octaves above and below the five octaves of the original. The electromagnetic sound generation and tube switches from a number of organs and Leslie speaker cabinets were analyzed during the development phase of the EVB3, says Emagic. Each tone wheel is synthesized, and the complete set of drawbars available on the original is available to the EVB3. Subtle sonic characteristics such as crosstalk between tone wheels can be precisely controlled. Other sonic characteristics such as foldback, which typified the B-3, can also be easily simulated. The Leslie effect is also available as separate plug-in for all owners of the EVB3.
Emagic Epic TDM bundle, $699
Logic Platinum audio plug-ins have been ported over to TDM format, so users with Mix and HD DSP cards will be able to run these effects within Pro Tools.
Emagic EVD6, $179
Following the success of the EVP88 electric piano, the new EVD6 is a modeling instrument for Logic 5 that recreates the sound of the original Hohner D6 Clavinet. It can emulate the natural degradation of the original instrument, which resulted in characteristic changes such as key click. You can choose the combination of pickups and alter their positions in real time. These movements can be automated to create phaser-like sounds. The basic tone of the EVD6 is created through the selection of a number of preset instrument models. These include the classic D6 and its characteristic overstrung design, as well as exotic string sounds. The basic sounds can be modified with damper and key velocity. These parameter changes can be stored as new instrument settings. The integrated wah effect processor allows a range of classic wah effects. The effect is controlled via a MIDI footpedal, but can also be controlled by any other MIDI continuous controller. There's also a separate wah pedal effect that incorporates an auto-wah, which can be used simultaneously with the pedal control.
Emagic Phat Channel, $TBA
Adding to their line of Logic-specific control surfaces, Emagic debuted the Phat Channel - a hardware controller equipped with 32 V-Pots, which provide direct access to several parameters of a track, audio instrument, or integrated Logic Platinum plug-in. A two-line display is assigned to each V-pot row, allowing effective and intuitive programming of soft synths. There's a "Split" mode, which allows different editing functions to be spread across different displays and V-Pots. This functionality allows possibilities such as the simultaneous modulation of the ES2 filter, LFO, and/or envelope. In this scenario, all filter parameters can be controlled with the first 16 V-Pots, and the remaining 16 controllers can be switched between LFO and envelope parameters independently without affecting the assignments of the first 16 V-Pots. Can't wait to give it a good tweaking!
Emagic EMI 6|2 m, $399
Musicians on the go are sure to appreciate the latest rev of Emagic's USB-powered audio interface. The new EMI 6|2 m is powered solely from USB and provides six analog recording and two analog playback channels with up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution. In addition, two "cinch sockets" are provided, which can be used as either S/PDIF ins and outs or as MIDI I/O. To sweeten the deal, the EMI 6|2 m can also be used as an integrated USB hub - two additional USB ports are available, so you can connect additional USB hardware devices.
Fostex VF80, $699
In the portable multitrack arena, Fostex continues to keep things interesting. Based on the VF60 16-track recorder, the VF80 8-track hard disk recorder includes a mixer, onboard effects (reverb, pitch shift, amp simulation, etc.), 99 mix scenes, waveform display, and optional CD-R/RW drive with mastering mode ($499). It records eight tracks (plus 16 virtual tracks) with uncompressed 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution. Connectivity is no problem - there are two guitar ins, two mic inputs with phantom power, and even S/PDIF digital 110. The VF80 comes standard with a 20GB hard drive, which is enough space for eight hours of 8-track recording.
IBK 10Control, $450
The 10Control offers ten programmable knobs and ten programmable pushbuttons, whose functions can be named and indicated in the dual LCD readouts. You can use this MIDI knob box to control and edit synthesizers (hardware or software), virtual mixers, and effects. Setups for Native Instruments Reaktor, Emagic Logic, and Creamware Pulsar are included.
Jomox Xbase 09 Dr. Walker Limited Edition, $TBA
This limited edition beatbox is a cross between the XBase09 (kick/snare/808-sequences) and the Airbase. It contains an Airbase soundchip loaded with Walker's signature drum and percussion samples.
Korg Kaos Pad KP2, $TBA
The original Kaoss pad was one the most inviting and playable effects units ever made. Now Korg has introduced its successor, the KP2, which adds more effects and a sampling function to an already proven device. The KP2 features a transluscent body and has 100 built-in effects programs. A new BPM function allows effects to be synced to tempo. The incoming sound can be directly sampled (up to six seconds of 44.1kHz sampling for each of the two sample keys) and played back. The Pad Motion function lets you record and reproduce complex finger movements on the touchpad. MIDI output and input are provided, letting you control the KP2s effects via MIDI in from an external sequencer.
Mackie HR624 monitors, $649 each
Mackie's new 6.7-inch, two-way high-resolution active studio reference monitor, which is powered by the same technology found in the larger HR824 monitors. Complete with THX PM3 certification, the new HR624 delivers the same frequency response and wide dispersion as the HR824, in a smaller package aimed at surround sound and small production studios. The HR624 can be used as primary front L/R monitors with or without Mackie's new HRS 120 Active Subwoofer, or as rear channel sources for 5.1 and 7.1 surround systems.
Mackie HRS120 subwoofer, $1,499
Designed to be the perfect companion to Mackie's HR824 and HR624 nearfield monitors, the HRS 120 is a beefy 400-watt active subwoofer system intended for studio use. The HRS120 features a 12-inch (305mm) RCF Precision, LF transducer with a 4" voice coil and cast aluminum frame. On the rear panel you'll find an array of control options including adjustable crossover with highpass outputs for use with full-range monitors, 11 0Hz elliptical filter for Dolby AC-3, output level switch for AC-3 and THX Dot1 recording, and crossover defeat for THX operation. Connections include balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA style. Slave In and Master Out options allow multiple woofers to be daisy-chained together, while two 114" phone jacks accommodate a subwoofer bypass footswitch and bypass indicator.
Native Instruments Reaktor 3.3, $599
A major update of the acclaimed modular software for synthesis, sampling, and effects processing, Reaktor 3.3 (free to registered 3.0 users) builds on the performance and features first introduced with Reaktor 3 and makes it even smoother and quicker to build and modify instruments, to use Reaktor as a VST plug-in, and to quickly preview, add, and replace instruments. Reworked sample-management, improved snapshot handling, a streamlined user interface, and an integrated browser let you work faster than ever. Combined with many improvements and additions to the basic modules, such as a grain cloud delay, FIR-filter, clock-shuffler, FM7 oscillator, and more, version 3.3 provides staggering possibilities for sound exploration .... In addition to working in stand-alone mode with ASIO, Reaktor can also be used as a plug-in with VST 2.0, DirectConnect, DXi, and MAS.
Novation D-Station, $799
Based on the classic TR-808 and TR-909 drum sounds, Novation's D-Station rack aims to offer the best of the old and new schools. Its analog modeling engine provides the beef and punch of the classic beatboxes, but its array of new-school functions adds another dimension. Changes made with the editing knobs are transmitted as MIDI controller data, for example. Also, adjustments made to the drum sounds can be stored in memory, which can be recalled from the front panel or by using MIDI program changes. Cosmetically, the new D-Station reflects the look of the newest Novation instruments, such as the Key Buy-winning K-Station and latest version of the Supernova II. The rackmount A-Station has also received a cosmetic update a la the D-Station.
Pioneer DMP-55, $TBA
Combining MP3 player and CD turntable technologies, Pioneer has launched the DMP-555 a controller for playing and manipulating audio from CDs and off of hard disk. Compatible with CDDA, CD-R, CD-RW and SD Card, the DMP-555 has a dual synchronous play function that plays back from both CD and SD Card sources. This allows DJs to mix authorized MP3-format loops and samples stored on an SD Card with the CD audio output, or to play any music files from CD. Some of the DMP's features, such as Seamless Loop, BPM Sync, and the master tempo control, which can be used to slow down or speed up audio without affecting pitch, have been ported over from Pioneer's CDJ Range of products. Once the DMP-555 is connected to a PC via the supplied USB cable, it can be used to control both virtual players in the DJ Play and Create modes of the included PC software.
Propellerhead Reason 2.0, $399 ($89 upgrade from previous versions)
The wizards at Propellerhead have rolled out another killer upgrade. Reason 2.0 is the next step up from the company's popular flagship cross-platform music software Reason, which emulates a rack of electronic synths, samplers, drum machines, FX units, and sequencers. One of the high points of version 2.0 is the Malstrom Graintable Synthesizer, which combines granular and wavetable synthesis. Graintables are short clips of audio that can be manipulated in interesting ways. It's possible to move through portions of a sound and control the movement with realtime controllers or velocity, for example. There are also dual multimode filters onboard, and a shaper, which shapes the input signal with either a sine wave or noise, and can transform the sound using saturation, digital distortion, or bit-reduction. Furthermore, the oscillators can be routed in many different ways to the two filter sections, providing a vast range of sound manipulation options. Malstrom features two modulators/LFOs with a variety of curves. Another big improvement in Reason 2.0 is that the main sequences now breaks free from the rack and can expand fully across the screen or be resized and moved, even to a second monitor. Zoom, Line, and Eraser tools have been added. And for sync freaks, all of the LFOs in all the instruments are now BPM-syncable.... Another sampler has also been added to the pile of instruments available in Reason. Where Reason's existing NN- 19 is a "fast-track" sampler, the new NN-XT is for more demanding sampling applications. Features include automatic pitch detection and mapping of samples, graphic zone editing, loop editing, layering, zone velocity switching, and crossfading. Each zone can be programmed individually using the synthesis facilities (including multimode filter, dual LFOs, envelopes, micro tuning, and routing to any of the 16 audio outputs). The Alternate function randomly alternates between zones whenever the same key is played repeatedly. ... To complement this new sampler, Propellerhead has developed the Orkester ReFill sound library, which spans from solo woodwinds to complete string sections, and covers essential orchestral playing styles.
Roland MC-09 PhraseLab, $TBA
This affordable desktop tool combines a four-part audio looper with an analog modeling monosynth engine capable of creating lead, bass, and rhythm sounds. There's also a vintage-- style step sequences, onboard effects such as filter, slices, and phases, and more. Sounds are triggered using the PhraseLab's key pads or via MIDI, and can be tweaked using six realtime control knobs. Once a synth or drum pattern is created with the sequences, you can sample it into one of the audio parts. Similar to Boss's RC-20 Loop Station pedal, the MC-09's audio looper can capture and loop up to four monophonic phrases, each up to six seconds in length. It's also possible to sample phrases from external sources via the MC-09's line inputs. Since the PhraseLab references tempo and measure information during sampling, automatic looping is easy; it's even possible to divide a loop into 16 slices using the chop feature. All data, including synth/effects patches, sequences, and audio, can be conveniently stored to SmartMedia cards (not included).
Steinberg Cubase SX, $799
One of the biggest buzzes at Musikmesse was the rollout of Steinberg's Cubase SX, a powerhouse sequencer/recorder written from the ground up. The company announced its arrival by bidding farewell to an old friend (Cubase) and launching SX to the bug-eyed attendees. Little did we know that SX has secretly been in the works for the past five years. Cubase SX marks the beginning of a new era, says Steinberg. Cubase SX is a completely new program offering Windows XP and Mac OS X support, 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution, a stylish new user interface, graphic automation of all parameters, 5.1 surround mixing, realtime MIDI processing, and a comprehensive set of virtual instruments and plug-ins. Note: Cubase SX is the replacement for Cubase VST/32 only. Standard Cubase VST will remain in the product line and Cubase VST Score will be discontinued. Later this year (no official ETA yet), Standard Cubase VST will be replaced by Cubase SL ($499), which will be based on the same new technologies as SX. The update from Cubase VST/32 will cost $149; the update from Cubase VST Score $199; the update from Cubase VST $299.
Steinberg Virtual Guitarist, $249.99
You might say Virtual Guitarist is as much a virtual musician as it is an instrument. The VST plug-in from Steinberg and Wizoo can dish out a wide range of acoustic and electric guitar parts. Many sounds, styles, and playing techniques are represented, all recorded by professional guitarists. Be it strumming country on a 12-string, fingerpicking folk on a steel string, playing groovy wah, or punching out heavy riffs on classic electric guitars, Virtual Guitarist offers these and many more styles to choose from, says Steinberg. All guitar tracks can be controlled (alter the sound, change the key, and fine-tune the phrasing) in real time using MIDI (keyboard or mod wheel).
TC Electronic M300 Dual Engine Processor, $299
TC Electronic has added another processor to their line of affordable effects units. Billed as a sort of Swiss Army knife for audio processing, the M300 is geared toward a range of duties for both live sound reinforcement and studio production. The M300 features a dual effects scheme that combines a dedicated true stereo reverb and a multi-purpose effects engine. Reverbs include classic TC Hall, large cathedral, ambience, plates, and springs, and all effects parameters are accessible directly from the front panel for immediate adjustments.
TC Works Spark version 2.5, $399, update free to Spark 2.0 users; XL version with TC Native Bundle, $699
Several refinements have been made to Spark a new scrub tool has been added, waveform overview display and zooming are improved, and it now supports Mac OS X and multiple processors.
TC Works PowerCore version 1.6, $1,299, update free
The big news with the latest version of PowerCore is that Powercore 01, a mono synthesizer, is included. A control panel has also been added for viewing detailed information about all PowerCore boards installed in a machine.
Tidal Music Quad, $400 EU (approx.)
There's a wicked new entry in the stand-alone hardware filter category. Tidal Music's fourchannel multimode filter, Quad, looks to be one bad-ass filter. Each filter has its own envelope follower and waveshaper that adds overdrive and frequency modulation effects. There are also two dual-channel LFOs and a phono-to-line adapter for DJs.
VirSyn Tera, $279
Tera is a cross-platform stand-alone/VST integrated virtual synth workstation that approaches synthesis a bit differently. For starters, 16 modular synths are included, offering analog, FM, waveshaping, and physical modeling synthesis. There's also a pattern/step sequences combo that can be used in a VST host, an arpeggiator, and a mixing console with effects rack (chorus/phaser/flanger, distortion, echo/delay, and reverb) that contains up to 48 effects. But what really sets Tera apart from the pack is its spectral synthesis sound generation engine, which allows you to sculpt a sound by splitting it into 128 resonant bands that can be individually adjusted. Razor sharp leads, electro-organic pads, and robotic effects are all part of Tera's vocabulary.
Vostok modular, $2,024 (approx.)
A truly portable modular synth? Yep. The compact Vostok is a real analog synth with matrix-style patching, where inserting pins into the matrix completes the patch connection. This gives Vostok the flexibility of a full-on modular synth without the need for cables patched in a confusing mess of spaghetti. According to the brochure, "Its clear and concise layout is so easy to understand, even a Russian monkey test pilot could operate it" Modules include the usual suspects: three flavors of VCO, noise, voltage-controlled multimode filter, ring mod, two envelope generators, two LFOs with square and triangle waves, and a dedicated sample-and-hold generator. Also included are a MIDI-to-CV converter, a joystick, and an eight-step sequencer. Vostok will be distributed by Analogue Solutions.
Waldorf Q+, $4,250
Waldorf's Q synth has been upgraded to the Q+ Analog Filter Synthesizer, which is loaded with 16 discrete 24dB/octave analog filters (and yes, they'll self-oscillate ..), 32-note polyphony (16 more than the original Q), a five-octave keyboard with aftertouch, integrated effects, step sequences, vocoder, stereo audio input, and a S/PDIF digital out. Oh yeah, and it's red! ... Not content just to beef up their flagship synth, Waldorf also announced new and improved versions of other Q-related noisemakers. Updates are available for Micro Q Lite to Micro Q Standard, Micro Q Standard /Micro Q Keyboard to Micro Q Omega (a full-blown Q in a 2U rack enclosure), and for Micro Lite to Micro Q Omega.
Yamaha 02896, $TBA
When it comes to great track records, Yamaha has plenty to be proud of with their 028 digital mixer. Though it's been out for a while now, the original 028 is still a highly sought-after centerpiece for digitally interconnected studios. With the 02896, Yamaha may have another hit on their hands. As you may have guessed by the name, the 02896 supports 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution. But this is only the beginning. With more than five times the processing power of the original 028, the 02896 has inherited key features from Yamaha's flagship DM2000 Digital Production Console, such as surround monitoring, A/D and D/A converters, studio manager software for complete control via computer, and DAW integration with Logic, Pro Tools, Nuendo, and others. Unlike much other hi-res digital recording and mixing gear, which achieves operation in 96kHz mode with reduced number of channels, the 02896 imposes no such limitations. Full 96kHz resolution with 32-bit internal processing and 58-bit accumulators is standard. There are a total of 56 channels, plus a ton of additional effects and processing. Yamaha has included a comprehensive range of 96kHz compatible stereo effects with 32-bit internal processing, plus several designed specifically for surround. And you can use as many as four individual effects processors simultaneously. On the 02896, 24 100-millimeter motorized channel faders can be instantaneously layer-switched to control any of its channels. What's more, all available inputs, outputs, effects, and channel inserts can be assigned to any of the console's channels or outputs via the 02R96's digital patching system. A direct out function allows the signal from any of the 56 input channels to be routed directly to any digital or analog output. The eight auxiliary busses can also be patched to anywhere in the system. Setting up EQ, compression, and other parameters for a mix from scratch can be a daunting task, so Yamaha has provided an extensive selection of presets in a range of libraries that can simply be selected and used unmodified, or edited and stored to suit specific requirements. Libraries are provided for effects, compression, gating, EQ, I/O patching, and more. All four expansion slots are 24-bit/96kHz compatible, so you can select I/O and processing cards to provide the input/output configuration and processing capabilities that suit your needs. Whether you need digital IIO in ADAT, TDIF, or AES/EBU format, or extra analog IIO capability, the appropriate Mini-YGDAI cards are available. Apogee's high-performance AID and DIA cards are supported, as is the very powerful Waves Y56K effects plug-in card.
2002 Musikmesse International Press Awards (MIPA)
The third-annual MIPA awards ceremony was held at this year's expo in Frankfurt. Keyboard was among the 51 magazines that participated. We salute the nominees and winners.
* indicates Winner
Synthesizer (Hardware)
*Clavia Nord Lead 3
Access Virus Indigo Alesis Andromeda
Workstation
*Yamaha Motif
Korg Karma Roland Fantom
Sampler (Hardware/Software)
*Steinberg HALlon
Emagic EXS24 Nemesys Gigastudio
Dance/Groove Gear
*Korg Electribe Series
Yamaha AN200/DX200 Yamaha RS7000
Software Recording
*Emagic Logic Audio
Cakewalk Sonar MOTU Digital Performer
Plug-Ins
*Native Instruments Spektral Delay
AudioEase Altiverb Waves Gold Bundle
Software Instruments
*Propellerhead Reason
Native Instruments Absynth Native Instruments FM7
Organ/Portable Keyboard
*Korg CX3
Clavia Nord Electro Yamaha 9000Pro
Stage Plano
*Yamaha P80
Clavia Nord Electro Roland RD-700
Recording Workstation
*Roland VS-2480
Korg D1600
Yamaha AW4416
Recording System
*Digidesign Pro Tools HD
Mackie MDR24/96
TASCAM MX-2424
Mixing Desk - Project Studio
*Mackie D8B
TASCAM DM-24
Sony DMX-R1000
Vocal Microphone
*Neumann KMS105
Rode NTK
Sennheiser Evolution E865
Studio Monitor
*Mackie HR824
Dynaudio BM6A
Event 20/20
Effects Devices
*Lexicon 9601 (tie) TC Helicon Voice Prism Plus (tie]
Yamaha SREV1
Most Innovative Product
*Line 6 Guitar Port
Ableton Live
Celemony Melodyne
Lifetime Achievement Award *Mr. Ikutaro Kakehashi
Few people have had as much impact on the music industry as Mr. Kakehashi. An innovator and entrepreneur from his teenage years, he launched Ace Electronic Industries in Japan in 1960, and brought to market such products as the Rhythm Ace R-1 and Canary S-2 organ. In 1968 he founded Hammond Japan, and in 1972 launched what would become one the most innovative and successful companies in MI history: Roland Corporation. Among the many illustrious awards Mr. Kakehashi has received in his 72 years is an Honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee and a star on Hollywood's famed Rock Walk. Keyboard was pleased to be on hand at this year's ceremony as another MI legend (and recent Grammy recepient Bob Moog presented Mr. Kakehashi with this honor
Copyright Miller Freeman Inc. Jun 2002