New Gear Alert: Focusrite x Shure Production Bundles, Novation Launchpad Pro x Logic Pro, Sennheiser Vocal Mic & More

Focusrite and Shure announce Production Bundles.

Focusrite and Shure join forces to offer attractive new production bundles.

Shure and Focusrite have partnered up to offer customers multiple bundles featuring their best-selling microphones and interfaces, for a limited time through select US dealers. Singer-songwriters, podcasters, and drummers each get a bundle offering the trusted quality and incredible sound people have come to know and love from Shure and Focusrite.

The Musician’s “Up to Eleven” Bundle is the complete package containing everything you need to level up your guitar and vocal recordings. This bundle provides singer-songwriters with all the tools to record studio-quality tracks, from start to finish. Comprising a Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB audio interface, Shure SM58 dynamic vocal microphone, 25ft XLR cable, Shure SRH240A closed-back headphones, as well as production and effects software—so you can start recording straight out of the box.

The Podcaster’s “Create and Cast” Bundle provides all the tools you need to create a solo podcast recording at home or in the studio. Comprising a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface, Shure SM58 dynamic vocal microphone, 25ft XLR cable, Shure SRH440 closed-back headphones, and recording software to capture your podcast like a pro and start creating in an instant.

The Drummer’s “Track Pack” provides a full suite of tools to record professional drum tracks. As part of this pack, you’ll get a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 USB audio interface and Shure DMK57-52 Drum Microphone Kit that provides versatility with different setups and drum kits. Completing the pack, you’ll also get four XLR cables.

For pricing and further information on each bundle, click here.

Novation’s Launchpad Pro MK3 becomes the most closely integrated grid controller for Logic Pro.

Novation’s Launchpad Pro has never been more intuitive, comprehensive, and powerful when used in conjunction with Logic Pro.

Apple have released Logic Pro 10.6, an update to the popular music making software that builds on the major new features introduced earlier in 2020, making Launchpad Pro MK3 the most closely integrated grid controller for Logic Pro. The main new improvement is for Launchpad Pro MK3 users, who can now enjoy all the features of Live Loops, the cell-based looping playback and performance feature that was introduced in version 10.5. Also new is updated Live Loops interaction for Launchpad X and Launchpad Mini MK3 users.

In Logic Pro 10.6, Launchpad X and Launchpad Mini MK3 devices no longer need to be rotated to properly display the Live Loops grid, as was required in v10.5. However, there are orientation options in Logic’s settings that allow you to choose vertical or rotated arrangement, to suit your preference.

For introductory videos on using Launchpad Pro MK3 with Logic Pro 10.6, click here.

Sennheiser releases the MD 445 vocal mic.

Built for stage, the MD 445 from Sennheiser features powerful rejection capabilities and ultra high gain before feedback.

The acoustics of the MD 445 have been tailored to modern stage set-ups with B stages and runways in front of the PA. At the core of the acoustic design is a newly developed voice coil made of lightweight aluminium-copper. Its fast transient response ensures a very detailed, nuanced and transparent sound that is complemented by rich mid-range and bass. The sound is acoustically close, intimate and open, irrespective of how loud the instrument soundscape may be.

Thanks to its high-rejection, super-cardioid pick-up pattern, the MD 445 has enormous gain before feedback. Dynamics are wide at 146 dB(A) and the microphone can handle sound pressure levels of up to 163 dB/1 kHz.

The outstanding acoustics come with a mechanical design that’s built to withstand a life on tour. The MD 445 features a metal casing and has a shock-mounted capsule to protect it from structure-borne noise. A hum compensating coil protects the microphone against electromagnetic interference.

The MD 445 is available now, priced at $619.

iZotope updates Vinyl.

iZotope updates their classic free Vinyl emulation plugin.

iZotope has released an updated version Vinyl, a free vinyl simulation plugin that was the first product ever offered by the company two decades ago. Released in 2001, Vinyl was the first of many iZotope products that have inspired creativity for hundreds of thousands of producers, engineers, and post production professionals. With a modernized UI to contain the classic, vintage tones of the original, the latest version of Vinyl brings instant audio transformation to creations with visual clarity and style.

With Vinyl, you can give your productions a new, nostalgic character in seconds by applying old-school warmth, age-worn dust, or vintage turntable sounds to your music. The latest version features a Lo-fi effect that allows creators to instantly apply the saturated, worn timbre of late-80’s hip-hop and reproduce the character of second-hand records.

Vinyl is available for free here.

BOSS announces the Nextone Special guitar amplifier.

BOSS unveils the Nextone Special guitar amp—the popular line’s newest leading model.

The Nextone Special is the new premier model in the Nextone guitar amplifier lineup. Fueled by BOSS’s acclaimed Tube Logic approach, the 1×12 Nextone Special combo delivers premium sound, feel, and tonal versatility for stage players who demand the best.

Fusing forward-thinking innovation with boutique design features and detail, the Nextone Special offers a refined playing experience that stands alongside the finest tube amplifiers, enhanced with key modern advantages like variable power control, consistent sound, and maintenance-free operation.

The Nextone Special will be available in December 2020, priced at $899.99.

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