PreSonus Introduces Revelator io24 USB-C Audio Interface

The increasing focus on home use is inspiring audio manufacturers to transition to more advanced USB-C designs. PreSonus is now shipping the new Revelator io24 USB-C audio interface, which integrates high-headroom mic preamps, a two-channel loopback mixer, and extensive processing to deliver polished, professional-sounding results for streaming, podcasting, and music production.

Danish headphone brand AIAIAI is an interesting example of differentiation based on design, product and user focus. Cleverly combining a simple but effective design that serves multiple needs, AIAIAI offers a range of headphones for home studio, DJs, and contemporary lifestyle. Understanding its user-base, the brand gained a cult-following that is the envy of many larger audio brands. And the latest concept from AIAIAI is now a totally customizable headphone.

Campfire Audio, the Portland, Oregon-based audio brand that started by selling upgraded cables for in-ears, later evolved into sophisticated IEMs and has been very highly regarded in music enthusiast circles ever since, is now launching its first set of IEMs directly targeted at performers, music creators, engineers and home studio professionals. There's a big difference though. These are the most affordable Campfire IEMs, using new shell materials in order to reduce cost without compromising on the drivers.

Apogee Electronics, the Californian company that also goes for the name Apogee Digital, announced the all new Duet 3. This new portable USB-C audio interface is a 2 in x 4 out solution with on-board hardware DSP. The new Duet 3 is the latest generation in the popular series and combines the recognized Apogee AD/DA conversion performance with a stunning ultra-low profile industrial design using scratch resistant glass and an aluminum chassis.

The web forum formerly known as Gearslutz just unveiled its new name – Gearspace – repositioning the brand "to be more inclusive." The web forum is a popular community for home studio users all over the world, frequently a resource for quick checks by anyone involved in music production. Apart from the name change to Gearspace, the forum will continue to be an open platform for discussing and learning about audio recording gear and practices.

Mackie announced the appointment of its new Chief Technology Officer, Danny Olesh. With more than 40 years of experience in the audio industry, product development, and digital technologies, Olesh is regarded as one of the top live sound engineers in Australia where many of his innovative product ideas came to life. An experienced pro audio professional and educator, Olesh brings a renewed focus on emerging technologies, innovation and exciting future products for the Mackie brand.

Even with the restrictions imposed over The NAMM Show 2021, Gibson was one of most energized companies with an astonishing number of new product announcements in all its brands. Its pro audio studio monitor brand KRK also received attention, the latest generation of KRK monitors are now complemented with a new generation of powered subwoofers. Coming spring 2021, the new series of KRK Studio Subwoofers will be available in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch variations: S8.4, S10.4, and S12.4.

Yamaha has announced a new addition to its professional loudspeaker range, the MSP3A powered monitor, building on the sound reproduction and convenience features of the existing MSP3 model. The new compact design features a 22-watt built-in amplifier, Twisted Flare Port for clearer bass, and offers a variety of inputs, controls and optional support brackets, making it ideal for nearfield in home and project studios, post-production, monitoring electronic instruments and for surround reproduction.

audioXpress February 2021 explains why Microphones have gained Essential Status, and how microphones have a foundational contribution to voice front-ends. Erica Yorga details how Thousands of Virtual Microphones can solve audio conferencing challenges, and Mike Meechan explains how to design high-performance microphone preamplifiers. Brent Butterworth reviews the Widex Moment mRIC RD hearing aids to understand the differences and similarities in the critical sound experience. Michael Steffes explains how to increase the output current for an audio op-amp, and Andrew C. Russell details the X-Altra, a high-performance MC/MM phono equalizer DIY project. Now available in print and digital.

With strict lockdowns again in place at the start of 2021, some companies have managed to stay busy and have new products to share with the world. UK-based Audient unveiled a brand new logo and corporate image, a redesigned website, and unveiled three new products, all particularly suitable to working from home. Either for creating music, podcasts or just communications, Audient launched redesigned mark II editions of the iD4 and iD14 USB-C audio interfaces, together with the brand new EVO Start Recording Bundle.