New 500 Series 512v Discrete Microphone and Line PrePreamp from API
In response to high market demand for built-in signal attenuation, API announced the new 512v Microphone Preamp. Incorporating every feature of the popular 512c, including API's proprietary transformers and 2520 op amp, the new 512v preamplifier also includes a variable output level control designed to meet the needs of audio professionals using DAW’s or other input level-sensitive devices in their workflow.
RaspTouch Open Source Audio Player Combines Raspberry Pi 3 and ESS Sabre DAC
There are all sorts of projects on Kickstarter, including those for electronics and DIY audio enthusiasts. French company Audiophonics has successfully funded a combination of both, leveraging the Raspberry Pi 3 and ESS Sabre DACs in its RaspTouch Open Source high-end audio player and DAC with touchscreen. Those interested still have three days left to pledge for one of the available options on Kickstarter, from the simple aluminum chassis to a complete kit and top ES9018K2M output DAC.
TC Electronic Introduces Metering App for Clarity X Monitoring System
The Clarity X Multi-Format Monitoring System now has an elegant and powerful free app. TC Electronic extended the already impressive feature set of Clarity X with a metering app for iPad, Mac and PC. The new app allows scalable views, greater ease of control and extended features. Not only can the user customize metering views, TC Electronic also has added more meter types, like LRA+I, a combination of Loudness Range and Program Loudness.
3D Sound Labs Launches Challenge for 3D Spatial Audio Application Development
3D Sound Labs, the French startup and pioneer in 3D sound, is announcing a contest for mobile developers and calls on creative minds to shape the 3D sound smartphone apps of tomorrow. The 3D Dev Challenge summons participants to develop an innovative app (iOS or Android) using 3D audio. Contestants can send their projects until late September 2016. Winners will be awarded a total price of 10,000 euros.
Audinate Updates Dante Controller and Introduces Wi-Fi Support
Audinate announced an update to Dante Controller, the free software tool available for Windows and Mac OS X, used to configure and manage Dante audio networks. Dante Controller 3.10 brings new features like adding wireless support, advanced filtering and Device Lock features, allowing users to better manage larger networks with more high channel-count devices. The update also enables Dante Controller to take full advantage of upcoming firmware changes.
New Premium Multichannel A/D Converters Series from Asahi Kasei Microdevices Reaches the Market
Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) announced that its new 32-bit premium/advanced multichannel A/D converters series AK555x and AK553x are now available. There are four new converter devices in 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel and 8-channel variants in the AK555x series, featuring 115dB S/N and supporting up to 768kHz PCM at 24-bit/32-bit or 11.2MHz DSD256 outputs. The AK553x range, targeting pro audio applications includes 4, 6 and 8-channel variants, featuring 111dB S/N, -103dB THD+N and the same PCM/DSD output capabilities.
IEC Formally Adopts USB Type-C, USB Power Delivery and USB 3.1 Specifications
The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) announced that IEC has formally adopted the latest USB-IF specifications for high-speed data delivery and enhanced usages for device charging. In particular, the USB Type-C Cable and Connector, USB Power Delivery and USB 3.1 (SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps) specifications. These specifications define a truly single-cable solution for audio/video, data and power delivery.
StreamUnlimited Adds Smart Home Sound Recognition from Audio Analytic to StreamSDK Solution
British sound recognition software company Audio Analytic announced a new strategic partnership with audio software and hardware development consultancy StreamUnlimited. Under the terms of the agreement, Audio Analytic’s ai3 sound recognition software will be integrated with StreamUnlimited’s StreamSDK, opening up new Smart Home applications and added value for audio manufacturers and end-users.
ELWN Fit Earbuds Truly Wireless Hybrid Concept Lasts Longer
Multiple concepts of truly wireless earbuds were introduced to the market, all struggling with the same battery dilemma, independently of the level of features. Increasing battery capacity also increases size and weight, which in turn affects user’s comfort and fit. ELWN Fit Truly Wireless earbuds launched on Kickstarter with an interesting hybrid wireless concept to answer the question: “How can I work, play, and live my indoor/outdoor lifestyle without a thought about charging or adjusting my earbuds?”
New Organizational Structure for Musikmesse and Prolight+Sound Shows
Following criticism from exhibitors, the press and visitors regarding mixed results in the 2016 editions of the Prolight+Sound and Musikmesse shows, Messe Frankfurt announced a new organizational structure for optimum interlinkage of the two shows. Michael Biwer, previously responsible for Prolight+Sound, is now responsible for key account management and the strategic planning of both events, which will return to a more coordinate model in 2017.