
MQA Hardware and Software Players Become Available Via Upgrades
Following the recent announcement by Meridian Audio of a firmware update enabling MQA playback in its own range of products, Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) is now also playable directly on the Pioneer XDP-100R and Onkyo DP-X1 portable devices. MQA-encoded music content is finally available for first adopters to download and hear on their own devices.

d&b audiotechnik Launches NoizCalc Far Field Immission Modeling Software Tool
In recent years the prediction and control of far field noise immission from live open air events has become a serious topic. Gaining permission and licensing to stage such productions often requires an official statement, predicting how the noise will impact on surrounding areas. The introduction of the far field noise immission modeling software, d&b NoizCalc, addresses this issue.

Apogee Introduces New ONE Audio Interface/Microphone for Mac
Apogee Electronics introduced a new member of their ONE audio interface family, ONE for Mac. ONE for Mac is an affordable 2 In x 2 Out USB audio interface/microphone solution for musicians and podcasters writing, recording and mixing music on a Mac computer. The third generation in the Apogee ONE family, ONE for Mac features the same sound quality and essential functionality as the Apogee ONE for iPad & Mac.

AKG Debuts New Closed-Back K872 Reference Headphones at Prolight+Sound 2016
Just when you thought the AKG professional headphone catalogue was extensive enough, the Austrian company surprised us with the announcement of a new flagship reference model, which the company says it embodies its “70 years of expertise” and sets their “new benchmark for performance and comfort.” The new K872 master reference headphones features the largest transducer AKG has ever built.

Solid State Logic Announces Sigma δelta Version 2 Availability
Solid State Logic released a Version 2 software package for its Sigma remote controlled analogue summing mixer, which is effectively the closest thing to actually having an SSL SuperAnalogue mixer in a studio, with the advantage that the solution now allows extra control from any DAW, including automation and full hands-on support from control surfaces.

Genelec Expands New Generation of Smart Active Monitoring Systems at Prolight+Sound 2016
Among the product introductions at Prolight+Sound 2016, Frankfurt, Germany, the Finish monitoring specialists managed to grab the headlines with the largest number of products launched simultaneously. Genelec not only expanded its range of new generation Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) systems with five additions to the series, but also celebrated 10 years of the technology.

Eventide Unveils T-Verb Dynamic Reverb Plug-In Based On Bowie Session Techniques
T-Verb is a unique dynamic stereo reverb effect plug-in using a unique technique legendary engineer Tony Visconti employed in the original Hansa Studios, Berlin, during the recording of David Bowie’s Heroes. Eventide unveiled the new plug-in at Musikmesse 2016, which was developed directly in collaboration with the legendary producer, engineer and musician.

Antelope Audio Introduces Zen Tour Thunderbolt Portable Interface at Musikmesse 2016
Antelope Audio continues to expand its product catalogue with studio and live recording solutions, introducing the most up to date and high-quality technologies at affordable prices. At Musikmesse 2016, the company introduced the Zen Tour portable interface, with 8 analog I/Os, DSP processing and a host of tools for bands and performing artists, including guitar amp and cab simulations.

A New Brand Identity for the Relaunch of Ciare
Following the acquisition by Italian driver manufacturer 18 Sound, announced in November 2015, the new Ciare brand identity has been presented at the Prolight+Sound 2016 show, in preparation for the company’s relaunch. The Senigallia, Italy brand already shared the booth with 18 Sound at the Frankfurt show and introduced three new drivers, including an improved coaxial design, a new 1” exit high-frequency driver and a midrange 6.5” driver.

Sennheiser and Apogee Partner to Offer MK 4 Digital for USB and iOS
At Prolight+Sound in Frankfurt, Sennheiser previewed the new digital version of its MK 4, now using high-quality Apogee A/D conversion and mic preamp technology to connect directly to iOS devices, Mac and PC computers. The large-diaphragm MK 4 digital is the ideal partner for any mobile recording task requiring great sound quality with the typical warmth and detail of a true condenser microphone.