We’ve received a few questions asking us why we chose to use USB2.0 when designing our interfaces rather than USB3.0 or even Thunderbolt. So we thought we’d explain why in this quick and easy to follow article.
When designing the iD interface range we wanted it to be compatible with as many systems as possible. USB 2.0 was chosen as it is currently the most prolific port on computers. It is true that USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt offer higher bandwidths but our interfaces simply don’t need the additional bandwidth that these connections offer.
Read more about this here: https://audient.com/tutorial/usb-in-audio/
Music Recording
UA’s Neve Preamp plug-in brings the iconic console sounds to your DAW
Universal Audio has released the Neve Preamp plug-in exclusively for UA audio interfaces and UAD-2 hardware, presented in a simple two-knob design. Combining the iconic sounds of both the 1073 and 1290 modules the Neve Preamp plug-in promises all the bandwidth and attitude of Rupert Neve’s original hardware design.
Tracking can be performed in real time for a vintage analog channel with low DSP usage. UA’s Unison is also supported allowing interface users access to the Neve preamp’s impedance, gain staging, and circuit behaviours. The Neve Preamp plug-in is available now for $149.
Read more about this here: https://www.musictech.net/2018/03/universal-audio-release-neve-preamp-plug-in/
Try Roland’s VST/AU versions of the 808/909 in your DAW for free
If you wanted to try out Roland’s virtual recreations of the iconic 808 and 909 without subscribing, you can now try them out in your DAW for free. This offer allows users a 30-day free trial to play with the VST/AU versions.
The TR-808 is renowned for its big, booming bass drum. Ever present, always relevant – the TR-808 is undeniably, indisputably, the biggest sound on the planet. The TR-909 is all about precision and power, with clattering, metallic hi-hats, pummelling tom drums and a rib-cracking kick drum that became the beating heart of house and techno.
Read more about this here: https://www.musictech.net/2018/04/test-roland-808-909-for-free/
Steinberg team up with Rupert Neve Designs for two new audio interfaces
Steinberg’s latest pair of audio interfaces — the UR-RT2 and UR-RT4 — are the result of a collaboration between Steinberg, Yamaha, and Rupert Neve Designs.
What sets it apart from others is their implementation of transformer circuitry from Rupert Neve Designs, which was specifically developed for audio interfaces. Both interfaces offer +48V phantom power, USB 2.0, and MIDI connectivity alongside a range of I/O options for laptop and iPad. Together with the D-PRE preamps by Yamaha and the featured Rupert Neve Designs transformers, the UR-RT interfaces deliver an “expressive sound with rich harmonics”.
Read more about this here: https://www.soundonsound.com/news/steinberg-team-rupert-neve-designs-two-new-audio-interfaces
How to Use Panning to Your Advantage When Mixing
One of the simplest ways to create clear, spacious-sounding mixes is the proper use of panning. Below are some rules of thumb I follow when panning my tracks. I added some information on how to make the most of the stereo field.
While I love the stereo Beatles mixes with the drums hard-panned to one side — the times, tastes, and technology have changed. Unless it’s for a special purpose, my kicks stay straight up the middle. Sometimes, however, I will trigger or lay in samples for the purpose of adding roominess to a kick and/or snare drum.
Read more about this here: https://theproaudiofiles.com/panning/