New music tech gear of the month: review round-up (June 2015)
The Swedish firm emulates its own lunchbox module
Lindell Audio ChannelX
From new plugins to audio interfaces, virtual instruments, microphones and monitors, it's been a review-packed month.
Here we've gathered all of the music tech reviews (originally published in our sister mags Computer Music and Future Music) to feature on the site during May 2015.
Kicking things off, it's the Lindell Audio ChannelX plugin...
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"A refreshing alternative to the usual lookalike emulations, Lindell's plugin debut packs in lush, analogue vibes aplenty."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Lindell Audio ChannelX review
BUY: Lindell Audio ChannelX currently available from:
UK: Thomann
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
An EQ/comp curio reborn in software form
Boz Digital Labs +10dB Bundle
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"It's great to see such characterful hardware captured so effectively, even if that includes the frustrating aspects of the originals."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Boz Digital Labs +10dB Bundle review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Hip-hop performance plugin
DopeVST Crate Digger
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"If old-skool hip-hop is in any way your flava, this is essential."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: DopeVST Crate Digger review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Sophisticated, innovative EQ plugin
Sonible Frei:raum
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"Utterly admirable in its approach, Frei:raum can be a bit too forward-thinking for its own good, but when it works, it's spectacular."
3.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Sonible Frei:raumreview
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Innovative and remarkable resonator plugin
2CAudio Kaleidoscope
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"A unique and powerful technical triumph that deserves attention from sound designers and adventurous musicians, despite its highly particular sound."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: 2CAudio Kaleidoscope review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Alesis unleashes its new sampling instrument
Alesis SamplePad Pro
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"The SamplePad Pro is well priced and it keeps your sampling and triggering options open."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Alesis SamplePad Pro review
BUY: Alesis SamplePad Pro currently available from:
UK: Thomann | Gear4Music
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
Sturdy Steinberg compact interface
Steinberg UR12
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"At this price, it's impossible not to recommend the UR12 to anyone seeking an on-the-go solution for recording."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Steinberg UR12 review
BUY: Steinberg UR12 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Dramatic strings on tap
Native Instruments Emotive Strings
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"An instrument built to give the media composer immediate results and sound superb doing it."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Native Instruments Emotive Strings review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Synth savvy Max For Live collection
Sonic Faction Archetype Ableton Bundle
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"A truly mighty bundle."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Sonic Faction Archetype Ableton Bundle review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
World-class preamps in a stylish box
Audient iD22 Audio Interface
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"A solid interface with top-notch sound quality. Bar some very minor reservations, highly recommended."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Audient iD22 Audio Interface review
BUY: Audient iD22 Audio Interface currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
Affordable filter fun
HoRNet FilterSolo
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"A sound investment at this price."
4 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: HoRNet FilterSolo review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
The reliable BX monitors get an update
M-Audio BX5 Carbon
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"Compact, solid and surprisingly loud, this is an ideal affordable monitor for smaller spaces."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: M-Audio BX5 Carbon review
BUY: M-Audio BX5 Carbon currently available from:
UK: Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
High-end condenser mic in a pencil package
Audio-Technica AT5045
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"The innovative yet simple design delivers excellent sonics and a rare versatility. Seriously impressive."
5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Audio-Technica AT5045 review
BUY: Audio-Technica AT5045 currently available from:
UK: Thomann
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
The new standard in vocal tuning and timing?
Synchro Arts Revoice Pro 3
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"In terms of workflow enhancement, DAW integration and audio quality, you cannot afford to ignore it."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Synchro Arts Revoice Pro 3 review
BUY: Synchro Arts Revoice Pro 3 currently available from:
US: Sweetwater
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
Loopy standalone instrument
Siren Audio Feedback 2
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"Its less-than-intuitive interface and suboptimal manual limit Feedback 2's appeal, but it'll still interest those who like weird and wonderful sounds."
3.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Siren Audio Feedback 2 review
(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)
Affordable monitors pack a punch
Mackie CR3
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"With powerful, detailed sounds and great value for money, the CR3s might surprise you."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Mackie CR3 review
BUY: Mackie CR3 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music
US: Full Compass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)
The first synth from Modor
Modor NF-1
MusicRadar’s verdict:
"The NF-1 is well-built and hands-on and its sound engine is powerful and versatile."
4.5 out of 5
FULL REVIEW: Modor NF-1 review
BUY: Modor NF-1 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann
USA: Sweetwater
FR: Thomann | Woodbrass
(Originally reviewed in Future Music)