Well its that time when photo’s start appearing of “new” keyboards from yamaha. This has been sent to us as a possible new image
for the Yamaha Tyros 5+. Is this fact or photoshop, who knows but it certainly looks smart!
Here’s hoping that Yamaha actually make a 7octave instrument this time!

Tags: Tyros 5, yamaha, photo, image, tyros 6, tyros new, new tyros, yamaha

For the last few months we have been putting a number of orchestral VST’s through their paces and we are now busy comparing the programs to bring you our full comprehensive review of the BEST orchestral plugins out there. We will bring you a review of East West’s Hollywood Strings, IK Multimedia’s Miroslav Philharmonic, LA Scoring strings and we hope to bring you one other review.
With so many excellent, but complicated plugins, we wanted to give you a simple to understand review that gives you a clear understanding of what you get from each package.

Mackie is unveiling the DL1608, a 16-channel digital live sound mixer with iPad control.
The company's latest console combines the power of a full-featured digital mixer with the portability of an iPad and features 16 Onyx mic preamps, 24-bit Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters, six aux sends for monitor mixes, Master L/R output and an ultra low-noise, high headroom design. iPad control allows the user to mix from anywhere in the venue, as well as tweak the EQ, dynamics, effects and more. The mixer can even support up to 10 tablets.

Loud Technologies is the UK distributor for Mackie.

Tags: Mackie DL1608, mixer, 16 channel

Casio has used the NAMM show to announce its new XW-P1 and XW-G1 synthesizers.
The XW-P1 Performance synth (pictured, top) features 100 Solo Synthesizer presets for reproducing classic analogue synth sounds, 50 Hex Layer presets for layering up to six tones, 50 Drawbar Organ presets and 420 PCM Melody and PCM drum presets that have been sampled from a number of different instruments. It also offers 311 internal synth waves, 2,158 PCM waves and users can layer these to create integrated sounds. Users can also assign performance setups for up to four designated keyboard sounds with the Performance function, a Phrase Sequencer lets the player create and play back phrases and a Step Sequencer does the same job for rhythm patterns. The XW-G1 'Groove' synth (pictured, bottom) provides a Step Sequencer with 100 rhythm patterns and a further 100 original patterns can be recorded as user sequences. 16 buttons can be used for improvising during play back and up to 99 patterns can be linked together and played as loops. Multifunction keys enable users to assign functions for DJ performances, 420 preset tones can be quickly accessed and players can choose from a wide variety of preset tones or internal PCM and Synth waves to create sounds.

Tags: casio, synth, 2012, XW-P1, XW-G1

Do you need a backing band on stage or at home? The new BK 5 will make you sound like a pro on stage. It has over 300 styles and each style has 4 intros, 4 endings, 3 up and 3 down fill in’s.
The BK5 looks stunning and has an ultra modern style. BK 5 play standard midi files and MP3 and Wav files.
We will be reviewing this instrument in the next few weeks.

Have a look at the BK5 here.

Tags: roland BK5, backing keyboard, roland, namm, 2012

Rolands popular AT900 has just been given an update to the all new AT900p - Platinum edition.
This new organ takes design back to the traditional horseshoe style and gives the instrument some incredible new updates.
Watch the new promotional video from Roland here.



This brand new instrument will retail at £24,999 and offers amazing value for money compared to other manufacturers top end organ instruments.

Popular artists Gotye have produced a track called state of the art which features an interesting video.
For all organists out there, this video is a little bit of fun.

New piano competition for adult amateurs attracts heavyweight backing and offers fantastic opportunities
Three high profile partners – Yamaha, Chetham’s International Summer School & Festival for Pianists and Pianist magazine – have joined forces and announced a new competition for outstanding amateur adult pianists with a great range of recording and performances opportunities on offer.
Prizes include a performance with the Manchester Camerata, a recording to be featured on Pianist magazine’s front cover CD, a free place on the 2013 Chetham’s International Summer School – and if that’s not enough, a recital in Yamaha’s recital hall in central London.
‘We wanted to produce a professional, well organised and resourced showcase opportunity for the thousands of talented and passionate amateur pianists who love the piano, and labour at home for hours on end, who yearn for an opportunity to play in a professional public setting with professional musicians’, so says Leanne Barrell from Yamaha.
Murray McLachlan, who is Head of Keyboard at Chetham’s School of Music, comments further: ‘Whilst practicing and having lessons are relatively easy to arrange, it is much harder to find opportunities to perform and aim for goals away from grade exams and diplomas. This is where this new competition comes into its own. The prizes on offer include valuable tuition from international performers and teachers, as well as golden opportunities for performance in front of large audiences at the Royal Northern College of Music concert hall and during the Chetham’s Summer School itself.’
Entries close on 1 May 2012, from which a number of short listed semi finalists will be invited to perform before a jury in August 2012 at Chetham’s International Summer School in Manchester. The organisers also confirm that every entry will receive written comments from jury members on their performance.
A maximum of eight pianists will then be chosen to proceed to the finals, which will be held at the Royal Northern College of Music on the evening of 22 August. Finalists will perform before an audience and a distinguished jury which comprises Noriko Ogawa, Michael Roll, Jason Rebello, Nikki Iles, Murray McLachlan and Pianist magazine editor Erica Worth.
Erica Worth comments, ‘We want to be able to give amateur pianists of all levels, and who play all types of repertoire, the chance to work towards something really challenging, with the ultimate opportunity of getting up there and playing on stage on a concert grand, in front of a live audience. And it’s not actually so much about winning the top prize – it’s about the whole process from when the person decides to enter, chooses what repertoire to learn, tries to perfect it, makes the recording, and then finally gets that entry in to the post! No matter how far any entrant gets in this Competition, it will be worth it, because they will have improved, they will have worked towards a dream, and they will surely look forward to the next one!’

Tags: Pianos, competition, yamaha, chethams, Chethams music school, yamaha, piano competition

Hand-held field recorders have been hot commodities for musicians, recording engineers, and sound designers for years. Today, the mercury rises in this dynamic market with the debut of the game-changing R-26. This innovative recorder is portable yet loaded with first-class, professional features, the likes of which the industry has not seen before. There are two types of stereo microphones built into the R-26, plus a pair of XLR/TRS combo inputs for external mics, and an input for a stereo plug-in powered mic. Choose simultaneous combinations of the built-in mics (directional and omnidirectional), as well as the external inputs. Capture live performances with simultaneous line and ambient signal paths, record important speeches, lectures, and presentations, or take the R-26 into the inner city or deep forest for pristine field capture. The sky's the limit with this powerful, portable, and incredibly flexible recorder.
New-Tech AdvantageThe R-26 features Roland's latest DSP engine, which allows simultaneous recording of up to six channels (three stereo channels). A large LCD touchscreen display lets you directly navigate menus for customizing the microphone settings, editing waveforms, and so on. It also features large input-level knobs for making precise adjustments.
Built-In Stereo MicsDirectional and omnidirectional stereo microphones are built into the R-26, and can be used simultaneously. This unique multi-stereo mic recording system lets you capture a wide stereo soundfield without spoiling the vibrant low frequencies and ambience of the venue.
External InputsTwo XLR/TRS combo mic inputs are built into the R-26, plus an input for a stereo plug-in powered mic, which can be combined simultaneously with the internal mics. At a live concert, for example, the R-26 can capture a stereo mix from the FOH mixer via its XLR inputs, as well as the ambient audience noise via its built-in stereo mics.
Six-Channel Simultaneous RecordingThe R-26 allows up to six channels of simultaneous recording (three stereo pairs). Capture the same sound source with three different types of microphones, both internal and external. This provides a new level of flexibility after the fact, as you can choose from the individual tracks or composite mixes.
USB ConnectivityYou can connect the R-26 to your computer for use as an audio interface or for external storage. Use the R-26 in combination with the bundled SONAR LE software app to perform recording and detailed editing on your PC.

Tags: roland, r26, field recorders, recorders, jazzhooves

The New Korg MicroArranger is the latest addition to Korg's line of 'micro' keyboard instruments. Using its extensive Style Engine, the microARRANGER can quickly turn a simple idea into a complete song featuring a full backing arrangement. The specifications and capabilities are based on Korg's Pa50SD Professional Arranger. Here is what Korg say about this new mini keyboard;

Following the composer's tempo selection, chord changes and voice leading, the microARRANGER can create a full backing arrangement in real time, based on the selected musical Style. Each of the over 300 Styles is a complete composing environment that includes intros, breaks, fills, endings and four variations for a realistic performance. Each Style also includes four preset instrument selections. The user is always free to change any element to his or her own liking. These same features allow the user to play a favorite song, with the microARRANGER creating a full backing arrangement on the fly.
The user's compositions can be recorded in a variety of ways. The internal recorder features step, real-time and workstation modes, allowing both the accomplished player and the non-keyboardist the ability to create and save their own songs with a rich backing arrangement – anything from a simple drum and bass groove to a jazz quartet or a full R&B rhythm section. Full editing tools are included to polish any performance. Songs can be saved on a convenient SD/SDHC card.

The microARRANGER features high-quality Korg sound, with over 650 professionally-created sounds to choose from. Four studio-quality stereo effects processors add vitality and motion to the sound; 89 Effect Programs are available.
As the "micro" name implies, the microARRANGER is compact, lightweight, and extremely portable. The Natural Touch keyboard features 61 velocity sensitive mini-keys proportioned for comfortable playing. A stereo speaker system is built right in for sharing the microARRANGER's sound, or headphones can be used for private practice.

Tags: news

The robust, mobile, Olympus LS-100 Multi-Track Linear PCM recorder, becomes available from January 2012 at a recommended price of £449.
This extreme audio quality has now been amplified with eight-track recording and overdubbing capabilities to turn sounds and individual tracks into complete compositions – all within the palm of the hand
Besides its integrated stereo mics, the LS-100 also features dual XLR/Phone combo jacks to facilitate the direct connection with professional external microphones or other musical equipment. The uncompressed 96kHz/24bit Linear PCM format ensures a frequency range of 20-20,000Hz, which means low-end sounds are captured just as clearly as the higher range.
Separate audio and system circuit boards with independent power supplies, together with the improved, sensitivity adjustable mics with a 90° layout ensure natural sound capture. Signals are optimised due to the onboard limiter and compressor whilst Automatic Gain Control (AGC) tweaks signals to their optimum level. And a switchable (300Hz/100Hz) low-cut filter also enhances recordings made in situations with background noise.
It is also the first and currently only model in the Olympus LS range to boast dual XLR/Phone combo jacks (with 48/24V Phantom Power Supply). This enables instruments and professional external microphones to be plugged directly into the unit. The interface is equipped with an independent instrumentation amplifier, ensuring that low noise, high signal/noise (S/N) ratio recordings can confidently be made – even when using long leads. Levels for the left and right channels can be independently adjusted according to the requirements of the attached instruments thanks to the integrated recording level dial. Up to eight tracks are at users’ disposal. Each can be separately volume adjusted and panned, then mixed down to create the complete composition – all on the device. Overdubs are also in the repertoire of the LS-100, allowing sound recording to take place over the original sound while simultaneously monitoring it. Meanwhile, the Playback Synchro Recording feature enables recording of an additional track while listening to another.

Tags: olympus LS100, LS100, olympus, pocket, Multitrack, jazzhooves

Ever wondered what colour your Wersi Scala would look like in metallic brown? Well now it is an option from Wersi. The Wersi Louvre is now listed as being available in Metallic Brown colour. Wersi are always great looking instruments and now Metallic brown will be an option. The cost of the louvre in metallic brown is now 40,000 euros.
As soon as we get to see the first one, we will let you see what this new colour looks like.

Tags: wersi, Metallic brown, organ, scala, Louvre, abacus, verona,

How do you make a computer sound like a fully functional, incredible theatre or classical organ? Watch this space!

2012 is Orla’s 50th anniversary and to celebrate this amazing achievement, Orla Direct, the UK distributor of the products have put a webpage together on youtube featuring a number of videos. We were delighted to see and hear a video from Paul Carman - the General Manager of Orla Direct, playing and singing “Smile”.
You can view the video here:



I’ve got to say, not having heard Paul sing before, he has an amazing voice and I would love to hear more of him singing!
Paul, you are hiding an amazing talent!

Tags: orla, Paul carman, orla sport, keyboard, organ, theatre, orla-direct, orla, Direct

We have a new review of the M-Audio Projectmix I/O in our new style review section.
Thanfully this amazing soundcard and mixer gives us something to get excited about. Read our review here.

Tags: M-Audio Projectmix, M-Audio, projectmix, soundcard, mixer,

Wersi have had a rocky ride recently, with the company going into administration and being taken over by the MusicStore company in Germany.
Many owners wondered if the brand would keep it’s head above water.
Things at Wersi seem to be going from good to great as Robert Bartha joins the team and leaves Bohm after nearly 25 years of playing Bohm instruments. Combine this with their new lower prices, the new pegasus wing keyboard and the improved backup and support, and the future really does look good.

The Pegasus Wing offers real drawbars and a 10 inch colour touch screen, something no other keyboard on the market offers and as a starting keyboard, this 76 note instrument really is a good buy.

The Verona, Scala and Louvre offer their usual high spec and the introduction of the new Abacus Showtime (awful name but great instrument) completes the set.
The showtime uses the Abacus as the heart of the system and gives a lower manual and pedals to give a really portable organ solution.

Wersi are one of the few companies offering the complete package for the growing musician. Start off with a pegasus wing - and then move through the range up to the Louvre!!
For more details you can contact :

UK Dealers
Wersi Direct - http://www.wersidirect.com
Peter Armitage - http://www.wersi.uk.com

Netherlands Dealers
Wersi Promotion - www.wersi-promotion.nl

After the phenomenal success of the WERSI 2011 Oktoberfest in Bournemouth, WERSI Direct Ltd are proud to announce our bigger, longer and generally more fabulous Oktoberfest for 2012!

The Menzies luxury 4* hotel chain is renowned for its high class, luxury accommodation and professional staff. WERSI has joined forces with Menzies to bring the 2012 Oktoberfest to you at the stunning Stourport Mannor Hotel (Midlands). As the hotel is in the Midlands, this makes it easy to travel to from any location in the UK.

Artists

Claudia Hirschfeld headlines the 2012 Oktoberfest. Claudia has travelled the world with her WERSI Louvre and is very well known.

Bill Horn returns from the good old ‘US or A’ by popular demand to Co-Headline Oktoberfest 2012. The incredible artist, performer and comedian headlined the 2011 Oktoberfest and it’s probably true to say that Bill will capture your hearts and have you in fits of laughter for for hours.

Brett Wales returns with his amazing WERSI Louvre. Brett will also perform on the new WERSI Flagship Arranger Keyboard ‘Pegasus Wing’.

Ben Scott-Hyde returns with the WERSI Scala. The incredible sound of Ben is guaranteed to delight any music lover.

Robert New returns with the WERSI Abacus Showtime the starting model for the Wersi range of organs.

Daniel Watt makes his debut at the Oktoberfest 2012. Daniel plays the WERSI Spectra Golden Gate and WERSI OAS MIDI Expander EX-1. Daniel is well known for his many years on the organ circuit and has been a wersi perfomer for many years and is a superb artist. Visit Wersi Direct’s site for more details.

Tags: wersi, brett wales, Daniel Watt, Claudia Hirschfeld, Louvre, , scala, oktoberfest, 2012, organ, keyboard, piano, yamaha, verona,

What do you do when you have a lot of recordings on LP or tape and want to transfer them to you computer?
Well that’s excactly the situation we were in recently when we purchased a number of recordings on LP! First thought was to buy a USB turntable and archive the recordings using a PC or Mac computer. The problem we faced was the choice of units out there.

With companies such as Denon, Sony, ION and many others making these relatively cheap units, which one should you choose?
We looked at a vast number of units and if you are a true lover of vinyl, then the Denon USB turntable has to be the first choice, with an incredible specification and all of the features found on a pro DJ turntable. Priced at £299 this unit has to be one of the most expensive ones on the market.

However, the ION Profile pro turntable offers incredible quality and price. Some units only have USB output, where the better units on the market have line out audio as well, which gives you the ability to connect to your stereo system and listen to the music as you would normally.
The ION combines both, and gives you an audio inupt so y ou can archive your tape recordings as well. Priced at just £79.99 this amazing piece of kit gives you exactlty what you need in a convenient unit.
Using the unit could not be easier. Plug into your Mac or PC, and launch the EZ Audio Converter software that comes with the turntable and you are up and running in seconds.
Follow a step by step on screen guide and you can have a complete album archived in 20 minutes.
Linking directly with iTunes, the software is a breeze to operate, however there is another program available which we have purchased and we will reivew this a litter later.

There is something very retro about archiving your LP’s but it was a joy to at last hear my old albums, many of which will feature in our new podcasts.

Our review of the Roland BK7M module is our all time most visited feature on our website. This review outlines the features and outstanding sound of this incredible little unit. We have received endless emails from readers who have gone out and bought this product having read our review. We are delighted that many of you have bought this module as we think it is one of the best buys for 2011. Read our review if you haven’t already...

The PSR-S650 provides an exceptionally wide variety of realistic sounding Voices in all instrument categories. With a total of 359 authentic instrument Voices (including 9 MegaVoices), and 181 accompaniment Styles, you will be amazed at the range and quality of sounds and effects that PSR-S650 has to offer.
Voice & Style Expandability



Thanks to Yamaha’s new Voice & Style Expansion contents for the PSR-S650, players can take advantage of a wide and ever-increasing selection of regional, ethnic and traditional Voices and Styles. Purchase online, download them and install to your PSR and instantly play authentic sounds, rhythm and backing in the musical style of your choice! (Internet access and USB memory stick required - not supplied) *Expansion Packs will be available soon
MegaVoice Technology
Drawing on technology from the legendary Tyros series, MegaVoice technology brings a new level of realism to the PSR-S650. The MegaVoices feature various playing articulations, techniques and performance sounds. For example, guitar MegaVoices can have hammer-on, slide and mute sounds to go along with soft, medium and loud sounds with strumming and fret noise, all at the same time. Put it all together in a Yamaha Guitar-Enhanced Style and enjoy some of the most astonishingly realistic, expressive accompaniment you've ever heard!

OKEY Live is back in 2012. This incredible festival will be held in the german village of Herdecke and this really is a festival not to be missed.
Run by the team from the German OKEY magazine, this festival is held in a stunning hotel and you get to see more organs and keyboards than anywhere else. Companies such as Wersi, Bohm, Roland, Yamaha, Orla, Korg, Hammond and many many more present stunning shows and exhibitions of their products.

We have been attending since 2009 and have not found a festival better than this! To find out more visit the OKEY website www.tastenfestival.de or search for OKEY on Facebook.
The team at Jazzhooves will be there - and if you are in the UK and want to travel to this festival, you can email us and we can give u all the help you need.

The famous Kids 2 Keys competition held in Herdecke for keyboard instrument players is expanding. 2011 saw an incredible line up of young talent and due to the outstanding success of this event, the team are opening the competition to adults and professionals. You can register now to enter the 2012 competition which promises to be the biggest competition so far.

You can register via the IFET website by clicking here.

Music magazine from Roland and Boss - two of the world's leading brands of musical instruments and music production gear. Click on the ipad to download the app. A great read and now in a great format.

Following on from the incredible review of Sample Robot, we are pleased to announce that the latest version has been released. Sample Robot 4 offers a whole host of new features and we hope that we can bring you a full review shortly.

Watch this space.