Friday, March 2, 2012

PreSonus BlueTube DP 2-Channel Vacuum Tube Dual-Path Mic Pre

PreSonus BlueTube DP 2-Channel Vacuum Tube Dual-Path Mic Pre Review



PreSonus BlueTube DP 2-Channel Vacuum Tube Dual-Path Mic Pre Feature

  • Dual-path technology: all tube, all solid-state or anywhere in between
  • Class-A gain stage
  • Illuminated analog VU meters
  • XLR balanced microphone inputs and hi-z instrument inputs
  • Optional rackmount kit
The new BLUETUBE DP two channel microphone/instrument preamplifier with Dual Path technology delivers the best of both worlds offering a solid state preamplifier stage and a tube preamplifier stage in each channel. This new Dual Path feature delivers the most flexible preamplifier in its price range by delivering both fat warm tube tone or invisible solid state transparency. The BLUETUBE DP replaces the original award-winning BLUETUBE as PreSonus' most affordable two-channel microphone/instrument preamplifier. Each channel of the BLUETUBE DP includes a -20dB pad, polarity reverse, 80Hz filter, and +48v phantom power. Front panel controls include solid state GAIN control and switchable on/off TUBE DRIVE. When the TUBE DRIVE is clicked off, the tube preamplifier stage is bypassed delivering ultra-quiet and transparent preamplification. The front panel also includes illuminated analog VU meters for each channel for easy visual monitoring.

The BLUETUBE DP's inputs are professional-quality Neutrik Combo connectors for inputting both XLR and 1/4" TS sources. Outputs include both XLR and TS jacks allowing for ultimate flexibility.

The PreSonus BLUETUBE Dual Path is great for enhancing all types of microphones including condensors, dynamics and ribbons, as well as instruments including keyboards, acoustic and electric guitars and bass. The BLUETUBE DP is the perfect front-end preamplifier for any project studio delivering a wide range of sounds and tonality all at an amazingly affordable price.

Specifications
  • Input
    • Connector Type: Neutrik™ Combo
    • XLR Impedance: 1.3K Ohms
    • Hi-Z, 1/4": 1 Meg Ohms
  • Output
    • Connector Type: XLR and 1/4" TS
    • Impedance: 51 Ohms
  • Panel Controls
    • Gain: 0dB to +54dB
    • Tube Drive: 0% to 100%
    • Phase Reversal
    • -20dB Pad
    • Phantom Power
  • Meters
    • Analog VU: -2odBu to +6dBu
    • Clip Indicator: +22dBu
  • Performance
    • THD Noise (Unweighted) Solid State: < 0.005%
    • THD Noise (Unweighted) Tube stage: 0.01% to 30%
    • Signal To Noise: >95dB
    • Power Supply Rejection: >98dB
  • Physical
    • Weight: 4lbs
    • Dimensions: 8" x 5" x 1.75"
    • Mounting: Universal rack tray insert
  • Power Supply
    • Type: Linear
    • Input: 16VAC / 1000mA
    • Power: 16 Watts
    • Transformer: External
The BlueTube DP two-channel microphone/instrument preamplifier with Dual Path technology delivers the best of both worlds offering a solid state preamplifier stage and a tube preamplifier stage in each channel. Dual Path delivers the most flexible preamplifier in its price range by delivering both fat warm tube tone and solid state transparency. Each channel of the BlueTube DP includes a -20dB PAD, polarity reverse, 80Hz LPF, and +48V phantom power. Front panel controls include solid state gain control and switchable tube drive. It is the perfect front-end preamplifier for any project studio delivering a wide range of sounds and tonality all at an amazingly affordable price.


Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Pioneer SPH-DA01 AppRadio 6.1-Inch In-Dash Double-Din AV Receiver for iPod and iPhone

Pioneer SPH-DA01 AppRadio 6.1-Inch In-Dash Double-Din AV Receiver for iPod and iPhone Review



Pioneer SPH-DA01 AppRadio 6.1-Inch In-Dash Double-Din AV Receiver for iPod and iPhone Feature

  • Two-DIN digital receiver offers in-dash access and control of compatible iPhone 4 apps with a 6.1-inch touchscreen display
  • Familiar control gestures and large capacitive touchscreen designed specifically to allow safer access to compatible iPhone 4 content
  • Browse, search, call, and map your contacts from your iPhone 4 contacts list with built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling
  • Compatible apps include Internet radio from PANDORA and Rdio, navigation from MotionX-GPS Drive, INRIX traffic info, and more
  • Features include AM/FM tuner with RDS, rear view camera input, Pioneer EQ audio tuning, and pair of RCA preamp outputs for system expansion

Adding a New Touch to Your Connected Lifestyle

Pioneer's revolutionary, game-changing AppRadio is the first car stereo to revolutionize the driver's smartphone experience by bringing compatible iPhone 4 apps to your dash. When connected to an iPhone 4 (or a 4th generation iPod touch) loaded with Pioneer's free AppRadio Application, the AppRadio in-dash stereo provides the ultimate in-vehicle smartphone experience. With AppRadio's in-dash, capacitive touchscreen, you can enjoy full on-screen access and control of your iPhone contacts, calendar, maps, and more with an intuitive interface, formatted and designed specifically for safer in-vehicle operation. Pioneer has teamed up with several app providers to offer compatibility with many of today's most popular in-vehicle apps, while also developing an expanding catalog of AppRadio compatible apps for future features and functions that can be easily and seamlessly added. AppRadio will even notify you when new compatible apps are released.

Pioneer AppRadio
AppRadio revolutionizes the driver's smartphone experience by bringing compatible iPhone 4 apps to your dash. Click here for a larger image
Your Dash Just Got Smarter

Simply download Pioneer's free AppRadio Application and any other AppRadio-compatible apps to your iPhone from the iTunes App Store, connect it to the AppRadio stereo, and you're ready to experience your smartphone in an entirely new way.

Reinventing Connectivity

AppRadio allows you to bring many of the most used features from your phone such as browsing and searching your contact list and iPod music library, view important events and reminders in your calendar and much more right from the driver's seat of your car.

Get There

  • MotionX-GPS Drive is the next-generation turn-by-turn driving solution for the iPhone. With always live, always up-to-date information, MotionX helps you find what you're looking for and get there fast with live door-to-door guidance. With millions of users, MotionX-GPS Drive is the #1 top selling navigation app on Apple's iTunes App Store.

  • Find destinations, view route direction lists and route to that location through a Google Maps local search. Even create bookmarks and register locations on the map all using the in-dash touchscreen.

Avoid the Rush

  • INRIX Traffic is a free app that helps drivers save time, money and use less gas traveling to the places they go every day. Fueled by the largest traffic network in the world, the app's real-time traffic information and traffic forecasts help drivers quickly determine the best route, identify traffic hotspots and get alerts to accidents and other traffic-causing delays.
Pioneer AppRadio With iPhone
Download Pioneer's free AppRadio Application and any other compatible apps, connect to the AppRadio stereo, and you're ready to experience your smartphone in an entirely new way.
Pioneer AppRadio With MotionX-GPS
AppRadio revolutionizes the driver's smartphone experience by bringing compatible iPhone 4 apps to your dash. Click here for a larger image

Stay Entertained

  • Rdio is an unlimited, on-demand social music service that brings music alive by letting subscribers listen to as many songs as they want, anytime, anywhere, and discover and share new music with friends. Rdio subscribers build and share their online music collections from a catalogue of over 8 million songs and can check out the listening activity, collections and playlists of other users and influencers as well as see what's in heavy rotation in their network, top charts, and newly released albums.

  • Integration of PANDORA internet radio, one of the most popular internet radio services, allows for on-screen control of saved stations including track information such as title, artist and album art. In addition to the capability of rating a track with thumbs-up or thumbs-down, you can also easily bookmark a track, skip the currently playing track, change stations and select Quickmix playback.

  • Enjoy Internet streamed video while parked with the parking brake engaged; you and your passengers can enjoy YouTube and Netflix content (note that Netflix is a paid subscription services and is not included. Visit www.netflix.com for more information).

Future-Ready

As the library of AppRadio compatible applications grows, users will be automatically notified the AppRadio application, with a link to the respective app(s) page within the App Store. Additionally, the AppRadio software itself is updatable, offering the potential for future hardware, software and app compatibility changes.

Plus the Basics...

In addition to the revolutionary iPhone 4 connectivity, the two-DIN AppRadio features an AM/FM tuner with RDS, built-in Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (features vary depending on your phone/device), a rear view camera input, and Pioneer's easy EQ audio tuning, which makes it quick and easy to tailor your audio experience.

Control it all from the brilliant 6.1-inch WVGA (800 x 480) touchscreen display, and expand your system using a pair of RCA preamp outputs.

What's in the Box

Double-DIN AppRadio Main Unit, Power/RCA/Speaker Harnesses, External Microphone, GPS Antenna, iPod Cable, Installation Hardware, Product Registration Card, Warranty Card, Installation Manual, License Agreement, Quick Start Manual


Sunday, February 26, 2012

Marantz AV7005 Audio Video Pre-Processor (Black)

Marantz AV7005 Audio Video Pre-Processor (Black) Review



Marantz AV7005 Audio Video Pre-Processor (Black) Feature

  • Ver.1.4 3D ready 6 HDMI inputs(including 1 front input) 2 selectable outputs
  • USB input for music playback with iPhone/iPod and USB memory
  • Bluetooth capability with option RX10
  • Network player function for music/photo streaming, Compatible with Windows7, Support UPnP, Internet Radio(v-Tuner), Online streaming service available: napster, PANDORA, Rhapsody and flickr, iPhone/iPod Touch Apps Control
  • Audyssey Dynamic Volume, Dyamic EQ, DSX and MultEQ XT room accoustic calibration
New stylish front design with dual display, Current feedback Pre amplifier with Marantz HDAM circuit, Ver.1.4 3D ready 6 HDMI inputs(including 1 front input) 2 selectable outputs, USB input for music playback with iPhone/iPod and USB memory, Bluetooth capability with option RX101, Network player function for music/photo streaming, Compatible with Windows7, Support UPnP, Internet Radio(v-Tuner), Online streaming service available: napster, PANDORA, Rhapsody and flickr, iPhone/iPod Touch Apps Control, Dolby TureHD&PLIIz, dts-HD MA, Audyssey Dynamic Volume, Dynamic EQ, DSX and MultEQ XT room acoustic calibration, HDMI to HDMI Digital Video scaling, 2nd&3rd zone audio outputs, XLR&RCA Pre outputs, Color GUI OSD, Backlit&Learning Remote with LCD, HD Radio, Sirius Ready, IP&Web Browser control capability, Audyssey Pro for Custom Installation, Flasher Input, Marantz Remote Control In/Out terminals, DC trigger x2, RS-232C, Detachable Power code


Saturday, February 25, 2012

JVC KW-XR810 4 x 50 Watts Dual USB/CD Receiver

JVC KW-XR810 4 x 50 Watts Dual USB/CD Receiver Review



JVC KW-XR810 4 x 50 Watts Dual USB/CD Receiver Feature

  • Double-DIN AM/FM radio, CD, CD-R/RW, MP3/WMA/WAV receiver with built-in Bluetooth
  • 4 x 50 Watts MOSFET amplifier with three sets of 2.5V preamp outputs (front, rear, subwoofer)
  • Full-color DOT display with dimmer and Separated Variable Color feature
  • Includes auxiliary input, dual USB ports (front/back), iPod direct control
  • Add optional JVC modules for SAT/HD radio
  • Optional JVC modules for SAT/HD radio
  • Auxiliary input, dual USB ports , iPod direct control
  • 4 x 50 Watts MOSFET amplifier with three sets of 2.5V preamp outputs
JVC's double-DIN KW-XR810 is a USB/CD receiver with plenty of connectivity--connect USB devices and iPod/iPhones using dual USB ports, or other devices using the front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input. Bluetooth technology gives you hands-free audio or audio streaming with your cell phone, and expansion options include three preamp outputs and the easy addition of HD or satellite radio. The icing on the cake is JVC's Separated Variable Color, which lets you adjust the receiver's display color to match your vehicle or preference.

A double-DIN USB/CD receiver with plenty of connectivity. Click to enlarge.

Easily switch Bluetooth connection between 2 phones, such as for business/private use.

Wireless remote included.

Add an optional HD or Satellite radio solution from JVC to take advantage of XM/SIRIUS programming or HD features like Multicasting or iTunes tagging.

Separated Variable Color
The KW-XR810 features a Full-Dot LCD with JVC's Separated Variable-Color. Personalize your stereo to match your vehicle's interior illumination colors. Separated variable color lets you use two separate colors from a choice of over 30,000 options to create your own color scheme.

Built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Drive more safely (or legally depending on where you live) with hands-free calling. The included wired microphone offers flexible settings for clear communication. The Phone Book Access Profile (PBAP) for iPhone lets you automatically access your phone book without transfer. You can also manually transfer up to 400 numbers from compatible cell phones. Changing from hands-free to a private conversation can be done by a push of a key. You can also easily switch Bluetooth connection between 2 phones, such as for business/private use.

CD and MP3/WMA/WAV Playback
Enjoy your favorite CDs or throw in burnt CD-Rs. You can also listen back to MP3/WMA/WAV data CDs, which allows you to throw hours of music on a single disc, with ID3 tag display of artist and track info. Or better yet, just drag your files to a USB thumb drive and plug it into the receiver's front-panel USB port.

A 24-bit TI/Burr-Brown analog-to-digital converter provides a solid sound base, and you can perfect it with the three-band EQ. For quiter listening, a Loudness function (in three different patterns) is provided, to ensure you still get some low-end and dynamics.

Front-Panel USB and Auxiliary Input
Connect USB thumb drives, iPods/iPhones (see below), or other USB devices using the USB port. If you have another audio device that's not USB compatible, just use the standard 3.5mm auxiliary input and you're all set. A second USB port is provided on the rear of the receiver, so you can keep a couple devices connected.

USB Audio and Video for iPod/iPhone
The USB connection for iPod/iPhone provides clear digital sound directly from your iPod or iPhone. While your device is in use, it also receives a charge, so it's ready to step out of the car when you do. Since the KD-R810 features two USB ports, you can connect two different iPods, or a USB device along with an iPod.

With External Mode for iPod, you can also enjoy sound from your favorite iPod/iPhone apps in your vehicle, such as Internet radio, games, video, or navigation apps (compatibility differs by model).

AM/FM Radio
The KW-XR810 features an AM/FM radio, with 6 AM and 18 FM presets, for quick access to your favorite stations.

The HS-IVi tuner features higher sensitivity, thanks to three IF bandwidths (wide, middle and narrow). It also includes AM Noise Canceller plus upgraded IF filters that help avoid the distortion caused by interference from adjacent stations.

HD/SAT Radio Ready
If you'd like to add some serious entertainment options to your vehicle, add an optional HD or Satellite radio solution from JVC to take advantage of XM/SIRIUS programming or HD features like Multicasting or iTunes tagging.

50W x 4 MOSFET Amplifier
The built-in 50W x 4 MOSFET amp provides plenty of power, but three 2.5V preamp output terminals (front, rear, subwoofer) are also provided for system building.

What's in the Box
KW-XR810 Receiver, Bluetooth Microphone, Sleeve/Trim Ring, Wiring Harness, Installation Hardware, Instruction/Intallation Manuals, Warranty Info

JVC's double-DIN KW-XR810 is a USB/CD receiver connects USB devices and iPod/iPhones using dual USB ports, or other devices using the front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input. Bluetooth technology allows hands-free audio or audio streaming with cell phone and expansion options include three preamp outputs and the addition of HD or satellite radio. The JVC’s Separated Variable Color allows adjusting the receiver's display color.


Thursday, February 23, 2012

Shure PG48-XLR Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with XLR-to-XLR Cable

Shure PG48-XLR Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with XLR-to-XLR Cable Review



Shure PG48-XLR Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with XLR-to-XLR Cable Feature

  • Tailored frequency response is smooth and extended. Tuned specifically for vocal applications. On/off switch for onstage control.
  • Cardioid polar pattern picks up the most sound from in front of the microphone and some sound from the sides. Less susceptible to feedback in high volume settings.
  • Dynamic cartridge has a simple, rugged coil. Handles extreme volume levels without distortion. Durable metal construction.
  • Steel mesh ball grille with integral pop filter reduces explosive breath sounds and wind noise.
  • Includes a 15 feet (4.57m) XLR to XLR Cable, Microphone Clip, 5/8 to 3/8 Inches Threaded Adapter, and a Storage Bag.
  • Tailored frequency response is smooth and extended. Tuned specifically for vocal applications.
  • Cardioid polar pattern picks up the most sound from in front of the microphone and some sound from the sides.
  • Dynamic cartridge has a simple, rugged coil. Handles extreme volume levels without distortion.
  • On/off switch for onstage control.
  • Steel mesh ball grille with integral "pop" filter reduces explosive breath sounds and wind noise.
  • On/off switch for onstage control.Less susceptible to feedback in high volume settings.
  • Less susceptible to feedback in high volume settings.
Tailored for performers of every level, the Shure PG48 vocal microphone is an excellent performance microphone for spoken word applications--and it's also a great choice for karaoke singing. This PG48-XLR model includes a 15-foot XLR-to-XLR cable, microphone clip, 5/8" to 3/8" thread adapter, and a storage bag. It's backed by a 2-year warranty.

Key Features

  • Tailored frequency response is smooth and extended. Tuned specifically for vocal applications.
  • Cardioid polar pattern picks up the most sound from in front of the microphone and some sound from the sides. Less susceptible to feedback in high volume settings.
  • Dynamic cartridge has a simple, rugged coil. Handles extreme volume levels without distortion.
  • Cartridge includes a neodymium magnet for high output level.
  • Durable metal construction.
  • On/off switch for onstage control.
  • Steel mesh ball grille with integral "pop" filter reduces explosive breath sounds and wind noise.

The PG48 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a professional quality microphone designed to be used for spoken word and karaoke performance applications. With rugged durability and excellent sound, the PG48 comes with an on/off switch, swivel adapter, carrying pouch and XLR-XLR cable.


Tuesday, February 21, 2012

TASCAM iM2 Channel Portable Digital Recorder

TASCAM iM2 Channel Portable Digital Recorder Review



TASCAM iM2 Channel Portable Digital Recorder Feature

  • Adjustable stereo condenser microphones
  • 125dB maximum level for recording loud concerts and instruments without distortion
  • Built-in analog to digital converter and microphone preamp for low noise recording
  • Switchable limiter attenuates high-level signals to prevent recording overload
  • Powered through Apple dock connector
TASCAM's iM2 turns the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch into a high-quality stereo recorder. A pair of condenser microphones - the same high quality as TASCAM's best-selling DR-series recorders - plugs into the dock connector of your Apple device.The microphones are adjustable over 180 degrees for the best sound placement. The uni-directional elements are arranged in an AB pattern for detailed stereo imaging while capturing the ambience of your room.The iM2 contains its own microphone preamp and analog-to-digital converter for low noise and great audio quality. Unlike mics that use the built-in iPhone preamp, the iM2 can handle up to 125dB sound levels to capture the loudest concerts and instruments without distortion.


Monday, February 20, 2012

Winegard AP8275 Chromstar 2000 Signal Amplifier

Winegard AP8275 Chromstar 2000 Signal Amplifier Review



Winegard AP8275 Chromstar 2000 Signal Amplifier Feature

  • High performance, low noise TV antenna preamplifier
  • 29 dB VHF, 28 dB UHF
  • Amplifies digital signal
  • Built in FM Trap to prevent overload from strong local FM stations
  • Power supply and power injector included
  • Technical Information - Frequency Range - 88 MHz to 108 MHz; Technical Information - Impedance - 75 Ohm
  • Technical Information - Gain - 29 dB - 3 dB Noise - VHF, 28 dB - 3 dB Noise - UHF
  • Technical Information - Housing - Zinc
Technical Information - Frequency Range - 88 MHz to 108 MHz; Technical Information - Impedance - 75 Ohm; Technical Information - Gain - 29 dB - 3 dB Noise - VHF, 28 dB - 3 dB Noise - UHF; Technical Information - Housing - Zinc; Manufacturer - Winegard Company; Manufacturer Part Number - AP8275; Manufacturer Website Address - winegard; Brand Name - Winegard; Product Line - Chromstar; Product Series - 2000; Product Model - AP8275; Product Name - Chromstar 2000 AP8275 Signal Amplifier; Product Type - Signal Amplifier; Miscellaneous - Package Contents - Chromstar 2000 AP8275 Signal Amplifier Power Supply 6 Foot Coax Cable; Technical Information - Frequency Range - 88 MHz to 108 MHz; Technical Information - Impedance - 75 Ohm; Technical Information - Gain - 29 dB - 3 dB Noise - VHF, 28 dB - 3 dB Noise - UHF; Technical Information - Housing - Zinc;