Tag Archive: Icon

  1. Icon Pro Audio Announces New Platform Nano DAW Controller & Icon OneHub Powered USB Hub

    Comments Off on Icon Pro Audio Announces New Platform Nano DAW Controller & Icon OneHub Powered USB Hub

    Icon Platform Nano - 02 - Synthax Audio UKIcon introduces the latest additions to their modular range of ‘Platform Series’ USB-MIDI control surfaces.

    London Colney, UK– The Icon Platform Nano is a compact USB-MIDI controller that can operate either standalone, or as part of a larger setup when used alongside other controllers in the Icon Platform Series. Designed primarily for mobile recording and smaller setups, the Icon Platform range brings the power of dedicated audio hardware to ‘in-the-box’ production, adding hands-on control to recording, mixing and editing audio with a DAW.

     
    Providing quick access to a range of common tasks like selecting and arming tracks; setting timeline markers; and zooming and navigating projects; the Platform Nano also offers musicians tactile control over levels and panning, and for recording automation.
     
    Features include a touch-sensitive, motorised fader with 10-bit resolution; jog wheel and transport controls; backlit LCD display; and a selection of illuminated shortcut keys and rotary encoders. Mobile battery power and wireless Bluetooth operation is also possible via the optional Platform Nano-M1 (sold separately, expected Q2 2019).
     
    Support is provided for all of the most popular DAWs, with a selection of silicon shortcut overlays included for Ableton Live, Adobe Audition, Bitwig, Cubase/Nuendo, Digital Performer, FL Studio, Logic Pro X, ProTools, Reaper, Reason, Samplitude, Studio One and Sonar.
     
    The Platform Nano also features a User-Define Mode, enabling users to create their own customised MIDI-maps. Each button and encoder (along with the motorised fader) can be programmed by the user to perfectly suit any task, opening up a variety of potential uses in the studio.
     
    Built to the same height and depth dimensions as the Platform M+ and Platform X+, the Platform Nano sits perfectly alongside other USB controllers in the Platform Series. The Icon D2 Display (sold separately) can also be connected to provide more detailed parameter information.
     
    The Icon Platform Nano is expected to ship during Q1 2019, find out more here.
     
    NAMM 2018 - Icon OneHub - Synthax Audio UK

    Icon OneHub

    The Icon OneHub is a powered USB hub, designed specifically for connecting multiple Icon controllers to a single power supply and USB connection.

    Up to four Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders can be powered from a single mains plug, as well as interfacing with a Mac or PC via a single USB 3.0 cable, freeing up both USB ports and mains power sockets in your studio.

    The OneHub supports all of the latest generation of Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders, including the QCon Pro X Series, the Platform Series, and the new QCon G2 Series.

    The Icon OneHub is available now, find out more here.

     
     

    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

  2. Thanks for joining us at the Absolute Music 15th Anniversary Open Day

    Comments Off on Thanks for joining us at the Absolute Music 15th Anniversary Open Day

    Absolute MusicSynthax Stand 02 - Absolute Music 2018 - Synthax Audio UKBig thanks to everyone who stopped by the Synthax Audio UK stand at Absolute Music on Saturday 13th October.

    To celebrate reaching 15 years as a professional audio and instrument retailer, the Absolute Music store in Bournemouth held a celebratory open day last Saturday, with seminars and product demos from many of the biggest pro audio and instrument brands.

    The showroom was filled with a wide selection of recording and musical equipment, from audio interfaces, mic pres and converters, to control surfaces and MIDI controllers, and instruments like guitars, drums and synths, with knowledgeable staff on hand to provide help and advice. Members of the Synthax UK team headed down for the day for a slice of cake and to discuss the latest gear.

    At the Synthax stand we took the opportunity to showcase some of our favourite gear from our suppliers, including the brand new Icon QCon Pro G2 DAW Controller, which had only just arrived at the Synthax offices on the Friday, and the Platform B+ Button Expander (which according to one visitor resembles a ZX Spectrum, not heard that before!).

    Congratulations to everyone at Absolute for reaching this milestone, the well-stocked showroom is well worth checking out if you’re on or near the south coast.

    Find out more by visiting www.absolutemusic.co.uk.

     

    Here’s a reminder of the products we had on show from RME, Ferrofish, Icon and Appsys:

    Synthax Stand 01 - Absolute Music 2018 - Synthax Audio UKRME Fireface UFX+, Babyface Pro & ADI-2 DAC

    The latest flagship interface from RME, the Fireface UFX+ is a 188-channel powerhouse, and the first to feature USB 3, Thunderbolt and MADI Connectivity. The UFX+ embodies everything we’ve come to expect from RME – crystal-clear AD and DA conversion, unlimited routing between inputs and outputs with TotalMix FX, simultaneous backup recording with DURec, and fully comprehensive standalone operation.

    The RME Babyface Pro brings the transparent sound of RME’s larger interfaces to a compact, portable desktop design. Bus-powerable over USB (including both preamps operating with 48v phantom power), the Babyface Pro is perfect for singer-songwriters, software-based producers and location recordists, with dual headphone outputs, easy front-panel controls, and options to expand your setup at a later date via the ADAT I/O.

    The RME ADI-2 DAC is a 2-channel DA converter is the latest, greatest and best sounding converter in the RME family (along with its sibling, the ADI-2 Pro FS). Features include 1x “Extreme Power” headphone amplifier and 1x “Super Low Noise” IEM output, DSD playback, USB operation, digital SPDIF / ADAT support, and a wireless remote control. A real box of tricks, the ADI-2 DAC has options galore including full DSP processing with Bass, Treble, Loudness, 5 Band Parametric EQ, Crossfeed and much more.

    Find out more about RME audio interfaces

     

    Icon QCon Pro G2 & Icon Platform B+

    Icon QCon Pro G2 & Platform B+ - Absolute Music 2018 - Synthax Audio UK
    The Icon QCon Pro G2 is the update to the silver Icon QCon Pro, Icon’s original cost-effective, cross-platform DAW controller. Housed a slick black finish, the new Icon QCon Pro G2 features  touch-sensitive, 100mm motorised channel faders with 10-Bit resolution, allowing for small and accurate adjustments when you’re recording and mixing.

    Other features include comprehensive transport controls and an improved jog wheel; 78 assignable buttons (when used in user define mode); and support for more DAWs and music production software than ever before (via the Mackie Control Protocol and Mackie HUI), with additional shortcut overlays for FL Studio, Digital Performer and Adobe Audition (along with many others like Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One, Reason, ProTools and Ableton Live).

    The QCon Pro G2 can also be expanded with additional banks of faders – up to 3 x Icon QCon EX G2 fader expanders can be connected for a total of 32 motorised, touch-sensitive faders.

    The Icon Platform B+ is a dedicated bank of programmable shortcut keys for use in recording and mixing music, either as a standalone unit, or as part of a larger setup with multiple Icon Platform Series control surfaces.

    50 illuminated buttons providing quick access to the most used functions of your favourite DAW, making recording and editing audio faster and easier on both Mac and PC, with a selection of quickly accessible function keys helping to speed up and streamline your workflow.

     

    RME - Ferrofish - Appsys - Absolute Music 2018 - Synthax Audio UKFerrofish Pulse 16 – 16 in/ 16 out AD/DA Converter

    The Ferrofish Pulse 16 is a 16 in, 16 out A – D and D – A converter. With 16 analogue inputs and 16 analogue outputs, plus 4x ADAT I/O, redundant power supplies and internal routing options, the Ferrofish Pulse 16 packs an incredible level of functionality into a 1U box.

    The Pulse 16 also comes in two additional variants, the Ferrofish Pulse 16 MX (featuring additional MADI I/O) and the Ferrofish Pulse 16 DX (featuring both MADI and Dante I/O). The Ferrofish Pulse 16 can also be upgraded to an MX at a later date (via an official Ferrofish MADI optical SFP module).

    Find out more about Ferrofish Converters

     

    Synthax Stand 03 - Absolute Music 2018 - Synthax Audio UKAppsys ProAudio Multiverter – Multi-Format Digital Audio Converter with optional Sample Rate Converter

    The Appsys ProAudio Multiverter is a digital format converter with ADAT, MADI, AES50 and Dante/AES67 connectivity (with additional formats planned via breakout cables). Operating at sample rates up to 192kHz, the Multiverter can also act as a master clock, with word clock I/O included on BNC, and can be slaved to other digital devices. Triple redundant power supplies provide an unprecedented level of failsafe, with even the option to battery power via industry standard 4-pin XLR battery packs.

    Appsys also recently launched the SRC-64, a user-installable upgrade that adds considerable sample rate conversion capabilities to the Multiverter, and a new browser-based app allows for individual routing of all incoming and outgoing signals.

    Find out more about Appsys ProAudio

     


    synthax_uk_logo-2011
    If you’d like to know more about any of the pro audio solutions produced by RME, Ferrofish, Appsys or Icon Pro Audio, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team or to arrange a demo. You can also contact us here.

     

  3. New Controllers For Your DAW: Icon QCon Pro G2 and QCon EX G2 Now Available

    Comments Off on New Controllers For Your DAW: Icon QCon Pro G2 and QCon EX G2 Now Available

    Icon Platform B+ - Now Available - Synthax Audio UKIcon QCon Pro G2, Icon QCon EX G2 and Icon OneHub Now Available

    Having just announced the release of the Icon Platform B+ Button Expander, we’re pleased to report that the Icon QCon Pro G2 and QCon EX G2 are also now available to buy in the UK, two brand new control surfaces with motorised faders from Icon Pro Audio.

    There’s nothing like the feel of recording and mixing with real faders and encoders – being able to ride the volume on a vocal, apply EQ boosts and cuts with physical controls, quickly muting and soloing multiple instruments, or automating delay sends on the fly – all of these things never quite feel the same (or as easy) when just using a mouse. Add physical transport controls and a jog wheel into the mix, and you’ll find a control surface brings a whole new dimension to your workflow when you’re recording, mixing and editing your music.

    To get the best of both worlds, most modern studios look to combine both hardware and software. Icon’s DAW controllers help to bridge that gap, bringing tactile, hands-on control to your music production setup, whilst allowing you to benefit from all the positives of mixing in-the-box.

     

    Icon Qcon Pro G2 - Angle - Synthax Audio UKIcon QCon Pro G2 – Cross-Platform DAW Controller for tracking and mixing

    The Icon QCon Pro G2 is the update to the silver Icon QCon Pro, Icon’s original cost-effective, cross-platform DAW controller. Housed in the same slick black finish as its larger sibling, the Icon QCon Pro X, the new Icon QCon Pro G2 also features the same touch-sensitive, motorised channel faders, with 10-Bit resolution and 100mm in length, allowing for small and accurate adjustments when you’re recording.

    Other features include comprehensive transport controls and an improved jog wheel; 78 assignable buttons (when used in user define mode); and support for more DAWs and music production software than ever before (via the Mackie Control Protocol and Mackie HUI), with additional shortcut overlays for FL Studio, Digital Performer and Adobe Audition (along with many others like Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One, Reason, ProTools and Ableton Live).

    Find out more about the Icon QCon Pro G2

     

     Icon Qcon EX G2 - Angle - Synthax Audio UK

    Icon QCon EX G2 – 8-Channel Fader Banks for expanding the QCon Pro G2
    (up to 32 channels)

    Alongside the new QCon Pro G2, Icon have also released the QCon EX G2 fader extenders. These banks of 8 faders allow you to expand your QCon Pro G2 setup when you need more channels, adding sets of 8 additional 100mm, motorised 10-Bit faders, plus illuminated buttons for mute, solo, record arm and channel select, a dual-function rotary encoder on every channel (set to pan by default), and a 12-segment LED level metering bridge.

    Find out more about the Icon QCon EX G2

     

     

    NAMM 2018 - Icon OneHub - Synthax Audio UKIcon OneHub

    The Icon OneHub is a powered USB hub that allows you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers to a single power supply. Up to four Icon Pro Audio devices can be powered from a single mains plug, as well as interfacing with your Mac or PC via a single USB 3.0 cable, freeing up both USB ports and mains power sockets in your studio.

    The 4 x power outputs allow you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders to the OneHub, such as the Icon QCon Pro X and QCon Pro XS, Icon QCon Pro G2 and EX G2, or the Icon Platform M+ and Platform X+. The OneHub also features 4 x USB connections (for your devices) along with a master USB connection, so you can connect all of your controllers to a single USB port on your Mac or PC.

    Find out more about the Icon OneHub

     


    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

     

  4. Icon Platform B+ – USB-MIDI Button Expander Now available

    Comments Off on Icon Platform B+ – USB-MIDI Button Expander Now available

    Icon Platform B+ - Now Available - Synthax Audio UKIcon Platform B+ now available to buy in the UK

    The Icon Platform B+ is now available in the UK! Part of Icon’s modular Platform Series of compact control surfaces, the Platform B+ is designed to fit perfectly alongside the Platform M+ DAW controller and the Platform X+ fader expanders, as well as operating in standalone mode if required.

    A dedicated bank of programmable shortcut keys for use in recording and mixing music, the Platform B+’s 50 illuminated buttons provides quick access to the most used functions of your favourite DAW.

    Adding further functionality and flexibility to your music production setup, the Platform B+ makes recording and editing audio both faster and easier. Whether you’re on a Mac or PC, its selection of quickly accessible function keys will help to speed up and streamline your workflow.

     



    Watch more videos at Synthax TV
     

     

    Icon Platform B+ - Synthax Audio UK

    Icon Platform B+ – Take Control Of Your DAW

    50 illuminated buttons give you quick access to all of the most used functions of your DAW, including cursor keys for zooming and moving about your project.

    A selection of silicon overlays are also included, for using the Platform B+ with a variety of the most popular DAWs on the market – Cubase / Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, FL Studio, Digital Performer and Ableton Live. There’s also a ‘User define’ mode for creating custom mappings, so you can customise your controller to perfect suit your preferred method of working, tailoring each button to control all of your most used parameters when you’re recording and creating music.

    Control surfaces are perfect for adding classic, hardware style recording to ‘in the box’ mixing. Icon’s range feature motorised faders for easy project recall, from the full size QCon Pro X (expandable in banks of further 8 motorised faders via the QCon Pro XS), to the Platform M+ range, designed for mobile recording and smaller setups.

    The Platform B+ can connect directly to the Platform M+ via the ports on the back of the unit, and can also be used standalone. So, if you just need a bank of 50 button shortcuts for your DAW at a low price, the Platform B+ may be the ideal addition to your studio.

     

    Find out more about the Icon Platform B+ Button Expander

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers


    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

     

  5. Absolute Music 15th Anniversary Open Day – RME, Icon, Ferrofish – Free Entry

    Comments Off on Absolute Music 15th Anniversary Open Day – RME, Icon, Ferrofish – Free Entry

    Bournemouth-based music store Absolute Music celebrates 15 years of pro audio retail with a free open day on Saturday October 13th

     

    Absolute_15_Aniversary-_SAUK_Feature_Banner_-_Aug_18.png

     

    We’re heading to the south-coast on Saturday 13th October to help Absolute Music celebrate their 15th birthday! The Bournemouth musical instrument and pro audio store is now into their 16th year of supplying all things music and recording, and to honour this milestone they’re hosting an open day, with seminars and product demos from some of the biggest brands in pro audio. You’ll be able to check out the latest software, instruments and gear from a host of manufacturers, with representatives available to provide advice and expertise throughout the day.

    Members of the Synthax Audio UK team will be there to showcase a few select products from our range, including RME’s professional audio interfaces; Icon Pro Audio’s USB-MIDI Controllers; and Ferrofish’s cost-effective AD/DA converters.

    Absolute are also running a free prize draw on the day, with everything from software to microphones to instruments up for grabs. Entry to both the show and the competitions is free, with no need to book tickets in advance – just pop down on the day between the hours of 10am and 6pm, and get your hands on some of the latest and greatest developments in pro audio gear. So, save the date and we look forward to seeing you there!

    For more information, check out the Absolute Music Blog here.

     

    The following products will be available to demo on our stand at the Absolute Music 15th Anniversary Open Day:RME Fireface UFX+ & Babyface Pro - Synthax Audio UK

    • RME Fireface UFX+ – 188-channel Audio Interface
    • RME Fireface UCX – 36-channel 1/2U Audio Interface
    • RME Babyface Pro – 24-channel Desktop Audio Interface
    • RME ADI-2 DAC – High-End Headphone Amplifier and USB-DAC
    • RME ARC USB – Dedicated Remote Control for RME’s TotalMix FX
    • Ferrofish Pulse 16 – 16-channel AD/DA Converter
    • Icon Platform M+ Compact USB-MIDI Control Surface with Icon Platform D2 Display
    • Icon Platform X+ Fader Expander
    • Icon QCon Pro G2 Desktop USB-MIDI Control Surface

     

    For more information, check out the Absolute Music Blog here.

     

    Date & Opening Hours

    Saturday, 13th October 2018      –      10 am – 6 pm

    Location

    3-5, Knighton Heath Industrial Estate

    855

    Ringwood Rd

    Bournemouth

    BH11 8NE


    synthax_uk_logo-2011If you’d like to know more about any of the pro audio solutions produced by RME, Ferrofish or Icon Pro Audio, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team or to arrange a demo. You can also contact us here.

  6. Icon Pro Audio Platform M+ – Upgrade to Firmware & iMap version 2.0 – Synthax Audio Uk

    Comments Off on Icon Pro Audio Platform M+ – Upgrade to Firmware & iMap version 2.0 – Synthax Audio Uk

    Icon Platform M+ iMap Software - Synthax Audio UKNew firmware update and iMap software now available for Icon Platform M+ users

    Icon Pro Audio has released the latest firmware update for the Platform M+ DAW Controller, which brings a change in how you select which DAW you’re working with.

    Instead of each DAW having its own mode (e.g. ProTools mode to control ProTools; Cubase Mode to control Cubase etc), there are now only four modes to select from:

        1.    MCP Mode – (Mackie Control Protocol) – Used for all DAWs except Logic and ProTools
        2.    Logic Mode – Only used to control Logic 
        3.    HUI Mode – Only used to control Pro Tools 
        4.    User Define Mode – Used to create custom control maps (will not work for ProTools)

    Check out the videos below for a walk-through of the upgrade process, and for a guide to creating your own custom midi mappings.

    Firmware version 2.01 can be downloaded from the Icon Pro Audio website.

    For more information on this update, read the release notes here.

     

    Upgrade your Icon Platform M+ to firmware version 2.0

    See more videos at Synthax TV

     

    Create a custom control map for your Icon Platform M+  

    See more videos at Synthax TV

     

    Icon Platform M Plus - with D2 Display - Synthax Audio UKIcon Platform M+ and D2 Display

    The Icon Platform M+ control surface is a compact desktop mixing controller that’s great for mobile setups or where space is at a premium. Features include 9 x touch-sensitive, motorised faders;  8 x dual-function encoder knobs; Jog wheel for fast search and control; illuminated buttons for each channel (including Select, Mute, Solo and Record); 6 x illuminated transport buttons including Play, Stop, Record, Rewind, Fast Forward and Loop; USB 2.0 connectivity; Class-compliant with Windows and Mac OSX; and expandable up to 32-channels (with 1x Platform M+ and 3x units of Icon Platform X+ Fader Extenders).

    When used with the optional D2 display (sold separately), information such as channel names, level and pan settings can also be viewed at a glance.

    Icon Platform X+ Fader Extender - 500x500 - Synthax Audio UK

     

     

    Icon Platform X+ Fader Expanders

    Designed to work either alongside the Platform M+, the Icon Platform X+ allows users to expand their setup in banks of 8 motorised faders, for up to 32 channels.

    The Platform X+ can also be operated as a standalone USB-MIDI controller, although it will function much more effectively when used in conjunction with the Platform M+, as the Platform X lacks transport controls and the ability to switch banks of faders from the unit itself.

     

    2018 - 1 - NAMM 2018 - Icon Platform B+Coming Soon: Icon Platform B+ Button Expander

    Announced at NAMM 2018, the Icon Platform B+ is a customisable bank of buttons for adding more shortcut keys to your setup. The 50 illuminated buttons give you quick access to all of the most used functions of your DAW, including cursor keys for zooming and moving about your project.

    A selection of silicon overlays are also included, for using the Platform B+ with a variety of the most popular DAWs on the market – Cubase / Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, ProTools, Sonar, Audition and Ableton Live. There’s also a ‘User define’ mode for creating custom mappings, so you can customise your controller to suit your workflow.

     

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers

    Download the latest firmware updates and iMap software

     


    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

     

  7. RME, Ferrofish, Icon, Lauten & Pop Audio at Confetti College Music Expo

    Comments Off on RME, Ferrofish, Icon, Lauten & Pop Audio at Confetti College Music Expo

    Confetti - 2018 - Icon Platform M+ & TotalMix FX - Synthax Audio UKConfetti LogoThanks to everyone who stopped by the Synthax stand at Confetti College in Nottingham

    On Wednesday 7th March, Synthax headed up to Nottingham to take part in the Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies' annual Music Expo. Specialising in media production, Confetti offers a range of foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees (in partnership with Nottingham Trent University) in subjects including music technology, audio production and live performance, along with digital media, game design and TV & film production.

    Part of the college's annual Industry Week, the Music Expo was a chance for students to speak to various tech companies, hear talks from industry professionals, and try out some of our favourite recording equipment from RME, Ferrofish, Icon Pro Audio, Lauten Audio and Pop Audio.

    Confetti - 2018 - RME Babyface Pro - Synthax Audio UKRME

    The RME Babyface Pro is the go-to for high-quality desktop and mobile recording. Compact and with easy front panel control, the Babyface Pro is also bus-powerable over USB (including powering both microphones preamps with 48V phantom power), and can be expanded with another 8 inputs and outputs via the ADAT I/O, for connecting additional instruments, microphones, speakers and other external hardware.

    With pristine, transparent sound quality that rivals RME's far more expensive interfaces; equal performance on both Mac and Windows; and comprehensive mixing, routing and monitoring with TotalMix FX, the Babyface Pro is a versatile interface that's ideal for studio, live and mobile recording.

    RME interfaces also have iOS support, so we took the opportunity at Confetti to show how TotalMix FX can be operated via an iPad. The latest version of TotalMix (v1.50) also saw the release of TotalMix Remote, which now allows for full wireless control of TotalMix over WiFi!

    Find out more about RME audio interfaces

     

    Confetti - 2018 - Icon Platform M+ - Synthax Audio UKIcon Pro Audio

    The Icon Platform M+ with D2 Display is always a popular draw at our stand. The motorised faders allow for easy project recall, and the Platform M+ pairs perfectly with a laptop for editing and mixing on the move, or for smaller setups where desk-space is at a premium.

    The Platform M+ is also expandable (up to 32 channels), with additional sets of 8 faders available in the form of the Icon Platform X+. Icon also announced the Icon OneHub at NAMM earlier this year, which will allow all Platform series (and Icon QCon Pro) modules to be connected to a single USB port, and powered from a single mains socket.

    Find out more about Icon Pro Audio

     

    Confetti - 2018 - Synthax Audio UKLauten Audio

    Lauten Audio manufactures boutique studio microphones, each with its own unique character. Rather than try to emulate mics of the past, Lauten are looking to create the classics of the future, with their premium Signature Series becoming a favourite with professional recording engineers around the world. The company has also brought new technical innovations to microphone design such as the flagship Eden LT-386's Multi-Voicing™ feature, which provides three different recording flavours from a single mic (soft and gentle, forward and aggressive, and laid-back and vintage).

    The Lauten Audio Series Black are the latest additions to the family, and offer musicians, engineers and producers a more affordable entry to the sound of Lauten mics. Despite the lower price, the Series Black mics punch well above their weight, performing very favourably in several shootouts, and often up against far more expensive options.

    Find out more about Lauten Audio

     

    Pop Audio

    Confetti - 2018 - Pop Audio pop filter - Synthax Audio UKPop Audio's redesigned pop shield takes all the hassle out of pop filters. Anyone who's recorded vocals on a day in, day out basis will have experienced the small (but nonetheless irritating) problems that can develop with a pop shield, such as weak arms that won't stay in place, or clamps that lose tension over time.

    The Pop Audio Pop Filter was designed by two professional recording engineers from Cambridge, and the guys have done a fantastic job in correcting the flaws they noticed in the traditional design.

    Features include a strong yet flexible gorrila-pod style arm; replaceable filters that are easy to clean and have differing acoustic properties; and a strong clamp that is super easy to remove or adjust. Reviews have also been very positive, with MusicTech rating it 10 out of 10 and awarding it their "Excellence Award", and Audio Media International saying "Quite frankly I don’t think there is any other pop filter worth considering. This is the one you should buy."

    Find out more about Pop Audio

     

    Big thanks to Confetti for inviting us along, and to everyone who stopped by the Synthax stand.

    For more information about studying at Confetti, visit the Confetti website.

     

    If you're a college or education establishment and would like to know more about the range of pro audio products we offer, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team. You can also contact us.

  8. Icon Pro Audio: iMap Software Now Available for Mac OS and Windows

    Comments Off on Icon Pro Audio: iMap Software Now Available for Mac OS and Windows

    Icon Platform M+ iMap Software - Synthax Audio UKIcon's MIDI-mapping software iMap now available for Mac OS and Windows users

    Icon's DAW controllers bridge the gap between hardware and software, adding hands-on control to mixing in-the-box. Both the Icon QCon Pro X and Platform Series controllers come with a selection of pre-defined modes for the majority of the most popular DAWs, but if you want to create your own custom MIDI mappings and store them to your control surface, you'll need to download the iMap software from Icon's website.

    Up until now this has only been available on Windows for the QCon Pro X and Platform Series, but the Icon team have been hard at work behind the scenes, and we're pleased to report that Mac OS users can now create their own custom MIDI-maps too.

    Once you've downloaded and installed iMap for your device, you'll need to select the the User Define Mode preset, and open the iMap software on your Mac. This will now allow you customise the buttons, faders and knobs to your liking.

    Any MIDI message available within your DAW can be mapped including FX parameters, such as Filter Cutoff and resonance, Wet/Dry amount on your DAW's reverb, your compressor's threshold, saturation amount on your favourite distortion plugin, or controlling pitch, tempo, or jumping to punch-in points and markers you've set up in a track.

    The latest firmware update is also now available for all Icon Pro Audio DAW controller users.

    Download the latest firmware updates and iMap software

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers

     

    Icon APP - Auto Program Panels for QCon Pro X - Synthax Audio UK.pngIcon APP – Automatic DAW Detection

    If you're an Icon QCon Pro X user, you'll also want to take a look at the new Icon APPs (Automatic Program Panels). These aluminium shortcut key identifiers are available for all of the QCon Pro X's supported DAWs, and can replace the default Cubase/Nuendo panel with one to match your favourite music production software.

    As the name suggests, the Icon APP is automatically detected by the QCon Pro X after installation. After a quick reboot of the controller, the QCon Pro X will automatically detect the panel and load into the respective DAW mode.

    So, if you're using the the QCOn Pro X with Pro Tools for example, your QCon Pro X will now automatically load into Pro Tools mode each time you switch it on, complete with a set of clearly labelled shortcut identifiers for controlling your Pro Tools session.

    Icon APPs are available for the following DAWs;

    • Ableton Live
    • Bitwig
    • Cubase/Nuendo
    • Logic Pro X
    • ProTools
    • Reaper
    • Reason
    • Samplitude
    • StudioOne

    Find out more about the Icon APP Auto Program Panels

    Find out more about the Icon QCon Pro X

     

    Coming Soon: Icon OneHub

    The Icon OneHub is a powered USB hub that allows you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers to a single power supply. Up to four Icon Pro Audio devices can be powered from a single mains plug, as well as interfacing with your Mac or PC via a single USB 3.0 cable, freeing up both USB ports and mains power sockets in your studio.

    The 4 x power outputs allow you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders to the OneHub, such as the Icon QCon Pro X and QCon Pro XS, or the Icon Platform M+ and Platform X+. The OneHub also features 4 x USB connections (for your devices) along with a master USB connection, so you can connect all of your controllers to a single USB port on your Mac or PC.

    Find out more about Icon Accessories

     

    Download the latest firmware updates and iMap software

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers



    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you'd like to know more about Icon's DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

  9. Icon Platform M+ is rated 4.5 out of 5 in Future Music Magazine’s review

    Comments Off on Icon Platform M+ is rated 4.5 out of 5 in Future Music Magazine’s review

    Icon Platform M+ Review by Future MusicFuture Music LogoThe Icon Platform M+ gets a 4.5 out of 5 rating from Future Music in their review.

    Click here to read the full review.

    Future Music is the latest magazine to take the Icon Platform M+ DAW controller for a test drive, and we were happy to hear they were pleased with what this motorised control surface can bring to a project. Anyone who's recorded with a console will know that a mouse and keyboard just doesn't have the same feel as working with a mixer – Icon's controllers bridge that gap, combining the simplicty of software with the hands-on control of hardware.

    Reviewer Jon Musgrave was clearly impressed with the build quality for a control surface at this pricepoint, saying that "The build quality is excellent… …Overall a compact and robust DAW controller."

     

    "The build quality is excellent…
    …Overall a compact and robust DAW controller."

     

    Icon Controllers – Take Control Of Your DAW

    The Platform M+ is part of Icon latest generation of controllers, and is a low-cost alternative to the larger Icon QCon Pro X. The Platform M+ can also be expanded with further banks of 8 faders with the Platform X+ extenders, for a total of up to 32 motorised faders.

    Icon also recently announced at (NAMM 2018) the Platform B+, a further add-on for the Platform Series, with 50 illuminated buttons providing shortcut keys for speeding up your workflow when you're working with your favourite DAW. A set of silicon shortcut overlays are also included for many of the most popular DAWs, including Cubase / Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, ProTools, Sonar, Audition, Ableton Live, Digital Performer and FL Studio. There's also a 'User define' mode, so you can customise the Platform B+ to give you quick access to all of the most used functions, when you're creating and editing your music.

     

    Icon Platform M+ & D2 Display - Synthax Audio UKThe Icon Platform M+ with optional D2 Display attachment.

     

    Read the full review at Music Radar

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers



    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you'd like to know more about Icon's DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

  10. Icon Pro Audio APP: Icon releases new aluminium shortcut panels for the Icon QCon Pro X

    Comments Off on Icon Pro Audio APP: Icon releases new aluminium shortcut panels for the Icon QCon Pro X

    Icon APP - Auto Program Panel - News Image - Synthax Audio UKIcon Pro Audio releases new shortcut panels for the Icon QCon Pro X with auto-detection for all supported DAWs.

    Icon's QCon Pro X DAW controller is a multi-platform control surface for recording, mixing and editing music, which supports a host of the most popular DAWs including Cubase, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Ableton Live and Studio One.

    Icon have now released a new set of APPs – Auto Program Panels – which allow users to replace the default Cubase/Nuendo panel, with a dedicated panel for their DAW of choice, which screws directly into the faceplate of the QCon Pro X.

     

     

    Icon APP - Auto Program Panels for QCon Pro X - Synthax Audio UK.pngIcon APP – Automatic DAW Detection

    As the name suggests, the Icon APP is automatically detected by the QCon Pro X after installation. After a quick reboot of the controller, the QCon Pro X will automatically detect the panel and load into the respective DAW mode.

    So, if you're using the the QCOn Pro X with Pro Tools for example, your QCon Pro X will now automatically load into Pro Tools mode each time you switch it on, complete with a set of clearly labelled shortcut identifiers for controlling your Pro Tools session.

    Icon APPs are available for the following DAWs;

    • Ableton Live
    • Bitwig
    • Cubase/Nuendo
    • Logic Pro X
    • ProTools
    • Reaper
    • Reason
    • Samplitude
    • StudioOne

    Find out more about the Icon APP Auto Program Panels here

    Find out more about the Icon QCon Pro X here

     

    Icon's new APP panels are automatically detected by the QCon Pro X,
    booting the QCon into the relevant DAW mode.

     

    Coming Soon: Icon OneHub

    The Icon OneHub is a powered USB hub that allows you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers to a single power supply. Up to four Icon Pro Audio devices can be powered from a single mains plug, as well as interfacing with your Mac or PC via a single USB 3.0 cable, freeing up both USB ports and mains power sockets in your studio.

    The 4 x power outputs allow you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders to the OneHub, such as the Icon QCon Pro X and QCon Pro XS, or the Icon Platform M+ and Platform X+. The OneHub also features 4 x USB connections (for your devices) along with a master USB connection, so you can connect all of your controllers to a single USB port on your Mac or PC.

    Find out more about Icon Accessories


    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

  11. NAMM 2018 Videos: Icon Platform B+ DAW Controller and Icon OneHub Powered USB Hub

    Comments Off on NAMM 2018 Videos: Icon Platform B+ DAW Controller and Icon OneHub Powered USB Hub

    NAMM 2018 – We caught up with Nadir Omowale at the Icon Pro Audio booth, to find out about the latest Icon products for 2018.

    Icon Pro Audio had two exciting new products to show us at this year’s NAMM show, further expanding their popular range of music production control surfaces. The Platform B+ is a bank of 50 dedicated shortcut keys for expanding the modular Platform Series of DAW controllers, and ships with a selection of silicon overlays for using the Platform B+ with a wide range of the most popular DAWs.

    Along with the Platform B+, Icon also announced the Icon OneHub a powered central USB hub for powering up to four Icon controllers from a single power supply. To find out more, check out the two videos below filmed at the Icon Pro Audio stand.

     

    Watch the Icon Platform B+ Video at NAMM 2018

    Watch the Icon OneHub Video at NAMM 2018

     

    NAMM 2018 - Icon OneHub - Synthax Audio UKComing Soon: Icon Platform B+ Button Expander

    The Icon Platform B+ is a customisable bank of buttons for adding more shortcut keys to your setup. The 50 illuminated buttons give you quick access to all of the most used functions of your DAW, including cursor keys for zooming and moving about your project.

    A selection of silicon overlays are also included, for using the Platform B+ with a variety of the most popular DAWs on the market – Cubase / Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, ProTools, Sonar, Audition and Ableton Live. There’s also a ‘User define’ mode for creating custom mappings, so you can customise your controller to suit your workflow.

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers

    Coming Soon: Icon OneHub

    The Icon OneHub is a powered USB hub that allows you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers to a single power supply. Up to four Icon Pro Audio devices can be powered from a single mains plug, as well as interfacing with your Mac or PC via a single USB 3.0 cable, freeing up both USB ports and mains power sockets in your studio.

    The 4 x power outputs allow you to connect all of your Icon DAW Controllers and Expanders to the OneHub, such as the Icon QCon Pro X and QCon Pro XS, or the Icon Platform M+ and Platform X+. The OneHub also features 4 x USB connections (for your devices) along with a master USB connection, so you can connect all of your controllers to a single USB port on your Mac or PC.

    Find out more about Icon Accessories


    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you’d like to know more about Icon’s DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.

  12. Synthax & Pro Tools Expert Competition Giveaway – Icon Platform M+ & D2 Winner Announced

    Comments Off on Synthax & Pro Tools Expert Competition Giveaway – Icon Platform M+ & D2 Winner Announced

    Icon Platform M+ - Pro Tools Expert Winner - Ian Heginbotham - Synthax Audio UKCongratulations to the winner of the Pro Tools Expert competition to win an Icon Platform M+ control surface and D2 Display

    At the end of 2017, we ran a competition in association with music production gurus Pro Tools Expert, giving visitors to their music production website the chance to win an Icon Platform M+. And we're pleased to announce the winner is Ian Heginbotham of Telford in Shropshire!

    Having spent some time with his new controller, Ian was kind enough to give us his thoughts on recording with his new Platform M+.

    Ian says "I received the Icon Platform M+ within a few days of the announcement that I’d won the Pro Tools Expert Christmas competition and really couldn’t be happier. I’ve been mixing in the box with just a mouse for a long time and the difference of being able to use faders in real time when writing automation is massive."

     

    "the difference of being able to use faders in real time
    when writing automation is massive."

     

    Icon Platform M+ - Pro Tools Expert - Ian Heginbotham - 02 - Synthax Audio UK

    "I’ve been a musician on and off for over thirty years and am currently working on 2 albums for bands I’m in and another for someone else’s band, as a producer and mixer. This small DAW controller is going to make (and already has made) a huge difference to my workflow. It fits easily on to my desk and took about 2 minutes to set-up."

    "I’ve rarely been surprised as much as I have been by this piece of gear. Very happy competition winner here." 😊

    Congratulations Ian, we wish you many happy years of recording and mixing with your new control surface.

    We've more giveaways planned for the future, so make sure you follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with all the latest news.

    Big thanks to everyone at Pro Tools Expert / Production website. For more recording and mixing news, tips, tricks and tutorials, visit www.pro-tools-expert.com

     


    Watch more videos at Synthax TV

     

    Icon Platform Series – Take Control Of Your DAW

    Icon Platform M Plus - with D2 Display - Synthax Audio UK

     

    Icon Platform M+ and D2 Display

    The Icon Platform M+ control surface is a compact desktop mixing controller that's great for mobile setups or where space is at a premium. Features include 9 x touch-sensitive, motorised faders;  8 x dual-function encoder knobs; Jog wheel for fast search and control; illuminated buttons for each channel (including Select, Mute, Solo and Record); 6 x illuminated transport buttons including Play, Stop, Record, Rewind, Fast Forward and Loop; USB 2.0 connectivity; Class-compliant with Windows and Mac OSX; and expandable up to 32-channels (with 1x Platform M+ and 3x units of Icon Platform X+ Fader Extenders).

    When used with the optional D2 display (sold separately), information such as channel names, level and pan settings can also be viewed at a glance.

     

     

    Icon Platform X+ Fader ExpandersIcon Platform X+ Fader Extender - 500x500 - Synthax Audio UK

    Designed to work either alongside the Platform M+, the Platform X+ allows users to expand their setup in banks of 8 motorised faders, for up to 32 channels.

    The Platform X+ can also be operated as a standalone USB-MIDI controller, although it will function much more effectively when used in conjunction with the Platform M+, as the Platform X lacks transport controls and the ability to switch banks of faders from the unit itself.

     

     

    2018 - 1 - NAMM 2018 - Icon Platform B+Coming Soon: Icon Platform B+ Button Expander

    Announced at NAMM 2018, the Icon Platform B+ is a customisable bank of buttons for adding more shortcut keys to your setup. The 50 illuminated buttons give you quick access to all of the most used functions of your DAW, including cursor keys for zooming and moving about your project.

    A selection of silicon overlays are also included, for using the Platform B+ with a variety of the most popular DAWs on the market – Cubase / Nuendo, LogicPro, Samplitude, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig, Reason, ProTools, Sonar, Audition and Ableton Live. There's also a 'User define' mode for creating custom mappings, so you can customise your controller to suit your workflow.

     

    Find out more about Icon DAW Controllers



    Icon Pro Audio Logo - Synthax Audio UKIf you'd like to know more about Icon's DAW Controllers, give us a call on 01727 821 870 to speak to one of our team.

    You can also contact us here.