Korg recently expanded its MR Series of digital recorders with the rackmount MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder. In early 2009, Operating System v1.5 will be released, offering new functionality that allows users to sync as many as four MR-2000S units, for up to 8-track recording/playback of DSD audio.
Korg USA Technology Senior Product Manager Jerry Kovarsky told us, "Ever since we introduced affordable DSD recording, our users and interested audio enthusiasts have been asking us for more than two tracks of 1-bit recording. Korg's engineers devised an unexpected way to achieve this for the MR-2000S, which is exciting for all of us."
The new v1.5 OS uses an innovative approach to synchronizing the MR recorders. When in 1-bit mode, the MR-2000S does not need to use its S/PDIF connectors, so Korg's engineers developed a form of synchronization and transport control using the same S/PDIF cables. One unit is designated the Master and the three others, Slaves. Units can then be armed for record and/or playback, and even to locate various points within the current file.
Here's all the details on the MR-2000S directly from Korg:
MR-2000S OVERVIEW:
In 2006, Korg debuted the MR-2000S' predecessor, the MR-1000, as the ultimate portable capture, archive and mastering solution, delivering 5.6 MHz/1-bit high-quality recording capability at an unprecedented nexus of price and performance. Input and feedback from leading recording and mastering engineers have led to the creation of the MR-2000S, offering this same unmatched audio quality, enhanced by additional functionality and studio-ready connectivity. With ultra-high quality sound that exceeds DVD audio, a wide frequency response and the ability to capture and reproduce transient responses and spacial imaging as never before, the MR-2000S introduces a new era in recording quality.
MR-2000S FEATURES:
Sleek and flexible, the MR-2000S is a single rack height digital stereo 1-bit recorder, offering 5.6 MHz or 2.8 MHz 1-bit recording, or up to 24-bit 192 kHz PCM recording and playback. 1-bit file formats DSDIFF (used in SACD production), WSD and DSF are all supported, as well as PCM support for standard WAV, BWF (Broadcast WAV) and even MP3 playback. Sampling frequencies for PCM formats range from 44.1 kHz through 192 kHz.
By using the highest-quality components available – the CS4398 Digital to Analog Converter from Cirrus Logic and the Burr-Brown PCM4202 Analog to Digital Converter from Texas Instruments Corporation – the MR-2000S minimizes any possible audio signal degradation.
The MR-2000S offers the essential connectors for today's professional workplace. Analog connectors include XLR balanced input/output jacks and RCA unbalanced input/output jacks. The reference level of the XLR jacks can be switched in a range of -12/-14/-16/-18/-20 dB, allowing the MR-2000S to be used in any recording environment from a music-related studio to a broadcast facility. Digital connectors include S/PDIF coaxial jacks, as well as word clock jacks for synchronization with other devices or a second MR-2000S unit when using a multi-bit PCM format. The MR-2000S also features a multi-step LED level meter with excellent response speed and high visibility.
Korg's AudioGate™ version 1.5 audio file converter software is included, supporting reading/playback of MR project files and conversion to various file formats – including from 1-bit to the various multi-bit PCM formats, importing MP3, AAC and Apple lossless (with QuickTime 7), and WMA (Windows Media Audio, Windows only) and offering improved conversion routines for all formats, enhancing the performance of this powerful software application. AudioGate allows the splitting and combining of individual files, fade in/out curves and gain change, as well as DC offset correction.
The unit's built-in 80 GB hard disk allows up to approximately 120 hours of recording (44.1 kHz 16-bit two track), or approximately 14.5 hours at the highest quality (1-bit 5.6448 MHz two track). As many as 400 projects can be created for each of up to 400 recording date folders (160,000 possible projects total). USB 2.0 "high speed" mode is supported for rapid file transfer to and from users' computers.
Pricing and Availability:
The Korg MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder is currently available with a U.S. MSRP of $2499.
The OS will be a simple free download when released in February 2009
More information:
VOX Amplification has introduced the NT15H Night Train, a 15-Watt, all-tube guitar amplifier head which they tell us offers legendary VOX sound in a compact, portable design. They say that this new all-tube head weighs less than 17 pounds, and its "armored lunchbox" design provides extreme portability for musicians on the go.
Here's the rest of what VOX have to say...
The Night Train's appearance is striking, with a mirrored chrome finish and signature VOX diamond design that reveals the vacuum tube glow. Inside, a pair of EL84 tubes deliver remarkable power, as two 12AX7 tubes drive the preamp stage to provide additional power and clarity, for a harmonically rich tone, from chime-like clean to warm overdrive. A single switch lets users select between Pentode or Triode tube operation. In Pentode mode, Night Train delivers a full 15 Watts. In the Triode mode, the power is cut to 7.5 Watts. The Triode mode also relaxes the tube power stage, letting a smooth, mellow tube character shine through.
The Night Train's front panel controls are clear and simple, offering traditional chicken head pointer knobs for Gain, Volume, Treble, Middle and Bass. The preamp section features a mode switch, offering both Bright and Thick options. The Bright mode accentuates the high-frequency components for a clean, articulate tone; the Thick setting bypasses the tone circuit to boost the gain and create a chunkier, heavier sound. In addition, legendary guitar amp builder Tony Bruno played an integral role in the voicing of this new amp.
Equipped with both 8-Ohm and 16-Ohm speaker jacks, the Night Train can be used with nearly any speaker cabinet.
Pricing and Availability:
The VOX NT15H "Night Train" 15-Watt Amplifier Head will be available in January 2009, with a U.S. MSRP of $800.
More information:
