E-mu showed the Emulator X2 soft sampler, Serato/Rane was pitching Scratch Live hardware/software DJ system, and M-Audio hit big with its 25-, 49- and 61-key Axiom Series MIDI keyboard controllers.

And in other big news, Waves announced the SSL 4000 Collection, which comprises officially licensed versions of the SSL G-Master Buss Compressor, SSL E-Channel and SSL G-Equalizer plug-ins. Coming on the heels of Universal Audio's announcement of a licensed version of the famed Neve 1073, this could signal something of an "official" trend. No, the days of emulation aren't over, but at least a couple of companies are banking on being the approved next-generation.

There will be plenty more to talk about tomorrow. In the meantime, visit the daily blog from the editors of Mix, Electronic Musician and Remix, and check out the podcast, sponsored by Roland with equipment provided by M-Audio.

MOTU DIGITAL PERFORMER 5.0
The new version of this veteran DAW adds some exciting audio editing technology, including the Roll tool for easily rolling audio clips on top of each other. DP5 also adds clip-based automation, so if you have autmation assigned to an audio clip and copy that clip, the automation follows. Users will also be treated to five new software instruments that come bundled, including two analog-style synths, two samplers and an FM synth. Composers scoring to visual media should be pleased with DP5's many new scoring to picture features. DP5 is scheduled to ship in Q1 2006 for a list price of $795. www.motu.com.

OPEN LABS MIKO
A "portable media workcenter," this Windows XP-based station is a complete DAW with up to a dual-core 64-bit processor; the ability to run more than 200 VST, VSTi, DXi plug-ins at once; 4-in, 6-out 24/96 audio section featuring two front mic/instrument preamp inputs, dual-channel headphone out, and up to 7.1 surround output; and a complete keyboard workstation. Produce at home, bring to the gig, all in one. The "intro price" is $1,999. www.openlabs.com.

GROOVE TUBES SUPRE
This hybrid unit from Groove Tubes borrows some key features and design components from both the ViPRE and Brick, providing a great-sounding soltution for stereo mic and instrument premplification. www.groovetubes.com.

CYCLING 74 UPMIX
This plug-in allows the audo-for-post professional to take mono and above tracks and port them to the 5.1 format. A number of flexible tools let the user create a surround environment from even the simplest source material. www.cycling74.com.

For more new products, visit the New Products Guide.

A Few Hits: Try PreSonus for the Fader Box: a single fader with transport controls and built-in firmware for Pro Tools, CuBase, Nuendo, Cakewalk, Logic Pro...actually it'll work with whatever DAW you use. I gotta love the new Z-Vex Imp Amp...a miniature stereo tube power amp for listening to music or, as I plan to deploy it, for a stereo headphone amp for my studio.
Barry Rudolph, frequent Mix contributor

Rollin' With Rolls: I can't believe it... this is my 20th NAMM show! Aahh the glory days of big hair, big concerts, and excessive drink abuse are behind me. However, this is not to say there is no reason not to get out of Utah, come to Anaheim and bask in the biz we call home. Rolls keeps on with our little "problem solver" boxes and new signal sources (new MP3 recorder). We like being the go-to guys for the "gee I wish somebody made..." because chances are we do.
Eric Mangum, Rolls Corp.

Finger Triggers: Korg should make a particular impression on the Remix faithful with its new PadKontrol, a MIDI controller based on 16 trigger pads. These velocity sensitive pads are ideal for triggering drum sounds, and the accompanying X/Y touchpad can add quick rolls or flams to those sounds. Two MIDI assignable knobs it all off.
Markkus Rovito, Remix technology editor

Kylee on Kelly: I just saw Kelly Clarkson and her six bandmates perform four songs, and it was pretty powerful. No background vocals at all, and her voice cut through everything and wasn't overpowered by everything going on onstage. The live gear might have had a little to do with the performance, too. Everyone was playing through Divided By Thirteen amps. Keyboardist Jason Halbert played an M-Audio Pro Keys 88, and the click and extra drum loops and sounds were handled by Pro Tools and Ableton Live on an HD3 system. Meanwhile, the whole mix went through one of Digi's live Venue consoles. It was definitely a great demonstration of excellent sound and live performance.
Kylee Swenson, Remix editor

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