Universal Audio have used the 2017 NAMM show to release an update to their popular desktop converter from the Apollo range. The Apollo Twin MKII is a complete redesign with improved Audio Conversion while promising to get the feel of Analog recording through their Plug-ins and Unison technology through improved AD/DA i/o during tracking.
Available in SOLO, DUO or QUAD the Apollo Twin MKII starts at £590 for the SOLO, £760 for the DUO and £1'100 for the QUAD. All prices are inclusive of vat and available soon.
Lynx Studio Technology | Aurora(n)
Keeping with converters, Lynx Studio Technology haven't updated their original successful Aurora AD/DA range for many years, but 2017 sees them plan to release fourteen,( yes you read it correctly! ) new models under their new Aurora(n) name. Borrowing technology from their successful Hilo, their new designs will start to ship in February 2017.
The i/o is completely configurable, with options up to 32 channels and connectivity from Dante, USB, Thunderbolt and ProTools|HD all within the same single 1u rack. New modules will be released throughout 2017 providing pre-amps, analog summing and digital AES and ADAT, so total flexibility.
All units will include an on board micro SD player/recorder capable of recording up to 32channels of direct recording, perfect for on the road/field recording. Price £TBC
Antelope Audio | Orion32HD
Converters seem to be the thing this year, as Antelope Audio have upgraded their flagship model to the Antelope Audio Orion32HD.
It can appear as either an HD MADI interface or as 4 x 192/HD i/o's in your Hardware Setup when running Pro Tools HD. Low latency USB3 is included for those using a different DAW of choice but included is the new Free FPGA FX allowing real-time processing with BAE, Helios69 Style, Lang EQ and Vintage British and German style plug-ins. UK Price £TBC
elysia | Beech Boys Limited Edition
Not new products as such, but beautiful looking Limited Editions by elysia of their 500 Series hardware, with no price increase from their standard versions. This time they're using Beech Wood Face Panels, and no doubt will be very popular. First modules are due in February.
Tree Audio | The Branch II
The NEW updated Tree Audio Branch II now features a full Channel Strip from their Valve/Hybrid Roots console, which has been updated to a Gen II version as well . Price and availability £TBC
Softube | Console1 MKII
Softube has launched a NEW Softube Console1 MKII controller, with three new significant improvements. Firstly there is brand new software now allowing it to work with over 60 selected UAD Powered Plug-ins from Universal Audio. These plug-ins are all pre-mapped and ready to go. Secondly, Console1 MKII now works with DAW's Presonus Studio One and Cakewalk SONAR.
Thirdly, a new price point. Reduced from the $849 that Console1 MK1 was to a new $499 makes Console1 MKII very competitive for those looking for some hands-on DAW integration. Shipping in February.
Dave Smith Instruments | REV2
Ten years after the launch of the DSI Prophet 08, Dave Smith Instruments has returned with an 8-voice ( $1499 ) or 16 voice ( $1999 ) analog polysynth MK2 version, aptly called the Dave Smith Instruments REV2.
With an improved spec, Wave Shape Modulation, polyphonic step sequencer, and a Mod Matrix twice as big as the Prophet-08, loads of FX, USB, and integrated power, ( no wall -wart ) this looks sure to be another success for DSI. UK Price £TBC