DAS Audio announced the launch of two new products earlier this year, the Vantec-20A and the Vantec-118A, which join the Vantec Series lineup of portable systems and have been making some real (pleasant sounding) noise in the market!

The Vantec-20A is an active curved source line array that incorporates an arsenal of hi-tech solutions designed to provide the versatility today’s sound hire professionals need. Whether stacked on the powered Vantec-118A companion subwoofer, flown in a compact array, or used alone on a speaker stand, the Vantec-20A can be used effectively in a sizable number of applications that include corporate A/V, mid-size sound reinforcement, and permanent installation.

Designed for use in arrays of up to five units, the Vantec-20A is ideal for applications that don´t require the power and long-throw characteristics of large line arrays. Fast and simple deployment are guaranteed thanks to the exclusive D.A.S. Click-LockTM rigging hardware, which enables the system to be securely stacked on, or flown from, the Vantec-118A. Individual units can be mounted on tripods with precise aiming possible, thanks to the variable angle pole mount that allows for up to 13.5º of up or down tilt.

The Vantec-20A employs the DAScontrol™ interface, which offers a quick and hassle-free setup of the systems in arrays and easy alignment with the Vantec-18A and Vantec-118A active bass systems without the need of external processing. Presets for array size and HF compensation for throw distances can be selected by way of DAScontrol™ and the LCD screen on the back of the cabinet. The powerful digital signal processing of the Vantec-20A includes Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filters providing linear phase response and precise impulse response, which in terms of performance, results in added clarity, defined attack and overall, a more natural sound. When the Vantec-20A is used individually, the DASlink™ APP can be used to stream music in high definition stereo and remotely monitor and control the system’s functions. Power is supplied by a cutting-edge 1500 Wpeak Class D amplifier in a bi-amplified configuration driving a single DAS12F4C loudspeaker and twin M-60 compression drivers.

The Vantec-118A is an active front-loaded bass system that has been designed specifically for use with the Vantec-20A curved source line array. Compact in size, the unit can be flown in arrays or linked together in ground stacks, thanks to the DAS Click-LockTM rigging system, which is compatible with the Vantec-20A.

The electronics package includes a 2000 Wpeak Class D amplifier and 24-bit high-end DSP for exceptional audio reproduction. A unique “Deep-Loud” EQ switch allows users to tailor the bass output to provide a low subwoofer type response using the “Deep” setting or a louder hard-hitting performance in the “Loud” setting. Controls on the rear panel manage gain, polarity, and a continually variable low-pass filter that ranges from 80 Hz to 125 Hz. The Vantec-118A is phase response coherent with the other Vantec Series active tops like the Vantec-20A—delivering precise alignment without the need of an external DSP.

As with all D.A.S. professional systems, the new Vantec products are manufactured using birch plywood and finished with the protective DAS ISO-flex coating. Optional accessories include rigging bumpers, transport dollies, protective covers, and locking pole mount.

If you haven’t had the chance to hear these new speakers in person yet, contact your local DAS dealer/rep for a demo!

US distributor Mixware LLC announces a new addition to its line of quality brands. Effective immediately, Mixware will be taking on exclusive US distribution for NEXI Industries guitar effects and accessories. Founded in the Netherlands in 2011, NEXI Industries has developed an unparalleled mix of convenience and authentic analog sound for today’s electric guitar players.

The NEXI Solution is a powered pedalboard with integrated tuner, 3-step booster, A/B amp switch, and a USB phone charger. NEXI pedals are designed to simply “click” the onto the boards without a mess of patch cables, power supplies, and Velcro. Want to add your favorite pedal to the NEXI solution? No problem. The conNEXI adaptor lets you do just that.

NEXI’s line of analog pedals include 16 guitar stompboxes, 4 bass pedals, a wahwah, and a volume pedal. Effects include 70’s Distortion, Dutch Screamer, Metal Distortion, Fuzz, Overdrive, Chorus, Tremolo, Delay, Looper, and more. Taking The Solution a step further, NEXI has created a series of Starter Packs for various musical styles, which include a pedalboard and three or four pedals. The Starter Packs are the building blocks of a complete NEXI system.

“NEXI has developed a unique solution that solves all the common problems of traditional guitar pedals” noted Laurent Cohen, President of Mixware. “They’ve thought of every detail small and large, from the conNEXI adaptor making it an open system, to the starter packs to get people playing within minutes of opening the box. We’re very excited at the opportunity launch this brand into the US market with a clean slate.”

Jeroen Bakker, founder of NEXI Industries says “Everybody in the NEXI team feel that Mixware is the perfect distribution partner for us in the US. I am personally very impressed with their operation, their team and enthusiasm!”

NEXI Industries products are available now through select US Mixware dealers. For more information, contact your local dealer/rep or visit www.NEXI.eu.

Mixars drops their next flagship mixer product in the Quattro, a 4 channel full featured Serato DJ club mixer…

MIXARS is pleased to announce QUATTRO, a Professional 4-channel mixer for a forthcoming release of SERATO DJ with dual USB audio connection, 16 RGB control pads and effect control section.

Utilizing RCF Group’s experience in designing and engineering top-notch components, MIXARS launch the QUATTRO, a full-feature mixer made to conquer the club scene with superior audio quality completely integrated with the world-renowned software, SERATO DJ.

The QUATTRO achieves the best layout, control, and reliability thanks to its 16 RGB pads, four effects (Filter, Noise, Gate, Crush) for each channel, FX section with 14 additional effects, send/return, and dedicated sampler volume.

The 16 RGB backlit LEDs give a visual feedback and reflect cue points pre-set in SERATO DJ and allow instant triggering for Hot Cues or Sampler.

The QUATTRO features the best high-quality audio output, ensuring superb sound quality in a club, in a small venue or at home. The dual USB ports lets hook up two laptops for easy changeover.

The QUATTRO with SERATO DJ has an intuitive layout, providing the advanced features DJs require such as browsing the library, loading tracks, control sync, create and modify auto loops, and much more.

The QUATTRO simultaneously supports control-signal and playback for four DVS decks in SERATO DJ

The QUATTRO’s FX section controls provide 14 additional high-quality effects designed in Italy from experience of the MIXARS R&D Team.

“The MIXARS QUATTRO represents the missing link inside the market of professional 4 channel mixer.” -Tobias Noetzel (Mixars Brand Coordinator)

Key Features:

• 4-Channel Digital Mixer for SERATO DJ
• 16 RGB PADS with Hot Cue and Sampler control
• Dual USB audio connections
• 2 Microphone Inputs
• Dedicated 4 high-quality effects for each channel with a single knob
• Completely MIDI mappable
• Microphone Input
• Trim Output master volume
• 24-bit digital output
• Rugged metal construction
• Auto loop encoder
• Sampler switch
• Dedicated Sampler Volume
• Effects send/return

U.S. retail pricing for the Quattro is $1499.00

Availability is February 2018 with a forthcoming release for Serato DJ.

Main Features

• Analog Synthesizer
• 2 Analog VCO’s:
• VCO1 : Saw + UltraSaw, Square +Pulse width, Triangle + Metalizer. (Waveform mixing)
• VCO2 : Sine, Saw, Square waveforms (three tuning ranges).
• VCO 2>1 Hard Sync, VCO1 linear and exponential FM
• White Noise Generator
• External Audio In
• Steiner Parker filter (12dB per octave); Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass, Notch modes.
• 2 LFO’s with Sync: Sine, Tri, Saw, Square, Random, Slew Random
• 1 AD envelope
• Trig, Gate modes
• One shot or Loop
• Attack and Decay times CV controllable
• 1 ADSR envelope
• 48-point CV and Gate patchbay:
• Inputs and Outputs for the voice and sequencer
• Utility modules (inverter, attenuators, VCA)
• 16 velocity and pressure sensitive pads
• 16 encoders
• 64 sequence memories
• Sequence Pitch, Gate, Velocity and Pressure on up to 64 steps
• Alternatively, sequence modulations such as Gates, LFOs, AD Envelopes, …
• Real-time or step recording modes
• Arpeggiator/Looper
• Save and recall sequence patterns on the fly
• MIDI and USB I/O

US distributor Mixware LLC announces a new addition to its line of quality brands. Beginning February 2018, Mixware will be taking on exclusive US distribution of Phonic pro audio and live sound products.

Since its inception in 1972, Phonic has become a leading manufacturer of professional audio products-permanently perched on the cutting edge of both analog and digital technology. Phonic delivers unique products including digital mixers, audio analyzers, pPhonic AM2442FXrecision speakers, and wireless technologies that give the sound engineer industry-leading usability, performance, and dependability. Phonics’ global reach extends across 50 countries.

“Phonic has long been an established pro audio brand globally and we’re excited at the opportunity to further develop the brand in the US market” says Mixware President, Laurent Cohen. He adds “The Helix Board line of digital mixers really shows off Phonic’s design and manufacturing capability and we can’t wait for the upcoming relaunch of the line later this year with the 32i and 12i models.”

“Mixware has a solid track record,” notes Phonic’s Grant Murray. “We’re very happy to have such a reputable company join our already solid network, and excited at the prospect of working with many of the great people in their team.

“Their focus and enthusiasm towards classic pro audio products makes Mixware a perfect fit for Phonic.” He concluded, “We have no doubt that Mixware will prove to be a great addition to the Phonic family and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership.”

Visit us at NAMM 2018 at Mixware booth 10724 and Phonic booth 11344 in hall A.

Arturia’s revolutionary analog monosynth reborn for the modular age; the MiniBrute 2 is a thrilling, adaptable synthesizer that can’t wait to meet your other instruments. Combining huge analog tone, powerful sound shaping features, step-sequencer, arpeggiator, and a modular patch bay, MiniBrute 2 will give your music the Brute Factor™.

Hands-on synth joy
Intuitive, accessible, and fun; the pure synthesis power of MiniBrute 2 is easy to understand, quick to master, and will provide endless enjoyment. With instant, hands-on control of every parameter, you can mix your oscillators, ride your filters, sync your LFOs, and control your envelopes. MiniBrute 2 is a synth that gives you the freedom to create the sounds from your imagination.

Discover the modular world
Now you’re able to make a music system that’s truly more than the sum of its parts. MiniBrute 2 features a comprehensive modulation matrix with dozens of sources and destinations at your disposal. Whether you want to experiment with its internal parameters, wire in your modular setup, or sync your other gear to its sequencer, the possibilities are endless.

Performance power
Sporting the same luxurious, smooth-action keyboard as the venerable MatrixBrute, you’ll never want to stop playing on this inspiring synth. The keyboard also features aftertouch, which can be routed through the modulation matrix, opening up massive performance possibilities. MiniBrute 2 also features an arpeggiator with multiple modes, tap tempo, and rock-solid sync, and an intuitive step-sequencer to give you as much creative freedom as possible.

Features
● Mixable, multi-waveform VCO1 and VCO2 with sound shapers: Sawtooth, Ultrasaw, Square, Pulse, Triangle, Metalizer, and Sine waves, with fine and coarse tuning modes, noise generator, and external input.
● Steiner-Parker multimode filter with beefy, acidic tone, capable of self-oscillation. Featuring low pass, high pass, band pass, notch, and bypass.
● ADSR envelope generator, and extra multi-mode, CV-controllable AD filter.
● Brute Factor™ adds subtle drive effects to full blown intermodulation havoc.
● Comprehensive CV Gate modulation matrix with 48 patch points, letting you control many elements of the synthesizer and sequencer.
● Two LFOs with multiple waveforms, able to run in sync with the sequence
● Intuitive Sequencer and Arpeggiator, syncable with MIDI and USB.
● High quality 25-note MatrixBrute-style keyboard, with octave controls and assignable pitch bend range, modulation, and aftertouch.
● Line out, headphone output, dedicated MIDI I/O and USB connectivity.