Apple Logic Studio
Apple updates its flagship Logic music/audio production software as a comprehensive $499 bundle filled with production tools. The centerpiece is Logic Pro 8, featuring a redesigned interface that makes it easier to write, record, edit and mix. Also included in the bundle is Soundtrack Pro 2. Previously only available in the Final Cut Studio bundle, Soundtrack Pro 2 is created for film/video audio post work, offering powerful editing tools, surround mixing and a streamlined design that speeds audio post-production for picture. Another highlight is Studio Instruments, providing a huge set of included virtual instruments, Studio Effects (with some 80 signal processing plug-ins, from convolution reverbs to vintage compressors to amp models) and Studio Sound Library, with 18,000 Apple Loops, 2,400 channel strip settings and 1,300 sampled instruments. Another plus is MainStage, a new live performance rig for guitar/keys/bass that's designed to simplify using software instruments onstage. AES Demo Rooms #2D07/2D08.
www.apple.com/logicstudio

Royer Live Series Mics
Royer Labs has created road-ruggedized versions of three ribbon mics, enabling live sound/touring pros to capture the most subtle details of a live performance. The new Live Series mics are based on the SF-24 phantom-powered stereo ribbon, the R-121 ribbon mic and the R-122 Active Ribbon™ mic. By increasing the ribbon thickness, these recording tools have been optimized for live applications. Live Series microphones are identified with an "L" on the top of the mic and are priced the same as the studio versions. Royer's new Live Series Microphones are slated for delivery Q1 of 2008. MSRPs: SF-24 Live, $4,495; R-121 Live, $1,395; and R-122 Live, $1,895. AES booth #868.
www.royerlabs.com

Fostex PD606/PD204
While keeping the popular features of the PD 6 digital field recorder, the PD606 and PD204 offer many updated features, including full-size DVD-RAM disc recording, 8-track recording through the digital I/O, dual-drive recording, extreme power efficiency, digital mixer input routing, HD drive access through USB 2, high-res LED meters, tri-level sync and more. The new machines resemble an updated PD 6, allowing users to adapt to the 606 and 204 easily. Power options include Ni Cad and IDX Endura cell technologies and 6+2 poly files can be recorded if desired. Retail: $9,995. AES booth #512.
www.fostexusa.com

Korg D888
The portable D888 recorder/mixer has eight inputs and eight outputs, allowing it to be placed in-line with other systems or act as both a stand-alone 8-track recorder and a small-format analog mixer with effects. Native WAV recording and high-speed USB 2 data transfer allow recordings to be shared with computer-based systems for full editing and final mastering. Korg is currently bundling Cubase 4 LE software for a total solution. AES booth #344.
www.korgusa.com

RØDE M3
Designed to provide low-cost/high-quality performance, the cardioid M3 is suitable for both live and studio use, while internal shockmounting and low handling noise make it suitable for location recording and sample/sound effects gathering. Other features include a switchable highpass filter, 3-stage (0/10/20dB) pad, 142dB SPL handling, 48VDC phantom or 9VDC battery powering, molded flight case and foam windscreen. Retail is $249. AES booth #1112.
www.rodemic.com

Bag End PD10E-I Double-10 Sub
Now in a self-powered version, the PD10E-I is specifically designed to fit into locations where space is at a premium. The system packs a lot of bass into a small cabinet -- down to 8 Hz -- thanks to the company's exclusive INFRA technology that provides high-fidelity, yet compact bass sound.The built-in Minima One is a 1,000-watt high-efficiency amp that weights just 5 pounds. The 49-pound enclosure is 13x22x13 inches (HxWxD) and retail is $1,620. AES booth #909.
www.bagend.com

Paul Lehrman Book Signings at AES Convention
Mix consulting editor and "Insider Audio" columnist Paul Lehrman will visit the Penton Media booth at the AES convention in New York City to sign copies of his book, The Insider Audio Bathroom Reader, on Saturday, October 6 and Sunday, October 7, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to stop by! For more information on the book, click here.

Special AES Event: Geoff Emerick/Sgt. Pepper
Marking this year's 40th anniversary of the release of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles' engineer on the original recording, Geoff Emerick was commissioned by the BBC to re-record the entire album on the original vintage equipment using contemporary musicians for a unique TV program. Celebrating its own 60th Anniversary, the APRS is presenting this unique project for a select AES audience, featuring recorded performances by young artists including the Kaiser Chiefs, The Fray, Travis, Razorlight, The Stereophonics, the Magic Numbers and a few more -- and one older Canadian Bryan Adams.

Yamaha Named Official System Provider for AES 5.1 Conference Room
Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems Inc. has been named the official system provider for the 123rd AES Convention large AES 5.1 Conference Room. The room, 1E08, is located on the lower floor of the Jacob Javits Convention Center and will be used for AES sessions including a Surround Workshop, Surround Mixing Do's and Don'ts, and Innovations in Sports Broadcasting. Yamaha products to be used during these seminars include a LS9-32 digital sound reinforcement console, T5n amplifiers, NEXO GEO S1210 and S1230 line arrays, GEO Subs and an NX242ES Controller with EtherSound. Yamaha product demos in the room include October 5, noon to 1:30 p.m.; October 6, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; October 7, 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m to 1 p.m.; and October 8, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 11:30 a,m. Stop by the Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems booth #318 during AES for a complete demo schedule.

In a special session at AES on Friday, October 5th, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., The Beatles' engineering maestro Geoff Emerick will explain how it was done, how it should be done and how many of the new artists want to do it in the future. Emerick will be available to answer a few questions about the recording of each track, as well as more general questions regarding the recording processes and the innovative contribution he and the rest of the Abbey Road team made to this landmark album from 40 years ago.

Neumann "U 87 and You" Campaign
As part of the 40th-anniversary celebration of its legendary U 87 microphone, Neumann kicks off a contest asking U 87 users to record a video clip with their associations about the U 87 name. Entrants who send a short video message (max. 30 seconds) to my-u87-message@neumann.com via e-mail or MMS by December 31, 2007, will have the chance to win a special prize. A name drawn from the 87 most interesting entries, will receive a trip to Neumann Berlin, for an in-depth look into the secrets of development and manufacturing of the U 87 and other Neumann microphones. Additional information and conditions for participation can be found at www.neumann.com or at AWES Booth #418.

Crown Celebrates Six Decades of Innovation
At AES, Crown is celebrating its 60th anniversary. These days, the Crown name is synonymous with top-quality tools and products for professional audio users, but it wasn't always that way. MORE