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- in the community space Tools and Plugins
IK Multimedia introduce iRig Stream Mic USB The new iRig Stream Mic USB makes many of the features found in their popular iRig Stream Mic Pro available at a lower price point.
IK Multimedia introduce iRig Stream Mic USB
www.soundonsound.comThe new iRig Stream Mic USB makes many of the features found in their popular iRig Stream Mic Pro available at a lower price point.
- in the community space Education
How Memphis rap created phonk
Learn about what phonk music is, explore its origins in Memphis rap, and dive into recent variants such as drift phonk and phonk house.What is Phonk Music? Its History, Sound, and More - Blog | Splice
splice.comLearn about what phonk music is, explore its origins in Memphis rap, and dive into recent variants such as drift phonk.
NAMM 2024: IK Multimedia’s new iRig Stream Mic USB is an “accessible” recording solution for musicians and streamersNAMM 2024: IK Multimedia has released a “more accessible” version of its iRig Stream Mic Pro – the iRig Stream Mic USB – which offers a “refined solution” for sharing your voice and music.
The iRig Stream Mic USB offers a unidirectional, cardioid pattern, which the brand says is ideal for focusing in on the speaker or singer, and rejecting any background noise. It also hosts an adjustable gain and selectable high-pass filter for eliminating rumble.READ MORE: Everything you need to know about the IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro X
Media players, keyboards, mixers, turntables, soundboards and more can be connected to the product via a “high-grade” stereo 3.5 mm audio input, which can be found directly on the mic. A monitoring mix control allows users to blend the direct or recorded audio via the headphone output.
A Loopback feature allows audio – such as backing tracks or sound effects – from a Mac/PC to be mixed into any recording or stream. Its headphone output offers direct monitoring and lets users check levels with any app, and its 16-bit, 48 kHz converters are said to offer “broadcast-ready” sound for both the mic and stereo aux input.
Each input has its own volume control, so users can make quick adjustments if needed when live on camera. It operates in stereo and pre-mixes multiple sources of audio down to a stereo track, ready to send to streaming apps such as Instagram, Facebook, or Twitch.iRig Stream Mic USB is powered by its host. It includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, plus audio and video recording app, iRig Recorder 3 LE (iPhone/iPad/Android), plus MixBox CS (iPad) and MixBox SE (Mac/PC) – a suite of effects including dynamics, EQ, reverb and others.
Back in 2021, we rated the iRig Stream Solo and iRig Stream Pro an 8/10 in our review. We noted that both products were highly portable for recording and broadcasting on the move or in smaller spaces, and suggested that streamers should look at the Solo while musicians may prefer the Pro model.
iRig Stream Mic USB is available now for $/€99.99. It ships with a table stand and USB-C cable for Mac, PC, iPad and iPhone 15. Find out more at IK Multimedia.
The post NAMM 2024: IK Multimedia’s new iRig Stream Mic USB is an “accessible” recording solution for musicians and streamers appeared first on MusicTech.NAMM 2024: IK Multimedia’s new iRig Stream Mic USB is an “accessible” recording solution for musicians and streamers
musictech.comIK Multimedia has released a “more accessible” version of its iRig Stream Mic Pro – the iRig Stream Mic USB – which offers a “refined solution” for sharing your voice and music.
New BandLab Licensing service gives creators “unparalleled avenues to monetise their music”BandLab, acknowledged as the world’s largest social music creation platform, has unveiled BandLab Licensing, a new programme to help users monetise their music.
READ MORE: BandLab’s Meng Ru Kuok: “I think there will be over 1 billion music creators by 2030, potentially even sooner”
This initiative is designed to provide musicians with avenues to monetise their music while retaining full artistic control. BandLab Licensing offers a comprehensive licensing solution, covering synchronisation for various mediums such as film, TV, games, and advertising, along with extending streaming licences for exclusive, rights-cleared content.
Musicians on BandLab can now find opportunities to showcase their music on preferred platforms and in popular shows, thereby amplifying their exposure, potential earnings, and fan base. This development is an extension of ReverbNation’s Sync Licensing programme, known for facilitating placements with renowned brands and on well-received shows.
Meng Ru Kuok, CEO & Co-founder of BandLab Technologies, highlights the importance of this launch in a press release, stating, “The launch of BandLab Licensing marks a significant milestone in the expansion of offerings available to BandLab users.
“It not only opens up new revenue streams for our creators and a new at-scale partner for the music supervisor and licensee community, but also strengthens our purpose to democratize and grow the value of music creation worldwide. With BandLab Licensing, our users’ music becomes the soundtrack to the world’s creative, consumption, and connection experiences.”
BandLab is on a mission to provide real opportunities for artists on its platform, it seems. In November 2023, it partnered with FUGA to launch BandLab Distribution, which aids its users in distributing their music to platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, TikTok and more.
Find out more about BandLab Licensing at licensing.bandlab.com.
Editor’s note: BandLab Technologies and MusicTech are both a part of Caldecott Music Group.
The post New BandLab Licensing service gives creators “unparalleled avenues to monetise their music” appeared first on MusicTech.New BandLab Licensing service gives creators “unparalleled avenues to monetise their music”
musictech.comBandLab has unveiled BandLab Licensing, a licensing solution that helps BandLab users monetise their music.
These LEGO Sennheiser HD25 DJ headphones are just a concept – for nowHungarian designer Tamás Borján, known for designing DJ gear made of LEGO, has now built a pair of LEGO Sennheiser HD25 DJ headphones.
READ MORE: NAMM 2024: The hottest rumours and latest announcements from this year’s show
Borján, who last year constructed a pair of LEGO Pioneer CDJ 2000 Nexus and a DJM 900 Nexus mixer, revealed the headphones on Instagram, writing, “I thought the DJ equipment wouldn’t be complete without a nice pair of headphones.”
“The Sennheiser HD25 is an iconic piece among DJs”, he continues, “it is beloved by a lot of users around the world. I was also using these while I was DJing.
“This Lego version has the mechanical features of its real counterpart. The earphone can be rotated and the 2 bands can also be rotated to help make a perfect fit for anyone,” he says.View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Tomasso Builds (@tomassobuilds)
According to the designer, the LEGO headphones consist of 350 pieces. While it’s sadly just a 3D render for now, he plans to build the headphones “for sure” in the future.
This creative journey began in July 2023 when Borján unveiled his playable Pioneer CDJ 2000 Nexus concept on the LEGO Ideas platform, where creators can submit designs for potential commercial products. Achieving 10,000 supporting votes can lead to the consideration of ideas for production, with creators earning 1 per cent of product royalties upon success. Currently, Tomasso Builds’ LEGO Ideas CDJ 2000 campaign boasts over 8,200 supporters, placing him just under 1,800 votes away from official consideration. Vote via ideas.lego.com.
Image: LEGO Ideas
Borján’s impressive LEGO constructions aren’t the only musical equipment to be made using toy blocks. In 2022, Brick Technology, a YouTube channel, crafted a fully functional drum machine entirely from Lego Technic pieces that can play Taylor Swift and Blur. Using a Roland TD-9 drum module and piezo pickups, the machine has a pianola-style rolling mechanism as a sequencer, utilising Lego Technic pins to create drum patterns.
Well, we for one can’t wait to see if Tamás Borján ends up making his Sennheiser headphones a LEGO reality.
Until then, keep up to date with actual headphone releases via MusicTech.
The post These LEGO Sennheiser HD25 DJ headphones are just a concept – for now appeared first on MusicTech.These LEGO Sennheiser HD25 DJ headphones are just a concept – for now
musictech.comHungarian designer Tamás Borján, known for designing DJ gear made of LEGO, has now built a pair of LEGO Sennheiser HD25 DJ headphones.
Moog Moogerfooger plugins are on sale at just £30 for a limited timeWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. For more information on how this works click here.
For a limited time, a selection of Moog Moogerfooger time effects plugins are available for over half their original price at £30 each.
The deal, redeemable at Plugin Boutique, sees the price of the Moogerfooger MF-104s Analog Delay slashed by 62%, while the Moogerfooger MF-103S 12 Stage Phaser is discounted by 57%.
READ MORE: Universal Audio UAD bundles are 90% off until the end of today!
Based on the original hardware pedals of the same name, the Moogerfooger plugins bring the classic Moog sound into your DAW at a fraction of the price. A second-hand Moogerfooger MF-104s hardware pedal, for example, could set you back as much as £2,000 — over 66 times the price that Plugin Boutique has it on sale for. Not bad!
The MF-104s plugin brings a Bucket Brigade Device (BBD)-style delay to your DAW, with delay times ranging from 40ms to 800ms. As Plugin Boutique says, this plugin has been designed to “capture all of the warm, organic texture and character of the original analogue delay circuitry, while adding 21st-century flexibility and ease of use.”
Meanwhile, the MF-103S 12-Stage Phaser emulates the original 6-stage/12-stage voltage-controlled Phaser which Plugin Boutique says brings “not only the psychedelic enveloping sound of the original, but also the organic way in which the parameters interact to create a musical playing experience.”
Both plugins sport CV interconnectivity, stereo functions, and presets, and support for running multiple instance simultaneously.When the Moogerfooger plugins were first announced in late 2022, Moog said, “The new Moogerfooger S-series plugins have been lovingly recreated to impart the same lush, distinctive tones of the original analogue circuits and can now be used in DAW-based environments. Great for audio engineers, guitarists, sound designers, synthesists, [and] composers — the ultimate creative and versatile tool.”
Get the plugins from Plugin Boutique until 22 January 2024.
Check out more music technology deals.
The post Moog Moogerfooger plugins are on sale at just £30 for a limited time appeared first on MusicTech.Moog Moogerfooger plugins are on sale at just £30 for a limited time
musictech.comMoog's Moogerfooger plugins are available for over half their original price at £30 each – the MF-104s and MF-103S 12 are both on offer.
- in the community space Music from Within
Too many choices? How Musicians Can Overcome Option ParalysisThe advancement of technology and the fact that artists can compose, produce, and promote their music from the comfort of their bedrooms, leaves musicians overwhelmed with options. from ArtistVerified via. Continue reading
The post Too many choices? How Musicians Can Overcome Option Paralysis appeared first on Hypebot.Too many choices? How Musicians Can Overcome Option Paralysis - Hypebot
www.hypebot.comThe advancement of technology and the fact that artists can compose, produce, and promote their music from the comfort of their bedrooms, leaves musicians overwhelmed with options. from ArtistVerified via. Continue reading
NAMM 2024: Korg’s KR-11 is a compact yet feature-packed rhythm boxNAMM 2024: Korg has announced the KR-11, a compact rhythm machine that echoes the features of its 1963-launched Korg Doncamatic.
READ MORE: All of Dillon Bastan’s Max For Live tools are now free to download in one giant bundleArriving just in time for NAMM Show 2024, this retro-looking unit looks to follow Korg’s 2013-launched KR Mini. It also dons a similar size to products in Korg’s Volca range, clocking in at a similar size of just 160 by 115 by 44 millimetres.
While the KR-11 is small, affordable and described as “simple” by Korg, it is feature-packed, offering loads of sound presets and even velocity-sensitive pads.
With an intuitive interface, the KR-11 offers 126 rhythm patterns spanning various genres such as EDM, blues/R&B, jazz/latin and rock, and you can customise and save up to 14 patterns. Listen to its audio demos below:The 16 velocity-sensitive pads make for fun finger drumming, providing a realistic drumming experience. In Pad Play mode, users can create authentic drum-like performances, further expanding the device’s versatility.
If you’re looking for hands-free control, an optional pedal switch is available, allowing you to start and stop or change patterns. This, along with its nifty size, makes it an ideal option for live performance.
The device features a headphone/line-out jack for external audio output, connecting to PA, mixer, amp, or other devices. With a metronome function, it caters to the needs of guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, and orchestral players.
Credit: Korg
It also has an in-built speaker that’s been newly developed and delivers a powerful yet compact sound range, complemented by Korg’s Acoustage Bass technology. This is an original sound enhancement technology designed by Korg to virtually enhance the bass range in audio output.
The Korg KR-11 isn’t the first piece of music tech to be announced ahead of NAMM, which takes place from 25 to 28 January 2024. We’ve also seen a new “completely redesigned” MOTU 828 audio interface, and Yamaha has revealed its intriguing new SEQTRACK, an all-in-one music creation machine. Another interesting release is the Dtronics DT-303, an FX box built to compliment 303 basslines specifically.
No price has yet been revealed. Find out more about the KR-11 via Korg.
The post NAMM 2024: Korg’s KR-11 is a compact yet feature-packed rhythm box appeared first on MusicTech.NAMM 2024: Korg’s KR-11 is a compact yet feature-packed rhythm box
musictech.comKorg has announced the KR-11, a compact rhythm machine with 126 presets that echoes the features of its 1963-launched Korg Doncamatic.
All of Dillon Bastan’s Max For Live tools are now free to download in one giant bundleDillon Bastan, the developer whose name you’d be hard pressed to miss in the Max For Live community, has released a free, all-in-one bundle containing the full collection of his free M4L devices.
READ MORE: NAMM 2024: Yamaha unveils SEQTRACK, an all-in-one music creation station for composing and performing anywhere
For the uninitiated, Max For Live is an integrated environment in Ableton Live that offers a wide range of creative tools, including synths, samplers, effects, and experimental MIDI generators.
Given the buckloads of devices – both free and commercial – available to choose from, the world of M4L can be pretty overwhelming if you’re new to the game. Here’s how Bastan’s latest release comes in, as it offers a great starting point for all you rookies out there looking to foray into the weird and wonderful world of M4L.
The package, which arrives as a single, downloadable bundle, features all 10 of Bastan’s free M4L devices. They include:Fractal filters: a 50-band filterbank that uses a visualisation of Julia Set fractals
Strange Mod: a device that uses Strange or Chaotic Attractors to produce a moving 3D coordinate
Cellular Degradation: a polyphonic tone generator that combines cellular automation
Swarmalators T: a swarm synthesizer device
Swarmalators N: a swarm MIDI generator device
Spectral Attractors: a device that uses a physics simulation and a phase vocoder
Screaming Janus: a device comprising a simulation of Janus Bunch Oscillators and a corresponding bank of brutal oscillators.
Markov Variations: a tool to transition between Ableton Live variations using Markov Chains
Logistic Mod: a modulator device that uses the logistic equation for modelling population growth
Image2Wavetable: a tool that turns an image into a wavetable to be used by Live’s wavetable (and others).Download the full bundle from Dillon Bastan’s website.
The post All of Dillon Bastan’s Max For Live tools are now free to download in one giant bundle appeared first on MusicTech.All of Dillon Bastan’s Max For Live tools are now free to download in one giant bundle
musictech.comDillon Bastan, the developer whose name you’d be hard pressed to miss in the Max For Live community, has released a free, all-in-one bundle containing the full collection of his free M4L devices.
- in the community space Tools and Plugins
PreSonus announce Eris Pro 4 monitor The compact PreSonus Eris Pro 4 version of their coaxial monitor design delivers a wide ‘sweet spot’ and maintains a symmetrical dispersion pattern, making it well-suited to use in multi-speaker immersive mixing rooms.
PreSonus announce Eris Pro 4 monitor
www.soundonsound.comThe compact PreSonus Eris Pro 4 version of their coaxial monitor design delivers a wide ‘sweet spot’ and maintains a symmetrical dispersion pattern, making it well-suited to use in multi-speaker immersive mixing rooms.
NAMM 2024: Up your Stylophone game with the CPM DS-2 analogue drone synthesizerNAMM 2024: Dubreq, creator of the iconic Stylophone, has unveiled the latest iteration of its famed pocket synth in the form of the CPM DS-2 analogue drone synthesizer.
READ MORE: NAMM 2024: Yamaha unveils SEQTRACK, an all-in-one music creation station for composing and performing anywhere
The first of Dubreq’s pro-audio Compact Portable Modular (CPM) range, the Stylophone DS-2 is a marked departure from the toy-like styling of the original.
Key features of the CPM DS-2 include two 3340 analogue oscillators, twin analogue sub-oscillators, and two analogue 3320 filters. Users can keep things musical by linking the pitch of the two analogue oscillators to ensure everything stays harmoniously in tune, or hard sync them for even wilder sounds.
The synthesizer also boasts a robust LFO section with 14 waveforms, two wave selectors, seven routing switches, and five depth attenuverters. Sonic vibes are further enhanced with the in-built vintage modulated delay as well as the option to add one of the eight vintage-inspired reverb algorithms.
Additional features include a built-in speaker, two stereo outputs, and a dozen modular patch points. Run sound sources from anything into the Aux input to take advantage of the included effects, creating a single hub for your music creations.
The DS-2 can be powered by mains or using AA-sized batteries, and Eurorack compatibility means that you can integrate the synth into your preferred modular system.
“The Stylophone CPM DS-2 Analog Drone Synthesizer is an ideal companion for those seeking innovation in sound creation in the studio, on stage or on the go,” said the company in a statement.
Priced at $259/ £209, the DS-2 is now available for pre-order on the Stylophone website.The post NAMM 2024: Up your Stylophone game with the CPM DS-2 analogue drone synthesizer appeared first on MusicTech.
NAMM 2024: Up your Stylophone game with the CPM DS-2 analogue drone synthesizer
musictech.comDubreq, creator of the Stylophone, has unveiled the latest iteration of its famed pocket synth in the form of the CPM DS-2 analogue drone synthesizer.
- in the community space Education
Is AI Music Taking Royalties From Musicians and Composers?This week, Ari is joined by Oleg Stavitsky, the CEO and Co-Founder of Endel.
Is AI Music Taking Royalties From Musicians and Composers?
aristake.comThis week, Ari is joined by Oleg Stavitsky, the CEO and Co-Founder of Endel.
At $159, RØDE’s NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone could be the ultimate studio all-rounder$159/£139, rode.com
Following the success of RØDE’s NT1 5th Generation, which incorporated a plethora of high-tech features, we now have the new NT1 Signature Series, a revamp of the classic and beloved analogue microphone.READ MORE: Universal Audio’s SC-1 and Hemisphere eight-mics-in-one are tempting additions to any studio’s mic collection
The main features of the 5th Generation are its proprietary Dual Connect output with both XLR and USB connectivity, 32-bit float digital output and onboard DSP. But the analogue circuitry was also upgraded to deliver lower noise and higher SPL handling capabilities.
Now, the NT1 Signature Series incorporates the analogue improvements without all the digi-tech, for those who choose to work in a more traditional style. And while we are talking traditional style, the classic silver or black aluminium casework has been joined by a range of vibrant, limited-edition colours, including red, green, purple, pink and blue.
RØDE CEO Damien Wilson told us, “We wanted to offer creators this new-and-improved NT1 with the original pure-analogue design of previous generations – plus the option to get one in your favourite colour to match your own unique aesthetic.”
RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone in red, photographed against a background of red jewels
Whichever colour option you go for, the mic comes with its own high-quality shockmount, pop shield and a decent XLR cable so it’s ready to plug straight into your mic preamp or interface.
Under the hood, the microphone features an HP6 large diaphragm (1-inch) gold-sputtered capsule, which made its debut appearance in the 4th Generation model. This improves the capsule found in earlier incarnations of the mic, having been precision-engineered to sub-micron tolerances.
Like all NT1s, it’s a cardioid-only design with a tight response, which excels in rejecting unwanted spillage from extraneous sounds. This type of response really comes into its own when used in the context of a multi-player backing track session, yet also provides precise focus when used for vocals, individual overdubs and voiceover work.
As a vocal mic, the new NT1 retains the classic sonic signature that has placed it at the forefront of budget condenser designs for three decades. Its rich and detailed character flatters most vocalists with added warmth and a glossy high-end sheen that evades some mics costing considerably more. In this respect, it’s a great choice when a decent outboard EQ isn’t available.
RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone in blue, photographed against a background of blue flowers
Our vintage Neumann U 67 tube mic has a glorious midrange, yet it’s rare for us to achieve a final sound without adding a touch of super-top from a 16kHz EQ boost on a Pultec EQP-1A. Just think of the cost of that package…
Because of the Signature Series NT1’s inherent super-top lift, many users will find that they can produce a wonderful vocal sound with only a suitable level of dynamic control and no tone shaping whatsoever.
Although the broad treble region may not be as neutral or transparent as more expensive designs, the latest model expresses a more vivid, less scooped tonal balance than NT1s of the past.
Also, the mic exhibits extremely low levels of self-noise (at 4dBA), which, alongside the digi-equipped 5th Generation model, makes the new Signature Series the world’s quietest studio condenser microphone, according to RØDE.
ASMR artist tapping their fingernails on a RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone in pink
Before pressing the NT1 into service on a studio session, we like to test the mic on an acoustic guitar, alongside our stalwart Neumann U 67 and AKG C414 B-ULS mics.
Of course, our regular condensers are far more costly designs. But despite all three mics expressing their own unique sonic character, you wouldn’t pinpoint the new NT1 as the budget option.
Listening to the pass recorded with the new NT1, the guitar sound has a lovely, even midrange with just a hint of added low-mid warmth. It’s a presentation that works particularly well with singer-songwriter performances, especially when blended with an intimate, close-mic’d vocal.
However, in a busier mix, some of that low-mid can be usefully dialled-out with EQ to reduce clutter and increase clarity. That said, the clarity expressed in this microphone is impressive not only at its price-point, but also in absolute terms.
RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone in green, photographed against a background of green leaves
In comparison with the aforementioned U 67 and C414 mics, the NT1 has a more pronounced top-end, lacking the darkly forward nature of the ’67 or woody midrange of the ’414. This is no bad thing in the context of most popular music and speech recordings. However, those who desire to capture sounds without added top-end sparkle might prefer something a tad more neutral.
Granted, this type of product isn’t aimed at those who make highly-critical classical or jazz recordings and, for most of us working in the broad church of pop, it pretty much covers all bases.
As with any mic, its ultimate sound is a product of its interaction with the preamp it’s used with. We prefer the tonal balance of the NT1 with a punchy solid state design, such as a classic Neve-style mic preamp, rather than our softer, more open valve designs.
It’s with our Hairball Audio Lola preamp that we first use the NT1 to capture a full drum kit sound with the mic placed a few feet in front of the kit just above the top head of the rack tom. This produces an incredibly natural mono kit sound on its own yet also works brilliantly mixed with close spot mics and overheads; a pair of NT1s would make for a killer stereo overhead pair, then.
RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone in purple, photographed against a background of purple feathers
And as the latest incarnation of the mic has higher SPL handling capability than previous models – and way higher than most delicate boutique mics – you can happily place it close to an electric guitar amplifier or loud horn section.
The NT1 has always been a true studio stalwart, able to capture just about any sound you choose. Now it does a similar trick with more authority and refinement, with a price tag that definitely won’t break the bank.
When it comes to the age-old engineer’s debate of ‘if you had to choose one mic to record absolutely everything…’, the new RØDE NT1 Signature Series has shot straight to the top of our shortlist.
Key featuresCardioid condenser
HP6 gold-sputtered capsule
Aluminium body
Comes with studio-grade shockmount, pop filter and XLR cable
Available in classic black or a range of limited edition colours – red, green, purple, pink and blue
10 year warrantyThe post At $159, RØDE’s NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone could be the ultimate studio all-rounder appeared first on MusicTech.
At $159, RØDE’s NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone could be the ultimate studio all-rounder
musictech.comWe test the RØDE NT1 Signature Series condenser microphone to see just how much the design has been refined — here’s our review
Pianist Matt Wilde’s Prophet Rev2 provided the “secret sauce” for his debut albumIt’s time to shine a light on the piano. Who better to do it with than Matt Wilde? Hailing from Manchester, Wilde draws inspiration from diverse cultures to create an instrumental hip-hop-leaning jazz sound with rich harmonies and clean drums all centred around his impressive playing skills.
READ MORE: “Without that synth, I wouldn’t have my sound”: Demi Riquisimo shines a light on essential hardware
In 2023, Wilde proudly released his debut album, Hello World, with Band on the Wall Recordings. It’s a delightful, heartfelt 11-track release including collaborations with a trumpeter, a drummer, a saxophonist and a bassist all working in tandem. So, we find out how Wilde processes his piano, which piano he uses and what tips he might have for upcoming musicians and producers.
Hello World by Matt Wilde
Hey, Matt! Your debut album… how does it feel?
Honestly, it feels surreal to finally hold the LP! It’s one thing to conceptualise and work on an album, but to see it come to life, to hold it physically, is a whole different experience.
Matt Wilde’s studio set-up
Who are your favourite/most inspiring producers and/or pianists?
My musical inspiration comes from a mix of producers and pianists. On the production side, I’ve always been a huge fan of J Dilla, Pete Rock, Madlib, and MF Doom. Their unique styles and approaches to music have influenced me.
As for pianists, I grew up listening to Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock, Ahmad Jamal, and Chick Corea. Each of them has a distinct style which continually inspires my approach to the piano.
What piano do you use?
I use a Yamaha U1 upright piano. It’s a nostalgic choice; I grew up with a Yamaha upright at home and love its touch and tone. Its forward-facing strings bring intimacy to my music, adding warmth and authenticity to my productions.
Matt Wilde‘s Yamaha U1 upright piano
What other gear was used for your album?
For this album, I used a Rhodes MK1 and a Prophet Rev2. The Rhodes MK1 was a lockdown project; I bought and restored it which was tough, but super cool to get hands-on and see how it works from the inside out (literally!).
Matt Wilde’s Rhodes MK1
And the Sequential Prophet Rev2, that’s my go-to for all the synth magic! From counter melodies to dreamy pads and strings, and some syncopated rhythmic stuff. They’re the secret sauce that made the album feel complete.
Matt Wilde’s Sequential Prophet Rev2
Tell us a bit about where you make music.
I’m based in my home studio in Manchester, UK. The studio is on the smaller side, which has been great for maintaining a clutter-free and purposeful environment. Over the years, I’ve experimented with a variety of gear, mostly keyboards and hardware, buying and selling to find what works for me. Now, I’ve settled on a collection of gear that I find inspiring and use every day. It’s a space where each piece of equipment has its own significance, helping me craft music efficiently and creatively.
Close-up of Matt Wilde’s studio desk set-up
How do you use your creative space?
My creative space is where most of my tracks begin life, often starting as sketches on the piano to flesh out harmony and melody. The compact nature of my studio means everything I need is within arm’s reach, which helps keep the creative process fluid and uninterrupted. While I do a lot here, for larger recordings like drums, I step out to professional studios such as Airtight Studios for extra space, equipment and quality. This blend of in-house groundwork and external recording is the perfect balance for my workflow.
Matt Wilde’s Ableton Push 3 standalone
What processing went into your piano sounds?
I have a pair of Soyuz 013 FET mics that live on my upright. I record them into a Universal Audio Apollo x4, usually tracking through a Neve 1073 pre. I also record the piano with the felt rail as it makes the tone slightly warmer!
My basic chain usually goes something like this:
Preamp > EQ > saturation > compression
Soyuz 013 FET mic
Who did you collaborate with for the album and how did you work together?
For this album, I had the amazing opportunity to collaborate with Band on the Wall Recordings, a label from the iconic music venue in Manchester. It feels like a full circle moment for me, as I used to attend music workshops there run by Brighter Sound during my younger years. Those sessions, where I honed my skills in playing and recording with Ableton Live under the guidance of some incredible mentors, played a big part in my musical journey.
The record itself was a collaborative effort with some incredibly talented musicians. We had Aaron Wood on trumpet, Oscar Ogden on drums, CARRTOONS on bass, Parthenope on sax, among others. The recording process was a mix of remote and in-person sessions, which brought a unique dynamic to the creation of the album. It was a great experience to see these musicians breathe life into the records with their unique styles and expertise.
Close-up of the Rhodes logo on the MK1
What is your dream piece of gear and why?
A dream piece of equipment for me would be the new Rhodes MK8. It’s not just about its stunning looks and sound, but also the fact that they’re made in Leeds, just down the road, which adds a personal touch. Maybe one day I’ll get my hands on one. Additionally, I’d love to invest in some classic analogue gear like the Neve 1073, API 2500, and LA-2A.
If you were left on a desert island, what one item would you take with you to make music with forever?
Assuming there’s a magical power supply on this desert island (hey, we can dream, right?), I’d go for the Ableton Push 3 standalone. It’s compact, versatile, and totally self-contained. I could easily carry it around the island, setting up my studio under palm trees or by the shore. Plus, it beats trying to haul my piano through the sand — that would be a sight!
Nostalgia by Matt Wilde
What is your top piece of production advice?
My top piece of production advice is to trust your ears and your instincts. Try to play or create what you hear in your mind. It’s important to be patient with yourself in this process. Avoid judging what you produce and let others give you feedback. The key is to keep the creative channel open, allowing your ideas to flow naturally without self-judgment. This way you can be creative whilst also developing a unique and authentic sound.
Head to Matt Wilde’s website to find out more.
The post Pianist Matt Wilde’s Prophet Rev2 provided the “secret sauce” for his debut album appeared first on MusicTech.Pianist Matt Wilde’s Prophet Rev2 provided the “secret sauce” for his debut album
musictech.comWith a Yamaha piano, a Rhodes keyboard and the aforementioned Prophet, Matt Wilde produced his stunning debut, ‘Hello World’ — here‘s how
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 unveil: How to watch and what to expectI can’t recall if there was ever a true lull in the weeks between CES and MWC, or whether this is the sort of thing we tell ourselves to cushion the blow of a hardware season that now spans 11.5 months of the year. Whatever the case, the days of big companies saving big news […]
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techcrunch.comWatch Samsung's Unpacked event over here to catch the first official glimpse of the new Galaxy S24 line, long with AI news.

