Elon Musk vows to move X, SpaceX headquarters from California to Texas Elon Musk is doubling down on his commitment to Texas by vowing to move SpaceX’s massive headquarters from its long-time Hawthorne, California home to the Lone Star State.  Musk later said that he would move the headquarters of his social media platform X from San Francisco, California, to Austin, Texas — where his other company, […]
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Playing Rock, Paper Scissors With A Time of Flight SensorYou can do all kinds of wonderful things with cameras and image recognition. However, sometimes spatial data is useful, too. As [madmcu] demonstrates, you can use depth data from a time-of-flight sensor for gesture recognition, as seen in this rock-paper-scissors demo.
If you’re unfamiliar with time-of-flight sensors, they’re easy enough to understand. They measure distance by determining the time it takes photons to travel from one place to another. For example, by shooting out light from the sensor and measuring how long it takes to bounce back, the sensor can determine how far away an object is. Take an array of time-of-flight measurements, and you can get simple spatial data for further analysis.
The build uses an Arduino Uno R4 Minima, paired with a demo board for the VL53L5CX time-of-flight sensor. The software is developed using NanoEdge AI Studio. In a basic sense, the system uses a machine learning model to classify data captured by the time-of-flight sensor into gestures matching rock, paper, or scissors—or nothing, if no hand is present. If you don’t find [madmcu]’s tutorial enough, you can take a look at the original version from STMicroelectronics, too.
It takes some training, and it only works in the right lighting conditions, but this is a functional system that can determine real hand sign and play the game. We’ve seen similar techniques help more advanced robots cheat at this game before, too! What a time to be alive.

‘Middle class’ of artists growing larger, Luminate report finds, as 29,253 clocked between 1m and 10m on-demand audio streams in H1The number of "mid-tier" artists grew by more than 5% in the past year, Luminate's Midyear Music Report says
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This AI tech lets users sing in 10 languages and 15 Chinese dialects. Westlife have used it to release a song in Mandarin via Tencent Music“Everyone can become a professional singer with AI.”
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Self-host, #decetralize and back up imho nowadays.

CUDA, But Make It AMDCompute Unified Device Architecture, or CUDA, is a software platform for doing big parallel calculation tasks on NVIDIA GPUs. It’s been a big part of the push to use GPUs for general purpose computing, and in some ways, competitor AMD has thusly been left out in the cold. However, with more demand for GPU computation than ever, there’s been a breakthrough. SCALE from [Spectral Compute] will let you compile CUDA applications for AMD GPUs.
SCALE allows CUDA programs to run as-is on AMD GPUs, without modification. The SCALE compiler is also intended as a drop-in swap for nvcc, right down to the command line options. For maximum ease of use, it acts like you’ve installed the NVIDIA Cuda Toolkit, so you can build with cmake just like you would for a normal NVIDIA setup. Currently, Navi 21 and Navi 31 (RDNA 2.0 and RDNA 3.0) targets are supported, while a number of other GPUs are undergoing testing and development.
The basic aim is to allow developers to use AMD hardware without having to maintain an entirely separate codebase. It’s still a work in progress, but it’s a promising tool that could help break NVIDIA’s stranglehold on parts of the GPGPU market.
 

Universal Audio introduce Apollo x16D The latest addition to Universal Audio’s line-up combines the power of their renowned DSP plug-ins with the flexibility of networked audio, integrating seamlessly with Dante-equipped digital consoles and recording systems.

Instagram Reels adds Multiple Audio TracksMusicians and other creators can add up to 20 audio tracks to their Instagram Reels. The feature was first tested in Brazil, Japan, and Indonesia and is now available to all creators globally.
The post Instagram Reels adds Multiple Audio Tracks appeared first on Hypebot.

Music and Mental Health: Exploring the Healing Power of Music with Chad LawsonIndependent musician Chad Lawson lives and creates at the intersection of music and mental health. The tracks on his last two chart-topping albums have been streamed over 700 million times, and he’s also a certified breath-work coach and a yoga teacher.
The post Music and Mental Health: Exploring the Healing Power of Music with Chad Lawson appeared first on Hypebot.

Machinedrum’s free sample pack gives you sounds manipulated from a 90’s Micron computerAd feature with BandLab Sounds.
Need some more experimental sounds in your samples folder? Machinedrum has got you covered. The LA-based artist recently teamed up with BandLab and MusicTech (following his digital cover interview for MusicTech) to create a pack of 100 free samples.
The free pack, Machinedrum’s Micron Sounds, boasts 41 loops of beats and melodic material, plus 59 one-shot sounds. You’ll be able to download glitched beats, gritty and dark basslines, plus stuttered, lo-fi synth and piano sounds.
Most interestingly is Machinedrum’s choice to manipulate sounds from an old 90s Micron PC, which BandLab says results in “eccentric loops and one-shots to add a distinctive edge to your productions.” Machinedrum, real name Travis Stewart, is no stranger to creating sounds in an unusual fashion. For his latest album, 3FOR82, he built a collection of “thousands and thousands of sounds” and used old-school tools like Impulse Tracker to process them. “I only scratched the surface with this album,” he said of the samples he used.
With the BandLab Sounds platform, you can also audition individual samples before you download them; you can edit their tempo and key, and can trim the sample to your desired length. There are also parameters for attack, release, and tone, plus an option to reverse the sample before you download it. BandLab Sounds has organised the samples by key, tempo, character, length and instrument, so you can find what you’re looking for pretty quickly.
Machinedrum’s Micron Sounds being edited on BandLab Sounds
Speaking about his journey into music production, Machinedrum said: “When I was a teenager and in my early 20s, I was just constantly emulating what I was hearing and trying to recreate other people’s music, which was really exciting to me. I’d find my own sound within that inspiration. I think that’s inside of my DNA — I’m always exploring different sounds based on whatever my tastes are at the time because that’s what I find exciting about making music: learning, evolving and trying new things.”
Download the Machinedrum Micron Sounds sample pack.
[Editor’s Note: BandLab and MusicTech are both part of Caldecott Music Group]

The post Machinedrum’s free sample pack gives you sounds manipulated from a 90’s Micron computer appeared first on MusicTech.

Nano-Influencer Music Marketing: What You Need To KnowNano-influencer music marketing leverages individuals with small but engaged followings. Keep reading to learn how this approach can offer higher engagement rates and more authentic connections with fans than traditional influencer marketing.
The post Nano-Influencer Music Marketing: What You Need To Know appeared first on Hypebot.

Warm Audio reveal Silver Centavo Warm Audio have released a limited-edition version of their Centavo pedal that sports a new look inspired by Klon's earliest Centaur models. 

Here are 10 free sample packs perfect for Berlin technoAd feature with BandLab Sounds
Techno has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the late 1980s. Characterised by repetitive beats, hypnotic rhythms, and often sparse arrangements, the genre emerged out of Detroit courtesy of the Belleville Three before gaining popularity across Europe, particularly in Berlin thanks to legendary clubs like Tresor and Berghain.
Shaped by pioneers like Richie Hawtin, Jeff Mills, and Juan Atkins, these artists — and many others — have set the standard for techno’s deep, driving grooves and atmospheric textures, but the genre continues to evolve.
Although techno is now a global phenomenon, both Detroit and Berlin remain the meccas of the genre. The latter is known for its darker, more minimal sound — and these free sample packs have everything you need to need to achieve some of that gritty, underground spirit.
Sample This: Dub Techno

Time-based processing is a cornerstone of Berlin techno production, but dub techno is particularly recognisable by its cavernous reverbs and delays, not to mention a healthy dose of analogue flavour. This pack features moody stabs, dirty textures, and snappy drum loops to put you on the right track.
Download Sample This: Dub Techno
Mind Flux: Minimal Techno Drums

A strong rhythm section is the foundation of any great techno track, and these samples from Mind Flux are the perfect toolkit for constructing a beat. What’s more, these minimal grooves have been twisted and warped with some wacky effects for added character.
Download Minimal Techno Drums
Detroit Techno

Back to where it all started, this Detroit techno sample pack is filled with loops and samples straight from the ‘90s. Detroit techno is a little more soulful than its Berlin counterpart, so you’ll find plenty of melodic phrases here alongside Roland-inspired drum loops.
Download Detroit Techno
Patch & Play Lab: Modular Techno

Sound design plays a significant role in techno, and this collection of modular sounds has plenty of distinctive timbres and otherworldly textures to keep your listeners engaged. From metallic scrapes and sinister synth plucks to driving, distorted drums, this pack is a must-have for making Berlin techno.
Download Patch & Play Lab: Modular Techno
Tribal Techno Percussion

Often, techno is about creating a hypnotic rhythm and slowly developing it over time, drawing listeners in with a gradual build-up of energy. With this pack, you’ll get complex, syncopated percussion loops from around the globe, all of which have been spatially treated for even more vibe.
Download Tribal Techno Percussion
Mind Flux: Melodic Techno

Berlin techno may not focus so heavily on melodic components, but that doesn’t mean they’re off limits. With this pack, Mind Flux treats us to 85 synth loops, from textures and drones to grooving bass plucks and rolling arpeggiators.
Download Mind Flux: Melodic Techno
Sample Tools by Cr2: Non-Stop Techno Vol 1

Heavy, pumping drums and distorted synth leads are what you’ll find in Non-Stop Techno Vol 1 from Cr2, the label that’s home to names like Carl Cox and Camelphat. If you’re looking to go beyond the more minimal sounds of Berlin techno, this is a good place to start.
Download Sample Tools by Cr2: Non-Stop Techno Vol 1
Patch & Play Lab: Experimental Techno Risers & FX

Simpler arrangements are a hallmark of many techno tracks, and FX samples like risers and sweeps play a pivotal role in carrying listeners along. Whether you’re building up tension, letting it loose, or simply looking for bells and whistles to add some final polish, Patch & Play Lab has you covered with this collection of 104 loops.
Download Patch & Play Lab: Experimental Techno Risers & FX
Minimal Techno Collection

Still haven’t got your fill of dark, atmospheric timbres? Check out this minimal techno collection spanning punchy drums, bass grooves, and a whole load of distinctive sound effects.
Download Minimal Techno Collection
Rolling Techno

Up the aggression with this pack of rolling techno samples chock full of heavy basslines, punchy kicks, and resonant, growling synth plucks.
Download Rolling Techno
The post Here are 10 free sample packs perfect for Berlin techno appeared first on MusicTech.

These are the best Bluetooth headphones deals this Prime DayPrime Day 2024 is well under way, and the team here at MusicTech are scouring Amazon for the very best deals on music tech gear and consumer audio and electronics.
As usual, the online retail giant is offering killer savings on a whole range of Bluetooth headphones, with both in-ear and over-the-head options available.

READ MORE: UAD Vintage Studio Bundle now available at 94% discount, for just $59

And we’ve compiled a list of the very best savings to be had. Check ‘em out below:
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) – 22% off
Credit: Amazon
With an Apple-designed H2 chip, the hugely popular AirPods Pro push advanced audio performance, with smarter noise cancellation and superior three-dimensional sound and battery life. Sound quality is pristine, with a low-distortion, custom-built driver and amplifier for crisp, clear high notes and deep, rich bass in stunning definition. Get them at a £50 discount right now this Prime Day.
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones – 46% off
Credit: Amazon
This is easily one of the standout deals so far from this year’s Prime Day. Sony’s WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones – usually priced at £350 – are now just £189.99 for a limited time. That’s nearly half off. Available in three colourways – Black, Midnight Blue and Silver – these cans feature quality noise cancellation, supreme sound quality, Speak-to-Chat and even Wearing Detection which powers off the headphones when the user isn’t wearing them. Grab this killer deal right now.
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Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones – 60% off
Credit: Amazon
In another unbelievable saving to be made this Prime Day, you can get a huge 60% off these Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones. Normally priced at £349.95, you can pick these up for a limited time for only £139. Compatible with both iOS and Android devices, the Beats Studio3 cans feature pure adaptive noise cancelling, real-time audio calibration for a premium listening experience, up to 22 hours of battery life, and efficient charging time; just 10 minutes of charging gives three hours of play time.
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Apple AirPods Max – 10% off
Credit: Amazon
If you’ve got a bit more budget to play with, why not push the boat out and grab yourself a pair of Apple’s AirPods Max over-ear headphones. Sure, they’re at the pricier end of the spectrum, but like so much audio gear, you get what you pay for. An Apple-designed dynamic driver delivers high-fidelity audio, while active noise cancellation blocks exterior noise. There’s also a Transparency mode for hearing and interacting with the world around you, while spatial audio with dynamic head tracking provides theatre-like surround sound.
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The post These are the best Bluetooth headphones deals this Prime Day appeared first on MusicTech.

Get 10% off Apple’s AirPods Max headphones in this mega Prime Day dealAmazon‘s Prime Day is essentially Christmas for savvy tech lovers in search of a bargain. Among the wealth of deals available, Apple is throwing its hat into the ring; AirPods Max are currently on sale for a fraction of the price.
Apple AirPods Max over-ear headphones are now 10% off. At £449, the deal cuts £50 off of the typical retail price.

READ MORE: Audeze MM-100 headphones: More detail for fewer dollars

Much like typical AirPods, the headphones provide active noise cancellation. The headphones also come with spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, for a well-rounded and immersive listening experience. We’re talking about head-tracked, spatially-aware surround sound – meaning the sound moves when you turn your head.
The set even comes with memory foam ear cushions, so users can indulge in a heavy listening session comfortably. The headphones’ battery life is also impressive, offering up to 20 hours of listening time from just one charge.
The AirPods Max deal can be applied to any colour – meaning you can choose any colour that best fits your personality and style. Buyers can opt for Space Gray, Green, Blue, Silver or Pink.
Back in 2021, we rated the headphones a respectable 8/10. The headphones offer a premium listening experience for a premium price – even holding them, you can feel the quality, made with high-grade aluminium and sturdy stainless steel.
Of course, they are designed with the Apple ecosystem in mind. While the earphones can be used on non-Apple devices, there might not be much benefit if you’re not already an Apple user.
Elsewhere, other AirPods have dropped in price. The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen earphones are currently available for 22% off, at £179.
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The post Get 10% off Apple’s AirPods Max headphones in this mega Prime Day deal appeared first on MusicTech.