Binary Interface

Welcome to the April edition of the Binary Interface newsletter, providing news and updates on what's new in our corner of the world of music technology. As always, we welcome any comments, suggestions or contributions.

Executive Summary:
The idea of a microphone which plugs straight into a USB port has great appeal - here we check out two of the major contenders.

The Edirol R09 has become a popular quality hand-held recorder. We are now offering bundles with accessories to enhance your recording experience.

The Sibelius Student Composer Awards are now open for entries. Get your students to compose a piece for a chance to win fame and fortune.

The CME U-key controller keyboards offer a USB interface and built-in sound set as well as other enhancements.

The new MBox2 Mini represents one of the easiest ways to get into Pro-Tools recording on Mac or PC.

New lower Academic Pricing has been announced on several audio software titles, including Kontakt2 player and FL Studio (Fruity Loops), making it more affordable for schools to have lab installations of these great products.

It's on again, the bi-annual Music Conference in Maryborough, and Binary Designs will be there to present the latest in music technology.

If you need some training on your favourite music software, here is the timetable for our upcoming Courses and Workshops in our on-going Professional Development Series.

Rode Podcaster
Seamless integration was the idea, and it was obtained by creating a studio dynamic microphone with unparalleled A/D converters, so that the microphone can be plugged into any computer with no in/out boxes, no expensive computer pre-amps, just a USB cable.
The Podcaster offers an end-address configuration, the clarity of RODE's tailored-for-voice frequency response, an ON L.E.D, a direct headphone amp, and of course very low self noise.
The microphone comes complete with a 3M USB cable. Optional extras include a shock mounting system and soon to be released Anglepoise style table mount arm.
The mic opens up possibilities for anyone who records audio from podcasters, journalists and students to business people adding audio files to websites and multimedia presentations.

MXL.006 USB Microphone
MXL Microphones, the professional audio division of Marshall Electronics, have announced the introduction of the MXL.006 USB / Cardiod Condenser Microphone. Designed with ease-of-use in mind, the new MXL.006 features a large gold diaphragm that delivers a big, rich sound characteristic of studio and broadcast microphones. Unlike most studio condenser microphones, however, the MXL.006 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) instrument that connects directly to a computer without the need for external mic preamps.
Now, anyone requiring high quality, professional sound on their computer can record music or dialog by simply connecting to a standard USB port. Featuring support for USB 1.1 and 2.0, this exceptionally easy-to-use microphone even includes gain adjustment settings via the built-in three position attenuation switch. Unlike electrets or dynamic microphones typically used for computer work, the MXL.006 has an extremely smooth, natural sound typical of what one would hear on a professionally produced CD or radio show.
To complete this terrific package, the new MXL.006 ships with a travel case, a desktop microphone stand, a 10-foot USB cable, windscreen, an owner’s manual, and an applications guide.

USB Microphone Prices (inc GST)
Rode Podcaster	$345
MXL.006	$249

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R09 Bundles

Portable Audio Recording

The options have never been greater for portable audio recording, so Binary Designs has combined the R09 24-bit hand-held recorder with some great accessories, to save you money and make your recording experience even easier.
P.S. The Edirol R09 recorder is now available in black, white or red and supports up to 4Gb capacity SD cards

• Bundle 1: R09 with Cover and Stand set
  This bundle includes a small desktop tripod plus a protective cover for the R-09. The cover has cut-outs for accessing the buttons, plus a belt clip, and a screw hole for attachment to the tripod base.
  
  
• Bundle 2: R09 with CS15 Stereo microphone
  For serious field recording, this bundle includes the CS15 cardioid-type stereo microphone. For portability and convenience, the R-09 supplies the power to the mic. Bundled with the microphone are a desktop mic stand, a hand-held mount, and a windscreen.
  
  
• Bundle 3: R09 with Cover and Mic Stand Adaptor
  The Microphone Stand Adaptor and Cover set allow you to mount the R-09 on any standard mic stand. Includes the Cover and Stand set as well as a universal Mic Stand Adaptor.
  
  
• Bundle 4: R09 with CS15 Microphone and Carry Case
  Keep your R-09 safe and transport all its accessories in one convenient padded carrying case. Includes the CS15 microphone, desktop mic stand, hand-held mount and a windscreen.
  
  

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Sibelius Australia have announced a new competition for secondary and tertiary students to compose an original work using Sibelius software. The piece can be in any musical genre but must be scored for 1 flute, 1 clarinet, 1 violin, 1 cello, and 1 percussion. Entrants will be in the running for some fabulous prizes with finalists pieces workshopped and performed in concert at the Sydney Conservatorium on July 28th.

Check the Sibelius website at www.sibelius.com/competition/student_composer for more details.

Also, don't forget the Queensland Music Festival's Score It! composing competition is still open for entries until 1st June. (see www.binarydesigns.com.au/QMF/Score_It/Scoreit_help.html for more)

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CME Professional has released the U-key Mobiltone controller keyboard. Some of the outstanding features of this keyboard are:

• 49-note ultra-thin form factor, with full-action semi-weighted keys.
• In-built 64-note polyphonic General MIDI tone generator - this means no latency when using it with your favourite notation or sequencer software. (e.g. Sibelius, Cubase, Finale, Cakewalk). This makes it ideal for use with notebook or desktop computers without a dedicated wave-table soundcard.
• 8 pads and 8 knobs plus data entry knob for real-time performance control, as well as a joystick controller. All controllers are fully programmable.
• USB bus-powered MIDI interface - class-compliant so no drivers to install for Win XP or Mac OSX.
• MIDI files can be stored on-board and triggered by the 8 pads. Download any MIDI file via USB port and free 'U-key Brain' software. (Also allows firmware upgrade via USB).
• Includes MIDI I/O ports, universal pedal jack, 1/8" stereo headphone jack, 1/8" stereo line out, as well as an internal monitor speaker.
• Includes multiple ethnic-tempered tuning, for world music performance.
• Unique U-Ctrl button automatically sets up the keyboard for each software application you use
  
  Pricing: U-key MIDI controller $349.00
  
  

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Digidesign, authors of Pro Tools audio software, have released the MBox2 Mini audio interface. Bundled with Pro Tools LE 7 , this tiny USB powered package puts the power of Pro Tools literally in the palm of your hand.
Like its siblings, Mbox® 2 and Mbox® 2 Pro, Mbox 2 Mini delivers superior sound quality and includes plenty of powerful creation tools for composing, recording, and mixing music and audio. It comes with award-winning, easy-to-use Pro Tools LE™ software, which provides you with many of the same tools the pros use on major recordings and in films. And because Pro Tools is the industry standard, you can use your Mbox 2 Mini-recorded sessions in any Pro Tools-equipped studio around the world.

• Professional sound quality (up to 24-bit/48 kHz)
• Two simultaneous analog inputs and outputs
  • One XLR analog input for connecting a microphone
  • Two 1/4" line-/instrument-level (DI) analog inputs for connecting guitars, basses, keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines, and more
• Zero-latency monitoring
• Compact, rugged metal enclosure for maximum portability and durability
• Powered by USB (USB 1.1 connection, cable included)
• Front-panel volume control and monitor mute switch
• Two 1/4" analog monitor outputs
• Stereo headphone output
• 48V phantom power
• Kensington Security Lock
  
  Pricing: Mbox 2 Mini with Pro Tools LE 7 $495.00
  
  

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Manufacturer Native Instruments has recently announced price drops for academic versions of its software and hardware products, making them more affordable in multi-user school lab applications.

Kontakt2 Sampler
Kontakt 2 embodies the future of sampling. It offers a comprehensive set of features, flexibility and performance and a high degree of compatibility. From authentic library playback of virtually any format to the intuitive creation of new instruments, from profound sound design to lively and dynamic surround sound mixes - Kontakt 2 opens the doors to creativity.

Bandstand
BANDSTAND plays MIDI music the way it should be played. Its unmatched sample-quality and ease of use establishes a benchmark far beyond conventional GM modules. Intuitive sound mixing tools and exceptional effects deliver flexibility that make BANDSTAND the ideal tool in a wide range of situations.

Massive
Voted "Best Software Synthesizer" by more than 100 music magazines from around the world, Massive is a sonic monster. The analog concept belies the cutting edge, contemporary sound it generates. The high-end engine delivers pure quality, lending an undeniable virtue and character to even the most saturated of sounds. The interface is clearly laid out and easy to use, ensuring you will have Massive generating earth-shuddering sounds from the very first note.

Guitar Rig 2
Guitar Rig 2 is a professional all-in-one software and hardware set-up for guitarists and bass players. The fantastic sound quality won Guitar Rig 20 industry awards and artists' praise the world over. A huge range of authentically emulated amps and effects are perfectly complemented by a robust foot controller boasting an integrated, studio-quality sound card.

Academic Prices (inc GST)
Kontakt2 single licence	$399
Bandstand single licence	$199
Bandstand Single Licence - 5 seats	$599
Bandstand Site Licence - 15 seats	$1599
Massive single licence	$299
Guitar Rig 2 single licence (incl controller)	$549
Guitar Rig 2 Single Licence - 5 seats (incl 1 x controller)	$1999
Guitar Rig 2 Site Licence - 15 seats (incl 1 x controller)	$2599

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Music Conference 2007

It's on again and we'll be there - Music Conference 2007 at Maryborough promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a host of international and local presenters and trade delegates focussed on the latest in Music Education, musical equipment and music technology. Centred on the fabulous Brolga Theatre on the banks of the picturesque Mary River, a 3-hour drive north of Brisbane, this year's conference will be held from 7th to 11th July and for the first time incorporates ANBOC and the inaugural Queensland Band Association Expo.

Binary Designs will once again be hosting all of the Music Technology Sessions at the Wide Bay Resource Centre and adjoining Maryborough Central State School. Buses will run from the Brolga Theatre to all sessions throughout the Conference, and you can book your place at our sessions from our Trade Stand in the Brolga Theatre foyer.

You can find out more about Music Conference 2007, including on-line registration, by linking to www.widebayresourcecentre.com.au/mc_home.htm.

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Did You Know?

Did you know Binary Designs suppy not only the best in music software, but can also provide all your music technology accessories. e.g. USB flash drives, CD-R/RW disks, cables, microphones, scanners, printers, memory cards and virtually anything else you may need to make the job of creating music easier. We also supply Piano Sheet Music and Music Giftware.

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Professional Development Courses
Upcoming courses May/June 2007:

These workshops form part of our Binary Designs Basics series for
Vocational Education Training:

Vital
  Effective
    Today

Date	Course	Comment/Cost	Time
Sat 12th May	Video Soundtracks with Finale	Ideal for Score It! competition entrants Hands-on $45	2:00pm-3:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD
Sat 12th May	SmartMusic Studio	Find out why SmartMusic is the Complete Practice System BYO Instrument $45	4:00pm-5:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD
Sat 19th May	Sibelius 4 - Beyond Basics	Get to the next level with Sibelius Hands-on $45	2:00pm-3:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD
Sat 19th May	Groovy Music	Introducing Groovy Music for primary teachers Hands-on $45	4:00pm-5:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD
Sat 2nd June	Becoming a Multimedia Mogul	Learn how to use audio looping tools and video software to create cool digital content Hands-on $45	2:00pm-3:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD
Sat 16th June	High Tech Gadgets	See what's hot in new digital music hardware Hands-on $45	2:00pm-3:30pm Includes a/tea, workbook, & your CD

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