Skip to main content
PSI Audio at HIGH END 2026 with high-end speakers Héritage3 and active bass trap AVAA C214LIVEBOX at HIGH END 2026: experience True Ambience technology from a single-box high-end systemUncompromising Bass from Velodyne Acoustics: The 1824 Is coming!Infrasonic Sound comes to Berlin, represented by Dr. Frederik KnopPSI Audio A326 D-REX gains LFE capabilities through panel update
techpressglobal

Author Archives: David Bergmann

Velodyne Acoustics presents its latest product lines at ISE 2025: The powerful SPL-X subwoofers will take center stage at the show

January 29, 2025 at 11:11 am

Velodyne Acoustics subwoofer displayed on a pedestal against a dark, modern background. Announcement of the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) trade show, taking place from February 4-7, 2025, in Barcelona.

Subwoofer specialist Velodyne Acoustics will showcase a variety of exciting new products at ISE 2025 (Integrated Systems Europe) from February 4 to 7. Home cinema enthusiasts can look forward to an exclusive debut of the brand-new SPL-X series, designed to deliver thrilling bass performance that will make hearts race and walls shake. Visitors eager to experience these high-performance active subwoofers firsthand are invited to visit Velodyne Acoustics at Stand 2J405 in Hall 2.

The new SPL-X subwoofer series – the highlight of the show

The SPL-X series from Velodyne Acoustics is built on the same cutting-edge DSP platform that powers the acclaimed MiniVee X and SC1500 models. With an expanded feature set, the SPL-X subwoofers are available in 10″, 12″, 15″, and 18″ sizes. Their stylish curved cabinet design is inspired by Velodyne’s premium Digital Drive Plus series. Robust construction ensures peak performance: The cabinets feature 38mm thick walls, internal bracing for added rigidity, and support for the powerful magnet systems of the high-performance drivers.

Powerful amplifier modules drive these stunning subwoofers, delivering 1,000 watts RMS (SPL-X 10) to 1,800 watts RMS (SPL-X 18). Featuring newly designed carbon fiber drivers, the SPL-X series is optimized for extreme performance. With four-layer wound voice coils (102mm in larger models, 76mm in the SPL-X 10), double centering spiders, and triple rear-ventilated motor units, they deliver deep, clean, and powerful bass.

The SPL-X models are equipped with high-quality balanced and unbalanced inputs/outputs, along with solid speaker terminals, ensuring seamless integration into hi-fi and home theater systems.

For effortless control, the Velodyne Acoustics AutoEQ app allows users to fine-tune the subwoofers’ performance to suit their room acoustics and personal listening preferences. The included microphone automatically measures the room and activates the AutoEQ function, optimizing the subwoofers’ performance with minimal effort.

Home cinema enthusiasts and audio professionals will appreciate the advanced customization options, including:

• Adjustable crossover frequencies and subsonic filters

• Configurable output filters

• Individual power settings and delay adjustments

• Night mode for reduced output during late-night listening

All new products from Velodyne Acoustics in Barcelona

At ISE 2025 in Barcelona, Velodyne Acoustics will unveil even more exciting innovations: 

• SC1500 DSP-controlled subwoofer amplifier: Featuring app control and automatic calibration, this 1,500-watt amplifier with 2-ohm load stability is the ultimate solution for passive subwoofers, making it ideal for large home theater setups.

• SC-IW600X & SC-IWDVR in-wall subwoofers: These updated models integrate seamlessly into room walls while delivering enhanced sound quality and power.

• MiniVee X limited editions: The popular MiniVee X is now available in a high-gloss white finish and, for a limited time, in a transparent acrylic glass version, revealing its internal technology.

• Wi-Connect System II: The latest version of Velodyne’s wireless audio system enables flexible placement of subwoofers and active speakers, eliminating cable clutter.

Exhibition Information & Contacts

Velodyne Acoustics will be presenting its latest subwoofer innovations at ISE 2025 in Hall 2, Stand 2J405. Exhibition visitors and press representatives are warmly invited to explore the new product lineup and experience cutting-edge audio technology firsthand.

Location

ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) 2025

Fira Barcelona
Veranstaltungsort Gran Vía
Av. Joan Carles I, 64
08908, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat
Barcelona, Spanien

Stand number

Halle 2, Stand 2J405

Opening hours

4. – 6. Februar, 10-18 Uhr

7. Februar, 10-16 Uhr 

Yamaha Showcases New Solutions And Collaborations At ISE 2025

January 29, 2025 at 11:08 am

Yamaha SWX series network switches for professional audio and video applications, combined with ProVisionaire Plan software for system planning. On the left, various switch models in use cases; on the right, a planning discussion with laptop software.

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 sees Yamaha highlighting a number of new products and collaborations, which bring increased flexibility and convenience to the business solutions market.

ProVisionaire Plan is an easy-to-use, browser-based planning tool which extends the ProVisionaire suite of software applications for the design, operation and management of audio systems built around Yamaha professional audio products.

By automatically selecting and arranging equipment in response to simple, intuitive actions, ProVisionaire Plan allows users with no knowledge of acoustics to choose the best products for a conferencing environment. Reducing planning time, results are presented visually, with the coverage area of the automatically-placed microphones and speakers illustrated to justify the proposal. A 3D view allows investors to clearly visualise the system.

Yamaha will also be increasing the number of ProVisionaire courses at its Audioversity Online professional training platform in Q2 2025.

ISE also sees Yamaha launching four new network switches for professional applications. Respectively optimised for large/medium and medium/small ADECIA collaboration and conferencing solutions, the Intelligent SWX2310P-28GT and Smart SWX2210P-10G are L2 Dante and PoE+ optimised switches, which allow integrators to quickly establish stable networks by simplifying settings, monitoring, management and operation.

Up to 30W can be simultaneously applied to each port, powering PoE-compliant devices like wireless access points and higher-output PoE+ devices, while connected Dante PoE devices have optimized settings automatically applied via the LLDP protocol. The SWX2310P-28GT also features built-in RADIUS server functionality to augment VLAN capabilities and ensure enhanced security, even in complex large-scale installations.

Also being launched are the Standard SWX3220-16TMs and Intelligent SWX2322P-16MT 10 gigabit and multi-gigabit switches, designed to facilitate high quality video and audio with low latency over medium-sized IP networks. Both can be used as core or distribution switches, feature LAN ports with speeds exceeding 1 Gbps and include SFP/SFP+ slots, allowing users to select models based on receiving distance and channel requirements.

Additionally, the SWX2322P-16MT supports the PoE++ function, providing both connectivity and power directly to IP cameras, video devices and other equipment. 

All four new switches are compatible with the Network Device Interface (NDI) standard, which delivers high quality video, audio and metadata over standard IP networks.* With NDI technology, devices such as cameras, switchers and media servers on the same network can automatically discover and connect with each other, eliminating the need for complex configurations or dedicated cabling. SDVoE support is also available on all four switches, via configuration.

At ISE, Yamaha is highlighting a new collaboration with Crestron, which pairs the ADECIA RM-CG ceiling array microphone with Crestron’s 1 Beyond intelligent cameras and Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution.

The RM-CG’s multi-beam tracking can follow the speech of up to four different speakers simultaneously, while Crestron Automate VX uses voice-activated switching to automatically frame speakers and switch camera sources, orchestrating what remote users see on screen. With 1 Beyond cameras capturing images in high-resolution, together these technologies mean that in-person contributors never have to think about where to look when speaking, while remote participants always enjoy a clear view of everyone in the room. Clearly visible non-verbal cues like eye contact, gestures and reactions make meetings feel more naturally collaborative. 

Finally, Yamaha will be announcing that the ADECIA Ceiling Solution with the new VXC2P Dante/PoE ceiling speaker is now certified for use with Zoom Rooms.

The VXC2P helps ADECIA systems to overcome speaker placement constraints, increasing flexibility and simplifying system design. A 160º coverage pattern means even a small number of VXC2P speakers can seamlessly cover a wide area, while its internal DSP allows various signal processing functions to be individually configured for each speaker, delivering comfortable, high quality audio throughout a Zoom Room.

These new ISE announcements are in addition to the new third generation R-series I/O racks and updated firmware for the DM3 Series digital mixers, with significant user-friendly updates, which were launched at the NAMM show in January. 

Yamaha is exhibiting on Booth 3D200 in Hall 3 at ISE 2025, which is taking place at the at Fira de Barcelona, Spain, from February 4-7. To receive your free attendance ticket from Yamaha, please visit https://europe.yamaha.com/en/news_events/2024/ise_2025.html 

* Yamaha SWR2310-10G, SWR2310-18GT, SWR2310-28GT, SWR2311P-10G, SWX2320-16MT and SWX3220-16MT switches are also NDI certified. Network switch settings on all models must be adjusted for compatibility. 

Original text: Robin Johnson (www.9016.co.uk)

Yamaha DTX6K5-M introduces mesh heads to the DTX6 series

January 24, 2025 at 9:24 am

Yamaha DTX6K5-M electronic drum set featuring multiple drum pads, cymbal pads, a foot pedal, and a sound module. Ideal for precise and versatile drumming sounds, presented against a black background.

Yamaha presents the DTX6K5-M e-drum kit. The new flagship model of the DTX6 series is the first model in the series to feature mesh head drum pads. The 12-inch snare mesh pad and the three 10-inch mesh tom pads offer two zones for expressive play and Remo 2-ply heads. The DTX6K5-M also comes with two 135 crash pads, a 155 ride pad and a 135 hi hat pad on its own full hi-hat stand. All these pads are connected to the DTX-PRO module with its high-quality sampled acoustic drum sounds and electronic kits.

DTX6K5-M – the biggest of the series

The new Yamaha DTX6K5-M closes the gap between the DTX6 and DTX8 series by introducing mesh head drum pads to the smaller range. In addition to the four mesh heads, it features two 13-inch crash pads, a 15-inch ride pad (all three zone), a moving hi hat 13-inch pad on a real Yamaha hi-hat stand, and the DTX-PRO module with its outstanding sounds. Keeping all the advantages of the DTX6 series, but replacing the TCS pads with larger mesh heads, the DTX6K5-M is just what many drummers were waiting for.

Mesh heads for authentic feedback

As the smallest Yamaha e-drum kit with mesh heads, the DTX6K5-M required pads specifically developed for this kit. The set features one XP120L-M, which is 12 inches in diameter. It uses four sensors for two zones, offering uniquely accurate precision. The other three drum pads are XP100L-M 10-inch pads, also separated into two zones. All drum pads are equipped with Remo 2-ply mesh heads that grant an authentic feel with realistic rebound and minimum noise. With these pads, the DTX6K5-M is the perfect introduction to mesh heads.

Three cymbal pads and mechanical hi-hat

Like some other models in the DTX6 series, the Yamaha DTX6K5-M comes with three cymbal pads. Two of these pads are 13-inch, triple-zone rubber pads identical with the DTX6K3 and DTX6K2 models. The third cymbal pad with the DTX6K5-M is a larger 15-inch model, allowing for more flexibility in setup and play feel. The 13-inch hi-hat also maximizes authenticity, employing a full mechanical hi-hat stand.

DTX-PRO module for realistic sounds

All the authenticity in terms of playing can only really be truly recognised when the kit sounds good – luckily, the Yamaha DTX6K5-M comes with the DTX-PRO module, loaded with outstandingly lifelike reproductions of acoustic kits and creatively designed electronic kits and fresh from its Version 2 update. All kits can be quickly adapted via the three Kit Modifier knobs for Ambience, Comp and Effect, leading to perfect results in no time. The high-power headphone amplifier makes sure the pristinely sampled sounds can shine on headphones. With the new DTX Touch App, all parameters can be adjusted and stored comfortably on a phone, tablet or computer.

Availability

The Yamaha DTX6K5-M will be available from April. The DTX Touch App is available for free from 

iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id6474402210?mt=8  

Mac: https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/id6474402210?mt=12 

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.co.yamaha.emi.dtx_touch  

Yamaha Brings New Features to DM3 Series and Updated R Series I/O Racks To NAMM 2025

January 22, 2025 at 4:10 pm

Yamaha professional audio equipment featuring the R Series Rio3224-D3 and Rio1608-D3 rack-mounted audio interfaces on the left, and the DM3 Series digital mixing console (Version 3.0) on the right, showcasing advanced audio processing and connectivity.

Yamaha has announced the addition of significant user-requested features to its DM3 series digital mixing consoles, as well as third generation Rio3224-D3 and Rio1608-D3 input/output racks, at the 2025 NAMM Show.

Version 3.0 is a significant firmware update for the compact DM3 series, which adds a much-requested eight channel auto mixer. Ideal for multi-participant speech and broadcast events, the auto mixer is very easy to set up, automatically optimising microphone gain distribution smoothly and naturally. Reliably reducing background noise and feedback, it means operators do not need to ride multiple faders, reducing stress and margin for error in speech-based applications.

The new firmware also increases the flexibility of the DM3 series by adding full compatibility with Yamaha’s R series I/O racks. As well as delivering more flexible standalone use in small-to-medium sized rigs, it means DM3 series mixers can be seamlessly integrated into larger configurations with DM7 and RIVAGE PM series digital mixing systems.

Yamaha is also launching the Dante-based Rio3224-D3 and Rio1608-D3 I/O racks. Built around the core concept of an input section which captures stage sound with absolute precision, allowing the mixing engineer to adjust the fine details and creative elements of the sound, the latest versions deliver even lower noise levels and a wider dynamic range. The latest versions also feature improved functionality and energy economy, all while maintaining the high performance that the R series is renowned for.

A new headphone jack can be used for checking the input and output sound, as well as the audio assigned to the last two Dante receive channels, useful when building complex networks. An additional (third) network port on the rear panel also enables control and monitoring to be handled separately from Dante. 

Each output port is now equipped with delay, phase and level adjustment functions, which are especially beneficial for systems based on RIVAGE PM series digital mixing systems. Power consumption is also 16% lower than earlier units, delivering a more cost-efficient and environmentally friendly solution.

DM3 series Version 3.0 firmware will be available during February as a free download, while the Rio3224-D3 and Rio1608-D3 will ship during Q2 2025. Yamaha has also announced free firmware updates for RIVAGE PM, DM7 and CL/QL series digital mixing systems, which supports the new I/O racks.

Yamaha is exhibiting on booths 300DE and 304 at the 2025 NAMM Show, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, California from January 21-25.

The company will also be showcasing these and more new products at the ISE 2025 show, which takes place at the at Fira de Barcelona in Spain from February 4-7.  To receive a free attendance ticket, please visit https://europe.yamaha.com/en/news_events/2024/ise_2025.html 

Original text: Robin Johnson (www.9016.co.uk)

PSI Audio presents active bass trap AVAA C214 and selection of Swiss precision speakers at NAMM 2025

January 16, 2025 at 5:04 pm

PSI Audio at NAMM Show 2025: Visit us from January 23 to 25 at Booth #15302. Showcasing professional studio monitors and active bass traps. Slogan 'The Music begins here' with colorful background and smiling faces.

At NAMM 2025, PSI Audio will exhibit a selection of the analogue studio monitor portfolio as well as active bass trap AVAA C214. At booth 15302 of the Anaheim Convention Center, the Swiss manufacturer and Eleven Dimensions Media will present three-way midfield monitor A23-M, compact precision monitor A17-M, and for the low end, subwoofer Sub A125-M. In addition to the speakers, the presentation will also feature the innovative AVAA C214 in a special demo box to demonstrate how the system effectively eliminates low-frequency noise from a room.

Swiss precision monitoring in Anaheim

Sound engineers all around the world trust in the outstanding fidelity of PSI Audio monitor speakers. At NAMM 2025, the Swiss manufacturer will exhibit the three-way A23-M, the compact A17-M and the Sub A125-M subwoofer. The speakers from PSI Audio all follow the same philosophy: all-analogue active designs tailored for absolute accuracy. This commitment to perfect sound reproduction allows for a consistent sonic character across models, making it easy to combine speakers of different sizes in larger setups without compromising the sound image. 

The acoustic black hole: AVAA C214

The AVAA system has garnered attention for PSI Audio ever since its inception in 2016 with the Active Velocity Acoustic Absorber AVAA C20. The active bass trap employs innovative technology to eliminate low frequencies that tend to build up in rooms, and it does so without the need for tuning and across a wide spectrum. In 2023, PSI Audio introduced a new model to what was now the AVAA series: the C214. More compact and digitally controlled, the C214 still essentially works the same magic as the C20: it makes room modes disappear. At NAMM 2025, visitors can get an idea of the outstanding technology and its effect by virtue of a special demo box that illustrates on a small scale what AVAA can do for a room.

Proprietary technology and Swiss quality manufacturing

PSI Audio is a true manufacture. All development and production happen in the company’s workshop in Switzerland. The products feature proprietary technologies like Adaptive Output Impedance (AOI) and Compensated Phase Response (CPR) that serve to achieve the goal of reproducing sound exactly as it was intended. The products are built by hand from selected materials and every item undergoes calibration in the company’s anechoic chamber. This dedication to quality shows – PSI Audio products are exceptional in sound, performance, and quality.

Experience PSI Audio at NAMM 2025

PSI Audio will exhibit at NAMM 2025 from 23rd to 25th January at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, together with Eleven Dimensions Media at booth 15302. Visitors of the show are cordially invited to experience the outstanding speakers and the AVAA C214 demo for themselves. 

Yamaha Showcases Immersive Experiences for Everyone at ISE 2025

January 16, 2025 at 2:49 pm

The image shows a conceptual design of Yamaha's booth for ISE 2025. The booth features a modern layout with distinct sections, including a large LED screen displaying the Yamaha logo, presentation tables, and interactive displays. The booth is branded with "The Edge" and the Yamaha logo, emphasizing innovation and professionalism. Ideal for showcasing new products and technologies at the international trade fair.

A major highlight of Yamaha’s presence at the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 show will be new technology, which brings much wider possibilities to the applications for immersive audio.

Until now, immersive audio for the non-domestic market has mainly been limited to high end, high cost projects. Yamaha and sister companies NEXO and Steinberg will be launching a range of solutions, aimed at bringing immersive sound within the reach of a much wider range of applications. These can now include smaller live events of all kinds, multipurpose venues, theme parks, houses of worship and more.

Rolling live demonstrations of Yamaha, NEXO and Steinberg’s combined new immersive technologies will take place each show day in audio demo room F4, Hall 8.0. Registration for the free presentations opens on January 20 and each one is limited to 70 people. Please follow this link for times and how to register.

Meanwhile, on Yamaha’s booth 3D200 in Hall 3, the company will be showing significant new products, software and firmware updates for the business solutions and entertainment markets.

For business these will include new hardware for conferencing/streaming and an extension of the ProVisionaire suite of software applications.

For the live entertainment industry, new hardware and firmware will be enjoying European debuts, alongside the new PY64-D Dante interface card for DM7 series digital mixers.

Yamaha will also be highlighting new strategic partnerships aimed at streamlining the integration of solutions with different components that work seamlessly together.

ISE 2025 takes place at the at Fira de Barcelona, Spain, from February 4-7. To receive your free attendance ticket from Yamaha, please visit https://europe.yamaha.com/en/news_events/2024/ise_2025.html 

For more information about ISE 2025, please visit https://www.iseurope.org 

Original text written by Robin Johnson (www.9016.co.uk)

Sessiondesk with new STAND-UP, TAV and HOME series at NAMM 2025

January 16, 2025 at 1:18 pm

Sessiondesk promotional image for The NAMM Show 2025, announcing new products and updated series. Features a black studio desk and speaker stands. Booth #14908 at the Anaheim Convention Center from January 23-25, 2025.

Sessiondesk will present new and updated products at NAMM 2025. The company will showcase the all-new STAND-UP 92 and STAND-UP 107 monitor speaker stands. The TAV 2.0 series appears clad in its new ecological finishes, while both TAV and HOME series have undergone subtle shape overhauls. The popular MODULAR system can be seen at the show as well. Visitors can find Sessiondesk together with AudioScape at booth 14908 of the Anaheim Convention Center, LA.

STAND-UP for proper monitoring

At NAMM 2025, Sessiondesk introduces two new solid speaker stands. STAND-UP 92 and STAND-UP 107 are made from wood and can carry up to 35 kg (77 lbs). The names signify the stands’ respective heights, with the STAND-UP 92 holding speakers 92 cm (36 inches) above the ground, while the STAND-UP 107 elevates them to 107 cm (42 inches). Both stands feature integrated cable management to avoid clutter, and include decoupling pads to get maximum performance out of the speakers of choice. STAND-UP 92 and STAND-UP 107 are available immediately – sold as pairs.

TAV 2.0 with ecological surfaces

Always looking for ways to improve, Sessiondesk has updated the entire TAV range of desks with new finishes and careful visual adjustments. The new finishes are eco-friendly, attesting the company’s commitment to protecting the environment. The desks are available in black or white ECOPLEX finish, or in translucent, brown or grey wax and oil tones. Sessiondesk has also slightly updated the TAV desks’ shapes, same with the HOME desks. Both series are made from 100 percent birch wood, resulting in solid, high-quality furniture to boost productivity in the studio.

The classic MODULAR system

While Sessiondesk will exhibit the TAV and HOME series because they were updated, the MODULAR system will also be present – just because it is a timeless classic. The series that started the brand over 10 years ago has become a favourite of audio professionals everywhere, partly because of its aesthetic and practical design, partly because of its exceptional craftsmanship, and partly because of its eponymous versatility. The concept is so popular that the idea behind MODULAR may even reappear in something entirely new with X: visitors at NAMM are cordially invited to come along and find out more about it.

More improvements behind the curtains

New products and product updates are tangible news, and as such are comparatively easy to showcase at a show like NAMM. At Sessiondesk, however, there is a lot more going on behind the scenes. The fully recycled packing concept, for example, uses no plastic and optimizes space efficiency, resulting in a smaller ecological footprint. To counterbalance what remains of that footprint, Sessiondesk plants a tree for every 100 bucks in purchases. These improvements are harder to present on a show floor, but they do make a significant part of the brand Sessiondesk.

Experience Sessiondesk at NAMM 2025

From 23rd to 25th January 2025, Sessiondesk can be found at booth 14908 together with long-term partners AudioScape. This partnership also helps facilitate the distribution of Sessiondesk products in North America: from the beginning of 2025, all products will be available everywhere in the US via the company website sessiondesk.com. 

The teams of both companies look forward to interesting questions and engaging chats.

Lake People presents new products at NAMM 2025

January 15, 2025 at 12:12 pm

The image is a promotional graphic for Lake People Audio and their participation in the NAMM Show 2025. At the center are two black headphone amplifiers by Lake People, the Phone-Amp G103-D (left) and the Phone-Amp G101 (right). Both devices are placed side by side on a wooden surface, featuring precise control elements. At the top of the graphic, the logos for "The NAMM Show" and "Lake People Audio" are prominently displayed. The bottom section provides event details: "Meet us. January 23–25, 2025, Anaheim / California," along with the website "www.lake-people.de" and the hashtag "#NAMMShow." The background is subtle, with warm brown tones that highlight the products in the foreground.

Lake People will exhibit the G103-D-4 Dante headphone amplifier and, for the first time, entry-level model G101 at NAMM 2025. The G103-D-4 introduces a Dante interface to the popular G103, allowing for seamless integration into respective audio networks. Both amplifiers in the G103-D-4 can be fed with different signals through two independent stereo Dante channels. Even the Pre-Gain for tailoring the amps to the headphones in use can be switched for each amp individually. The new G101 makes the Lake People audio circuitry available for novices. Visitors of NAMM 2025 can find Lake People at booth 17504 with American Music & Sound.

G103-D: headphone amplifier for Dante networks

Lake People has built a reputation for the excellent quality of its headphone amplifiers over many years. The G103-D integrates the exceptional quality of the popular G103 seamlessly into Dante networks. The G103-D-4 offers two independent amplifiers with separate Dante channel pairs for stereo operation. As a result, the compact device can provide two different stereo mixes, for example to supply independent headphone mixes to two musicians, or to allow for checking two different stereo data streams from one workspace. The Pre-Gain circuit, which adjusts the level to tailor the output for the type of headphones used, can be set separately for each amp.

G101: enter the world of sophisticated headphone amplification

With the G101, Lake People offers a particularly affordable entry-level model to enable more people to enjoy the advantages of proper headphone amplification. The compact amp delivers ample voltage and power, effortlessly driving even demanding headphones. The G101 also features the Pre-Gain feature to drive different types of headphones comfortably.

High-quality audio electronics made in Germany

Lake People is synonymous with quality. All products are developed and manufactured in Germany. The R&D department around founder and head developer Fried Reim is in Constance, the manufacturing is done by hand in Gauting near Munich. Every device is meticulously tested before shipping – both by measuring it and listening to it. All these steps ensure that the seal “Made in Germany” remains a proof of quality. 

Experience Lake People at NAMM 2025

Visitors of NAMM 2025 find Lake People at booth 17504 with American Music & Sound in the Anaheim Convention Center from 23rd to 25th January. The team is looking forward to exciting conversations and interesting questions.

Yamaha SEQTRAK update to OS 1.2 with new Loop Mode and further improved workflow

January 14, 2025 at 10:35 am

A compact music production device with a modular design, featuring two distinct sections: a light gray section on the left with numerous knobs labeled for functions such as "Kick," "Snare," and "Synth," along with rows of small white pads for input, and an orange section on the right with additional knobs, sliders, and a built-in speaker. The device is placed on a polished wooden surface, and it is connected via a cable, ready for use.

Yamaha introduces OS update 1.2 for its clever compact music creation tool SEQTRAK. Numerous improvements are based on the feedback from artists, affecting mainly the workflow.

New Loop Mode feature

OS 1.2 for the Yamaha SEQTRAK includes the new Loop Mode for the sampler. This mode makes it possible to define a section of a sample by setting a starting point and the length of the loop. This section is then looped and will be played repeatedly for as long as there is a key input – either from pressing a key, or from playing the respective note back from the sequencer. Importing particularly rhythmic samples like drum loops and then having them play alongside the other sounds in SEQTRAK works quick and easy with OS 1.2.

Improved controls for mute, octave change and more

Thanks to feedback from the artists working with Yamaha SEQTRAK, the update to OS 1.2 contains a number of adjustments regarding workflow and operation. The new Mute Mode allows for muting tracks without holding the mute button. With the new firmware, it is also possible to mute individual sampler slots. In Keyboard Mode, the drum keys 1 and 8 change the octave up or down. And for MIDI recording, a new count-in feature ensures perfect timing – the count-in can be toggled on or off in the menu. Finally, when the length of a pattern is extended, the current pattern is copied to the next bar. All these adjustments serve to make creating music with SEQTRAK even more intuitive and fun.

MIDI THRU to three outputs

As compact as it is, Yamaha SEQTRAK has options. It can work with MIDI via classic MIDI cable, USB, or Bluetooth. The new OS 1.2 now also opens these three ways up to all incoming MIDI, as the SEQTRAK can forward MIDI input from external sources to any of its outputs. The MIDI THRU can be toggled for USB/Bluetooth and MIDI cable independently via the app.

Price and availability

The Yamaha SEQTRAK OS 1.2 is available immediately and for free:

https://europe.yamaha.com/en/products/music_production/music-production-studios/seqtrak/downloads.html#product-tabs

Yamaha provides free OS update for stage pianos CP88 and CP73

January 14, 2025 at 10:32 am

Two illuminated Yamaha keyboards, models CP88 and CP73, on a dark background. Both keyboards are positioned at an angle, with visible controls and colorful LED indicators highlighting the modern technology and sleek design.

Since their introduction in 2019, the professional stage pianos CP88 and CP73 have received numerous free updates by Yamaha. Now the CP series graduates to version 2.0 of its operating system, including new voices, effects and functionality.

New voices: CFX2 and Bösendorfer Imperial+

The sound library available to the Yamaha CP88 and CP73 has grown with every update, and the big new version 2.0 is no different. It features the CFX2 voice, a meticulous capture of the Yamaha CFX concert grand introduced in 2022. Built for the greatest stages in the world, this new CFX encompasses all levels of expression from delicate to powerful – a range now harnessed for the use with the CP stage pianos. The second new voice is the Bösendorfer Imperial+ – a sound as mighty as its name suggests. Both new voices also bring a number of Live Set Sounds. 

New effects: Tempo Delay and parameters for damper resonance

Yamaha CP OS 2.0 also features new ways to influence the sound of a chosen voice. When playing songs with a fixed, defined speed, the new Tempo Delay makes it easy to synchronize the delay effect – just set the delay time to quarter notes, half notes and so forth. It’s even possible to define the delay time via tap input. Another new feature is the possibility to adjust the damper resonance effect, which simulates the full-body resonance of a grand piano when the damper pedal is pressed. The sound becomes richer – ideal especially for solo performances.

New connectivity: additional keys via USB

With CP OS 2.0, an all-new feature has been added regarding the USB [TO DEVICE] terminal of the Yamaha CP88 and CP73. This USB connector can now be used to add another MIDI controller device to the CP stage piano. A compatible device can then be used to trigger the CP sounds directly via the USB port. 

New parameters: more options for adjustments

The new version 2.0 of the CP OS for Yamaha CP88 and CP73 also includes a new Section Switch parameter that can be set to the user’s preference. With the Section SW Mode set to “Realtime”, the sound of a voice section stops immediately upon setting the voice section switch to “off”. With the mode set to “Next-Key”, the voice of a pressed key continues until the key is released. The update also features smaller control adjustments like the output gain parameter now being available from the menu and the live set pages being expanded from 20 to 40. 

Price and availability

Version 2.0 of the CP OS for Yamaha CP88 and CP73 is available immediately and for free:

https://europe.yamaha.com/en/products/music_production/stagekeyboards/cp88_73/downloads.html#product-tabs