Focusrite – Scarlett Studio
Focusrite has packaged its Scarlett 2i2 into a bundle perfect for the beginning engineer, singer-songwriter or touring band in need of a small demo rig. Along with the Scarlett 2i2, the “Studio” comes complete with a beginner’s condenser microphone, studio headphones, recording software and a matching red mic cable to boot. This is a present for the son who thinks he wants to be an engineer and/or the friend who begs you to buy her awful CD she clearly recorded through her MAC microphone in GarageBand. Retail Value - $299 http://us.focusrite.com/usb-audio-interfaces/scarlett-studi
Equator – D5 Studio Monitors
Equator’s D5 (Direct 5) studio monitors are geared for a producer/engineer in need of small (9.75in x 7in x 8.5in), accurate, nearfield studio monitors. These monitors each feature a coaxially designed transducer with a 5.25-inch woofer and a 1-inch silk tweeter in an all-wood cabinet, creating a frequency response of 53hz - 20khz. Each D5 studio monitor also features a balanced XLR and balanced/unbalanced TRS inputs as well as a boundary selection switch to select the appropriate monitor response for their placement—a great solution for pros and us basement/office studio scrubs! The D5s feature a fully extended 1.75-inch tuned front port, providing accurate extended low-end response—no more low-end choking from rear wall placement. Retail Value - $379/pair http://equatoraudio.com/D5-Coaxial-Studio-Monitors-p/d5.htm
Roland – HandSonic HPD-20
The Roland HandSonic HPD-20 is a hand percussion instrument for live performance and studio music production. Ideal for both live DJs and performing musicians, the HPD-20 features some unique gems. Included in this machine are 850 ready-to-play sounds with the ability to import up to 500 of your own WAV files—via USB flash. The unit's D-Beam works like a theremin, allowing its user to operate tones/melodies based on position of a hand over a laser. The HPD-20 also features a "Realtime Modify" section allowing several ways to effect your real-time loop (whether through pitchbend or effects processing). With an on-board Quick Rec function, a DJ can generate beats exclusively with this product. Retail Value - $899 http://rolandus.com/products/details/1290
Sony – HDR-MV1
Please, bloggers… give a shit about your audio, no more iPhone recordings! If you're updating fans in the studio, on the road or simply looking for a quick acoustic video performance, check out this micro-rig. The Sony HDR-MV1 pairs high-quality audio (120-degree XY stereo mics) onto a pocket-sized video camera. The unit will record up to 48khz/16-bit uncompressed PCM. With respect to video, the HDR-MV1 records at 1080/30p with a 120-degree wide-angle Carl Zeiss lens. Also has a 1/8-inch mic input for interview miking. The built-in WiFi is a nice touch to post directly to YouTube. Retail Value - $300 http://sony.net/Products/di/en-us/products/tvo9/index.html
