Roland’s S-1 Tweak Synth is the latest addition to the Aira compact family of pocket-sized instruments, which also includes the T-8 Beat Machine, J-6 Chord Synthesizer and E-4 Voice Tweaker. Inspired by Roland’s SH-101 from the 1980s, the S-1 is a micro polysynth with futuristic wave manipulation, onboard sequencing and a range of unique performance features. With its tactile controls and intuitive workflow, this S-1 provides a creative experience for beginners and serious synth players alike.
Audio-Technica’s AT2020USB-XP Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone is the latest addition to the brand’s lineup of 20 series content-creation products. Building on A-T’s most recent USB condenser model, the AT2020USB-X, the new AT2020USB-XP includes the same silent touch-sensitive mute switch, built-in headphone jack with volume control and personal mix control to allow for monitoring of the microphone, as well as plug-and-play USB-Type C operation.
Mapex Drums has expanded the sonic pallet of its Black Panther lineup with its new Scorpion (pictured) and Goblin snare drums. The Black Panther series has grown to include 16 different wood and metal options in deep, standard and small diameter models offering a range of bright, dark, dry or vintage tones through its Concept Hybrid approach to drum design. The Scorpion, which features a 14-inch by 5.5-inch, eight-ply mahogany shell finished in Red Sand Strata delivers a stark, dry tone with a scorching sting, while the Goblin features a 12-inch by 5.5-inch, six-ply walnut shell calibrated to produce a crisp, tight response with a small diameter and dry sound that cuts through any mix.
