The plugin offers up to 11 new models including 2 amps, 3 cabinets, and up to 6 stompbox effects.
Sunrise, FL (August 22, 2019) -- IK Multimedia is proud to announce AmpliTube Brian May for Mac/PC, iPhone and iPad. Both feature precise models of the exact live and studio gear used by the legendary guitarist from the iconic band Queen - all recreated in collaboration with Brian May himself.
From Brian's treble booster to his three-amp live setup and carefully curated effects selection, guitarists can enjoy new amp, cab and stompbox models in a convenient package, along with presets covering his celebrated discography. Each model was created with the supervision of Brian May and his long-time technical team, to carefully replicate his rig.
Inside AmpliTube Brian May
Available in convenient desktop app and plug-in for any DAW, AmpliTube Brian May offers up to 11 new models including 2 amps, 3 cabinets, and up to 6 stompbox effects.
Included are unique offerings such as a new pedal modeling Brian's Red Special guitar and a model of the one-of-a-kind, home-built "Deacy" Amp (with user adjustable battery power!) originally created by Queen bassist John Deacon, after modifying an old radio. Other highlights incorporate his famous triple-amp live setup; tone-shaping effects; and even a harmonizer for nailing those Queen stacked leads in a single take.
Amplifiers
Based on the classic triple VOXĀ® AC30ā¢ setup, the BM 30 offers three amps with the effects chain in a Wet-Dry-Wet configuration to match Brian May's iconic setup. The BM DK is a model of the small "Deacy" amp that became the trademark sound of many Queen songs.
Cabinets
The 2x12 BM 30 Blue (named the 2x12 BM1 in the Brian May collection for iOS) is a triple cabinet based on the cab section of a VOX AC30 equipped with with Celestionā¢ Alnico Blue speakers. The 2x12 BM 30 H70 (2x12 BM2 in the Brian May collection for iOS) is with Celestion G12H Anniversary speakers. In addition, the 1x6 BM DK provides the cabinet section of the BM DK amp, featuring a 6" speaker.
Stompboxes
The Red Special, created from a detailed study of Brian May's famous guitar, helps add the unique tonality and controls of the Red Special itself. Based on the original KATĀ® Treble Booster, the Treble Booster enriches guitar tone similar to Brian May's by boosting it before it reaches the amp.
May Wah was based on a rackmount DunlopĀ® Cry BabyĀ® wah, modeled in the exact configurations Brian May uses to shape his tone, while the FOX Phaser was based on the unique and distinctive sound of the fOXXĀ® Foot Phaser.
Star Gate is a noise gate that helps clean up the signal chain, minimizing the noise feeding Brian's unique amp and pedal setup.
The iPhone and iPad version, the Brian May Collection (which is inside the existing AmpliTube app) also adds the 30 - a 30-band Graphic EQ, with +/- 15 dB boost per band and a+/- 15dB Level control, to help craft a more exact match of Brian's tones. This pedal is already included for free in AmpliTube Custom Shop for Mac/PC.
Discography presets
A full set of painstakingly created song-based discography presets were compiled by Jamie Humphries, guitarist for the official Queen stage production "We Will Rock You," who has also performed with Queen and Brian May. These presets allow users to dial up their favorite Brian May tones instantly and were constructed under Brian's personal supervision.
Groundbreaking Modeling Technology
IK's latest Dynamic Interaction Modelingā¢ was used to deliver the highest level of ultra-realistic sound when modeling Brian May's gear. The product of 20 years' experience modeling analog gear, DIMā¢ models the behavior of every component in the circuit all the way down to its smallest nuance and character. Applied to May's rig, it delivers the same sound and feel as his real gear.
About AmpliTube guitar and bass tone studio
AmpliTube is the world's most powerful guitar and bass tone studio for Mac/PC/iPhone/iPad. Available in both free and paid versions, it recreates the entire guitar/bass signal chain from instrument to recording device in a hyper-realistic and intuitive way. Users can also browse and purchase collections of gear models from the world's top gear manufacturers plus signature artist gear. AmpliTube is available for both Mac/PC, as a stand-alone and plug-in for most popular recording software, and app for iPhone and iPad.
Easy connection to AmpliTube
AmpliTube connects seamlessly with AXE I/O, IK's premium audio interface with powerful guitar shaping tools. AmpliTube is also compatible with IK's iRig Stomp I/O, iRig Micro Amp, iRig HD 2, iRig Pro I/O and iRig Pro Duo portable audio interfaces for fast connectivity and on-the-go convenience.
Options, pricing and availability
AmpliTube Brian May (for Mac/PC) runs inside AmpliTube Custom Shop, a free download available to all. The new models are available now for purchase as a bundle from the Custom Shop, the IK Multimedia online store and from IK authorized dealers worldwide for $/ā¬99.99 (excl. taxes).
No previous purchase of AmpliTube is required. The new models will show up as an optional purchase for existing users of AmpliTube 4 upon updating to the latest version.
The Brian May Collection (iPhone and iPad) is available via in-app purchase from within AmpliTube CS for iPhone or iPad, for $19.99. Individual models may also be purchased a la carte (Stomp FX - $3.99 each; amps - $6.99 each). All models are also part of IK's All-In Bundle 2019 collection, which is available for in-app purchase.
Watch the company's video demo:
For more information:
IK Multimedia
Big time processing power in a reverb that you can explore for a lifetime.
An astoundingly lush and versatile reverb of incredible depth and flexibility. New and older BigSky algorithms included. More elegant control layout and better screen.
Itās pricey and getting the full use out of it takes some time and effort.
$679
Strymon BigSky MX
strymon.net
Strymon calls the BigSky MX pedal āone reverb to rule them all.ā Yep, thatās a riff on something weāve heard before, but in this case it might be hard to argue. In updating what was already one of the marketās most comprehensive and versatile reverbs, Strymon has created a reverb pedal that will take some players a lifetime to fully explore. That process is likely to be tons of fun, too.
Grinding out impressive DSP power via an 800 MHz tri-core ARM processor with 32-bit floating-point processing, the BigSky MX introduces seven brand-new reverb algorithms, allows users to load any compatible convolution reverb (or impulse response) as well as to use two reverbs simultaneouslyāin series, parallel, and splitāplus it delivers several other mind-bending features. Given this wealth of goodies, itās impossible to test and discuss every sound and function, but what we heard is exciting.
Infinite Space
The updated MX will look very familiar to those who know the original BigSky. The form factor is nearly identical, though the MX is a bit larger. Its control interface is similar too, albeit rearranged into a single row of knobs that looks more balanced. Rotary controls include decay, pre-delay, tone, mod, parameter 1, parameter 2, and mix. A value knob enables effect-level manipulation on the larger, clearer OLED screen. It also allows you to select between the older or āclassicā algorithms from the original BigSky and the seven new ones. Three footswitches allow for preset selection, bank up or down (two switches pressed together), and an infinite hold/sustain switch thatās always available. The rotary ātypeā knob in the upper-left corner spins between 12 basic reverb voices. As with most things Strymon, many of these controls are multi-function.
Also very Strymon-like are the top-mounted, 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O connections, which come in handy if you want to maximize the pedalās potential in a MIDI-controlled rig. But you can access more than enough right from the pedal itself to satisfy the needs of most standard pedalboard-based setups. A USB-C port enables computer connection for MIDI control via that route, use of the Nixie 2 editing app, or firmware updates.
There are stereo jacks for both input and output, plus a multi-function 1/4" TRS/MIDI expression jack for use with a further range of external controllers. The standard center-negative power jack requires a DC supply offering at least 500 mA of current draw.
It is utterly hypnotic and addictive once you settle in and work a little more intuitively.
Skyās the Limit
The BigSky MX was, initially, a bit mind-boggling on account of the seemingly endless possibilities. But it is utterly hypnotic and addictive once you settle in and work a little more intuitively. Suffice it to say, the core quality of the reverb sounds themselves are excellent, and the sheer variety is astounding. Beyond the standard emulations, I really dug several permutations of the cloud reverb, the chorale mode (which adds tenor and baritone harmonizing tones), and bloom mode (which generates deep synthesizer-style pads), and I could have gotten lost in any of these for hours if there wasnāt so much more to explore. Among the highlights: There is now an option to pan reverbs across the stereo field. The MX also uses audio design concepts borrowed from tape delays to create rhythmic pattern-based reverbs, which is an excellent compositional tool.
The Verdict
This latest evolution of the already impressive and super-capable BigSky is the kind of pedal that could cause you to disappear into your basement studio, never to return. The sounds are addictive and varied and can be configured in endless creative ways. The programmability and connectivity are also superb. Additionally, the new algorithms werenāt added at expense of the old BigSky algos. Thereās no doubt that it will be flat-out too much horsepower for the guitarist that needs a few traditional sounds and, perhaps, a few more spacious options. And it would be interesting to know what percentage of the pedalās customers end up being synth artists, engineers, or sound designers of one kind or another. If youāre the kind of guitar player that enjoys stretching the sound and capabilities of your instrument as far as they will go, the BlueSky MX will gladly ride along to the bounds of your imagination. It may test the bounds of your budget, too. But in many ways, the BigSky MX is as much a piece of outboard studio gear as a stompbox, and if youāre willing to invest the time, the BigSky MX has the goods to pay you back.
This convenient, easy-to-use controller can open up an entire world of sonic shape-shifting. Here are some tips to either inspire you to try one or expand how youāre currently using this flexible, creative device.
If youāre not yet using expression pedals, you should consider them. They have the power to expand and control your sonic universe. For the uninitiated, expression pedals are controllers that typically look like volume or wah pedals. Of course, traditional volume and wah pedals are expression pedals, too, but they are dedicated to controlling only those two effects.
Modern expression pedals allow you to assign and control parameters of your stomps or modelers by moving the expression pedal as you would a volume or wah. Dunlop, Boss, Ernie Ball, Yamaha, Behringer, Mission Engineering, and other manufacturers make these handy devices.
Many, but not all, of todayās stompboxes and modelers have expression pedal inputs that allow for manipulation of one or more parameters of those devices. In the past, this required bending over and turning a knob, or trying to turn a small knob with your footāboth of which can hamper your playing. The freedom of an expression pedal is the control you have over more aspects of your sound, especially in a live setting.
Although some of the uses for expression pedals below can also be accomplished by creating multiple presets, that will not allow real-time control over the parameters like an expression pedal will. Here are some notes about expression pedal use that might get you thinking about how one could help you.
Delay Repeats: Controlling the timing of a delay with tap tempo is very common, but how about controlling the number of repeats? With an expression pedal, by setting the expression control on your delay to control the number of repeats, you can easily go from a few for your rhythm sound to more for your lead sound, and then back off again.
Reverb and Delay Mix: The mix control on reverb and delay pedals allows you to balance the amount of wet to dry signal that you hear. There is often a delicate line to having just the right amount of wet signal with these two effects. If you have too much, your sound can be washed out and undefined. Too little and it can be dry and lack space. The part you are playing, and the venue you are in, can also change the amount of mix you need for these effects. By using an expression pedal for the mix control on reverb or delay, you can alter the sound on the fly to compensate for the part and the room, including turning down the mix for busy parts and up for parts with fewer notes.āSome uses for expression pedals can also be accomplished by creating multiple presets, but that will not allow real-time control over the parameters like an expression pedal will.ā
Modulation Depth: The depth of a modulation effect, like a phaser, can drastically alter your guitar sound. A light amount can create a feeling of subtle movement, while a heavy amount can give a thick, underwater-type sound. An expression pedal can help you create a constant feeling of change throughout a song, allowing you to build up and break down the depth for different sections as you see fit.
Tremolo Speed: While the speed of tremolo can often be controlled by tap tempo, using an expression pedal for the same parameter offers other creative uses of the effect. With an expression pedal, you can easily speed the tremolo up to make subtle increases to the energy of a part or slow it down to decrease the energy. You can also create drastic changes in the speed that sound like a fan accelerating or slowing down. Or you can abruptly turn the tremolo off. This last option can be an exciting way to end a song or part.
EQ Change: Every guitar player uses EQ to sculpt their soundāwhether via the tone controls on your instrument or amp (modelers included), or a dedicated equalizer used as part of your rig. Subtle tweaks can help you do things like balance out different guitars, cut through the mix more, or compensate for a boomy stage. Real-time control of EQ with an expression pedal is more common in the modeler world than the amp and pedal world, but it does exist in both. For example, increasing the midrange can give you more clarity and cut for solos. Decreasing it can create a flatter sound that can help you stay in the mix with the rest of the band. An expression pedal allows you to have one setting and alter it for multiple situations or guitars as opposed to having separate presets.
While this is a very short list of options for expression-pedal use, it should give you a good place to start. The most important thing is to always be creative, have fun, and find your own voice. An expression pedal can help you do all three.
Linkin Park introduce new vocalist Emily Armstrong (of Dead Sara), new drummer Colin Brittain, and share their first brand new music in seven years.
Linkin Park share a new single (HERE) and video (premiering HERE at 4pm PT/7pm ET), for āThe Emptiness Machine,ā plus a global livestream performance (happening now HERE and available only for 24 hours), and the launch of 6 upcoming arena shows in Los Angeles, New York, Hamburg, London, Seoul, and Bogota as part of the From Zero World Tour. LP Underground fan club exclusive pre-sales start September 6 and general on-sales September 7. Go to LinkinPark.com for more info.
These surprises herald the arrival of LINKIN PARKās first album since 2017, FROM ZERO, on November 15.
Tomorrow, Friday September 6th, the band joins long-time friend and Apple Music host Zane Lowe for an in-depth candid conversation about the incredible legacy of Linkin Park, the 7-year long journey to new music and their excitement for the future.
Without expectations, Shinoda, Delson, Farrell, and Hahn quietly began meeting up again in recent years. Rather than ātrying to restart the band,ā their instinct was to simply spend more time together, and reconnect with the creativity and camaraderie that has been at the core of their friendship since college. During this time, they invited various friends and cohorts to join them in the studio; among the guests, they found a special kinship with Armstong and Brittain. A natural chemistry drew these musicians back into its gravitational pull as they logged more and more hours in the studio. It was the sound of lifelong musicians rediscovering the uncontainable energy of a new beginning once again. Over this season, FROM ZERO was born.
FROM ZERO
FROM ZERO TRACKLIST
- From Zero (Intro)
- The Emptiness Machine
- Cut The Bridge
- Heavy Is The Crown
- Over Each Other
- Casualty
- Overflow
- Two Faced
- Stained
- IGYEIH
- Good Things Go
About the new era, Shinoda stated, āBefore LINKIN PARK, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey weāre currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and futureāembracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what LINKIN PARK has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.ā
Right out of the gate, āThe Emptiness Machineā channels the DNA of LINKIN PARK, harnessing the bandās explosive energy and retaining the hallmarks of their instantly identifiable and inimitable sound. A chameleonic and catchy anthem, Shinodaās hypnotic melodies hand off to Armstrongās blistering chorus, over distorted riffs and head-nodding drums.
Shinoda elaborated, āThe more we worked with Emily and Colin, the more we enjoyed their world-class talents, their company, and the things we created. We feel really empowered with this new lineup and the vibrant and energized new music weāve made together. Weāre weaving together the sonic touchpoints weāve been known for and still exploring new ones.ā
FROM ZERO WORLD TOUR 2024
September 11, 2024 | Kia Forum - Los Angeles, CA
September 16, 2024 | Barclays Center - New York, NY
September 22, 2024 | Barclays Arena - Hamburg, Germany
September 24, 2024 | The O2 - London, UK
September 28, 2024 | INSPIRE Arena - Seoul, South Korea
November 11, 2024 | Coliseo Medplus - Bogota, Colombia
Tailored for Yngwie Malmsteen's signature sound, the MXR Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive is designd to offer simple controls for maximum impact.
Working closely alongside Yngwie, the MXR design team created a circuit that delivers clarity, expressive dynamics, and rich harmonicsāall perfectly tailored for his light-speed arpeggios, expressive vibrato, and big, bold riffs. The control setup is simple, with just Level and Gain knobs.
"Want to sound like Yngwie? Crank both knobs to the max."
āThis pedal is the culmination of 45+ years developing a sound thatās perfect in every possible way,ā Yngwie says. āI present to you: the MXR Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive. Prepare to be amazed.ā
āMXR Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive highlights:
- Perfectly tailored for Yngwie Malmsteen's signature sound and style
- Simple control setup tuned for maximum impact
- Boost every nuance with superior clarity, expressive dynamics, and rich harmonics
- Dig into light-speed arpeggios, expressive vibrato, and big, bold riffs
The MXR Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive is available now at $129.99 street/$185.70 MSRP from your favorite retailer.
For more information, please visit jimdunlop.com.