MBN: THE MONTE BUBBLES NETWORK: NAMM NEWS

Jan 18

105th NAMM Show Opens in Anaheim

Giant Musical Instrument Trade Show Expected to Break Exhibition, Registration Records; Offers More Opportunities for Manufacturers and Retailers

ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 18 Today, a record-breaking 1,535 music products manufacturers from around the world will fill every square inch of the Anaheim Convention Center with the latest innovations in musical instruments at the 105th NAMM Show, the industry's largest annual event in the United States.

The NAMM Show, which opened today in Anaheim and runs through the weekend, is only open to the trade and draws thousands of music products retailers and manufacturers eager to check out the products, attend valuable professional development sessions and network with their peers.

Overall pre-show registration numbers indicate that attendance could possibly exceed last year's record of 81,315.

Themed "The NAMM Show '07: It's Your Show," the event is slated to offer industry members a chance to shape their individual show experience through educational sessions and networking opportunities. In addition, the trade-only event offers music products manufacturers the chance to display thousands of new products, ranging from string, percussion and band instruments to pianos, music accessories, pro audio, lighting and computer-based music making equipment.

Attendees can also experience unparalleled NAMM Show-related performances by artists of every genre and a wide array of after-show-hours activities around the convention area throughout the weekend.

"Making music has never been more popular and our show numbers continue to reflect that trend," said Joe Lamond, president and CEO, NAMM. "NAMM is committed to its Members in the music products industry to not only provide a high-profile event to promote their products, but also offer education and insights into the industry to help manufacturers, retailers and representatives steer their businesses in a positive direction for the coming year."

The show runs today through Sunday at the Anaheim Convention Center. For more information and news updates from the 105th NAMM Show, interested parties may visit www.thenammshow.com.

About NAMM

NAMM is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $17 billion international musical instruments and products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of approximately 9,000 Member companies. For more information about NAMM or the proven benefits of making music, interested parties can visit www.namm.org or call 800-767-NAMM (6266).

Source: NAMM

Jan 17

EASTWEST PRESENTS QUANTUM LEAP
MINISTRY OF ROCK AT WINTER NAMM 2007
Rock ’n’ Roll Toolkit Provides All-In-One Big Sound Solution
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces Quantum Leap Ministry of Rock, a huge 18 gigabyte collection of rock drums, basses and guitars recorded in the world-famous EASTWEST Studio 2, featured on countless platinum and gold records. EASTWEST will exhibit Ministry of Rock at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces Quantum Leap , a 18 gigabyte collection of rock drums, basses and guitars recorded in the world-famous EASTWEST Studio 2, featured on countless platinum and gold records. EASTWEST will exhibit Ministry of Rock at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

“Ministry of Rock is a modern-day rock toolkit that covers a myriad of styles, providing a true all-in-one solution for rock productions,” states Quantum Leap producer Nick Phoenix. “Songwriters, film, TV and game composers, as well as all rock musicians, will love this outstanding virtual instrument collection.”

Ministry of Rock boasts a sound quality superior to anything else available. The virtual instrument library features sounds used in contemporary music. Ministry of Rock was created with one goal in mind: to create a virtual instrument capable of producing sounds that can actually produce a hit record or film score without any live drum, bass or guitar overdubs. Articulations and programming were all reverse engineered from actual performances.

Drum kits sampled for Ministry of Rock include Octaplus (nine toms), Ayotte, Ludwig and Gretsch, the latter the actual kit used to make Metallica’s “Black” album. Drum kits are also optimized for use with Roland V-Drums.

Basses include Fender P-Bass Custom, Fender 5-string, Specter and Kubiki basses. All were recorded through an Ampeg SVT and an Ashdown rig. Guitars recorded for Ministry of Rock include Fender Telecaster and Stratocaster, Gibson Les Paul, Ibanez Universe 7 and various PRS guitars, all recorded through Marshall, Fender, Bogner, Vox and Budda amplifiers.

Special features of Ministry of Rock include:

· Legato bass and guitar samples

· Legato and staccato repetitions

· Truly playable rhythm guitars and leads, clean and distorted release samples

· Guitars and basses recorded in dual amp configurations

· Software allows the user to choose amplifier, or mix the sound from both amps

· Dynamic bass that can play everything from ballads to the most hardcore music imaginable

· Round robin bass drums, snares, toms and hats

· Performance drum hits extracted from live playing

· Approximately 18 gigabytes of rock drums, basses and guitars recorded in the world-famous EASTWEST Studio 2

· Superior reverb impulses recorded by Prof. Keith O. Johnson and Nick Phoenix.

Ministry of Rock carries a $549 MSRP.

About EASTWEST

Since 1988, EASTWEST (soundsonline.com) has been dedicated to perpetual innovation and uncompromising quality, setting the industry standard as the #1 producer and distributor of sample CDs and virtual (software) instruments. With over 28 years’ experience in the audio industry, founder and producer Doug Rogers has the expertise in music production to understand the creative tools professional musicians need. The recipient of numerous gold and platinum records including Recording Engineer of the Year, and over 40 international awards, Rogers is featured in The Art of Digital Music: 56 Visionary Artists and Insiders Reveal Their Creative Secrets by David Battino and Kelli Richards.

Quantum Leap is a wholly owned division of EASTWEST. Quantum Leap Virtual Instruments are mostly produced by multiple award-winning producer and composer Nick Phoenix. Some of the larger productions, such as Symphonic Orchestra and Symphonic Choirs are co-produced by Doug Rogers and Nick Phoenix.

In January 2006, EASTWEST purchased the legendary Cello (formally United-Western) Studios on Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood, re-naming it EASTWEST Studios. The 21,000 sq. ft. facility, redesigned by master designer Philipe Starck, houses five recording studios and is the world headquarters for EASTWEST.

EASTWEST DEBUTS “PLAY” SOFTWARE IN ALL NEW EASTWEST/QUANTUM LEAP VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS
AT WINTER NAMM 2007
64-bit Advanced Sample Engine with Built-In Network Control
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, has introduced it’s PLAY software, a 64-bit advanced sample engine with built-in Network Control. EASTWEST will exhibit its full range of PLAY-powered virtual instruments at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, has introduced it’s software, a 64-bit advanced sample engine with built-in Network Control. EASTWEST will exhibit its full range of PLAY-powered virtual instruments at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

Included with all new EASTWEST/QUANTUM LEAP virtual instruments (most existing EASTWEST NI-powered virtual instruments will be upgraded early in 2007), PLAY displays custom-designed virtual instruments that look as beautiful as they sound. The interface is designed to eliminate clutter, including only the controls needed for each individual virtual instrument. PLAY was created to be played like an instrument, not programmed like a sampler.

PLAY’s 64-bit support (the first in the industry) allows the user to load many more instruments and voices, and is limited only by the host system’s RAM (32-bit support is also included). While most high-end computers will support 16 GB (8 times as much memory as is now usable), a very small set of high-performance enterprise computers (with Microsoft Vista Ultimate) can already use 128 GB of RAM. As hardware develops, the theoretical limit of EASTWEST’s PLAY software is 17,179,869,184 gigabytes—16 exabytes, or 17 billion gigabytes!

For still more power, EASTWEST’s built-in Network Control allows the user to load instruments on other machines controlled from the host computer. No more trips back and forth between computers, no more KVR switching when loading projects, and no need to buy additional software.

“The PLAY system is a professional, fully integrated solution for those with the most demanding production requirements,” states Doug Rogers, EASTWEST’s founder and producer. “All instruments are listed in one easy-to-use browser, which displays all instruments, and even allows the user to audition other collections before purchase.”

Users can access EASTWEST’s online server from the PLAY software, audition individual instruments in a track, and purchase the instruments 24/7. Other collections can be auditioned and purchased at any time with an authorization code (or purchase codes from EASTWEST authorized resellers).

PLAY’s long list of innovative and powerful features includes:

· Favorites section to group the instruments you use most

· Preview instrument of choice in an easy-to-use column viewer

· Load instruments into one instance to take advantage of a sequencer's "instrument tracks," or many if desired

· Interface automatically changes to display current instrument

· Articulations

· No browsing through complicated patch names: pick the instrument and play

· Turn on/off articulations as desired

· Articulations list also serves as reference for all expressions within the instrument (no need to look up key-switches in charts)

· Save favorite configuration for quick retrieval.

Additional features include: Legato Detection, which senses legato and repetitive playing and responds accordingly; Stereo Handling, so users can manipulate stereo samples in useful ways; Stereo Swap provides instantaneous swap-ability between the left and right channels; and Mono from Left, Mono from Right, or Mono Sum enable instant conversion from stereo to mono. The software’s built-in Mic Mixer controls all microphone positions for the orchestra, choirs, pianos, and other instruments with multiple mic positions. Taking it a step further, PLAY allows the user to load, unload, adjust, pan and mute mic positions right in the patch as desired.

PLAY’s Effects Engine is the best sounding and most powerful effects engine in existence, built from the ground up for the highest possible quality. Space Control includes multiple impulse responses from various concert halls as well as the famous EASTWEST studios and live chambers (boasting more RIAA-certified platinum and gold records than any other studio), all recorded by Prof. Keith O. Johnson and Nick Phoenix.

The advanced sample storage (using lossless compression) and streaming technology in PLAY’s high-quality resampling engine saves RAM, speeds up load times, reduces disk

load, and saves hard drive space without reducing sample quality. Samples can be played back at 24-bit or 16-bit.

Using the industry standard iLok security system, users can easily authorize purchased instruments and audition other instruments before purchase. The system offers complete portability: users can take plug-ins anywhere and use on any computer. It is easy to authorize and manage (up to 100 authorizations are allowed on one key).

PLAY is natively supported in all major hosts on all major operating systems and offers native support for more platforms than any other software engine. PLAY is compatible with RTAS, AU, VST, Standalone, Intel Mac, PPC Mac, Windows XP and Vista, 64-bit, 32-bit and it’s even multilingual.

“Building PLAY from the ground up allowed EASTWEST to create the most intuitive instruments possible and design instruments every step of the way without compromise,” Rogers continues. “Play will support future developments such as QControl, offering the ultimate in playability without requiring any additional performance tool or MIDI interpreter.”

About EASTWEST

EASTWEST DELIVERS SOUNDS INSPIRED BY THE BEATLES WITH “FAB FOUR VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS”
The same kind of Vintage Instruments and EMI/Abbey Road Recording Equipment
as the Beatles used Recorded in EASTWEST’s Historic Hollywood Studios
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces Fab Four Virtual Instruments. The result of more than a year of research, equipment acquisition and recording, Fab Four Virtual Instruments — unaffiliated with or endorsed by Apple Corps. Ltd. — presents a faithfully executed, incredibly accurate and comprehensive collection featuring the same kind of instruments and recording equipment used by the Beatles. EASTWEST will exhibit Fab Four Virtual Instruments at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces . The result of more than a year of research, equipment acquisition and recording, Fab Four Virtual Instruments — unaffiliated with or endorsed by Apple Corps. Ltd. — presents a faithfully executed, incredibly accurate and comprehensive collection featuring the same kind of instruments and recording equipment used by the Beatles. EASTWEST will exhibit Fab Four Virtual Instruments at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

“The Beatles had a profound impact on me musically,” said EASTWEST founder and Fab Four producer Doug Rogers, “and were the influence for my fascination with sounds. They were musical geniuses that never rested on their laurels, always producing exciting new music and sounds with each new record, much of it groundbreaking!

“Putting this project together took well over a year of research, equipment procurement (much of it from collectors), and gathering a team that could pull off such a feat,” Rogers adds. “But it was a labor of love for us all, and the result is truly worth it.”

The Fab Four Virtual Instruments project involved several people intimately involved with the Beatles. Engineer Ken Scott, who worked on Beatles albums including A Hard Days Night, Help, Rubber Soul, Magical Mystery Tour, and The Beatles, engineered the recordings. Guitarist Laurence Juber and drummer Denny Seiwell, both of whom were members of Paul McCartney and Wings, played the same kind of instruments as those used by the Beatles.

No expense was spared in acquiring the equipment used to produce this collection. Much of that equipment, ironically, is now housed in EASTWEST Studio 3, where the Beach Boys’ legendary Pet Sounds—the inspiration for Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, according to Paul McCartney—was recorded.

Well over one million dollars’ worth of rare period instruments — including authentic guitars, basses, drums, and keyboards — as well as amplifiers, microphones, recording consoles, outboard equipment and tape recorders were used in this production. Neumann, AKG, Cole and STC microphones as used at EMI/Abbey Road Studios were used to capture the sounds, while identical amplifiers, including a 1963 Voc AC30, 1967 Fender Showman and DeLuxe, 1963 Fender Bassman and Tan Showman, and 1966 Vox Defiant, 730 and 7120, were used with the electric guitars.

The same kind of recording desks and preamps, including a very rare EMI REDD tube desk, EMI TG12345 desk, and EMI REDD47 preamps, were used to record all instruments, through Fairchild limiters and rare EMI RS124 modified Altec compressors, which were used for dynamics control. As with many of the Beatles recording sessions, a Studer J-37 4-track tube tape machine was used to record everything.

Guitars (some costing over $200,000 each) played by Juber include a Gretsch Firebird (1959) and Tennessean (1963), Rickenbacker 360-12 (1965), Martin D-28 (1966), Fender Stratocaster (1956) and Telecaster (1951), Epiphone Casino (1965), and Gibson Les Paul Goldtop (1957), SG (1960) and J200 (1966). Juber also played Hofner (1963) and Rickenbacker (1964) basses, the same kind as Paul McCartney played on the Beatles’ recordings. Guitars were sampled with up and down strokes, multiple velocities and picking styles, some with chords and effects.

Drums played by Seiwell include a rare 1960 Ludwig downbeat kit with Zildjian cymbals (snare 5" x 14"/toms 9" x 13" and 16" x 16"/kick 22" x 14"/Zildjian 20" crash ride/18" crash medium/14" hi-hat). Additionally, drums were all multi-sampled with up to 16 velocity layers, left and right hand. The sounds were all matched to a particular style (e.g. “A Day in the Drums,” “Ticket to Drums,” “Yer Drums”). Even some heavily modulated cymbals, recorded through a Fairchild limiter for authenticity, were recorded as an alternative cymbal sound.

Keyboards include Baldwin Electric Harpsichord (“Because I'm a Harpsichord”), Clavioline (“Baby I'm a Clavioline”), “Birthday Piano” (through Vox Defiant guitar amp), “Lucy in the Lowery,” “Strawberry Flutes,” “We Can Work a Harmonium,” and other stringed instruments including “Swarmandel Forever.”

Most of the sounds would be impossible to create without all of the above
equipment. For example, the “revostortion” guitar sound was created by feeding an Epiphone Casino into one EMI REDD 47 preamp, and the output into a second EMI REDD 47 preamp, exactly as originally created by the EMI/Abbey Road engineers.

Fab Four Virtual Instruments also includes a software version of ADT (artificial double tracking) with built-in tape simulator, created and programmed specially for this project. All instruments are newly recorded multi-samples for this collection; no sounds came from any Beatles recordings.

Fab Four Virtual Instruments carries a $549 MSRP.

Musicians, producers and film/TV/game composers looking for truly unique sounds with attitude to create with will find Fab Four Virtual Instruments the most innovative and inspiring collection ever produced.

About EASTWEST

Since 1988, EASTWEST (soundsonline.com) has been dedicated to perpetual innovation and uncompromising quality, setting the industry standard as the #1 producer and distributor of sample CDs and virtual (software) instruments. With over 28 years’ experience in the audio industry, founder and producer Doug Rogers has the expertise in music production to understand the creative tools professional musicians need. The recipient of numerous gold and platinum records including Recording Engineer of the Year, and over 40 international awards, Rogers is featured in The Art of Digital Music: 56 Visionary Artists and Insiders Reveal Their Creative Secrets by David Battino and Kelli Richards.

The Fab Four Virtual Instruments was developed and produced by EASTWEST PRODUCTIONS, LLC, a new special projects company.

EASTWEST INTRODUCES QUANTUM LEAP GYPSY
VIRTUAL INSTRUMENT LIBRARY AT WINTER NAMM 2007
Intimate European Sounds Captured With Stunning Realism
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces Quantum Leap Gypsy, a collection of detailed virtual instruments capable of playing completely realistic performances. EASTWEST will exhibit Quantum Leap Gypsy at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, proudly introduces , a collection of detailed virtual instruments capable of playing completely realistic performances. EASTWEST will exhibit Quantum Leap Gypsy at the NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

Gypsy, which is primarily aimed at film, TV and game composers, captures an intimate European sound with an unprecedented detail that will simply amaze listeners. The nylon string guitar, violin and trombone can play in both gypsy and classical styles. In the classical realm, these three instruments are unparalleled in the sampling world in terms of playability, diversity and sound quality.

“All of the guitars were sampled with up and down strokes, many velocities and picking styles, various picking angles, release trails, chords and effects,” states Quantum Leap Gypsy producer Nick Phoenix. “Gypsy’s guitars, played by top Los Angeles session guitarist David Kole, simply have to be heard to be believed.”

The violin and trombone feature many articulations, repetitions and even true legato intervals. The trombone in Quantum Leap Gypsy was recorded in EASTWEST Studio 1 (formerly United-Western Studios), referred to by many engineers as “the best brass room on the planet.”

The accordions feature multiple setups, all with air flow in and out samples as well as expressive samples, chords and left-hand bass. True to its name, Gypsy also features a gypsy percussion program and extensive flamenco dancers’ foot stomps, as well as traditional castanets.

Key features of Quantum Leap Gypsy include:

· Violin (true legato intervals) in classical and gypsy style

· Classical Guitar

· Flamenco Guitar

· Django Style Guitar

· Spanish Steel String Guitar

· Campana Accordion

· Silvestri Accordion

· Excelsior Accordion

· Trombone (true legato intervals) in classical and gypsy style

· Flamenco Dancer

· Gypsy percussion

· Superior reverb impulses recorded by Prof. Keith O. Johnson and Nick Phoenix.

Quantum Leap Gypsy carries a $549 MSRP.

About EASTWEST

Since 1988, EASTWEST (soundsonline.com) has been dedicated to perpetual innovation and uncompromising quality, setting the industry standard as the #1 producer and distributor of sample CDs and virtual (software) instruments. With over 28 years’ experience in the audio industry, founder and producer Doug Rogers has the expertise in music production to understand the creative tools professional musicians need. The recipient of numerous gold and platinum records including Recording Engineer of the Year, and over 40 international awards, Rogers is featured in The Art of Digital Music: 56 Visionary Artists and Insiders Reveal Their Creative Secrets by David Battino and Kelli Richards.

EASTWEST RELEASES QUANTUM LEAP
PIANOS VIRTUAL INSTRUMENT AT WINTER NAMM 2007
World’s Finest Grand Pianos Captured in Historic Recording Studio

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, introduces Quantum Leap Pianos, the most detailed collection of the world’s finest grand pianos. EASTWEST will exhibit Quantum Leap Pianos at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, introduces Quantum Leap, the most detailed collection of the world’s finest grand pianos. EASTWEST will exhibit Quantum Leap Pianos at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

More than half a million dollars’ worth of pianos are included in this collection, all meticulously recorded. These include a $225,000 Bechstein D-280 Concert Grand, the same kind of piano engineer/producer Ken Scott used to record Elton John, David Bowie, and Supertramp. EASTWEST invited Scott to engineer the Bechstein’s close-mic’d recordings to provide users with a cutting, dynamic pop/rock piano sound, in addition to the variety of other piano sounds included in the collection.

Other pianos featured in the library include a Steinway D Concert Grand; a Bösendorfer 290 Concert Grand; and a Yamaha C7.

“Quantum Leap Pianos is an innovative collection featuring the finest pianos captured with state-of-the-art recording equipment in a world-class studio,” says Producers Doug Rogers and Nick Phoenix. “We personally own three of these pianos, and were able to match the sound of the Virtual Instruments to the sound of the actual pianos during production. We have developed a comprehensive set of fantastic piano sounds that will enable songwriters and composers to make recordings limited only by their creativity.”

The Quantum Leap Pianos library is packed with 270 GB of content at 24-bit/44.1k resolution, the largest and most detailed piano collection ever created. Using lossless compression, the instruments, if all installed, use 140 GB of hard disk space. The sample management system offers 50% more efficiency compared to other piano collections.

Users can install one, two, three or all four pianos on their computer’s hard drive. Three microphone positions are included per piano for maximum flexibility. Ten to 16 velocities are offered per note (and again in soft pedal, sustain pedal, and soft sustain) and every piano offers 16 distinct staccato velocities.

Repetition samples are taken from 180 BPM performances for a true repetition sound and are not simply an alternate take. The software detects true repetitions. Pedal resonance was recorded for every note at multiple velocities, as well as with the soft pedal down. Proprietary resonance was captured on the Bösendorfer.

True multi-velocity soft pedal samples with and without sustain pedal are also included, as well as release samples with software envelope follower.

Articulations on each piano include:

· sustain

· sustain pedal

· soft pedal

· soft pedal with sustain pedal

· repetitions

· repetitions with sustain pedal

· staccato

· pedal resonance

· release trails.

Additional features include:

· Stereo swap possible in software

· Mic position mixing in software

· Lid position simulation

· Articulation matrix for quick and straightforward loading—no more loading headaches

· Most powerful streaming engine available with highest polyphony counts

· Superior reverb impulses recorded by Prof. Keith O. Johnson and Nick Phoenix.

The Quantum Leap Pianos library was recorded at EASTWEST Studios—formerly Cello Studios and site of the legendary United-Western Studios in Hollywood—with three user controllable microphone positions for each piano. Every sample was recorded in a proper piano environment with vintage Neumann microphones, a vintage Neve 8078 console, and Meitner analog-to-digital converters.

Quantum Leap Pianos carries a $549 MSRP.

About EASTWEST

Since 1988, EASTWEST (soundsonline.com) has been dedicated to perpetual innovation and uncompromising quality, setting the industry standard as the #1 producer and distributor of sample CDs and virtual (software) instruments. With over 28 years’ experience in the audio industry, founder and producer Doug Rogers has the expertise in music production to understand the creative tools professional musicians need. The recipient of numerous gold and platinum records including Recording Engineer of the Year, and over 40 international awards, Rogers is featured in The Art of Digital Music: 56 Visionary Artists and Insiders Reveal Their Creative Secrets by David Battino and Kelli Richards.

EASTWEST INTRODUCES QUANTUM LEAP VOICES OF PASSION VIRTUAL INSTRUMENT AT WINTER NAMM 2007
Ground-breaking Instrument for Film/TV/Game Composers, Ambient/New Age Artists
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—EASTWEST (www.soundsonline.com), the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, introduces Quantum Leap Voices of Passion, a Virtual Instrument of female vocalists from Wales, Syria, India, Bulgaria and America. EASTWEST will exhibit Voices of Passion at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).
—, the industry leader in soundware development and distribution, introduces Quantum Leap , a Virtual Instrument of female vocalists from Wales, Syria, India, Bulgaria and America. EASTWEST will exhibit Voices of Passion at the Winter NAMM Show, January 18-21 (Hall A, booth #6630).

“Songwriters and film, TV and game composers as well as New Age artists will be amazed at the ethereal, passionate, flowing, mysterious, wailing and whispering alto and soprano voices featured on Voices of Passion,” states Quantum Leap producer Nick Phoenix. “The first virtual instrument or sample library created specifically for use in the film/TV/game genre, Voices of Passion is also the first created specifically for use in the ambient and New Age genres, and the first to feature true legato intervals.”

Voices of Passion features five outstanding professional female artists singing vowels, words, morphing vowels, effects, phrases, calls, whispers and breath noises. The singers were flown to EASTWEST’s historic Hollywood, Calif. studios (formerly United-Western Studios) from around the globe.

Key features of Quantum Leap Voices of Passion include:

· Approximately 8 gigabytes of vocals

· Female vocalists from Wales, Syria, India, Bulgaria and America

· Middle Eastern and Indian phrases presented in a construction kit format, allowing users to create very long, consistent performances

· All singers recorded with great attention paid to pitch

· Oo, oh and ah true legato intervals

· Over 1,000 ethnic phrases with a great deal of passion

· Phrase generator for Welsh vocals

· Expressive samples, non vibrato, delayed vibrato

· Ethereal style, breathy vocals

· New Age vocal performances, staccato and swells

· Superior reverb impulses recorded by Prof. Keith O. Johnson and Nick Phoenix.

Voices of Passion carries a $549 MSRP.

About EASTWEST

MARANTZ PROFESSIONAL SHOWCASES
LATEST DIGITAL RECORDING TECHNOLOGY

— Ease of recording and editing along with

large storage capacity distinguish Marantz Professional technology —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — As part of its commitment to offering comprehensive and efficient solutions, Marantz Professional, a D&M Professional brand, exhibits at this year’s NAMM Show with its full line of digital recording products.
As part of its commitment to offering comprehensive and efficient solutions, Marantz Professional, a D&M Professional brand, exhibits at this year’s NAMM Show with its full line of digital recording products.

The leader in revolutionizing solid state recorder technology, Marantz Professional highlights eight key products on display, offering a range of options for portable, dependable recording and playback. These include the new CDR310 Portable CD Recorder; CDR632 CD-R/RW Recorder; CDR510 MP3/CD Dual Player and CD Recorder; CDR420 Professional HD/CD Recorder; PMD671 24-bit Portable Solid State Recorder; award winning “hand-held” PMD660 Portable Solid State Recorder; and PMD570 and PMD560 Professional Installation Solid State Recorders.

The CDR310 Professional CD Recorder is capable of handling a project from beginning to end, with built-in microphone preamps with XLR connectors and 48V phantom power for use with external condenser microphones, a built-in high-quality microphone for maximum convenience and portability, and the ability to record for hours, then finish the final project to the built-in CD burner, all within one lightweight, battery operated compact unit. The burner can create both audio discs for instant playback on CD players, or data discs for transfer to a computer or for archiving purposes. Battery power capability — using the optional RB1651 battery — allows for up to four hours of remote operation without an external power supply, while support for uncompressed WAV, CD-DA, AIFF audio and MP3 file formats provides flexibility and long record times. The CDR310’s Background Record Mode enables recording to always be active, as an ongoing backup, even when the unit is in Pause Mode. Recording can also be active in Pre-Record Mode for up to 10 seconds with the recorder stopped. Easy One-Touch recording makes operation simple, even under challenging circumstances. Analog line-level inputs and outputs and S/PDIF-format digital inputs and outputs allow connection to a wide range of professional audio equipment.

The CDR632 makes full-featured CD recording technology available to virtually any installation, in a 2U rackspace. This professionally solid workhorse plays and records on standard CD-R and CD RW discs. In addition, it will play MP3 files for extended playback from a single disc. The CDR632 is packed with features specifically requested by the installation market like Programmable Auto-Track Increment, Pitch Control, Level dependent Sync Recording, Single Play Mode, Power-on Play and more. Analog, digital and optical input and output, complete with integrated sample rate conversion, are just a few examples of the meticulous design and engineering that went into the CDR632. CD text can be programmed and read right from the front panel. Programmable fade-in/fade-out recording allows for an easily polished sound, complementing the high audio quality provided by the CDR632.

The CDR510 brings the traditional professional combination deck into the next generation, where digital technology has eliminated the need for cassettes. Featuring a CD player/CD recorder combination, the unit merges the simple operation of one-touch record with upgraded capability in playback accepting CD, CD-R, CD-RW, unfinalized discs, and even MP3 file formats. Since critical recording applications offer a one-time opportunity to capture sound, the CDR510 was built to meet this challenge with exceptional audio quality every time. The CDR510 further supports RS232C interfacing.

The CDR420 CD/MP3 Recorder is a complete tabletop digital recording solution suitable for virtually any application. This unit features easy digital recording in MP3 or WAV formats with all of the functions necessary to handle all of your recording needs. Recording through use of a computer, CD burner and post-production software is no longer required. With an internal storage capacity to archive up to 1,400 hours of recordings, the CDR420 can burn up to 45 hours of audio on a single MP3-CD or on multiple traditional CDs. Its portability makes the CDR420 perfect for recording meetings, professional sessions and other events where a traditional recording device will not suffice. In addition, the CDR420 is USB 2.0 capable.

The PMD671 Solid State Recorder offers multiple recording modes, long record times (up to 36 hours of stereo recording on a 1 GB Compact Flash card), and up to six hours of battery time with standard AA alkaline batteries. The unit is capable of 24-bit, 96 kHz PCM high-resolution recording for unrivaled audio quality; a 1 GB Compact Flash card can provide up to 30 minutes of record time at high resolutions. The PMD671 also offers a long list of professional features such as Virtual Third Head (VTH) confidence monitoring, Time-Shift Playback, which allows the user to back up and listen to passages while continuing to record an event, XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, built-in condenser microphone, RCA line inputs, USB 2.0 connectivity for ultra-fast audio transfer to a PC, and an optional wired remote.

The “hand-held” PMD660 Solid State Recorder features portable, battery-powered operation. It offers a choice of recording uncompressed WAV files at 44.1 or 48 kHz, as well as 64 kbps mono or 128 kbps stereo in MP3 format. An optional 1 GB flash card holds over an hour of stereo or 3 hours mono of uncompressed audio (recording at the rates specified above), while the unit itself can operate for 4 hours running on 4 standard AA batteries. Furthermore, the PMD660 has built-in stereo microphones, XLR connectors with +48V phantom power, and is compatible with an optional RC600 wired remote (also available for the PMD570 and PMD671) that attaches to most any microphone to supply Record/Pause control, track marking and peak metering from the mic position.

The single-rackspace PMD570 Solid State Recorder unit records in mono or stereo directly to Compact Flash cards in MP3, MP2, WAV and Broadcast WAV formats. With over 40 quality settings, the PMD570 supports sample rates from 16 to 48 kHz, and bit rates from 32 to 384 kbps, as well as full-quality 16-bit PCM resolution. The PMD570 is able to create a new file (track increment) while recording and files can be created in intervals of 1, 5, 10, 15 and 30 minutes as well as 1-, 2-, 6-, 8-, 12- and 24-hour intervals for long-term, unattended audio recording. A comprehensive input and output complement on the PMD570 includes balanced XLR line inputs with trim, unbalanced RCA line in and out, and stereo S/PDIF input and output on coaxial RCA jacks. Remote control is provided via full two-way RS-232C interfacing; users can set up, change and replace all preset settings with a PC. In addition the PMD570 features USB connectivity for easy linking and file transfer to a PC or Mac^®. Audio files can be instantly dragged and dropped to the computer, eliminating wasted time doing transfers.

The new PMD560 offers the same recording quality and RS-232 system control with cost effective features. The PMD560 is a lower price alternative in the growing family of Marantz Professional solid state installation recorders.

…ends 1,119 words

About D&M Professional

D&M Professional, through its Denon Professional, Marantz Professional and Denon DJ brands, manufactures and distributes a leading line of professional audio and video equipment for the broadcast, commercial, corporate, DJ, education, government, audio/visual, education, houses of worship, security and related industries.

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

D&M Holdings Inc. (TSE I: 6735) is based in Tokyo and owns the Denon^®, Marantz^®, McIntosh^® Laboratory, Boston Acoustics^®, Snell Acoustics, D&M Professional, ReplayTV^® and Escient^® brands. Denon, Marantz, McIntosh and D&M Professional are global industry leaders in the specialist home theater, audio/video consumer electronics or professional audio markets, with a strong and long-standing heritage of manufacturing and marketing high-performance audio and video components. Boston Acoustics, with its signature The Boston Sound, is a leader in premium loudspeakers for home and audio markets. Snell is a super premium speaker brand. The ReplayTV and Escient brands represent award-winning technologies in digital home entertainment.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

Denon and Marantz are registered trademarks of D&M Holdings Inc.; McIntosh is a registered trademark of McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.; Boston Acoustics is a registered trademark of Boston Acoustics, Inc.; and ReplayTV and Escient are registered trademarks of Digital Networks North America, Inc. Other brand and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

DISCLAIMER
Statements in this news release that are not statements of historical fact include forward looking statements regarding future events or the future financial performance of the company. We wish to caution you that such statements are just predictions and that actual events or results may differ materially. Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties surrounding competitive and industry conditions, market acceptance for the company's products, ability to meet targeted product release dates, risks of litigation, technological changes, developing industry standards and other factors related to the company's businesses. The Company reserves all of its rights.

MARANTZ PROFESSIONAL PMD660 AND PMD670 SOLID STATE RECORDERS ARE POWERING A GENERATION OF PODCASTERS

— Podcasters throughout an entire range of topics agree on one thing:

the PMD660 and PMD670 have incredible feature sets that make them

easy to use as their primary digital audio recording device —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — The PMD660 and PMD670 Portable Solid State Recorders from Marantz Professional have quickly become the audio recording devices of choice for an entire new generation of podcasters. The PMD660 and PMD670 give podcasters everything they need: compact and portable units that are utterly reliable, easy to use and ready to interface with laptops for editing. The ultra-light PMD660 "handheld" recorder supplies professional features that podcasters needs to record in the field; the very portable PMD670 offers podcasters long battery life, MP3 MP2 or WAV recording, and an EDL marking system for creating new files on-the-fly for easy file selection during playback. Podcasters supply the creativity and hit the road.
—The PMD660 and PMD670 Portable Solid State Recorders from Marantz Professional have quickly become the audio recording devices of choice for an entire new generation of podcasters. The PMD660 and PMD670 give podcasters everything they need: compact and portable units that are utterly reliable, easy to use and ready to interface with laptops for editing. The ultra-light PMD660 "handheld" recorder supplies professional features that podcasters needs to record in the field; the very portable PMD670 offers podcasters long battery life, MP3 MP2 or WAV recording, and an EDL marking system for creating new files on-the-fly for easy file selection during playback. Podcasters supply the creativity and hit the road.

John Wall podcasts The M Show (www.TheMShow.com), 10 minutes of news, talk and entertainment recorded in Boston. “I work in marketing and friends in the radio and TV industry recommended Marantz recorders for their simplicity and durability,” states Wall. “I started with a PMD670, and added a 660 this year for its smaller size, fewer batteries, and because it’s the best sound you can get. I use the PMD660 for all field recording — it's small enough to carry in my laptop bag and its Automatic Level Control and XLR jacks give me better sound than any of the five other solutions I had tested previously. It's simple, dependable and durable — throw the flashcard in my PC and start editing. No software to install, no proprietary file formats, just record and go.”

Doug Lang and his wife Kathleen produce and host a podcast called Art a GoGo (www.artagogo.com/blog), based in Santa Cruz, California, which features news, reviews and commentary about art and the art world. The goal is to introduce people to the world of art through interviews with artists and museum curators. Art a GoGo reaches a wide audience of avid art enthusiasts and has been featured on Apple's iTunes and Yahoo! Podcasts. “I first heard about the Marantz line of solid state recorders through a number of other podcasts,” Doug Lang explains. “Overall, you can't beat the PMD660: solid state recording to a tried-and-true CompactFlash memory card, easy to operate, and it has multiple recording formats. The unit is relatively small, but offers features like phantom mic power to two microphones through XLR inputs. You can transfer recorded files from the PMD660 to a computer, but I prefer to just pop the CompactFlash out of the PMD660 and plug it into a USB FlashCard reader to copy the files to a computer. The PMD660 seems to be the logical step up for many podcasters.”

Leftwing Nutjob — The Voice of Progressive Podcasting (www.leftwingnutjob.com) is a weekly tongue-in-cheek political commentary by Detroit pundit Thomas Jeffrey. Presented in a format with vintage radio style, the program tips its hat to radio greats like Edward R. Murrow and Walter Winchell. “I was looking for a recorder that would be compact, light, record to some kind of solid state memory, and have XLR/phantom power inputs, as well as decent internal microphones,” remarks Jeffrey. “And after a long search, the PMD660 was really the only product that fit that bill. I use a number of pieces of outboard gear in the process of producing my show, but I had been doing the actual recording onto my PowerBook via the line-in. The PMD660 provided me with the ability to incorporate a ‘real’ recording device into my work flow that was, in my opinion, a more reliable and flexible solution, not to mention something that offered a balanced recording source. Also, I am looking forward to taking the device out into the field for interviews and on-the-spot reporting, something that wouldn't have been possible before. And the phantom-powered XLR inputs give me the option of using my condenser mics to get the best sound possible from my sources. I don't think that I've begun to scratch the surface on what this little device can do, but for now I am more than pleased with it.”

…ends 657 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M Professional, 1100 Maplewood Dr. Itasca, IL 60143

MARANTZ PROFESSIONAL SHIPS NEW
CDR310 Professional CD Recorder

— Portable workhorse provides CD-R recording in

uncompressed or MP3 audio file formats —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Marantz Professional is shipping the CDR310 Professional CD Recorder. As the undisputed leader in professional compact disc recorders/players since 1992, Marantz Professional expands on the success of its innovative and popular Portable Digital Recorder family with the CDR310, making full-featured CD recording technology available in a sophisticated portable format. The CDR310 offers convenient long-term recording in uncompressed and MP3 formats, and provides a long list of the features most demanded by the professional market, including optional battery operation for up to four hours.
—Marantz Professional is shipping the CDR310 Professional CD Recorder. As the undisputed leader in professional compact disc recorders/players since 1992, Marantz Professional expands on the success of its innovative and popular Portable Digital Recorder family with the CDR310, making full-featured CD recording technology available in a sophisticated portable format. The CDR310 offers convenient long-term recording in uncompressed and MP3 formats, and provides a long list of the features most demanded by the professional market, including optional battery operation for up to four hours.

The CDR310 is capable of handling a project from beginning to end, with built-in microphone preamps with XLR connectors and 48V phantom power for use with external condenser microphones, a built-in high-quality microphone for maximum convenience and portability, and the ability to record for hours, then finish the final project to the built-in CD burner, all within one lightweight, compact unit. The burner can create both audio discs, for instant playback on any CD player, or data discs for transfer to a computer or for archiving purposes. Battery power capability — using AA batteries, or the optional RB1651 rechargeable battery — allows for up to four hours of remote operation without an external power supply, while support for both uncompressed audio and MP3 file formats provides flexibility and long record times.

The CDR310 incorporates several groundbreaking features not previously available. Background Record Mode enables recording to always be active, as an ongoing backup, even when the CDR310 is in Pause Mode. Recording can also be active in Pre-Record Mode for up to 10 seconds with the recorder stopped. This ensures that the CDR310 never misses capturing a critical audio event. Easy One-Touch recording makes operation simple, even under challenging circumstances. Analog line-level inputs and outputs and S/PDIF-format digital inputs and outputs allow connection to a wide range of professional audio equipment.

The Marantz Professional CDR310 Portable Digital Recorder is ideal for government agencies, law enforcement, documenting boardroom meeting, broadcasters, and professional system installers, in a wide range of critical applications. It is available at a U.S. MSRP of $1049.

…ends 340 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M Professional, 1100 Maplewood Dr. Itasca, IL 60143

ONE OF THE GRAND MASTERS OF PODCASTING RELIES ON
MARANTZ PROFESSIONAL PMD660 COMPACT DIGITAL RECORDER

— Rob Walch’s Podcast 411 has become a resource for aspiring podcasters along with major companies and organizations that want to add podcasting to their communications repertoire, and founder Rob Walch handles it with his Marantz PMD660 —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Rob Walch, President and Founder of Podcast 411, one of the world’s leading podcasting educational sites, and co-author of the book Tricks of the Podcasting Masters, chose the Marantz Professional PMD660 Compact Digital Recorder for his podcast work. The PMD660 is perfectly suited to the needs of podcasters, offering professional sound quality in a compact, lightweight unit that’s highly reliable and simple to use.
Rob Walch, President and Founder of Podcast 411, one of the world’s leading podcasting educational sites, and co-author of the book , chose the Marantz Professional PMD660 Compact Digital Recorder for his podcast work. The PMD660 is perfectly suited to the needs of podcasters, offering professional sound quality in a compact, lightweight unit that’s highly reliable and simple to use.

Walch launched www.podcast411.com in late 2004, and each week podcasting fans have heard him interview a wide range of business, political and entertainment celebrities including Vice Presidential candidate Senator John Edwards, Battlestar Galactica Executive Producer Ron Moore, and journalists Walt Mossberg from the Wall Street Journal and Larry Kudlow from CNBC. In addition to the 178 podcasts he’s done himself, Walch has helped countless aspiring podcasters with educational services from his site, and he provides podcasting services to a wide range of companies and organizations, including New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, and the California Organization of Police Chiefs and Sheriffs. Walch makes exclusive use of the Marantz Professional PMD660 Compact Digital Recorder.

“I use the 660 for all of my field work and even some of my studio work,” says Walch, who learned of the PMD660 just as he was starting Podcast 411 from — appropriately — a review on a podcast. “The 660 is small but it has great sound and a lot of features that create a podcast with a professional edge, such as the fact that you can use XLR microphones and that the 660 has its own internal phantom power. It fits easily into my laptop bag on the road, and since podcasters rarely have their own crews, the fact that I can monitor using headphones gives me an enormous amount of confidence in the recording that lets me concentrate on the interview. It’s a great piece of technology for podcasting.”

The “hand-held” PMD660 Solid State Recorder features portable, battery-powered operation. It offers a choice of recording uncompressed WAV files at 44.1 or 48 kHz, as well as 64 kbps mono or 128 kbps stereo in MP3 format. An optional 1 GB flash card holds over an hour of stereo or 3 hours mono of uncompressed audio (recording at the rates specified above), while the unit itself can operate for up to 4 hours running on 4 standard AA batteries. Furthermore, the PMD660 has built-in stereo microphones, XLR connectors with +48V phantom power, and is compatible with an optional RC600 wired remote that attaches to most any microphone to supply Record/Pause control, track marking and peak metering from the mic position.

…ends 427 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M PROFESSIONAL LAUNCHES
EDUCATION SOLUTIONS DIVISION AND WEBSITE

— D&M Professional creates a new division dedicated to exploring and sharing information

about the confluence of AV technology trends and information —

— The Education Solutions Division establishes a new website featuring information about

AV technologies and trends as well as a discussion forum that further widens the

scope and reach of D&M Professional’s educational initiative —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — D&M Professional, parent company of Denon Professional and Marantz Professional, has announced the launch of the D&M Professional Education Solutions Division (ESD). As part of the new division, the company announced the simultaneous introduction of www.education.d-mpro.com, a website that will act as a hub for up-to-the-minute information and advice regarding trends, techniques and technology for all types of audio-visual enterprise.
D&M Professional, parent company of Denon Professional and Marantz Professional, has announced the launch of the D&M Professional Education Solutions Division (ESD). As part of the new division, the company announced the simultaneous introduction of , a website that will act as a hub for up-to-the-minute information and advice regarding trends, techniques and technology for all types of audio-visual enterprise.

The leading brands of D&M Professional have provided cutting-edge audio and video technology for more than 70 years. Via the new Education Solutions Division and its associated website, D&M Professional will share its unique knowledge and insight with the entire university community on a 24/7 global basis. The goal is to support university AV departments and campus technical managers with product and application information relating to audio/video recording and playback. To further this goal, the website will feature a discussion forum for sharing information on AV technology trends and solutions in educational environments, along with extensive product and practical application information. Online resources available at the site will include case studies, white papers and links on key topics like podcasting, visual messaging, archiving, event recording, streaming, digital signage, field recording and distance learning.

Podcasting is one of several new-media activities in which D&M Professional brands have taken a leadership position with products such as the Marantz PMD660 Portable Compact Flash Recorder. The field of podcasting is a prime example of where the new Education Solutions Division and the integrated website can help students and teachers use technology to maximize their educational experience. Podcasting can be useful for the dissemination of classroom lectures and supplementary materials, along with functioning as a school information outlet. The new ESD website (www.education.d-mpro.com) will foster active discussion about topics such as how on-demand narrowcasting allows students to retrieve information, including enrichment materials, for viewing or listening at their preferred time. Techniques such as downloading, podcasting, lecture recording, AV networking and more will help AV managers and professors covering areas such as broadcasting, visual messaging, oral history, speech pathology, linguistics and music.

“The creation of the new Education Solutions Division and website will add another dimension to how media technology further enables education,” comments Peter Papageorge, D&M Professional Director of Sales and Marketing. “The ESD and associated website also underscore D&M Professional’s ongoing commitment to using our technology to enhance the educational environment and the learning experience.”

…ends 391 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

D&M PROFESSIONAL ESTABLISHES EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COUNCIL (ETAC)

— The ETAC initiative will provide a valuable exchange of information to support

D&M Professional’s R&D efforts serving higher education customers as well as

provide valuable benefits to educators and students —

— ETAC is part of D&M Professional’s newly created Education Solutions Division, dedicated to exploring and sharing information about the confluence of AV technology trends —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — D&M Professional, parent company of Denon Professional and Marantz Professional, announces the creation of the Education Technology Advisory Council (ETAC). This diverse group of experts will include members of the media services, AV managers and directors, classroom technologies teachers and administrators, and others having direct involvement with recording technologies supporting the teaching and learning experience. Expanding on the resources of D&M Professional, the ETAC will comprise a significant and unique knowledge pool in the educational media technology arena.
D&M Professional, parent company of Denon Professional and Marantz Professional, announces the creation of the Education Technology Advisory Council (ETAC). This diverse group of experts will include members of the media services, AV managers and directors, classroom technologies teachers and administrators, and others having direct involvement with recording technologies supporting the teaching and learning experience. Expanding on the resources of D&M Professional, the ETAC will comprise a significant and unique knowledge pool in the educational media technology arena.

ETAC is part of D&M Professional’s newly created Education Solutions Division (ESD), which is dedicated to exploring and sharing information about the confluence of AV technology trends. Its goal is to support university AV departments and campus technical managers with product and application information relating to digital audio/video media. The members of the advisory council will convene on a quarterly basis, via both telesessions and an annual forum, to exchange information, ideas and opinions directly with D&M Professional management. This invaluable feedback will be used for such applications as new product development, to make future products better aligned with the needs of higher education; and in creating new ways to measure and analyze the entire media technology learning experience. The input from these industry leaders will advance the knowledge base for key applications such as podcasting, visual messaging, archiving, event recording, streaming, digital signage, field recording and distance learning. D&M Professional senior management team will lead the advisory board in fulfilling its objectives.

“D&M Professional recognizes the value and critical need for marketplace involvement in directing the development of new solutions and enhancements of existing products, services and applications,” states Peter Papageorge, D&M Professional Director of Sales and Marketing, who will participate in the group’s activities. “The feedback that this pool of knowledge will bring to product development is sure to significantly enhance the technology-based education environment.”

The newly formed ETAC held its first annual session at D&M Professional’s headquarters in Itasca, IL, on January 11, 2007.

…ends 325 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M Professional, 1100 Maplewood Dr. Itasca, IL 60143

DENON PROFESSIONAL LAUNCHES MULTI-CHANNEL
DN-A7100 A/V SURROUND PREAMPLIFIER

— The Denon DN-A7100 offers a practical and cost-effective

main control interface for multi-channel audio distribution and playback —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Denon Professional announces the new DN-A7100 A/V Surround Preamplifier. Designed specifically for surround sound decoding in installed sound, house of worship, broadcast, conference and studio monitoring applications, the DN-A7100 provides a flexible array of features suited for fully balanced 5.1 and 7.1 surround playback. This dedicated professional quality surround preamp was developed based on feedback from leading industry contractors and system integrators to incorporate the most sought-after features needed for today’s high-definition multi-channel formats.
— Denon Professional announces the new DN-A7100 A/V Surround Preamplifier. Designed specifically for surround sound decoding in installed sound, house of worship, broadcast, conference and studio monitoring applications, the DN-A7100 provides a flexible array of features suited for fully balanced 5.1 and 7.1 surround playback. This dedicated professional quality surround preamp was developed based on feedback from leading industry contractors and system integrators to incorporate the most sought-after features needed for today’s high-definition multi-channel formats.

The DN-A7100 is equipped with 7.1 unbalanced line inputs, 2 stereo balanced XLR inputs and 8 balanced XLR line outputs for ultimate quality and ease of integration whether used with multi-amped line array speaker systems, small boardroom installations, or active home theater/boardroom monitoring systems. All XLR connections are +4 dB/-10 dB switchable for added signal compatibility. Four Optical and two Coaxial digital inputs are also included. Additional HDMI 2-source video switching capability is included and employs integrated Convert to Component adaptability for transforming composite and/or S-video sources to component video without compromising video quality.

Featuring 192 kHz/24-bit Crystal^® DAC’s for all 8 channels and 32-bit digital surround processing chipset architecture, the DN-A7100 supports the latest in surround sound format playback options including Dolby^® Digital EX, Dolby Digital, DTS^® ES (Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1, Neo:6) Decoding, Dolby Pro Logic^® IIx (Movie, Music, Game) and Circle Surround II (Movie, Music, Mono). The DN-A7100 additionally features an AM/FM tuner, serial RS-232C remote capabilities for AMX^®/Crestron^® and other third party integrated control systems, HDCD decoding capabilities and XM Satellite Radio compatibility.

The Denon Professional DN-A7100 A/V Surround Preamplifier represents a complete solution for any surround sound application requiring superior sound quality and signal integrity, without the use of quality-degrading adapters or cumbersome consumer components not well suited for the job. Utilized as the main control interface for any surround monitoring system, the new DN-A7100 offers a practical and cost-effective approach to multi-channel audio distribution and playback.

The Denon Professional DN-A7100 A/V Surround Preamplifier ships February 2007 with a U.S. MSRP of $1099.99.

…ends 332 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

DENON PROFESSIONAL INTRODUCES
BREAKTHROUGH DN-C640 NETWORK CD/DVD/DATA DISC PLAYER

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Denon Professional unveils the DN-C640 Slot-in Network CD Player. Housed in a compact 1 rackspace enclosure, the new DN-C640 offers tremendous playback format options utilizing largely untapped system resources found in many of today's standard audio, network and computing devices. Elevated from simple audio disc player, the unit enables audio data-file playback from both CD and DVD discs and easy access to network playback capabilities. It is well suited to serving as a fully networked audio playback control center, and was designed with audio professionals' needs in mind.
— Denon Professional unveils the DN-C640 Slot-in Network CD Player. Housed in a compact 1 rackspace enclosure, the new DN-C640 offers tremendous playback format options utilizing largely untapped system resources found in many of today's standard audio, network and computing devices. Elevated from simple audio disc player, the unit enables audio data-file playback from both CD and DVD discs and easy access to network playback capabilities. It is well suited to serving as a fully networked audio playback control center, and was designed with audio professionals' needs in mind.

The DN-C640 is the latest innovation in Denon’s line of professional audio playback devices to harness the advantages of digital audio. The DN-C640 is compatible with most standard audio data file formats including CD-DA (.cda), WAVE (.wav), MPEG-1/2 Layer III (.mp3), MPEG-1 Layer II (.mpg) and Windows Media Audio (.wma), allowing for up to 20 hours of MP3 or similar audio playback from a single CD, CD-R or CD-RW. Additionally, the unit breaks new ground by reading these files directly from a data DVD, with its greatly enhanced storage, thus increasing continuous single disc playback to nearly 6 days of uninterrupted audio. For those requiring the fidelity of uncompressed WAV audio files, this allows a new, convenient disc playback unrestrained by the normal 80-minute CD-R time limit. As an added benefit, various file types may be combined on the same disc to accommodate different source formats of program material.

The DN-C640 incorporates the latest in network integration for streaming audio playback from personal computers, servers, or other network resources. This affords nearly endless file storage and continuous playback while allowing direct access to files from the unit's front panel/remote or an internal web browser-based GUI complete with transport controls and customizable program playlists, accessible from any web-enabled computer on the network. Standard 25-pin Contact Closure (GPIO) and 9-pin RS-232C Control connections are included.

DN-C640 Audio Outputs:

2 Analog Unbalanced Outputs 1 set – RCA L/R Fixed Level

1 set – RCA L/R Variable Level (Remote Controllable)

1 Analog Balanced Output 1 set – XLR L/R Output with Trim Control

2 Digital Outputs 1 – RCA AES/EBU or S/PDIF Format

1 – XLR AES/EBU or S/PDIF Format

1 Headphone Output w/LC 1 – 1/4" Headphone Output (front panel mounted)

DN-C640 Control Options:

RS-232 1 – DB9 Bi-Directional connector

GPIO 1 – DB25 Contact Closure

Infrared 1 – IR receiver (front panel mounted)

Ethernet/LAN 1 – RJ-45 Used for control, device setup, and streaming media over the network

The Denon Professional DN-C640 Slot-in Network CD Player will be available February 2007 with a U.S. MSRP of $899.99.

…ends 423 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M Professional, 1100 Maplewood Dr. Itasca, IL 60143

DENON PROFESSIONAL EXHIBITS DN-V200 AND DN-V300 DVD PLAYERS

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Denon Professional is displaying its
— Denon Professional is displaying its

DN-V200 and DN-V300 DVD Players. Designed to meet the needs of many diverse end users, these products underscore Denon Professional’s ongoing commitment to supplying musical instrument retailers and pro audio dealers with industry-tailored audio/visual solutions.

The DN-V200/DN-V300 DVD Players are equipped with advanced functions such as Hide OSD, Change Wallpaper, NTSC/PAL Conversion, Auto Play, and various Repeat modes. To provide superior performance and flexibility in various installations, the DN-V300 has Serial RS-232C remote capabilities, which in turn allows it to be controlled from industry leaders like AMX™, Crestron™ and other third party integrated control systems.

The DN-V200/DN-V300 DVD Players are equipped with a 96 kHz, 24-bit D/A converter for conversion of 24-bit data yielding enhanced audio performance, increased dynamic range and S/N ratio. The OSD and display icons that normally appear on the screen can be switched on and off, further extending the usage of a kiosk terminal by removing unwanted screen displays for video playback or still pictures. Using the Change Wallpaper function, the image on the DVD wallpaper can be changed at the user’s discretion (JPEG format) allowing corporate logos, school emblems or other icons to appear on the screen after booting up or stopping the video during playback. An Auto Play setting allows the unit to start playback automatically, and each stage of setup and playback is conveniently memorized for next time usage even after the unit is turned off. For increased security, Key Lock and IR Remote Lock functions (via front panel or RS-232C) are provided to disable accidental operation of the DN-V200/DN-V300 DVD Players. Both units can play CD-R/RW media with MP3 or JPEG format material and a Progressive Scan function is also included. The DN-V200/DN-V300 DVD Players are standard 2U high, 19" rack mountable.

The Denon Professional DN-V200 and DN-V300 DVD Players are currently available with respective U.S. MSRPs of $449.99 and $649.99.

…ends 314 words

About D&M Professional

Visit D&M Professional at www.d-mpro.com or Denon DJ at: www.denondj.com.

About D&M Holdings Inc.

Additional information is available at www.dm-holdings.com.

# # #

D&M Professional, 1100 Maplewood Dr. Itasca, IL 60143

AUDIO-TECHNICA UPDATES FREEWAY^® 200 SERIES WIRELESS SYSTEMS

— Featuring an updated new look, the A-T Freeway^® 200 Series Wireless Systems continue to set the benchmark in cost-effective wireless systems —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacture of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has updated its Freeway^® 200 Series Wireless Systems with new cosmetics and a space saving AC adapter. Designed for musicians, live performance, houses of worship, public address and aerobic instruction, A-T’s Freeway 200 Series Wireless Systems specifically answer the strong demand for affordable, reliable wireless systems.
— Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacture of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has updated its Freeway 200 Series Wireless Systems with new cosmetics and a space saving AC adapter. Designed for musicians, live performance, houses of worship, public address and aerobic instruction, A-T’s Freeway 200 Series Wireless Systems specifically answer the strong demand for affordable, reliable wireless systems.

Available in handheld, headworn, guitar, lavalier and body-pack configurations, the Freeway 200 Series Wireless Systems are single-channel, fixed-frequency systems available in three VHF traveling frequencies (169.505, 170.245 and 171.905 MHz). The systems also feature an advanced dipole antenna system for extended operating range.

Each Freeway 200 Series Wireless System includes the ATW-R250 receiver and either a body-pack transmitter or handheld microphone/transmitter on a specific crystal controlled frequency. The ATW-R250 is a single-channel receiver with a unique space saving power supply, perfect when multiple AC power supplies are employed as part of a system. The

ATW-R250 also offers squelch and volume controls, 1/4" output jack, along with AF Peak, RF and Power indicator lights.

The ATW-T201 UniPak™ transmitter, included with all 200 Series Freeway body-pack systems, features a professional 4-pin locking connector and a dual-impedance input for instruments and microphones. Five body-pack system configurations are available: the

ATW-251 UniPak System (includes ATW-R250 receiver and ATW-T201 UniPak transmitter only), ATW-251/G Guitar System (includes ATW-R250 receiver, ATW-T201 UniPak transmitter with AT-GCW guitar/instrument cable), ATW-251/H Headworn Microphone System (includes ATW-R250 receiver, ATW-T201 UniPak transmitter with PRO 8HEcW headworn hypercardioid dynamic microphone), ATW-251/L Lavalier Microphone System (includes ATW-R250 receiver, ATW-T201 UniPak transmitter and miniature omni-directional lavalier microphone) and

ATW-252 Handheld Microphone System (includes ATW-R250 receiver and ATW-T202 handheld dynamic unidirectional microphone/transmitter).

Both handheld and body-pack transmitters operate on a single 9 Volt battery, and feature a battery-condition indicator light, easily accessible three position Off/Standby/On switch, and variable trim control. All 200 Series body-pack systems are compatible with the wide selection of Audio-Technica Wireless Essentials™ microphones and cables.

The new Audio-Technica Freeway 200 Series Wireless Systems are available immediately with U.S. MSRPs as follows:

ATW-251 UniPak System — $149.95

ATW-251/G Guitar System — $174.95

ATW-251/H Headworn Microphone System — $249.95

ATW-251/L Lavalier Microphone System — $224.95

ATW-252 Handheld Microphone System — $174.95

Photo Files: 200_Series.JPG, 200_Series_Grp.JPG

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Celebrating over 40 years of audio excellence worldwide, Audio-Technica is a leading innovator in transducer technology, renowned for the design and manufacture of microphones, wireless microphones, headphones, mixers, and electronics for the audio industry.

—For more information on the complete range of Audio-Technica products, contact
Karen Emerson, Audio-Technica U.S., Inc., 1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, OH 44224.
Tel: (330) 686-2600; Fax: (330) 688-3752; Web: www.audio-technica.com
—For further information regarding product availability and pricing in Europe, please contact Denise Burnage, marketing, Audio-Technica Ltd., Old Lane, Leeds LS11 8AG England. Tel: +44 (0) 113 277 1441,
Fax: +44 (0) 113 270 4836

Audio-Technica is exhibiting at Booth #6740 during the 2007 NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA.

AUDIO-TECHNICA SHOWS ARTIST SERIES MICROPHONES FOR
DRUM AND PERCUSSION APPLICATIONS

— A-T’s next generation of classic live-sound microphones provide flexibility and

superior performance for capturing drums and percussion instruments —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica, leading manufacturer of professional microphones and headphones, is featuring five new drum and percussion mics as part of its next generation of Artist Series microphones. The company has added innovative microphones to the line, while upgrading classic models for a comprehensive selection of vocal, instrument and drum mics. Designed by Audio-Technica engineers for the precise reproduction of drum and percussion instruments, these new Artist Series mics include the ATM450 cardioid condenser microphone, ATM250DE dual-element microphone, ATM250 hypercardioid dynamic microphone, ATM650 hypercardioid dynamic microphone and ATM350 cardioid condenser clip-on microphone.
— Audio-Technica, leading manufacturer of professional microphones and headphones, is featuring five new drum and percussion mics as part of its next generation of Artist Series microphones. The company has added innovative microphones to the line, while upgrading classic models for a comprehensive selection of vocal, instrument and drum mics. Designed by Audio-Technica engineers for the precise reproduction of drum and percussion instruments, these new Artist Series mics include the ATM450 cardioid condenser microphone, ATM250DE dual-element microphone, ATM250 hypercardioid dynamic microphone, ATM650 hypercardioid dynamic microphone and ATM350 cardioid condenser clip-on microphone.

The new A-T Artist Series was inspired by extensive market research and consultations with leading touring artists and FOH engineers who rely on these microphones onstage every night. Satisfying their foremost concerns, these rugged all-metal microphones are engineered for consistently flawless performance, featuring response and low-distortion characteristics to faithfully reproduce the details of virtually any sound source.

The ATM450 cardioid condenser microphone offers an innovative side-address stick design for endless placement options and minimal obstructions. Designed for overheads, percussion, hi-hat, under-snare or any application where space is at a premium, the ATM450 features a cardioid polar pattern for improved isolation of the desired sound source and is equipped with an integral 80 Hz HPF switch and 10 dB pad. The microphone’s extended flat frequency response (40-20,000 Hz) makes it ideal for handling high SPLs while its rugged all-metal design ensures reliability night after night. In addition, the ATM450 comes with an isolation clamp for shock protection, secure mounting and easy positioning.

Audio-Technica built on the legacy of its AE2500 kick drum mic to create the new ATM250DE, a dual-element microphone that combines two perfectly positioned capsules — a cardioid condenser and hypercardioid dynamic — in a single housing. Its neodymium dynamic element provides punch and attack, while the condenser element captures the full audio spectrum. Both elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship for maximum efficiency. It also has an integral 80 Hz HPF switch and 10 dB pad (condenser element). The ATM250DE is excellent for kick drums, as well as floor and rack toms. The microphone has a frequency response of 40-20,000 Hz (condenser) and 40-15,000 Hz (dynamic). Also designed for kick drum, and other high SPL applications, the ATM250 hypercardioid dynamic offers a rich, warm low-frequency response. Its hypercardioid polar pattern improves the isolation of the desired sound source, while the ATM250’s Hi-ENERGY^® neodymium magnet provides improved output and transient response. The ATM250 has a frequency response of 40-15,000 Hz and comes with an isolation clamp to provide secure mounting and versatile positioning.

For capturing snare and percussion instruments, Audio-Technica offers the extremely rugged ATM650 hypercardioid dynamic microphone. Featuring a new multi-stage flat grille design for precise positioning close to the sound source, the ATM650 employs an all-metal construction and is equipped with a Hi-ENERGY neodymium magnet for high-output performance. The microphone’s hypercardioid element has excellent rejection, allowing the mic to be focused on the desired sound such as the “sweet spot” of the drumhead, while maximizing isolation between sound sources. The ATM650 has a frequency response of 80-17,000 Hz with the ability to handle fast transients and high SPLs.

An all-around microphone for toms and percussion, the ATM350 cardioid condenser clip-on is based on the legendary ATM35. Featuring a low-profile clip-on design for minimum visibility and accurate positioning, the ATM350’s cardioid polar pattern provides superior sound source isolation with a crisp, clear, well-balanced response even at extremely high SPLs. For further flexibility and miking options, the ATM350 also has interchangeable hypercardioid and omnidirectional elements. In addition, it features an integral 80 Hz high-pass filter, and a new in-line power module for easy connection to a snake or breakout box.

The new Audio-Technica Artist Series microphones are available immediately with U.S. MSRPs as follows:

ATM250 Hypercardioid Condenser Mic — $329.00

ATM250DE Dual-Element Mic — $549.00

ATM350 Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Mic — $449.00

ATM450 Cardioid Condenser Side-address Mic — $369.00

ATM650 Hypercardioid Dynamic Mic — $169.00

Photo Files: ArtistSeriesDrum_grp.JPG, ATM250.JPG, ATM250DE.JPG, ATM350.JPG, ATM450.JPG, ATM650.JPG

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AUDIO-TECHNICA AT2010 HANDHELD CONDENSER MICROPHONE BRINGS STUDIO-QUALITY SOUND
TO LIVE PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica has introduced the AT2010 cardioid condenser vocal microphone, designed to bring the studio-quality sound of Audio-Technica’s renowned 20 Series to the stage. Featuring the same 16 mm low-mass diaphragm found in the critically acclaimed AT2020 side-address studio condenser, this rugged handheld offers the performance advantages of a high-quality studio microphone at an estimated street price of $99. Ideal for use in live performance where phantom power is available, the AT2010 excels wherever articulate, crystal-clear vocals are needed. The AT2010 is perfect for solo performances, jazz vocalists, singer/songwriters and house of worship applications.
— Audio-Technica has introduced the AT2010 cardioid condenser vocal microphone, designed to bring the studio-quality sound of Audio-Technica’s renowned 20 Series to the stage. Featuring the same 16 mm low-mass diaphragm found in the critically acclaimed AT2020 side-address studio condenser, this rugged handheld offers the performance advantages of a high-quality studio microphone at an estimated street price of $99. Ideal for use in live performance where phantom power is available, the AT2010 excels wherever articulate, crystal-clear vocals are needed. The AT2010 is perfect for solo performances, jazz vocalists, singer/songwriters and house of worship applications.

The AT2010 provides an extended flat frequency response (40-20,000 Hz) with superior transient response resulting in smooth, natural sonic characteristics. The AT2010’s fixed cardioid polar pattern allows isolation of the desired sound source thereby reducing pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear. The mic is able to handle extremely high SPLs

(136 dB) and has a wide dynamic range (113 dB); its multi-stage grille offers excellent protection against plosives and sibilance without compromising high-frequency clarity.

The AT2010 requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console or by an in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies. Output from the AT2010 is via a low-impedance, 3-pin XLRM-type connector. In addition, the AT2010 measures 7.05" long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.00", weighs 8.2 oz., and comes with the AT8470 Quiet-Flex™ microphone stand clamp and a soft protective carrying pouch.

The AT2010 will be available February 2007 with a U.S. MSRP of $169.00 (estimated street price of $99.00).

Photo File: AT2010.JPG

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Audio-Technica is exhibiting at Booth #6740 during the 2007 NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA.

AUDIO-TECHNICA INTRODUCES ATH-ANC7 QUIETPOINT™
ACTIVE NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES

— Company offers lightweight, compact headphones that effectively reduce distracting background noise by up to 85% while offering superior audio quality —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacture of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has announced the availability of its ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint™ active noise-canceling headphones. Engineered to deliver superior quality audio in a compact, lightweight design, the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones employ a miniature microphone in each earpiece that monitors ambient noise (such as airplane cabin or traffic noise) and creates a sound-canceling signal that successfully reduces distracting background noise by up to 85%.
— Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacture of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has announced the availability of its ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint™ active noise-canceling headphones. Engineered to deliver superior quality audio in a compact, lightweight design, the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones employ a miniature microphone in each earpiece that monitors ambient noise (such as airplane cabin or traffic noise) and creates a sound-canceling signal that successfully reduces distracting background noise by up to 85%.

Ideal for use with MP3, CD, DVD and in-flight entertainment systems, the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones provide maximum comfort in a closed-back, streamlined design; they feature propriety large-aperture 40 mm drivers with neodymium magnet systems for deeper bass and extended treble, and have a wide frequency response of 10-25,000 Hz.

The noise-canceling electronics for the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones are fully integrated in each earpiece, with no need for bulky external modules. The headphones fold flat for easy portability, are powered by a single AAA alkaline battery and can operate in passive mode without the battery. The ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones come complete with a 5.2' (1.6 m) detachable cable (remove for noise-canceling mode without audio) terminated with 1/8" (3.5 mm) mini plugs; a 1/4" (6.3 mm) stereo adapter; a specialized airline adapter for connecting to in-flight entertainment systems; and a carrying case with attached accessory pouch.

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint active noise-canceling headphones will be available Spring 2007 with a U.S. MSRP of $219.95.

Photo File: ATH_ANC7.JPG

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AUDIO-TECHNICA EXPANDS PROFESSIONAL LINE WITH NEW
FLAGSHIP ATH-M50 STUDIO HEADPHONES

— Featuring a closed-back design and proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems, the ATH-M50 professional monitor headphones provide superior audio quality with maximum comfort and are ideal for critical listening applications —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica introduces its flagship ATH-M50 professional studio monitor headphones. Embodying the company’s latest transducer technology, the ATH-M50 headphones offer the highest level of sonic accuracy in an innovative design engineered to provide maximum comfort for hours of use.
— Audio-Technica introduces its flagship ATH-M50 professional studio monitor headphones. Embodying the company’s latest transducer technology, the ATH-M50 headphones offer the highest level of sonic accuracy in an innovative design engineered to provide maximum comfort for hours of use.

Specifically intended for professional monitoring and mixing applications, the ATH-M50 headphones feature an efficient collapsible design ideal for easy portability and convenient storage. Employing Audio-Technica’s proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems and CCAW voice coils, the ATH-M50 headphones have exceptional power handling and very high SPL capabilities while delivering clear, natural, accurate sound with deep resonating bass and high-frequency extension.

The ATH-M50 also features a closed-back cushioned earcup providing exceptional clarity and superior isolation in high volume listening situations. In addition, the circumaural earpieces swivel a full 180º for easy one-ear monitoring.

The ATH-M50 has a lightweight and adjustable cushioned headband for maximum listening comfort. A coiled OFC litz wire cable at the left earpiece terminates to a gold-plated 1/8" connector with included professional screw-on 1/4" adapter.

The ATH-M50 will be available February 2007 with a U.S. MSRP of $199.00.

Photo File: ATHM50.JPG

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Audio-Technica is exhibiting at Booth #6740 during the 2007 NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA.

AUDIO-TECHNICA NAMES CHRIS NIGHMAN
AUDIO SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica has appointed Chris Nighman as Audio Solutions Specialist in support of its Audio Solutions Department. Rick Joyner, Audio Solutions Manager at Audio-Technica, announced this addition to the team, noting that Nighman’s appointment is the company’s latest step in augmenting its Audio Solutions Department, which is dedicated to identifying and addressing the needs of the
— Audio-Technica has appointed Chris Nighman as Audio Solutions Specialist in support of its Audio Solutions Department. Rick Joyner, Audio Solutions Manager at Audio-Technica, announced this addition to the team, noting that Nighman’s appointment is the company’s latest step in augmenting its Audio Solutions Department, which is dedicated to identifying and addressing the needs of the

audio community.

Chris Nighman joined Audio-Technica in 1998, spending years as Lead Inspector in the Quality Assurance Department, and has continually sought to expand his knowledge and insight into the audio industry. Nighman brings direct consumer experience to his new Specialist position in A-T’s Audio Solutions Department, as both a musician and project studio owner. He is a member of the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and Synergetic Audio Concepts (Syn-Aud-Con). Nighman will now be focused on fulfilling the informational needs of Audio-Technica’s customers, accurately fielding questions about A-T’s full range of products and applications.

The Audio Solutions Department acts as the first point of contact for A-T’s staff, reps, dealers and end users seeking clear technical or product advice and application assistance. Since the department’s inception, customers have expressed appreciation for this easy way to reach a support team; more than 95 percent of incoming queries are answered directly by Audio Solutions Specialists. In addition to phone consultations, the department offers online technical support, gathers feedback from the field to identify emerging trends and business opportunities, and assists in product design, development and sales.

Rick Joyner commented, “Chris has been a greatly productive member of the Audio-Technica family for years, and is a most welcome addition to our Audio Solutions Department. He has a distinct knack for assessing customer needs and responding with the appropriate solution. His communicative and technical skills will allow us to take our charge even further, maintaining strong connections with the audio community and building our evaluative and educational capabilities.”

Photo File: Chris_Nighman.JPG

...ends 310 words

—For more information on the complete range of Audio-Technica products, contact
Karen Emerson, Audio-Technica U.S., Inc., 1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, OH 44224.
Tel: (330) 686-2600; Fax: (330) 688-3752; Web: www.audio-technica.com

Audio-Technica is exhibiting at Booth #6740 during the 2007 NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA.

#AUDIO-TECHNICA EXPANDS IMPORT SERIES HEADPHONES WITH FOUR NEW MODELS

— Offering innovative designs with specific models for audiophiles and portable/active listener applications, A-T continues to expand its line of acclaimed Import Series headphones —

NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 — Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacturer of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has expanded its Import Series headphones with four new models. Previously available only in Japan, the Import Series is comprised of 19 different models specifically designed for audiophiles, DJs or portable listening applications. Each headphone features the latest in transducer technology, rugged construction, and delivers the highest level of sonic accuracy while providing maximum comfort for hours of listening. The new models include: the ATH-CK9 QuietPoint™ Passive Noise-Reducing Earphones; the ATH-CK7 QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Titanium Earphones; the ATH-ES7 Portable Headphones; and the audiophile ATH-W5000 Dynamic Headphones.
— Audio-Technica, a leader in the design and manufacturer of consumer and professional microphones, headphones, phono cartridges and accessories for over 40 years, has expanded its Import Series headphones with four new models. Previously available only in Japan, the Import Series is comprised of 19 different models specifically designed for audiophiles, DJs or portable listening applications. Each headphone features the latest in transducer technology, rugged construction, and delivers the highest level of sonic accuracy while providing maximum comfort for hours of listening. The new models include: the ATH-CK9 QuietPoint™ Passive Noise-Reducing Earphones; the ATH-CK7 QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Titanium Earphones; the ATH-ES7 Portable Headphones; and the audiophile ATH-W5000 Dynamic Headphones.

The ATH-CK9 BK (black) and ATH-CK9 WH (white) QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Earphones feature an in-ear design that forms an acoustic seal resulting in effective sound isolation that blocks background noise while preventing sound leakage. This produces increased fidelity at lower volume levels while ultra high-quality balanced armature drivers offer detailed high-fidelity audio, reproducing the subtlest of sounds. The ATH-CK9’s reversible design allows the earphone to be worn with the 1.2 m “Y” cord extending either down or over the ear. Interchangeable ear-pieces (small, medium, large) are included for a custom, comfortable fit, while the gold-plated mini-plug provides exceptional corrosion resistance.

The ATH-CK7 QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Titanium Earphones also employ an in-ear design for effective sound isolation and feature 11 mm drivers with neodymium magnet systems for high-fidelity listening with deep bass and extended treble, durable lightweight titanium construction and interchangeable ear pieces for a comfortable, custom fit. They also come with a 1.2 m “Y” cable with adjustable sleeve for secure fit and gold-plated mini-plug.

The ATH-ES7 BK (black) and ATH-ES7 WH (white) Portable Headphones feature a stainless steel, ultra-sleek contemporary design with outstanding acoustic performance and reproduction of midrange and treble frequencies. Employing 42 mm drivers with neodymium magnet systems, copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, and a flexible T.P.E. headband for a secure, comfortable fit, the ATH-ES7 headphones also have padded ear cushions for long-wearing comfort and maximum isolation. The headphones fold for easy storage while traveling in the protective carrying pouch and come with a 1.2 m “Y” cable and gold-plated mini-plug.

For the audiophile, Audio-Technica has expanded its offerings of full-range circumaural headphones with the new ATH-W5000 Dynamic Headphones. These reference headphones deliver natural high quality sound with deep resonating bass and vocal projection. Key features include large-aperture 53 mm drivers with neodymium magnet systems, double air damping system, 8N-OFC oxygen-free copper voice coils, a lightweight magnesium alloy frame with a self-adjusting 3D wing support housing, leather ear-fitting pads, high quality elastomer-sheathed cable and gold-plated stereo 1/4" connector.

The Import Series headphones are available immediately with U.S. MSRPs as follows:

ATH-CK9 BK/WH QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Earphones $299.00

ATH-CK7 BK/WH QuietPoint Passive Noise-Reducing Titanium Earphones $169.00

ATH-ES7 BK/WH Portable Headphones $249.00

ATH-W5000 Dynamic Headphones $1,699.00

For more information on the new Audio-Technica Import Series, please visit:

http://www.audio-technica.com.

Photo File: Import_Series_NAMM07.JPG

Photo Caption: Pictured are new models from Audio-Technica's Import Series: ATH-ES7 BK (top left); ATH-ES7 WH (top right); ATH-CK9 WH (bottom left); ATH-CK9 BK (bottom center); and ATH-CK7 (bottom right).

Photo File: ATH_W5000.JPG

...ends 487 words

RAPCO INTERNATIONAL AND HORIZON MUSIC MERGE TO FORM THE RAPCOHORIZON COMPANY
Merging Companies Exhibit as One at Winter NAMM 2007

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—Valued suppliers of audio interfacing products to the music and sound installation industries for more than 25 years, Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc. announce a merger to form The RapcoHorizon Company. The former sister companies will debut as one at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558).

Strengthening its position as a leading world manufacturer and supplier of audio, video, home theater and data telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies, the strategic merger between Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc. will also consist of the integration of all corporate counterpart divisions: Major Custom Cable, which services the Fiber Optic and Data Telecom industries, Horizon Wire & Cable, the company’s wire extrusion facility, N.A.F.T.A. Manufacturing, the company’s Mexican manufacturing plants, Rapco Professional servicing the Canadian market, and Oculus Designs, servicing the Home Theater and custom home installation markets.

“This is the finalization of the merging process that began five years ago with the consolidation of the operating systems of Rapco International and Horizon Music,” said

Dale Williams, president of The RapcoHorizon Company. “With the merger, we have

renewed our commitment to improving customer service, expanding our product offerings and advancing profitability for our customers.”

By aligning each specialty department, The RapcoHorizon Company enhances service as well as retail and installation products for consumers through the combining of resources and operations. Additionally, with its expanded shop and improved metal working capabilities, the company will be the premier supplier of custom metal interfacing products and snakes.

“This is an exciting time for The RapcoHorizon Company team members,” stated Williams. “Ultimately, the result of the merger for our customers will be a more simplified business environment, which will lead to increased profits.”

Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizon Company's products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s Web site at —Valued suppliers of audio interfacing products to the music and sound installation industries for more than 25 years, Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc. announce a merger to form The RapcoHorizon Company. The former sister companies will debut as one at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558). TheRapcoHorizon Company, located in Jackson, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of audio, video, home theater, data and telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies. Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizonCompany's products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s Web site at www.rapcohorizon.com

Beyerdynamic Highlights
Opus 900 Wireless System at Winter namm 2007
Premier Wireless System Meets Rigorous Criteria for Professional Applications
Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2006 — beyerdynamic, a leading manufacturer of exceptional microphones, headphones and wireless microphone systems, will highlight the Opus 900 wireless system at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6500). Featuring rugged construction, powerful transparent sound and an extraordinary price/performance ratio, the Opus 900 system is designed to meet the rigorous operating criteria of multi-channel systems for touring and large installations.

“The flexibility, reliability and affordability of the Opus 900 make it the premier wireless system for professional applications,” states Paul Froula, Pro Audio Business Manager. “Based on beyerdynamic’s popular Opus 500 Mk II and 800 systems, the Opus 900 features exceptional audio quality, stable transmission and easy operation – critical components in any professional application.”

The Opus 900 system offers a variety of transmitters, making it ideal for a wide-range of applications. Transmitters for the system include the DM 960 S, DM 960 B and the DM 969 S dynamic transmitters; the EM 981 S and the CM 930 B condenser transmitters; the TS 900 M and TS 900 C pocket transmitters with re-chargeable contacts. Both the TS 900 M and TS 900 C are outfitted with ACT infrared interface for frequency setting, LCD for selected channel, group and battery status (5-stage), gain control, silent on/off switch and 4-pin mini-XLR input connector.

Three receivers, offering 99 pre-programmed frequencies, are available for the Opus 900 system; the NE 900 S single channel, NE 900 D dual channel and the NE 900 Q quad
channel receiver. Both the NE 900 D and NE 900 Q are housed in a standard 1U/19-inch rackmount and feature an integrated antenna splitter, while the NE 900 S is housed in a 1U/9.5-inch rackmount. Each model has an engineer-friendly “jog wheel” for fast access and reconfiguration of the system. In addition, all offer a monitoring headphone output with volume control and balanced XLR per channel, Remote-In and-Out port and PC controllability.

beyerdynamic, with headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany, and distributed in the USA by beyerdynamic Inc., has been an industry leader in the design and manufacture of premium-grade microphones, headphones and microphone systems since 1924. With its commitment to continuous research and innovative developments for the audio industry, beyerdynamic features a continuing wide range of the latest technologies and high quality standard products including microphones, headphones, wireless systems, conference systems, sound reinforcement components and accessories. For more information, visit the beyerdynamic website at www.beyerdynamic-USA.com, or call 631-293-3200.
—a leading manufacturer of exceptional microphones, headphones and wireless microphone systems, will highlight the at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6500). Featuring rugged construction, powerful transparent sound and an extraordinary price/performance ratio, the Opus 900 system is designed to meet the rigorous operating criteria of multi-channel systems for touring and large installations.

beyerdynamic Features Headzone
at Winter NAMM 2007
An Affordable and Portable Solution for Mixing 5.1 Surround Sound.
anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007 — beyerdynamic, the originator of the headphone, has built upon its 82 years experience in the audio industry to create the Headzone, a portable surround mixing system. Utilizing current DSP technology, Headzone provides superior headphone-based 5.1 surround sound reproduction and is ideal for a variety of applications including —the originator of the headphone, has built upon its 82 years experience in the audio industry to create the . Utilizing current DSP technology, Headzone provides superior headphone-based 5.1 surround sound reproduction and is ideal for a variety of applications including studio, mobile recording and post-production. The system will be featured at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6500).

For use with Headzone, beyerdynamic has added “Headtracking” technology to its popular DT 800 PRO headphones. This unique patented ultrasonic-headtracking system locates the orientation of the listener’s head with respect to the source material and adjusts the audio accordingly. An engineer recording with Headzone can move around while the source material remains fixed in position as if they were in a 5.1 control room.

“Headzone’s portability and small size offers an affordable, flexible and space-saving alternative to mix surround sound in live situations,” explains Paul Froula, Pro Audio Business Manager. “It eliminates the need for six or seven speakers set up in the proper locations in a room in order to do a live surround mix. You just connect the Headzone to your Mac, PC or analogue inputs and instantly are ready to monitor in surround.”

The system features a 5.1 digital firewire input and 6 discreet analogue inputs. In addition to being compatible with Logic and Pro Tools, Headzone also comes equipped with an advanced room simulation software, which allows the users to create an ideal auditory space within which to monitor the surround audio and, therefore, provide the optimal “sweet spot.” Users can adjust the parameters of their room for size, ambiance level and distance their head is away from the loudspeakers. The software also allows for adjustment of the surround channels and overall mix.

beyerdynamic, with headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany, and distributed in the USA by beyerdynamic Inc., has been an industry leader in the design and manufacture of premium-grade microphones, headphones and microphone systems since 1924. With its commitment to continuous research and innovative developments for the audio industry, beyerdynamic features a continuing wide range of the latest technologies and high quality standard products including microphones, headphones, wireless systems, conference systems, sound reinforcement components and accessories.

Beyerdynamic Highlights
Opus 900 Wireless System at Winter namm 2007
Premier Wireless System Meets Rigorous Criteria for Professional Applications
Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2006 — beyerdynamic, a leading manufacturer of exceptional microphones, headphones and wireless microphone systems, will highlight the Opus 900 wireless system at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6500). Featuring rugged construction, powerful transparent sound and an extraordinary price/performance ratio, the Opus 900 system is designed to meet the rigorous operating criteria of multi-channel systems for touring and large installations.

“The flexibility, reliability and affordability of the Opus 900 make it the premier wireless system for professional applications,” states Paul Froula, Pro Audio Business Manager. “Based on beyerdynamic’s popular Opus 500 Mk II and 800 systems, the Opus 900 features exceptional audio quality, stable transmission and easy operation – critical components in any professional application.”

The Opus 900 system offers a variety of transmitters, making it ideal for a wide-range of applications. Transmitters for the system include the DM 960 S, DM 960 B and the DM 969 S dynamic transmitters; the EM 981 S and the CM 930 B condenser transmitters; the TS 900 M and TS 900 C pocket transmitters with re-chargeable contacts. Both the TS 900 M and TS 900 C are outfitted with ACT infrared interface for frequency setting, LCD for selected channel, group and battery status (5-stage), gain control, silent on/off switch and 4-pin mini-XLR input connector.

Three receivers, offering 99 pre-programmed frequencies, are available for the Opus 900 system; the NE 900 S single channel, NE 900 D dual channel and the NE 900 Q quad
channel receiver. Both the NE 900 D and NE 900 Q are housed in a standard 1U/19-inch rackmount and feature an integrated antenna splitter, while the NE 900 S is housed in a 1U/9.5-inch rackmount. Each model has an engineer-friendly “jog wheel” for fast access and reconfiguration of the system. In addition, all offer a monitoring headphone output with volume control and balanced XLR per channel, Remote-In and-Out port and PC controllability.

beyerdynamic, with headquarters in Heilbronn, Germany, and distributed in the USA by beyerdynamic Inc., has been an industry leader in the design and manufacture of premium-grade microphones, headphones and microphone systems since 1924. With its commitment to continuous research and innovative developments for the audio industry, beyerdynamic features a continuing wide range of the latest technologies and high quality standard products including microphones, headphones, wireless systems, conference systems, sound reinforcement components and accessories. For more information, visit the beyerdynamic website at www.beyerdynamic-USA.com
—a leading manufacturer of exceptional microphones, headphones and wireless microphone systems, will highlight the at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6500). Featuring rugged construction, powerful transparent sound and an extraordinary price/performance ratio, the Opus 900 system is designed to meet the rigorous operating criteria of multi-channel systems for touring and large installations.

NEUTRIK® FEATURES RIGHT-ANGLE SILENT PLUG
AT WINTER NAMM 2007
New Generation Instrument Right-Angle Plug Allows Noise-Free Switching
ANAHEIM, CA, JANUARY 18, 2007——Neutrik, which has designed and manufactured the industry standard in professional audio connectors, jacks and plugs for more than a quarter of a century, continues to introduce innovative solutions to the audio industry with the introduction of the Right-Angle Silent Plug at Winter NAMM 2007 in Anaheim (Hall A, Booth #6320).

Neutrik’s Right-Angle Silent Plug is the ideal solution for switching an instrument, such as electric guitar, under load without creating the pops or squeals typically associated with plugging and unplugging a cable from an instrument or amplifier jack.

“With a rise in demand for right-angled plugs, Neutrik re-introduced its popular Silent Plug in a right-angled version to meet the changing needs of our consumers,” stated Jim Cowan, president of Neutrik USA. “Neutrik’s Right-Angle Silent Plug continues to offer musicians the value of a seamless transition when using multiple instruments with the added benefit of using a right-angled plug. The contoured design strategically provides a more convenient plug-in for equipment operated in confined spaces. It also situates the cable in the direction of gravity, relieving the plug of having to endure the weight of heavy cables.”

A 2 pole right angle ¼" professional phone plug that fits into any ¼-inch stereo or mono jack, the Right-Angle Silent Plug features gold-plated contacts, red coating, chuck-type cable retention and the integrated “Silent Switch,” which is hermetically sealed and, due to its “REED technology”-based design, offers unrivalled lifetime durability.

Neutrik manufactures a wide array of XLR connectors and receptacles, jacks and plugs, speaker connectors and accessories for the professional audio industry. Neutrik USA is located at 195 Lehigh Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701.

NEUTRIK® PRESENTS PRX SERIES AT WINTER NAMM
Right-Angle Plug Offers Exceptional Handling and Packing Density
ANAHEIM, CA, JANUARY 18, 2007——Neutrik, designer and manufacturer of the XX series XLR cable connector, presents the PRX Series Right-Angle Phone Plug at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall A, Booth #6320). The PRX Series is ideally suited for instrument cables and is available with Neutrik’s Silent Plug, offering the perfect solution for all guitar applications.

With the PRX series, Neutrik expands its popular PX series of ¼" phone plugs with a right-angle version, incorporating a robust diecast shell in an extra-slim design with a compact barrel for optimum handling convenience and highest packing density. The PRX’s unique rivetless one-piece tip contact helps prevent hook up in a socket or break off at the tip. Other features include improved chuck-type strain relief for reliable cable retention; nickel or gold plating for durability and best conductivity; and both mono and stereo plugs to satisfy cable assemblers.

“As the standard bearer of audio connectivity solutions, Neutrik is the leader in response to the industry’s need for right-angle alternatives,” states Jim Cowan, president of Neutrik USA. “The recent introduction of our right-angle XX Series opened a floodgate of requests from audio professionals asking for similar solutions within our other product offerings. Together with Neutrik’s Silent Plug, the PRX series offers premium performance.”

Neutrik manufactures a wide array of XLR connectors and receptacles, jacks and plugs, speaker connectors, and accessories for the professional audio industry. Neutrik USA is located at 195 Lehigh Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701.

NEUTRIK® IMPROVES DESIGN OF XXR COLORED CODING RINGS AT WINTER NAMM 2007
Coding Rings Now Expand to Fill Space
between the Rear Boot and the Front Housing
ANAHEIM, CA, JANUARY 18, 2007 – ANAHEIM, CA, JANUARY 18, 2007 – Neutrik, designer and manufacturer of the industry leading XX series XLR cable connector, introduces an improved version of its XXR colored coding rings at Winter NAMM 2007 in Anaheim (Hall A, Booth #6320). designer and manufacturer of the industry leading XX series XLR cable connector, introduces an improved version of its XXR colored coding rings at Winter NAMM 2007 in Anaheim (Hall A, Booth #6320).

For use with the company’s XX series, the XXR provides faster and easier connections for audio and instrumentation applications, as the new coding rings expand to fill the void between the rear boot and the front shell/housing, for a more secure and durable fit. For optimum efficiency, the insert does not have to be unsoldered to change the color coding.

Neutrik’s XXR colored coding rings also enable easy identification between XLR cable ends and panel mount receptacles. The XXR is offered in 10 colors — black, brown, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, grey and white.

“At Neutrik, we continually strive to provide convenient enhancements to our line of products,” stated Jim Cowan, president of Neutrik USA. “With the introduction of our latest accessory, Neutrik’s rugged XLR connectors are now matched with an equally durable and conveniently colored coded ring.”

D’ADDARIO & COMPANY LAUNCHES ONLINE “BUY NOW”
PROGRAM CONNECTING CONSUMERS TO DEALERS
FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—D’Addario & Company is happy to introduce its new “Buy Now” program across all of its brands’ web sites. Consumers have two different online purchasing options whereby brick & mortar stores and e-tailers will easily benefit from the sale with little to no effort.
—D’Addario & Company is happy to introduce its new “Buy Now” program across all of its brands’ web sites. Consumers have two different online purchasing options whereby brick & mortar stores and e-tailers will easily benefit from the sale with little to no effort.

Consumers surfing any of the J. D’Addario brand web sites can purchase any J. D’Addario product through either the “D’Addario Store” or the “On-Line Retailer” option. Orders placed through the “D’Addario Store” are managed by a third-party system whereby dealers that have signed up to participate in the program are selected to then process the order. Based simply on the dealer’s geographic proximity to the sale, the winning retailer--large or small--is promptly notified within 24 hours that they have a new sale to process and fulfill. By assigning an order to the closest dealer, the quickest possibly delivery is ensured to the consumer.

Free sign up costs, the option to turn inventory faster, and frequent direct/paper check deposits are just some of the benefits to becoming a D’Addario & Company’s retail partner in the “Buy Now” program. All participating retailers will have access to real-time sales and market data making it easy to review the best selling products on a local and national level in order to control and plan inventory. As a convenient service, automated emails are sent directly to the participating dealer to notify of a sale in need of fulfillment through the “Buy Now” system that has been made in your locale. Additionally, compatibility with every major parcel carrier, makes it easy for participating dealers to integrate “Buy Now” into existing shipping systems.

On-line retailers can participate by signing up with their D’Addario sales representative and creating a few links and ensuring that all D’Addario & Company products have a product detail page on their site. Consumers can select the “On-Line Retailer” option and select from a list of a participating e-commerce partners.

“With this exemplary way to reach new customers, D’Addario drives customers to the web store only to offer them to our dealers,” says David Via, Vice President of Sales for D’Addario and Company. “Dealers can create higher visibility with local customers, as those consumers will know that products were shipped directly from your store. The “Buy Now” program increase sales by raising a dealer’s average transaction amount while decreasing average transaction time.”

“Whether as a ‘D’Addario Store’ fulfillment retailer or as an ‘On-Line Retailer,’ dealers can take advantage of the ever-increasing number of consumers with predisposed expectations on completing an on-line transaction from any website, including the manufacturer’s,” concludes Via. “D’Addario has found a way to do this while supporting existing dealers.”

Dealers and online retailers interested in signing up for the “Buy Now” program should contact their D’Addario sales representative for details.

For more information about D’Addario, please visit www.daddario.com.

NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE: D’ADDARIO & COMPANY, INC.
FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—It is a subtle change, the removal of a letter, but it signifies a rallying behind the company identity and, indeed, a recognition of the significant power of the D’Addario name in exclusion.
Effective immediately, the J. D’Addario & Company, Inc. has changed its name officially to D’Addario & Company, Inc. The removal of the “J” reflects, among other reasons, the trend to referring to the company in terms of the surname alone, and, indeed, alludes to the brand recognition power of the D’Addario name.
The revised company name will be introduced to the industry in the first quarter of 2007, using Winter NAMM as the launch vehicle. Thereafter, all company listings, letterhead, packaging, posters and other marketing materials, websites, and trade presentations will proudly display the new streamlined moniker.
In addition, moves are underway to institute the name change, as soon as possible, on all D’Addario contracts, agreements, and correspondence with various stakeholders, vendors, industry affiliates, utilities and customers.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—It is a subtle change, the removal of a letter, but it signifies a rallying behind the company identity and, indeed, a recognition of the significant power of the D’Addario name in exclusion.

HUGH GILMARTIN JOINS D’ADDARIO AS NEW ARTIST RELATIONS MANAGER

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—D’Addario & Company, Inc. is proud to welcome Hugh Gilmartin to the company as the Artist Relations Manager.
—D’Addario & Company, Inc. is proud to welcome Hugh Gilmartin to the company as the Artist Relations Manager.
Gilmartin will work out of D’Addario’s Farmingdale, New York headquarters. He will direct all aspects of artist relations, including advertisements, multi-media, signing new endorsees, and other endorsee-related matters for the global artist relations effort for D’Addario, Evans, HQ, Planet Waves, and Rico brands. Additionally, Gilmartin will manage Steve Lobmeier, A&R Representative, and related the activities of the D’Addario AR team; Product Specialists: Rory Mazzela/Rico and Carol Carpenter/Evans, Sales & Marketing Managers: Mac Kamihama/Japan, Jean François Bescond/Europe, Peter D’Addario OEM Sales/Bluegrass and Freelance AR rep John Ferrante; D’Addario/Planet Waves & Evans.
“We’re very happy to have Hugh on board,” says John Roderick, Vice President of Product Management, D’Addario & Company, Inc. “He possesses fluency and expertise with both Artist Relations and the products industry, which is something that our endorsees and partners will find as a great asset here at D’Addario.”
Before joining the J. D’Addario team, Gilmartin was employed with KORG USA, where he began by handling the Product Support and Customer Service fields, familiarizing himself in current product issues, product development, and acting as customer service representative for US-based dealers. Climbing the ranks quickly, Gilmartin became Artist Relations Manager at KORG USA. As Artist Relations Manager, Gilmartin provided support and sales to Korg, Marshall and Vox’s vast artist base, working with distinguished artists including Beyonce Knowles, Natalie Cole, Jamie Cullum and Steve Vai. His additional experiences with Customer Service at Samson Technologies in Syosset, NY allowed him to provide sales and support to Samson/Hartke/Behringer artists.
Gilmartin received his degree from Five Towns College in Dix Hills, NY where he was a recipient of the prestigious NAMM Scholarship. He also studied instrument repair and technology. Gilmartin is also an avid guitarist and bassist with genuine interests and understanding of percussion, string and woodwind instruments.
“Not only do I share a passion for Products, Marketing and Artist Relations, but I have a dedication to music, as well. I am able to relate to artists on a creative and administrative level, and I am looking forward to enhancing these partnerships,” comments Gilmartin.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries
—D’Addario & Company, Inc. is proud to welcome Hugh Gilmartin to the company as the Artist Relations Manager.

PROMOTIONS: TRISH FRAZZETTO AND JENNIFER VERDI COHEN
Expanded Duties Reflect New Corporate Opportunities & Growth

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2006—D’Addario’s unprecedented growth has led to changes in corporate structure designed to take reflect, and take advantage of, the current domestic and global business milieu.
A direct result of the reorganization is the promotion of two long time D’Addario employees, Trish Frazzetto and Jennifer Verdi Cohen.
A graduate of the University of Richmond, Trish Frazzetto joined D’Addario in 2002 following a budding career in public relations that encompassed working in two successful political campaigns in Virginia. Thereafter, she assumed duties in New York public relations firms, ending up as Senior Account Manager in an agency specializing in music industry public relations. Frazzetto joined D’Addario as Public Relations Manager in 2002. Her current promotion is to Public Relations & Promotions Manager. She will manage all media placement, brand and corporate public relations, and promotions. In addition, she will promote the D’Addario Foundation for the Performing Arts. In addition, Frazzetto will serve as the on-site show and events manager.
Jennifer Verdi Cohen, a graduate of the University of Florida-Gainesville, joined D’Addario in 2000 as Marketing Coordinator. As the company has grown, her role has expanded. Her promotion to Events & Marketing Resources Planner reflects the need for thorough knowledge and expert management of several key functions that straddle marketing, sales and operations. Her newly-created position will see her overseeing all marketing print materials. In addition, Cohen’s new duties will include managing and coordinating all shows, meetings and events, assessing space requirements and logistics, this in addition to overseeing departmental training and assisting the VP of Product Management.
, a graduate of the University of Florida-Gainesville, joined D’Addario in 2000 as Marketing Coordinator. As the company has grown, her role has expanded. Her promotion to reflects the need for thorough knowledge and expert management of several key functions that straddle marketing, sales and operations. Her newly-created position will see her overseeing all marketing print materials. In addition, Cohen’s new duties will include managing and coordinating all shows, meetings and events, assessing space requirements and logistics, this in addition to overseeing departmental training and assisting the VP of Product Management.
For more information on D’Addario and its products, visit www.daddario.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—D’Addario’s unprecedented growth has led to changes in corporate structure designed to take reflect, and take advantage of, the current domestic and global business milieu. , a graduate of the University of Florida-Gainesville, joined D’Addario in 2000 as Marketing Coordinator. As the company has grown, her role has expanded. Her promotion to reflects the need for thorough knowledge and expert management of several key functions that straddle marketing, sales and operations. Her newly-created position will see her overseeing all marketing print materials. In addition, Cohen’s new duties will include managing and coordinating all shows, meetings and events, assessing space requirements and logistics, this in addition to overseeing departmental training and assisting the VP of Product Management.

ROBERT D’ADDARIO NAMED
PRODUCT MANAGER, PLANET WAVES CUSTOM INSTALLATION

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2006—Robert D’Addario has been appointed to the newly created position of Product Manager, Planet Waves Custom Installation.
Necessitated by the success of the Planet Waves Cable Station since its launch at the CEDIA show in 2005, D’Addario provides the optimum skill set, having worked with Planet Waves during the germination of the custom installation product line. Combining D’Addario’s unique experiences as an audio specialist and performing musician, he recognizes the importance of tailoring components of the signal chain with unfailing accuracy and durability.
In his new position as Product Manager D’Addario will oversee all marketing and sales of D’Addario’s Custom Installation products, the company’s first venture out of the music products industry. D’Addario will work directly with the company’s Vice Presidents of Product Management and Sales, as well as supervise a national network of independent representative firms to develop products, establish marketing plans, implement sales programs and execute key strategies as it relates to the brand.
“Rob is an invaluable addition to our CI team,” commented John Roderick, VP of Product Management. “Now is the perfect time to fill this position with someone like Robert who knows and has tested CI products. He knows our products along with the customers and their needs.”
Added David Via, VP of Sales, “Rob is a perfect match for the position. He brings expertise and direct knowledge of the benefits our products offer custom installers and his rapport with the customers is unmatched.”
Before joining D’Addario, Rob, a graduate from DePaul University in Sound Recording Technology, worked for digital media and software providers. Upon joining D’Addario in 2002, he became E-Business Project Manager, Business Systems Analyst, Product Development Leader for the PW Custom Installation line, and has assisted with research and development for the company’s Evans brand of drumheads.
For more information on Planet Waves products, visit www.planetwaves.com/ci.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—Robert D’Addario has been appointed to the newly created position of Product Manager, Planet Waves Custom Installation.

NEW KAPLAN SOLUTIONS/HELICORE COMBO CELLO SET FROM D’ADDARIO

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—D’Addario had taken their Kaplan Solutions cello A and D strings and teamed them with the popular Helicore cello G and C strings to create a premium four-string set called the Kaplan Solutions/Helicore Combo Set.
—D’Addario had taken their Kaplan Solutions cello A and D strings and teamed them with the popular Helicore cello G and C strings to create a premium four-string set called the Kaplan Solutions/Helicore Combo Set.
The new set combines solid steel core A (titanium wound) and D (nickel wound) Kaplan Solutions strings and stranded steel core tungsten/silver wound G and C Helicore strings for a unique blend of tonal warmth and powerful volume, all while maintaining excellent bow response. It provides excellent balance of power and warmth across the instrument and is ideal for chamber music, orchestral, and solo performance applications.
“We’ve been receiving requests for a combination set like this since we first introduced the Kaplan Solutions cello A and D strings,” says D’Addario Bowed Strings Brand Manager David Luce. “The Kaplan Solutions/Helicore Combo Cello Set offers cellists excellent tonal balance across the full range of the instrument. They provide an ideal combination of warmth, power, bow response, and projection, as demanded by professional performers. This is a set of strings that serious cellists will be very pleased with, as evidenced by the enthusiastic responses we received from all of the professionals who have tested them!”
D’Addario’s Kaplan Solutions/Helicore Combo Cello sets are offered in full scale length in medium tension at a retail price of $219.00. They are currently shipping.
For more information on D’Addario products, visit www.daddariobowed.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—D’Addario had taken their Kaplan Solutions cello A and D strings and teamed them with the popular Helicore cello G and C strings to create a premium four-string set called the Kaplan Solutions/Helicore Combo Set.

NEW KAPLAN PREMIUM ROSIN INCLUDES EASY APPLICATOR/STORAGE CASE

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—Rosin – how innovative can it be? D’Addario shows how innovative with the introduction of the new Kaplan Premium Rosin, which comes in an easy applicator that doubles as a storage case.
—Rosin – how innovative can it be? D’Addario shows how innovative with the introduction of the new Kaplan Premium Rosin, which comes in an easy applicator that doubles as a storage case.
Available in light and dark, Kaplan Premium Rosin is suitable for violin, viola, and cello bows and the special Kaplan recipe produces less dust, keeping hands and instruments cleaner. The rosin comes attached to the inside of the applicator case, which “locks” shut for clean, easy storage in an instrument case or bag. Once the tabs are squeezed to open the case, the rosin is then applied right from the case, where it can be rotated for uniform wear and maximum use.
“Rosin is one of those little things that’s absolutely essential for orchestral musicians that everyone just assumes is the same stuff, no matter what the brand,” remarks David Luce, D’Addario Bowed Strings Brand Manager. “Each brand of rosin has its own specific formula, and this premium Kaplan mixture and process produces extremely find-grained rosin. When you add something like our inventive, rotating applicator/storage case, the Kaplan Premium Rosin becomes quite a unique and desirable product that offers even more value to the musician.”
Kaplan Premium Rosin is current available and retails for $14.99.
For more information on D’Addario products, visit www.daddariobowed.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—Rosin – how innovative can it be? D’Addario shows how innovative with the introduction of the new Kaplan Premium Rosin, which comes in an easy applicator that doubles as a storage case.

NEW COMPOSITE SYNTHETIC CORE STRINGS FOR VIOLIN
D’Addario Sets New Standards with Violin String Sets
FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—The finishing touches are being put on a new professional violin string set, available in the very near future. Scheduled to launch in the second quarter of 2007, D’Addario’s new synthetic-core string takes violin string attributes to new benchmark heights.
Demand for the new D’Addario Composite Synthetic Core Violin Strings will be high, primarily because of their incredible consistency and balance from string-to-string. Under the bow, these strings provide the optimum balance between resistance and response, yielding a rich and powerful tone quality in all positions. The dynamic range is expansive; satisfying the rigorous requirements of the seasoned professional performer.
Developed by a design team comprised of D’Addario engineers, professional soloists and ensemble players, and luthiers, the new D’Addario Composite Synthetic Core Violin Strings will deliver a warm and rich tone at all dynamic levels. Unlike many other strings in the market, these strings will sustain their tone even under extreme bow pressure.

D’Addario Bowed Instrument Strings Product Manager David Luce states that the new string sets are a milestone entry into the market. “These new strings represent a significant advancement in violin string technology,” David states. “Simply put, we’ve managed to produce a string that delivers a professional level of performance that is widely suitable across multiple playing styles, both mainstream and alternative. Traditional classical performers, especially, will be impressed by the performance of these new synthetic core violin strings.”
D’Addario professional Composite Synthetic Core Violin Strings will be launched in the second quarter of 2007.
For more information on D’Addario products, visit www.daddariobowed.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—The finishing touches are being put on a new professional violin string set, available in the very near future. Scheduled to launch in the second quarter of 2007, D’Addario’s new synthetic-core string takes violin string attributes to new benchmark heights.

THE NEW DARE STRAP FROM PLANET WAVES
Vertebrae C6 and C7 Will Thank You!

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2006—Musicians suffering back or neck problems listen up! We know your pain. We may have the answer to your suffering.
Planet Waves is pleased to announce the immediate availability of the new Dare Strap. It’s an ingenious strap from inventor, Troy Dare. The Dare Strap spells relief for those who’ve misaligned their spine or otherwise suffered back problems from their heavy instruments. Instead of creating disproportionate stress by hanging an instrument off one shoulder, the patented Dare Strap spreads weight over both shoulders.
With the advent of heavier guitars and portable keyboards, some musicians are experiencing new work-related trauma, principally in the mid-back to neck regions. The Dare Strap evenly distributes weight equally over both shoulders, simultaneously lightening burdens and providing instant relief. Players also have the option of using the Dare Strap as a conventional single shoulder strap. Modestly priced at $24.99, the new strap is bound to catch on immediately.
“The value of this new product is two-fold,” adds Brian Vance, Senior Brand Manager for D’Addario Strings. “It’s a perfect strap for heavy instruments and it just may provide relief to many musicians. It’s a versatile, natural solution addressing musicians’ needs.”
The Dare Strap will be available February 2007.

For more information on Planet Waves products, visit www.planetwaves.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries.
—Musicians suffering back or neck problems ! We know your pain. We may have the answer to your suffering.

A REVOLUTION IN GUITAR HUMIDITY CONTROL: THE HUMIDPAK
Automatic Humidity Control System from Planet Waves

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—A major concern for musicians is maintaining the proper moisture content for treasured instruments. Guessing when to refill or to adjust a humidifier can perplex even the experts. The revolutionary Humidipak Automatic Humidity Control System makes all the necessary adjustments—and it does this without water, drips and mess.
—A major concern for musicians is maintaining the proper moisture content for treasured instruments. Guessing when to refill or to adjust a humidifier can perplex even the experts. The revolutionary Humidipak Automatic Humidity Control System makes all the necessary adjustments—and it does this without water, drips and mess.

The patented Humidipak is the world’s first true two-way humidity system for guitar that maintains the optimum humidity level for wooden instruments: 45% relative humidity. The “two-way” system means that it actually emits or absorbs moisture as needed to maintain 45% relative humidity. The Humidipak is an automatic system that eliminates maintenance, guesswork and protects cherished instruments. Simply place the Humidipack packets into your guitar, shut the case and let it do the rest.

Humidipak has undergone extensive beta testing by acoustic guitar manufacturers including Taylor Guitars, the preeminent American guitar maker, who crafted such rarities as The Liberty Guitar. Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars explains, “Most guitar owners are in dire need of humidification for their guitars, but some need the opposite. Until the Planet Waves system, there has been no answer for them. At Taylor Guitars, we are blown away by its effectiveness. The Humidipak that Planet Waves is bringing to the market is among the most important accessories since guitar strings.”

“This revolutionary product is sure to change the way the entire music community thinks about humidification,” says Jim D’Addario, Chairman and CEO of D’Addario & Company, Inc. “We’re confident that the Humidipak will appeal to touring musicians, collectors, those undergoing seasonal transitions or any musician who cares about the investment he has made in his instrument. Our partnership with Bob Taylor and Taylor Guitars has proven to be the ultimate test and validation of this industry-changing product line.”

The Humidipak kits (including soundhole/headstock pouches and three packets) will be available February 15, 2007 and will retail for $29.99. Refill packets will retail for $9.99.

NAMM SPECIAL: Dealers that place a Humidipack order at the NAMM show are automatically entered for the chance to win a Taylor guitar and will receive a free HTS gift pack with the order (while supplies last).
: Dealers that place a Humidipack order at the NAMM show are automatically entered for the chance to win a Taylor guitar and will receive a free HTS gift pack with the order (while supplies last).

For more information on Planet Waves products, visit www.planetwaves.com

CTM ALL-IN-ONE REFERENCE TOOL FOR GUITARISTS
Chordmaster, Chromatic Tuner and Metronome

FARMINGDALE, NY, January 17, 2007—The original Planet Waves Chordmasters have enjoyed unprecedented success and no wonder: They offer an extensive library of chords for easy reference by guitarists. Following the success of Planet Waves Tuner line launched in early 2006, the company is happy to announce the marriage of these elements in the Planet Waves CTM—chordmaster, tuner and metronome.
—The original Planet Waves Chordmasters have enjoyed unprecedented success and no wonder: They offer an extensive library of chords for easy reference by guitarists. Following the success of Planet Waves Tuner line launched in early 2006, the company is happy to announce the marriage of these elements in the —chordmaster, tuner and metronome.
The original Chordmaster boasted a pretty staggering library of chords—in fact, over 4000 chord voicings, cleanly laid out on LCD screen. The new CTM almost doubles that tally. The Planet Waves CTM features over 7,000 chords in the comprehensive chord library. All are instantly accessible when required, viewable on a conveniently back-lit LCD display. In addition, the CTM offers a precision chromatic tuner, taking the guesswork out of tuning when rehearsing or performing. If that weren’t enough, the CTM houses a full-featured metronome for private practice or for counting off tempos.
Brian Vance, Planet Waves Product Manager, remarks, “The CTM represents the ultimate in usefulness and versatility. It takes the place of three separate accessory units and at one amazing price. What’s more, it is a great practice tool for the serious guitarist—the one device that enables musicians to get in tune, learn new chord positions, and play in time.”
The Planet Waves CTM will ship in April, 2007 and will retail for $59.99.

For more information on Planet Waves products, visit www.planetwaves.com.
D’Addario & Company, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets complete lines of strings for fretted and bowed musical instruments, drumheads, drum practice pads, and guitar and woodwind accessories under the proprietary brand names D’Addario, Evans Drumheads, Planet Waves, Rico, and HQ Percussion. The company also runs the popular Gbase.com online gear source. D’Addario products are marketed in approximately 120 countries
—The original Planet Waves Chordmasters have enjoyed unprecedented success and no wonder: They offer an extensive library of chords for easy reference by guitarists. Following the success of Planet Waves Tuner line launched in early 2006, the company is happy to announce the marriage of these elements in the —chordmaster, tuner and metronome.

GUITARISTS TO GET THEIR PICK IN SOUND THROUGH

THE RAPCOHORIZON COMPANY’S NEW “TUNED SERIES”

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will introduce its new “Tuned Series,” a specialized division within its Dominator brand of high-end guitar cables, at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558).

Using a universal electronic component that can be built easily into any of the four unique connectors within the Dominator guitar cable line, the “Tuned Series” provides an edgier sound and more percussion by “tuning” the output of a guitar to the input of an amplifier or effects pedal.

Brad Graham, marketing manager and inventor of several new patent pending designs for The RapcoHorizon Company, says the Dominator line and “Tuned Series” are all about choice for today’s musician. “As artists, we each have distinctive needs. While the Dominator’s four connectors offer musicians variances and options in smooth sound delivery according to preference, the ‘Tuned Series’ boosts sound and modifies the cable’s unique characteristics, producing more edge, attack and twang and ultimately accommodating everyone’s stylistic needs and individual flair.”

The “Tuned Series” and Dominator guitar cables are part of The RapcoHorizon Company’s new Dominator high-end instrument cable line, which can also be utilized with speakers and microphones. The Dominator line is among many new product offerings resulting from a merger between former sister companies Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc.

Winter NAMM attendees are invited to visit The RapcoHorizon Company at booth #4558 in Hall C to test the “Tuned Series” cables and experience the difference themselves.

—The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will introduce its new “Tuned Series,” a specialized division within its brand of high-end guitar cables, at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558). TheRapcoHorizon Company, located in Jackson, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of audio, video, home theater, data and telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies. Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizonCompany's products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s Web site at www.rapcohorizon.com

# # #

THE RAPCOHORIZON COMPANY LAUNCHES

IMPROVED PACKAGING FOR RETAILERS AND CONSUMERSNew Design Debuting at Winter NAMM 2007 ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will debut new packaging for its cable and connector lines at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558). The updated and improved casing is among several initiatives introduced in conjunction with the company’s unified commitment to enhancing customer service and product offerings resulting from a merger between former sister companies Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc.

—The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will debut new packaging for its cable and connector lines at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558). The updated and improved casing is among several initiatives introduced in conjunction with the company’s unified commitment to enhancing customer service and product offerings resulting from a merger between former sister companies Rapco International and Horizon Music, Inc.

Tackling both aesthetics and content, the updated merchandise packaging will consist of a more colorful box design accompanied with easy-to-interpret graphic illustrations outlining item descriptions, specifications and unique characteristics, providing consumers with a “straight forward” product and application understanding.

“The RapcoHorizon Company’s new packaging was established to allow for easier user-friendly comprehension,” says Darius Seabaugh, executive vice president of sales and marketing for The RapcoHorizon Company. “The new packaging design easily illustrates specific functions for the various cables within our diverse cable and connector lines, providing our consumers with the appropriate product information needed for choosing the best cable according to their individual needs.”

NAMM attendees are invited to visit The RapcoHorizon Company at booth #4558 in Hall C for a sneak peak at the new package design, which is slated to hit stores in spring 2007.

The RapcoHorizon Company, located in Jackson, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of audio, video, home theater, data and telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies. Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizon Company's products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s Web site at www.rapcohorizon.com

THE RAPCOHORIZON COMPANY TO DEBUT

NEW DOMINATOR CABLE LINE AT WINTER NAMM 2007

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007 – The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will introduce its new Dominator brand of high end guitar, microphone and speaker cables at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558).

The new self-selling package design and performance enhanced products represent the finest that The RapcoHorizon Company has to offer and are guaranteed to piqué the attention of musicians and retailers everywhere. Offering four individual types of wire, each presenting unique characteristics, the Dominator guitar cable line provides performers with new and distinctive variations of sound. Included in the Dominator line is the “Tuned Series” of guitar cables. These are manufactured using the four different types of the Dominator wire and can include additional components inside each of the connectors that will actually “tune” the output of the guitar to the input of an amplifier or effects pedal.

The Dominator microphone cables will be offered using either black Neutrik connectors

with gold contacts or standard Nickel connectors and contacts, combined with several

proprietary RapcoHorizon Company wires. “With our own wire extrusion facility, we

have the ability to manufacture our cable to our exact specifications,” explains Brad Graham, marketing manager and inventor of several new patent pending designs for The RapcoHorizon Company. “This is an option that no other cable assembly manufacturer can offer. We design and produce our wires with the best performance and features in mind.”

Featuring several types of heavy gauge wire including 14, 12 and 10 gauge configurations, with round commercial jackets, and pure copper conductors is the Dominator speaker cable line. The speaker cables are available in a variety of connector combinations to fit nearly every application. Also available is the “SilverFlex Series” in 12 gauge and 10 gauge sizes with bare annealed copper conductors, which have been silver-plated and “mega-stranded” for enhanced performance and lower capacitance.

“Dominator cables are each tailored specifically to provide music retailers with top dollar margins,” says Graham. “These are not imported products, but American made cables, each hand soldered and individually tested in ‘The Show Me State of Missouri.’” Each Dominator cable carries a Limited Life Time Warranty.

Winter NAMM attendees are invited to visit The RapcoHorizon Company at booth #4558 in Hall C to test the Dominator cables and experience the difference themselves. The RapcoHorizon Company, located in Jackson, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of audio, video, home theater, data and telecommunications cable in both bulk wire and assemblies. Used worldwide by concert touring sound companies, video and sound contractors, recording studios, system integrators, audiophiles and musicians, The RapcoHorizon Company's products provide optimal flexibility and premium performance. The company’s state-of-the-art Custom Shop can modify existing products or build new devices to meet any need. For more information, please visit The RapcoHorizon Company’s Web site at www.rapcohorizon.com

The RapcoHorizon Company, a trusted supplier of audio interfacing products for over 25 years, will introduce its new brand of high end guitar, microphone and speaker cables at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall C, Booth #4558).

SLS Loudspeakers

Company Profile

SLS Loudspeakers, designers and manufacturers or proprietary ultra high-fidelity ribbon-driver loudspeakers and sound systems for professional, commercial and residential applications, originated as an independent retails music store founded and operated by music industry entrepreneur John Gott in Springfield, MO in 1972. In addition to operating the music store, Gott tinkered with loudspeaker designs and sold his innovations through his retail outlet, which would eventually grow into a three-store chain.

In time, Gott sold the stores and turned his attention to the professional equipment rental and touring sound industry. Gott’s production company used his early speaker designs, while Gott served as sound engineer for several high-profile acts including Pat Benatar, The Talking Heads, Peter Tosh, and Huey Lewis and the News. The company also designed and developed cutting edge lighting products used in the production industry— Dyna-Might portable stage light systems and Moto-Light servo controlled lighting fixtures and color changers. These products were used worldwide in the production industry during the 1980s.

In the early 1990s, Gott transformed his rental and production company into a design, contracting and installation firm. SLS Loudspeakers evolved out of the company’s quest to provide its clients with a superior system. Focusing on the development and design of loudspeaker systems for residential and commercial applications, the design and manufacture of the SLS Plannar Ribbon Drivers (PRD) came into fruition.

The key to SLS’ design strategy is its PRD technology, which allows the SLS speaker systems to reproduce any audio signal with unequalled clarity and detail at up to 30% less the distortion associated with typical loudspeakers. Also, the SLS products produce the extended frequency response and dynamic range needed to fully and accurately deliver the highest quality sound—at home, on the road or in any venue.

In June 2001, Gott guided SLS through a successful initial public offering, and the company’s stock has performed well throughout its tenure on the market. With more Americans purchasing home theater systems and commercial customers requiring better audio solutions SLS Loudspeakers has significant market potential.

Today, as president of SLS, Gott oversees more than 70 different ribbon-based products, including a system for CBS’ Rockstar: INXS, the show aimed at finding a lead singer for the multi-platinum rock band INXS. Systems have also been installed in cutting-edge clubs such as 17 and Vue in New York City, Pearl and Niki Beach in South Beach, FL, and Blush in Burlingame, CA.

SLS speakers are used in a diverse range of installations and applications, especially the house of worship market, which require exceptional coverage and intelligible signals. Pepperdine University’s Stauffer Chapel sports an LS8695 Line Array speaker system; Berean Baptist Church, in Houston, Texas and Billy Graham Training Center’s The Cove Chapel in Asheville, NC, have installed various RLA systems; and Church on the Move, located in Tulsa, OK, also makes use of two systems.

With its 150,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Ozark, Missouri, Gott is taking SLS even further with residential systems, where SLS has teamed with Grammy Award-winning Producer Quincy Jones to develop a new line of home theater products. Additionally, SLS released the new active version of its S8R studio reference monitor, powered by its new Evenstar Sigma-Delta digital amplifier technology. SLS has also entered cinema product market having recently completed its first installation, the Wehrenberg Theaters at the Chesterfield Galaxy 14 Cine in Greater St. Louis.

From residential to commercial applications, on the road, in a club or house of worship, SLS Loudspeakers are taking loudspeaker system design to new levels.

# # #

SLS LOUDSPEAKERS FEATURES THE LS6593 LINE ARRAY
AT WINTER NAMM 2007

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007–SLS Loudspeakers, the makers of refined speakers systems for studio, live and home theater applications, is showcasing its LS6593 and LS6593A Line Array speakers at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall B, Booth #5222). The LS6593 series offers the same high performance characteristics expected from an SLS product in a compact design perfect for a wide range of installation applications.
–SLS Loudspeakers,the makers of refined speakers systems for studio, live and home theater applications, is showcasing its LS6593 and LS6593A Line Array speakers at Winter NAMM 2007 The LS6593 series offers the same high performance characteristics expected from an SLS product in a compact design perfect for a wide range of installation applications.

“The LS6593S and LS6593A represent a breakthrough in high performance compact line array loudspeaker technology,” says Tom Harrison, director of engineering for SLS. “Utilizing patented ribbon planar drivers this unique design concept provides different options for vertical dispersion allowing versatile system configuration for a variety of applications. It is one of the most flexible and cost effective tools based on modern advanced technology principles available today. We believe the LS6593 series will have a significant impact on the industry.”

The LS6593S/LS6593A concept is based on a woofer line array mounted on a front panel with a coaxially positioned ribbon tweeter array. The woofer array consists of 6 x 5.25” drivers while the tweeter array consists of 9 x 3” proprietary ribbon planar drivers driven from a passive crossover point of 2,000Hz. The system delivers a frequency response of 80Hz to 20kHz with an SPL of 94dB referenced at 1W/1M and a calculated response of 118dB continuous and 124dB peak. The system handles up to 600 Watts of amplifier power. 70V 60W versions are available as well.

The low frequency polycomposite cone woofers are mounted on a cast aluminum chassis with the entire enclosure made of extruded aluminum weighing in at a remarkable 30lbs (13.6kg). The system is 32.2” (81.8cm) high by 7.5” (19cm) wide and 8.3” (21cm) deep. Threaded inserts on the back allow for many mounting options. Both units are fully suited for use in extreme weather conditions due to the sealed cabinet design and are available in black and white.

The LS6593S is a straight line array that offers extremely controlled vertical dispersion. The LS6593A has internally articulated driver elements that allow wider vertical dispersion at one end of the array. Both options are built within the same straight, column type enclosure, perfect for professional applications where the highest quality and intelligibility of sound is required. The building block concept allows for a large number of configurations and resulting coverage patterns ideal for a wide range of applications including sound reinforcement in churches and auditoriums; paging in difficult acoustic environments and stack columns to achieve taller vertical sound field for raked seating applications.

SLS Loudspeakers, a division of SLS International, designs, manufactures and markets proprietary ultra high-fidelity ribbon-driver loudspeakers and sound systems for professional, commercial and residential applications. The publicly traded company (SLSZ) was founded in the 1970s and its products are used in hundreds of installations worldwide.

# # #

SLS LOUDSPEAKERS INTRODUCES 8290 MULTIPURPOSE
PA SYSTEM AT WINTER NAMM 2007
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007–SLS Loudspeakers is introducing its new 8290 multipurpose portable PA box at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall B, Booth #5222). While its vast applications include multimedia installations, public speaking and speeches, as well as house and stage monitor usage, the 8290’s full-range passive high-quality dual 8’’ design incorporates a compact multi-angled cabinet with maximum sound pressure levels.
–SLS Loudspeakers is introducing its new 8290 multipurpose portable PA box at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall B, Booth #5222). While its vast applications include multimedia installations, public speaking and speeches, as well as house and stage monitor usage, the 8290’s full-range passive high-quality dual 8’’ design incorporates a compact multi-angled cabinet with maximum sound pressure levels.

Established as a solution for professional applications that require the highest quality and intelligibility of sound, the 8290 is equipped with SLS’ PRD500 planar ribbon driver that is contained within a 90 degree die-cast aluminum waveguide. Its dual 8” woofers provide increased control in the vertical plane.

“The SLS 8290 offers the best of both worlds – providing professional sound with simplicity and convenience,” says Jeff Lowry, Director of Marketing for SLS. “While its compact, multi-angle cabinet design allows for quick interchangeability for vast applications, it also distributes exceptional sound quality suitable for a variety of monitor and main applications.

SLS LOUDSPEAKERS INTRODUCES THE RLA/4
AT WINTER NAMM 2007

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007–SLS Loudspeakers is introducing its RLA/4 (LS7500) full-range, bi-amped true line source array module at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall B, Booth #5222). The RLA/4 was developed for a wide range of applications from permanent sound reinforcement installations in churches, auditoriums, arenas and performing arts centers, to a professional portable PA system with the highest performance characteristics expected from an SLS product.
–SLS Loudspeakers is introducing its RLA/4 (LS7500) full-range, bi-amped true line source array module at Winter NAMM 2007 (Hall B, Booth #5222). The RLA/4 was developed for a wide range of applications from permanent sound reinforcement installations in churches, auditoriums, arenas and performing arts centers, to a professional portable PA system with the highest performance characteristics expected from an SLS product.

“Although the RLA/4 is compact in size, it meets SPL line array performance requirements for a wide variety of venues,” says Tom Harrison, director of engineering for SLS. “Its high frequency section features a high performance PRD500 planar ribbon transducer designed and manufactured by SLS. The unique design and properties of the planar ribbon driver allows precise acoustical coupling of the array and hence, full utilization of line source (cylindrical waves) benefits.”

The low frequency section uses two high-powered 6.5” drivers utilizing a demodulation ring magnet system providing a third less harmonic distortion and reducing inductance modulation by 50 percent. This provides an open and clear sound despite loud listening levels. Additionally, the low frequency drivers feature a die-cast basket with a patented Intercooler system.

The system offers 90-degree wide symmetrical horizontal coverage and offers SLS’ free LASS prediction software that visually shows the ideal setup locations for even, predictable sound coverage of any room. Each RLA/4 module is designed for bi-amplification. All array rigging is included on the cabinet that is made from sturdy ¾” 13-ply Baltic Birch and includes splay options from 1 to 10 degrees between boxes.

ELIXIR® STRINGS ARTIST MICHAEL LILLE
GIVES WINTER NAMM PERFORMANCE AT
JOHN LENNON EDUCATIONAL TOUR BUS
Long-Life String Pioneer Demonstrates Continued Commitment to Music Education

Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007—Award-winning guitarist/songwriter Michael Lille will represent Elixir® Strings, the pioneer in coated string technology, with a live performance at the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus during the 2007 Winter NAMM Show. Elixir® Strings, a sponsor of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, is proud to continue this relationship as the contest and bus mark their 10^th anniversary in 2007.
Award-winning guitarist/songwriter Michael Lille will represent Elixir® Strings, the pioneer in coated string technology, with a live performance at the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus during the 2007 Winter NAMM Show. Elixir® Strings, a sponsor of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, is proud to continue this relationship as the contest and bus mark their 10 anniversary in 2007.

Lille, whose recent album Suitable Disguise has drawn rave reviews from media including the Washington Post and Pure Music, will perform at the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus at 11 a.m. on Jan. 18, the first day of the 2007 Winter NAMM Show.

“Our continued commitment to music education and up-and-coming artists is something we are very proud of,” comments Elixir® Strings Product Manager Craig Theorin. “When the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus and Songwriting Contest were launched, we saw an invaluable opportunity for young people to develop their creativity as well as learn about musical instruments and the recording arts. We congratulate the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus and John Lennon Songwriting Contest for 10 very successful years.”
Award-winning guitarist/songwriter Michael Lille will represent Elixir® Strings, the pioneer in coated string technology, with a live performance at the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus during the 2007 Winter NAMM Show. Elixir® Strings, a sponsor of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, is proud to continue this relationship as the contest and bus mark their 10 anniversary in 2007.

Lille, a 1993 Kerrville New Folk winner and the winner of the 1996 Telluride Troubadour competition, has been an Elixir® Strings artist since 1999. Suitable Disguise, his fourth solo album and 10^th overall, was co-produced by Lloyd Maines and Paul Pearcy. He has opened for artists including Bob Dylan, Warren Zevon, Little Feat, Alison Krauss, and Leo Kottke, while his recordings feature A-list session players and friends including Alison Krauss, Jerry Douglas, Mary-Chapin Carpenter, Victor Wooten, Valerie Carter, George Marinelli, and John Jennings.

About Elixir^® Strings

Elixir® Strings is the pioneer in coated string technology and strings are available in two ‘flavors.’ Strings with ultra-thin NANOWEB® Coating have the bright tone and punch of non-coated strings, yet keep their lively tone three to five times longer than ordinary strings. The thin coating is nearly undetectable – providing the feel of traditional strings. Elixir® Strings with original POLYWEB^® Coating also sound great three to five times longer than ordinary strings, have a balanced tone with smooth response, feel comfortably smooth, and reduce finger squeak. Elixir® Strings are available in a full range of gauges for acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, banjo, and mandolin.

Today, Elixir® Strings are installed as original equipment by a growing list of discriminating electric guitar and bass manufacturers including Ibanez, Tom Anderson, Brian Moore Guitars, Carvin, Melancon Guitars as well as premium acoustic guitar luthiers such as Taylor Guitars, Santa Cruz Guitar Company, Alvarez-Yairi, Lakewood Guitars, RainSong, Lowden Guitars, and Goodall Guitars. Elixir® Strings endorses popular artists such as Melissa Etheridge, Train, Alan Parsons, Michael W. Smith, Loggins & Messina, Lincoln Brewster, and Drowning Pool.

Elixir® Strings are manufactured by W.L. Gore & Associates, the company widely known for such innovations as GORE-TEX^® fabrics. For more information, please visit www.elixirstrings.com.

ELIXIR® STRINGS WELCOMES
NEW DISTRIBUTOR, MUSICORP, INC.

Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007—Elixir^® Strings, the pioneer of long-life string technology, is proud to welcome as a new distributor South Carolina-based Musicorp, Inc. A Kaman Music company, Musicorp is a leading distributor of music products, accessories and lighting equipment.
—, the pioneer of long-life string technology, is proud to welcome as a new distributor South Carolina-based . A Kaman Music company, Musicorp is a leading distributor of music products, accessories and lighting equipment.

“At Musicorp, we are always looking for the next cutting-edge music product, and by listening to our customers, we choose new products and brands to carry that will meet their needs,” says Don Rhodes, VP of Merchandising. “From the day Elixir^® joined the music industry, it has been recognized as the premium guitar string. Many major guitar brands started using Elixir^® strings, and consumer popularity increased quickly.”

Kaman Music Corporation, a distributor of Elixir^® Strings, acquired Musicorp in 2005. The addition of Musicorp as a distributor of Elixir^® Strings strengthens the mutual long-term strategies of both, says Rhodes.

“With Elixir^® Strings, we will be able to better serve our customers’ needs with the highest quality products,” says Rhodes. “Industry-leading brands like Elixir^® opens doors for new customers who may not have previously purchased from Musicorp.”

Musicorp has held sales and product training for inside sales representatives and scheduled the national sales meeting in January to introduce Elixir^® Strings to outside sales representatives. “We will represent Elixir^®as a premium brand in our marketing materials, such as Musicorp catalogs and sale flyers,” Rhodes explains. “Our role as a distributor is to help manufacturers increase market share by selling
to as many customers as possible, especially the small to medium sized independent stores.”

“We are delighted to welcome Musicorp as a distributor of Elixir^® Strings,” adds Chris Lioi, Global Sales Leader, Elixir^® Strings. “We believe they will extend our reach in the U.S. market, which will allow us to continue to drive growth in the accessories category for our retailers.”

About Elixir^® Strings

Elixir^® Strings is the pioneer in coated string technology and is available in two string ‘flavors.’ Ultra-thin NANOWEB® coated strings have the bright tone and punch of non-coated strings, yet keep their lively tone three to five times longer than ordinary strings. The thin coating is nearly undetectable – providing the feel of traditional strings. Elixir^® Strings with original POLYWEB^® coating also sound great three to five times longer than ordinary strings, have a balanced tone with smooth response, feel comfortably smooth, and reduce finger squeak. Elixir^® Strings are available in a full range of gauges for acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, banjo, and mandolin.

Today, Elixir^® Strings are installed as original equipment by a growing list of discriminating electric guitar and bass manufacturers including Ibanez, Tom Anderson, Suhr, Brian Moore Guitars, Carvin, Melancon Guitars as well as premium acoustic guitar luthiers such as Taylor Guitars, Santa Cruz Guitar Company, Alvarez-Yairi, Lakewood Guitars, RainSong, Carvin Guitars, and Goodall Guitars. Elixir^® Strings are endorsed by popular artists such as Melissa Etheridge, Train, Alan Parsons, Michael W. Smith, Christopher Cross, Lincoln Brewster and Drowning Pool.

Elixir^® Strings are manufactured by W.L. Gore & Associates, the company widely known for such innovations as GORE-TEX^® fabrics. For more information, please visit www.elixirstrings.com.

About Musicorp, Inc.

Musicorp is a leading wholesale distributor and manufacturer of musical instruments, lighting products and accessories owned by Kaman Music Corporation (NASDAQ: KAMN). Musicorp partners with its retail customers to help them strategically grow their business, providing the industries widest product selection, broadest marketing reach and largest distribution network. The company offers distinctive, self-manufactured brands such as Barcus-Berry (www.barcusberry.com), J.B. Player, Percussion Plus, Arbor, J.Reynolds, RMS, Amigo, Lauren and MBT Lighting & Sound (, J.B. Player, Percussion Plus, Arbor, J.Reynolds, RMS, Amigo, Lauren and MBT Lighting & Sound (www.mbtlighting.com) as well as strategic partnerships with brands such as Yamaha, Dean, Peavey, Remo Crown, Samson/Zoom/Hartke, Martin Lighting and more. Musicorp is headquartered in Charleston, SC with distribution centers located in California, Texas and Kentucky as well as strategic partnerships with brands such as Yamaha, Dean, Peavey, Remo Crown, Samson/Zoom/Hartke, Martin Lighting and more. Musicorp is headquartered in Charleston, SC with distribution centers located in California, Texas and Kentucky

, J.B. Player, Percussion Plus, Arbor, J.Reynolds, RMS, Amigo, Lauren and MBT Lighting & Sound ( as well as strategic partnerships with brands such as Yamaha, Dean, Peavey, Remo Crown, Samson/Zoom/Hartke, Martin Lighting and more. Musicorp is headquartered in Charleston, SC with distribution centers located in California, Texas and Kentucky

ELIXIR® STRINGS EXPANDS ANTI-RUST OFFERINGS WITH PLATED PLAIN STEEL STRINGS FOR ACOUSTIC GUITAR
Innovative Anti-Rust Technology Now Delivers Great Tone and
Long Life to Acoustic and Electric Guitarists
Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007—Following the success of its Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for electric guitar, Elixir^® Strings, the pioneer of long-life string technology, proudly introduces Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for acoustic guitar. Elixir^® Strings will exhibit Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings along with its complete product line at Winter NAMM 2007, January 18-21 (booth # 4394, Hall C).
Following the success of its Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for electric guitar, , the pioneer of long-life string technology, proudly introduces for acoustic guitar. Elixir Strings will exhibit Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings along with its complete product line at Winter NAMM 2007, January 18-21 (booth # 4394, Hall C).

Elixir® Strings Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for acoustic guitar have the feel and sound of traditional strings, but last up to five times longer than ordinary strings without corroding or losing their tone. These long life plain steels are the perfect complement to Elixir® Strings coated wound strings, now allowing acoustic and electric guitarists alike to enjoy the fresh feel and great tone of new strings far longer than with any other brand of strings.

“Elixir® Strings revolutionized guitar strings when we found a way to extend the life of wound stings without compromising tone. Our Anti-Rust plated plain steels complete the long-life set,” said Craig Theorin, product manager, Elixir® Strings. “Now, acoustic guitarists can enjoy the same advantages as electric guitarists—a lifespan three to five times longer than ordinary guitar strings and lasting tone throughout the entire set. Elixir® Strings are the number one selling acoustic string in the U.S., and we are delighted that we now can deliver even more value for players.”

The secret behind Elixir® Strings’ Anti-Rust Plated Steels is its proprietary alloy plating that inhibits tone-killing corrosion. Although the new strings last longer than ordinary plain steel strings, they maintain a traditional metallic feel with the crisp, clean tone of new strings.

Hundreds of guitarists were enlisted to test Elixir® Strings’ Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings over the last two years, and the strings were commonly praised as an amazing innovation. The musicians were unanimous in assessing the strings’ great feel and tone, and noted that tone lasted significantly longer than the strings they had used previously. In addition, in these extended field trials, of the used strings that were returned, nearly all exhibited little or no rust.

Sets of Elixir® Strings Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for acoustic guitar will be offered in Light and Medium gauges as well as a 12 string Light gauge.

About Elixir^® Strings
Elixir^® Strings is the pioneer in coated string technology and is available in two string ‘flavors.’ Ultra-thin NANOWEB® coated strings have the bright tone and punch of non-coated strings, yet keep their lively tone three to five times longer than ordinary strings. The thin coating is nearly undetectable – providing the feel of traditional strings. Elixir^® Strings with original POLYWEB^® coating also sound great three to five times longer than ordinary strings, have a balanced tone with smooth response, feel comfortably smooth, and reduce finger squeak. Elixir^® Strings are available in a full range of gauges for acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, banjo, and mandolin.

Today, Elixir^® Strings are installed as original equipment by a growing list of discriminating electric guitar and bass manufacturers including Ibanez, Tom Anderson, Suhr, Brian Moore Guitars, Carvin, Melancon Guitars as well as premium acoustic guitar luthiers such as Taylor Guitars, Santa Cruz Guitar Company, Alvarez-Yairi, Lakewood Guitars, RainSong, Carvin Guitars, and Goodall Guitars. Elixir^® Strings are endorsed by popular artists such as Melissa Etheridge, Train, Alan Parsons, Michael W. Smith, Christopher Cross, Lincoln Brewster and Drowning Pool.

Elixir^® Strings are manufactured by W.L. Gore & Associates, the company widely known for such innovations as GORE-TEX^® fabrics. For more information, please visit www.elixirstrings.com.
Following the success of its Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings for electric guitar, , the pioneer of long-life string technology, proudly introduces for acoustic guitar. Elixir Strings will exhibit Anti-Rust Plated Plain Steel Strings along with its complete product line at Winter NAMM 2007, January 18-21 (booth # 4394, Hall C).

AURALEX ACOUSTICS INTRODUCES
SONOSUEDE SYSTEM AT WINTER NAMM 2007
Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007 — Auralex Acoustics, the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions, introduces the SonoSuede System at Winter NAMM, (Hall C, Booth# 4295). A highly decorative and complete do-it-yourself room treatment system designed for professional and home recording studios, as well as home theater applications, the SonoSuede System’s distinctive design is a cost-effective solution that tames first reflections and low frequency anomalies. Additionally, the system’s unique mounting blocks provide superior acoustic and exceptional aesthetic benefits.
— Auralex Acoustics, the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions, introduces the SonoSuede System at Winter NAMM, (Hall C, Booth# 4295). A highly decorative and complete do-it-yourself room treatment system designed for professional and home recording studios, as well as home theater applications, the SonoSuede System’s distinctive design is a cost-effective solution that tames first reflections and low frequency anomalies. Additionally, the system’s unique mounting blocks provide superior acoustic and exceptional aesthetic benefits.

The SonoSuede System — consisting of the HT and Pro models — offers greater diversity and benefits while presenting a wider multitude of decorative options. The SonoSuede Pro System features four 16”x48”x2” thick back-beveled panels predominantly used for corner trapping, and eight 16”x48”x1” rectangular-shaped back-bevelled panels for a total of 64 square feet. The SonoSuede HT System consists of four 16”x48”x2” thick back-beveled panels and eight trapezoidal-shaped square-edge panels 16”x48”x1”, for a total of 54 square feet.

“The SonoSuede System provides a cost-effective solution that will satisfy professionals and hobbyists alike,” says Tracy Chandler, director of sales and marketing for Auralex Acoustics. “We have been able to meet the demands of professional-level acoustics for optimal sound recording, while catering to the evolving audio and video home theatre market with this unique multifunctional SonoSuede System. Its synthetic suede fabric provides the acoustical transparency and visual allure that are critical in today’s professional studios and home theater applications.”

Priced at $1,399 suggested retail, $1,199 MAP, either SonoSuede System is available in the following stock color combinations: black/red and black/tan. Other color combinations are available as custom orders.

About Auralex Acoustics

Located in Indianapolis, Auralex Acoustics was founded in 1977 with a mission to provide the best acoustical treatment products at the best value. Since then, thousands of satisfied Auralex customers have experienced improved acoustics, solid advice and exceptional customer service. Auralex products enjoy widespread use among many prominent artists, producers, engineers and corporations.

Auralex Acoustics has become the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions and continues to enjoy rapid growth through an international network of authorized dealers. Visit the Auralex web page at www.auralex.com. Auralex can be reached via email at auralexinfo@auralex.com

RASCAL FLATTS BASSIST INCORPORATES
AURALEX ACOUSTICS INTO NEW NASHVILLE STUDIO
Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007 — Bassist Jay DeMarcus, of the award-winning country group Rascal Flatts and producer of Chicago 30, recently opened The Grip (www.thegripstudio.com), a full-service, private recording studio in Nashville, TN, built and designed by Carl Tatz Design. The Grip features a main control room with a tracking area and three booths, a drum area, a lounge, a galley kitchen, and an editing suite.
— Bassist Jay DeMarcus, of the award-winning country group Rascal Flatts and producer of Chicago 30, recently opened , a full-service, private recording studio in Nashville, TN, built and designed by Carl Tatz Design. The Grip features a main control room with a tracking area and three booths, a drum area, a lounge, a galley kitchen, and an editing suite.

To maximize the facility’s sound quality, the design team turned to Auralex Acoustics, an industry leader in sound control solutions. Acoustical treatment products provided by Auralex for this project included the company’s Custom ProPanels and pArtScience’s SpaceCoupler.

Designed by Russ Berger for Auralex Acoustics, the SpaceCoupler optimizes acoustical environments for a wide range of performance and recording styles. By providing an acoustical boundary interaction between loosely coupled spaces, the SpaceCoupler generates a low level reverberant tail to create a full, well-developed sound even in small footprint spaces. Auralex’s ProPanels are fabric-covered absorptive panels available in a variety of sizes and colors.

“In the drum area, I wanted to create the illusion, acoustically, of a larger space,” said Carl Tatz, owner of Carl Tatz Designs. “So I used several SpaceCouplers, which allows the space to sound bigger than it is. Aesthetically appealing, Auralex’s ProPanels were used in areas where additional absorption was needed, giving the studio a really nice look.”

The Grip is outfitted with state-of-the-art audio equipment for recording, tracking and mixing, as well as instruments and microphones for in-studio use. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, Pro Tools HD 5 Accel (v.6.9.3), Mac G5 Dual 2.5GHz w/ 2GHz RAM, Digidesign Pro Control (32 faders), Apogee AD-16 (16 In), Digidesign 192 (32 In, 48 Out), Apogee Big Ben, Neve 8816 Summing, Dynaudio M1s w/ Bryston 4B, Dynaudio BM12s Subwoofers, Yamaha NS-10Ms, Tannoy Reveal (Active), Ludwig 4 pc. house drum kit, Vintage Rhodes Suitcase Electric Piano, Vintage Wulitzer Electric Piano, Yamaha C-7 Grand Piano (by request), Hammond XK-3 Organ w/ 2101 Leslie, Various Electric, Bass, and Acoustic Guitars, various New and Vintage Keyboards, Ivory piano, Spectrasonics Stylus RMX, NI Guitar Rig, and FXExpansion BFD.

Rascal Flatts is comprised of lead vocalist Gary LeVox, electric guitarist Joe Don Ronney and DeMarcus on bass. The band presently has four full-length albums and its rendition of “Life is a Highway” is featured on the soundtrack for the Disney movie “Cars.” Rascal Flatts’ latest album, “Me and My Gang,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 charts and is currently country music’s best-selling release.

About Auralex Acoustics Inc.

About Carl Tatz Design

Carl Tatz Design offers design and consulting services to homeowners and entertainment industry professionals in areas of home screening rooms, recording studios, monitor systems, dedicated listening rooms, analysis and tuning and sound isolation. The company combines knowledge, experience and expertise in sound, picture and design to serve its clients nationwide. Visit Carl Tatz Design online at www.carltatzdesign.com.

AURALEX ACOUSTICS FEATURES
24 PIECE AUDIOTILE™ SET AT WINTER NAMM 2007

Anaheim, CA, January 18, 2007 — Auralex Acoustics, Inc., the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions, features its 24 piece AudioTile™ set at Winter NAMM, (Hall C, Booth# 4295). AudioTile absorbs echoes and other undesirable reflections though a wide range of frequencies. The new 24 piece set includes detailed step-by-step instructions on how to build seven striking designs that effectively treat one 8’ by 10’ foot wall or ceiling. Suggested retail price is $159.
— Auralex Acoustics, Inc., the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions, features its 24 piece AudioTile™ set at Winter NAMM, (Hall C, Booth# 4295). AudioTile absorbs echoes and other undesirable reflections though a wide range of frequencies. The new 24 piece set includes detailed step-by-step instructions on how to build seven striking designs that effectively treat one 8’ by 10’ foot wall or ceiling. Suggested retail price is $159.

“Since its introduction, AudioTile has become one of our best sellers in large and high-end installations,” states Tracy Chandler, director of worldwide sales for Auralex. “Our goal with the 24 piece set is to make AudioTile more accessible to home studio owners. The availability of the AudioTile in a 24 piece set enables customers to purchase exactly the amount they need and offers the flexibility to mix and match to create unique designs to meet their room requirements.”

Designed by Russ Berger for Auralex Acoustics, AudioTile’s eye-catching designs add that “wow” factor to any studio, home theater, or audio listening room. Varying thickness built into each AudioTile delivers excellent broadband absorption, while the resulting design patterns allow a unique means of blending absorption, diffusion and reflection for optimal acoustical performance. Auralex’s proprietary Studiofoam™ formula ensures superior durability and Class B flame retardancy.

The patented AudioTile is one of the offerings in the new pArtScience product line, a family of acoustical treatments designed by Russ Berger for exceptional performance with a custom look, all at an affordable price.

About Auralex Acoustics

Auralex Acoustics has become the industry leader in innovative sound control solutions and continues to enjoy rapid growth through an international network of authorized dealers. Visit the Auralex web page at www.auralexelite.com. Auralex can be reached via email at eliteinfo@auralex.com or by calling 1.800.95WEDGE.

ROCK KILLS KID CUTS SINGLE FOR O.C. SOUNDTRACK AT ODDS ON RECORDING
CUTS SINGLE FOR O.C. SOUNDTRACK AT ODDS ON RECORDING
ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—The Las Vegas-based alternative band, Rock Kills Kid, is among several artists featured on Warner Bros. Records’ newest O.C. soundtrack release, Music From The O.C.: Mix 6 – Covering Our Tracks, after cutting a remake of the Spoon hit, Turn My Camera On at Odds On Recording (Hall E, Booth #1795), the world-class, state-of-the art recording and CD/DVD manufacturing facility
The Las Vegas-based alternative band, , is among several artists featured on Warner Bros. Records’ newest O.C. soundtrack release, , after cutting a remake of the hit, at Odds On Recording (Hall E, Booth #1795), the world-class, state-of-the art recording and CD/DVD manufacturing facility

Rock Kills Kid drummer Mike Balboa has worked with Odds On Recording President Tom Parham for many years and was excited to have an opportunity to record in Parham’s newest facility. “Odds On Recording’s facility is amazing,” says Balboa. “The room combines comfort with high-tech equipment – providing a relaxing atmosphere with the best gear in the business. Odds On’s new SSL XL 9000K console helped produce a top-notch recording that we are proud to have featured as the second track on the new O.C. album.”
drummer Mike Balboa has worked with Odds On Recording President Tom Parham for many years and was excited to have an opportunity to record in Parham’s newest facility. “Odds On Recording’s facility is amazing,” says Balboa. “The room combines comfort with high-tech equipment – providing a relaxing atmosphere with the best gear in the business. Odds On’s new SSL XL 9000K console helped produce a top-notch recording that we are proud to have featured as the second track on the new O.C. album.”

According to Shawn Dailey, Rock Kills Kid bassist, the recorded track has received tremendous positive response. “Our label loved it,” Dailey admits. “Everyone who has heard it is crazy about it.”

Rock Kills Kid is comprised of vocalist/guitarist Jeff Tucker, guitarist Sean Stopnik, bassist Shawn Dailey, keyboardist/guitarist Reed Calhoun and drummer Mike Balboa. Rock Kills Kids recently performed songs from its full-length album, Are You Nervous?, while on the road with rock groups 30 Seconds To Mars and Head Automatica during the 30 city MTV2 $2Bill Tour
is comprised of vocalist/guitarist Jeff Tucker, guitarist Sean Stopnik, bassist Shawn Dailey, keyboardist/guitarist Reed Calhoun and drummer Mike Balboa. Rock Kills Kids recently performed songs from its full-length album, , while on the road with rock groups and during the 30 city Tour
About Odds On

Odds On is a 100% full-service recording and CD/DVD replication company in Las Vegas. Guided by Tom Parham, who has over 20 years experience in the music business, Odds On offers its clients a state-of-the-art recording environment and a cutting-edge facility for audio recording, mastering, CD and DVD replication, video editing, MIDI production, as well as custom packaging, web design and graphics services. Parham has worked with a wide range of well-known artists and shows including Sublime, Ice-T, Chamillionaire, Mike Jones, Nick Carter, OPM, TQ, Le Reve, Avenue Q, The Platters and many more. In addition, Parham’s corporate clients have included Disney, Mattel, Microsoft, Intel, Philips, eBay and Tony Robbins.

METAL BAND CAPITALIZES ON TURN-KEY SERVICE AT ODDS ON RECORDING

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—Members of the Las Vegas-based metal band Torture Unit recently took advantage of the comprehensive services offered at Odds On Recording, the world-class, state-of-the art recording and CD/DVD manufacturing facility. Seeking to boost its visibility in the music industry, the band used Odds On Recording’s (Hall E, Booth #1795) studio, outfitted with a top-of-the-line SSL XL 9000K Series SuperAnalogue™ console, to churn out a three-song demo.
Members of the Las Vegas-based metal band recently took advantage of the comprehensive services offered at Odds On Recording, the world-class, state-of-the art recording and CD/DVD manufacturing facility. Seeking to boost its visibility in the music industry, the band used Odds On Recording’s (Hall E, Booth #1795) studio, outfitted with a top-of-the-line SSL XL 9000K Series SuperAnalogue™ console, to churn out a three-song demo.

“There is absolutely nothing left to desire with our CD sound quality,” said Tim Dever, Torture Unit, guitarist and back-up vocalist. “When you hear our three songs, they sound like cuts off a high-production album. When targeting music executives and record labels, you have one shot to have your music heard and you don’t want your chance hindered by poor sound quality and presentation. Odds On Recording’s complete service offers up-and-coming bands like ours a greater opportunity to receive the recognition we are looking for.”

As a local group looking to take the music circuit by storm, Torture Unit found a wealth of information in the complimentary counsel it received from Odds On Recording’s professional team. Dever says, “Odds On Recording has a highly skilled staff that has been around the block and is extremely knowledgeable in the music industry. It was a privilege to have an opportunity to work with such music veterans as Tom Parham and Bobby Ferrari, who both enthusiastically shared their expertise and guidance.”

Another advantage of working with Odds On Recording is its comprehensive in-house, turn-key operation, adds Dever. “Upon first employing Odds On Recording’s services, we had not given much thought about manufacturing, keeping our initial focus on the task at hand — producing a polished, high-quality demo. After receiving a tour of the facility and learning about Odds On’s

ability to fulfill all recording needs, we jumped at the chance to take advantage of this great convenience. Whether it was the early stages of recording, the conceptual CD inlay design and production, or the final stages in which the CDs were neatly inserted into jewel cases, the process proved seamless, with each phase effortlessly working in tandem with one another. Odds On’s unique one-stop-shop capability is a great stress reliever, sparing the headaches of having to research and hire multiple vendors, and subsequently preserving cohesiveness and creative control.”

About Odds On

ODDS ON EXPANDS STATE-OF-THE-ART REPLICATION FACILITY
First Major Music Recording and CD/DVD Replication Facility in Las Vegas History

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—Tom Parham, president of Odds On Recording Inc., has expanded the most advanced music recording and CD/DVD replication complex in Nevada’s history. The new buildings are located just off the Las Vegas Strip in Henderson, Nevada. This year marks Odds On Recording’s debut as a NAMM exhibitor (Hall E, Booth #1795).
—Tom Parham, president of Odds On Recording Inc., has expanded the most advanced music recording and CD/DVD replication complex in Nevada’s history. The new buildings are located just off the Las Vegas Strip in Henderson, Nevada. This year marks Odds On Recording’s debut as a NAMM exhibitor (Hall E, Booth #1795).

Guided by Parham, who has over 20 years experience in the music industry, Odds On’s state-of-the-art manufacturing complex is the first major facility in the Las Vegas area capable of providing a world-class recording studio outfitted with an SSL XL 9000K Series SuperAnalogue™ console, as well as mastering, CD/DVD replication, DVD authoring, graphic design, web design and video post/editing services.

“By expanding the scope of our services, Odds On now provides the ideal turn-key operation to its clients,” Parham states. “Our new facility offers a one-stop solution; streamlining the process for our customers. Las Vegas is becoming the new Hollywood, and we’re ready to handle the region’s increasing demand for replication services.”

The 35,000-square foot facility features the new Singulus Spaceline II HD DVD Lines, Singulus Skyline & Krauss Maffei CD Lines, Audio Dev Testing, Bronway DVD Packaging, spindle counting and sleeving with Gima jewel boxing. All-over-wrapping is done on Sollas and Scandia machinery, while shrink-wrapping is completed on Shanklin equipment. The replication facility is capable of generating over 5 million units each month.

“Our business is growing, and it just makes sense at this time to evolve into a one-stop facility,” continues Parham. “Las Vegas has a thriving music scene and a very creative environment. The vibe of Vegas will greatly shape and influence the work that comes out of the new plant.”

About Odds On

Odds On is a 100% full-service recording and CD/DVD replication company in Las Vegas. Under the direction of 20-year-music industry veteran, Tom Parham, Odds On offers its clients a state-of-the-art recording environment and a cutting-edge facility for audio recording, mastering, CD and DVD replication, video editing, MIDI production, as well as custom packaging, web design and graphics services. Parham has worked with a wide range of well-known artists and shows including Sublime, Ice-T, Chamillionaire, Mike Jones, Nick Carter, OPM, TQ, Le Reve, Avenue Q, The Platters and many more. In addition, Parham’s corporate clients have included Disney, Mattel, Microsoft, Intel, Philips, eBay and Tony Robbins

ROCK ARTIST ROLLS OUT HIT SINGLE AT ODDS ON RECORDING

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—New rock artist Jak Paris has been “rocking and rolling” the music charts after completing sessions at Odds On Recording’s (Hall E, Booth #1795) new high-tech studio. Impressed by the company’s efficiency, convenience and superior quality while working in its original studio for his March 2006 debut album, Electric Revolution, Paris returned to Odds On Recording to take advantage of its new state-of-the-art studio, which is equipped with an SSL XL 9000K Series SuperAnalogue™ console. While working at the new facility, Paris recorded a duet remake of Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain with Scarlett Pomers of the hit show, Reba.
—New rock artist Jak Paris has been “rocking and rolling” the music charts after completing sessions at Odds On Recording’s (Hall E, Booth #1795) new high-tech studio. Impressed by the company’s efficiency, convenience and superior quality while working in its original studio for his March 2006 debut album, , Paris returned to Odds On Recording to take advantage of its new state-of-the-art studio, which is equipped with an SSL XL 9000K Series SuperAnalogue™ console. While working at the new facility, Paris recorded a duet remake of Fleetwood Mac’s with Scarlett Pomers of the hit show, .

Paris, whose cover release of The Chain placed No. 34 on the FMQB’s Adult Contemporary Top 40 music chart, has become an avid Odds On Recording client after experiencing everything the premier full service multi-media replication company has to offer. “The priceless value of using Odds On Recording is that it can fulfill all of your needs under one roof – whether it be studio recording, mastering, CD replication and even the artwork for album and single covers,” stated Paris. “Instead of wasting time searching for specialized vendors, Odds On Recording saves me time by conveniently and efficiently servicing all of my needs from one location.”

Growing up in Southern California, Paris discovered his passion for music while singing in elementary school. He taught himself how to play guitar at the age of 12 by studying such rock bands as Metallica and Jane’s Addiction. He continued his pursuit for rock stardom, forming his first band with life-long friend, Jeremy Popoff, at the age of 16. Mastering his own destiny, Paris established his own record label, NEV Records Inc., which launched the release of his first album Electric Revolution.

About Odds On

COUNTRY SINGER LAUNCHES MUSICAL CAREER AT
ODDS ON RECORDING STUDIO

ANAHEIM, CA, January 18, 2007—The newly established state-of-the-art recording studio at premier full service multi-media replication company, Odds On Recording (Hall E, Booth #1795), is serving as a launching pad for such musical artists as country singer Christy Clayton. Facilitated through Desert Funk, a start-up label out of Las Vegas, Clayton’s debut album, Devil’s Paradise, released in early January, features tracks that were recorded at Odds On Recording. In addition to utilizing Odds On Recording’s studio, which is furnished with a SSL XL 9000 K SuperAnalogue^TMconsole, Clayton took advantage of the company’s CD replication services once recording was completed.
—The newly established state-of-the-art recording studio at premier full service multi-media replication company, Odds On Recording (Hall E, Booth #1795), is serving as a launching pad for such musical artists as country singer Christy Clayton. Facilitated through , a start-up label out of Las Vegas, Clayton’s debut album, , released in early January, features tracks that were recorded at Odds On Recording. In addition to utilizing Odds On Recording’s studio, which is furnished with a SSL XL 9000 K SuperAnalogueconsole, Clayton took advantage of the company’s CD replication services once recording was completed.

“Odds On Recording provides a world-class studio and high-tech quality that is also amicable with a medium-sized budget,” stated Susan Larson, a Clayton spokesperson. “It delivers one-stop shopping through its CD replication services – providing a seamless process from start to finish. Christy is thrilled to have been among the first artists to take advantage of Odds On Recording’s turnkey service.”

Greg Stricklin, Devil’s Paradise producer and composer, and former owner of Unsigned Music Network, adds, “This top-of-the-line studio is the best and most advanced in the Las Vegas area. By expanding its services with the new console, which integrates analogue and digital technology, Odds On Recording offers artists the best of both worlds by providing recording and CD replication under one roof.”

Discovering her passion for music in rural Michigan at age 5, Clayton studied vocals and several instruments while participating in local theater, as well as school and church choirs. She eventually formed her first band at age 16 and performed original music and cover songs alongside several different musical groups.

About Odds On

Jan 16

Cerwin Vega! Announces New CV Series Power Amps at NAMM

Three high performance amp models for a broad range of musical applications

HOLLYWOOD, FL – January 16th, 2007 – Cerwin Vega!, a leading manufacturer of loud speakers and audio products, proudly announces the introduction of the new CV Series power amplifiers at NAMM. Available in three models—the CV-900, CV-1800, and CV-2800—these rugged, 2U rackmountable, workhorses feature state-of-the-art designs that include a highly efficient tunnel cooling system to ensure reliable, cool running operation, 21-position detent level control knobs for easily repeatable settings, signal and clip indicators for convenient monitoring of the amplifier’s status, and the right connectors for integration into most any environment.

Cerwin Vega’s new CV Series power amps have the muscle to accommodate the most demanding audio challenge. With power ratings up to 2800 watts, support for bridged mono operation in all three models, and exceptional THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) and Signal-to-Noise ratings, the CV Series power amps are the right choice for a myriad of musical tasks.

Sporting a hi-tech appearance that will be right at home in any equipment rack, the new Cerwin Vega! power amplifiers present a clean, inviting presence. The amplifier’s front panel includes a Power On/Off switch, 21-position detent level control knobs for channels 1 and 2 that make repeatable settings a breeze, and 6-segment, multi-color LED ladders for visual monitoring of signal status per channel.

At the heart of these new amplifiers resides an electronic design that delivers clean, reliable performance, protection circuitry guards against thermal overloads, short circuits, DC voltage, subsonic frequencies, and current overdriving. Additionally, these amps provide independent limiters for speaker protection, along with high-pass filters to eliminate extreme low end which can damage small speaker systems. Combined with a highly efficient, continuously variable tunnel cooling system designed to maintain low operating temperatures under extreme load conditions, the new CV Series power amps provide pristine audio quality and dependable performance.

With the right combination of input and output connectors, the new CV Series power amps integrate easily into most any audio environment. Rear panel input provisions include the balanced Combo (combined XLR and 1/4" TRS) connectors, while outputs are handled by 5-way binding post and Speakon® connectors. Further, the rear panel is home to the High Pass Filter switch, Limiter switch, and a Mode select switch (for bridged/parallel/stereo operation).

Rick Richardson, Cerwin Vega’s Marketing Manager, commented on the company’s new power amplifier offerings, “True to Cerwin Vega’s legacy, these amplifiers are designed to drive loudspeakers to their maximum capabilities. By offering Cerwin Vega! customers three options in the CV Series, we are meeting the needs of anyone in need of high quality power amplification.”

The new CV Series of amplifiers have a suggested retail price of:

CV-900	$499
CV-1800	$679
CV-2800	$899

Cerwin Vega! will be showcasing the new CV Series during NAMM at meeting room #C4869. To make an appointment at NAMM with Cerwin Vega’s Marketing Manager Rick Richardson, please contact PR Representative Brian Metcalf at (305) 576-1171 x11 or brianmetcalf@maxborgesagency.com. To request one of the new CV-900, CV-1800, or CV-2800 power amplifiers for review or for additional product images and information, please contact PR Representative Brian Metcalf.

For more information on Cerwin Vega! and to view the company’s complete catalog, visit www.cerwin-vega.com.

About Cerwin Vega!
A member of the Stanton Group of companies, Cerwin-Vega!, Inc. is a leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of loudspeakers for the home, mobile, and professional audio markets. Designed in the pursuit of dynamic, accurate sound reproduction since 1954, Cerwin-Vega! products are distributed throughout the world via a network of distributors and dealers in more than 75 countries. For additional information on the Cerwin-Vega CVHD Series and all Cerwin-Vega products, please visit us online at www.cerwin-vega.com.

MARTIN GUITAR INTRODUCES NEW GUITARS

AT 2007 WINTER NAMM SHOW

CONFIRMED LIST OF ARTIST APPEARANCES
MARTIN GUITAR - BOOTH #2402
C.F. Martin & Co. will unveil their new guitars at their new NAMM booth during the 2007 Anaheim Winter show. The new booth includes a whole new feel and comfortable setting around headstock and sound hole shaped tables. See the facade of the original North Street Factory with historic images paying tribute to the new Martin Museum and Visitor’s Center in Nazareth , PA. An exciting new acoustic demonstration area which will feature new model demos by artists such as Graham Nash, Laurence Juber, and many others daily. The new booth also displays a larger collection of Martins Guitars and Strings than ever before, including a designated area for the Custom Shop and new stock and artist models, as well as a headquarters for Martin Strings and Accessories.
Information on the new guitars being introduced at the NAMM show is below, the full list of artist appearances at the booth is as follows:
Thursday, January 18th
1:00pm Priscilla Hartranft
2:00pm Laurence Juber
3:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally                      l
4:00pm Nancy and Ann Wilson

Friday, January 19th
12:00pm Sally Jay
1:00pm   Brett Dennen
2:00pm   Graham Nash
3:00pm   Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally

Saturday, January 20th
12:00pm Bobby Syvarth
1:00pm Kenny Sultan
2:00pm Diane Ponzio
4:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally

Sunday, January 21st
2:00pm Dick and Jimmy Dale
3:00pm George Sabolick
SIGNATURE MODELS:
CSN Gerry Tolman Tribute

David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash worked together with Martin Guitar to create this very special tribute guitar in honor of Gerry Tolman, CSN’s friend and manager, who died in an automobile accident on December 31, 2005. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this guitar will help to support Gerry’s family.

The CSN Gerry Tolman Special Edition Tribute features the CSN logo, inlaid with pearl beneath the classic mother of pearl “C.F. Martin & Co.” logo on the polished African black ebony headplate.

David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash and Neil Young all contributed insignia designs for inlays on the ebony fingerboard including a Schooner at the 5th fret (Crosby), Southern Cross at the 7th, 8th and 9th frets (Stills), Heart with Wings at the 12th fret (Nash), Broken Arrow inlay at the 15th fret (Young) , and a small cats eye at the 17th fret.

The CSN Gerry Tolman Tribute features a top of beautiful Engelmann spruce combined with forward-shifted scalloped braces for full, powerful tone. The sides and two-piece back are East Indian rosewood, a hard African tonewood that provides outstanding projection.

Delivered in a Geib™ style hardshell case, each CSN Gerry Tolman Special Edition Tribute guitar bears an interior label signed by Martin Chairman C.F. Martin, IV and numbered in sequence. Electronics are optional and left-handed guitars are available at no additional charge. www.martinguitar.com
D-7 Roger McGuinn
On the heels of the excitement and success of last year’s 7-string HD-7 Roger McGuinn guitar, one of the most unusual instruments in Martin’s Signature Series history, Martin proudly introduces a scaled down, more economical 7-string follow up, the D-7 Roger McGuinn.
This 14-fret dreadnought features a top of Sitka spruce with hybrid pattern and scalloped bracing. The sides and two-piece back are East Indian rosewood, a hard African tonewood. A black ebony headplate adorns the special headstock used to accommodate the unique 7-string arrangement
with three tuners on the bass side and 4 tuners on the treble side. The black ebony fingerboard features the “Roger McGuinn” signature between the 19th and 20th frets in maple. The finish is polished gloss top with vintage toner with satin finish back and sides.
Delivered in a hardshell case, each D-7 Roger McGuinn special edition guitar bears an interior label personally signed by Roger McGuinn and Martin Chairman C.F. Martin, IV, numbered in sequence. Electronics are optional and left-handed guitars are available at no additional charge. www.martinguitar.com.
OMC – Jacques Stotzem
With the dynamic range, subtle timing and harmonic complexity that distinguish his playing, Belgium guitarist Jacques Stotzem creates a fingerstyle landscape both intriguingly familiar and absolutely unique. A stylistic chameleon whose original compositions delve into blues, jazz, folk and even rock & roll, Stotzem transcends easy classification, but his polished and emotionally powerful playing has garnered fans in Europe, the United States and beyond.
The OMC Jacques Stotzem features Martin’s rounded cutaway for easy access to the upper frets. Instead of the standard OM neck, this Custom has a wide low profile neck, with a diamond volute at the base of the headstock. Special tall – but not jumbo - frets grace the plain black ebony fingerboard. Fishman Ellipse Blend™ electronics provide virtual “plug and play” amplification.
Other appointments give the OMC Jacques Stotzem Custom Edition an understated beauty all its own. Richly colored solid East Indian rosewood is matched to a top of premium solid Sitka spruce with scalloped bracing. The top, back and sides feature tortoise-color binding. A white/black/white backstrip and tortoise-color end piece framed with black/white purfling complete the body appointments.
Carved from genuine mahogany, the neck is topped by an East Indian rosewood headplate, a rich backdrop for the familiar gold “C.F. Martin & Co.” Old Style decal. Gotoh nickel open-geared tuners with butterbean knobs provide smooth tuning and a bit of vintage flair. Polished gloss finish on the body and neck allows the OMC Jacques Stotzem Custom Edition’s beauty to shine.
Delivered in a molded hardshell case, each OMC Jacques Stotzem Custom Edition guitar bears an interior label personally signed by Jacques Stotzem and Martin Chairman C.F. Martin IV, and numbered in sequence. Authorized Martin dealers will begin accepting orders for this Custom Edition immediately and the names of participating dealers will be posted on the Martin website, www.martinguitar.com.
Doobie-42 Tom Johnston
One of the most popular rock bands of the 1970s, the Doobie Brothers are known for their string of gold and platinum albums—including Toulouse Street (1972), The Captain and Me (1973), and What Once Were Vices Are Now Habits (1974). The Doobies gave us such hits as “Listen to the Music,” “Black Water,” and “China Grove,” all of which are now classic-rock staples.
One of the band’s founding members, guitarist Tom Johnston is a master of rock, soul, and blues idioms. While primarily an electric guitarist, Johnston has long had an affinity for Martin guitars. In
his personal collection are a 1962 00-18 and a 1975 D-42, and he has written various songs on the 00-18. Given Johnston ’s prominence as a rock guitarist over the last several decades—both with the Doobie Brothers and on his own—it was time to honor him with a signature model.
The Doobie-42 Tom Johnston Model is based on the D-42—Martin’s classic, deluxe Dreadnought. Like the standard D-42, the Doobie-42 has a solid Sitka spruce top, reinforced with scalloped braces, for tone and power, and matched to solid East Indian rosewood back and
sides. The low-profile neck is carved from genuine mahogany and the polished headplate is made from East Indian rosewood. The bridge’s compensated bone saddle is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.
Johnston’s model is unique in that it combines traditional ornamentation with modern motifs, most of which were inspired by Doobie Brothers’ album art. The guitar is decorated with grained ivoroid binding, eye-catching bold herringbone purfling, and snowflake position markers, all of which have been used for many years on Martin guitars. But then there are the playful touches that Johnston created with Martin: in place of the pearl-block-letter Martin logo found on the headplate of the standard D-42 is the familiar Old Style Decal logo; this allows room below for a Doobie
Brothers emblem (from the cover of 1989’s Cycle), the wings of which are inlaid with mother of pearl, surrounded by a circle of select abalone.
Amidst the snowflakes, at the 12th fret of the fingerboard is an eighth note, made of select abalone. Johnston requested that this nonstandard inlay be placed sideways, so that when the guitar is in playing position the note appears upright, as it would on a musical staff. Inlaid in mother of pearl on the treble side of the bridge is the “OK” hand symbol, seen on Doobies’ Choice; a mirror image of the symbol appears on the treble side. While these elements might sound a bit incongruous on paper, they actually work quite well with the standard D-42 design—the new and old ornaments complement each other perfectly.
The Doobie-42 is finished in top-quality full gloss; vintage toner on the top lends a vintage patina. Factory-installed electronics are available as an extra-cost option; left-hand instruments can be ordered at no additional cost. True to the Doobie Brothers name, the guitar will be shipped in a 545 hemp case with tobacco lining, and each Doobie-42 Tom Johnston Model Signature Edition guitar bears an interior label personally signed by Tom Johnston and Martin Chairman C. F. Martin IV, numbered in sequence with the edition total, which will not exceed XXX guitars.
X SERIES:
Felix The Cat and Martin Introduce A Very Cool Guitar From A Very Cool Cat:
The FeLiX III Tie Dye Special Edition
One look at this colorful new Felix guitar and you’ll swear you’re back in the “far out” sixties. The approach to this spectacular little guitar, the third and newest in Martin’s series of FeLiX Special Edition LXM guitars, is the creation of artist Don Oriolo, the son of Felix The Cat originator, Joe Oriolo.
Don went to school in the Bay Area in the ‘60s. “We were all ‘Dead Heads’ (fans of the Grateful Dead, the legendary SF band) and regulars at the Fillmore,” says Don. “A lot of Dead Heads loved Felix; he’s really a rock n’ roll character with his cheeky personality. We thought a tie-die approach to the guitar graphics was a natural. It’s like he’s dancing at a Fillmore light show.”
Since Martin’s issue of the Felix I in 2004, demand for these impish little cat guitars has grown to gigantic proportions. Collectibility is synonymous with both Martin guitars and Felix memorabilia, so the Felix the Cat series has become especially coveted by both players and Felix fans alike.
While the Felix “tie-die” guitar is a fun and wonderful novelty, it is first and foremost a real Martin guitar. And as with all Martins, tone, playability and quality are integral to its design.
The body is a compact O size, the same as the standard Little Martin guitar. An adjustable, modified low profile 14-fret neck (23” scale) was selected for easy playability.   The Felix III makes use of Martin’s highly advanced “X” technology, with textured HPL (high pressure laminate) one-panel back and sides. The top, also of durable HPL material, is reinforced with
Sitka spruce cross braces. Fingerboard and bridge are black Micarta, an excellent and environmentally friendly alternative to ebony.
The colorful Felix graphics, custom designed for this special edition, are carefully applied to the top and the headplate and then coated for protection and durability.   Each guitar label will be signed by Don Oriolo with the Felix graphic, serial number and patent number.
The Felix III comes with a premium black travel gig bag, embroidered with a gold C.F. Martin logo (talk about letting the cat out of the bag!)

Jan 15
Cakewalk and Roland Systems Group Announce REAC Recording Technology for Cakewalk SONAR and Roland’s RSS Digital Snake System
– January 15, 2007 - Cakewalk, in partnership with Roland Systems Group, is announcing REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication) Recording Technology for SONAR. This new technology enables the recording of 40 channels of 24bit/96kHz audio from a split of the RSS S-4000 Digital Snake system by a direct connection to a PC’s Gigabit Ethernet port. A beta program is also being introduced that will allow registered program participants to work with the RSS Digital Snake and SONAR to provide feedback for the final product release.
“Many applications call for cost effective, but professional, quality recordings of live performances with a high channel count.” states Mr. Kim Nunney, president of Roland Systems Group U.S. “This exciting new REAC Recording Technology, introduced by Cakewalk, enables high channel count recording without additional audio input interfaces and provides an all-digital recording path directly from the S-4000S’ high quality XR-1 microphone preamps to Cakewalk SONAR.”
“We are very excited to be partnering with Roland by developing the SONAR REAC Recording Technology.” says Mr. Greg Hendershott, president of Cakewalk. “SONAR has been enabling composers and engineers to produce professional quality recordings in studios for years. With this new technology, Cakewalk is extending the same capabilities to engineers using the Digital Snake System.”
REAC is the audio transport protocol developed by Roland to meet the Pro-Audio market’s need for a point-to-point 24 bit/ 96kHz, low latency digital audio transport for live sound use and commercial applications. The REAC protocol is capable of transmitting 40 channels of 24bit / 96kHz audio over inexpensive Cat5e cable and can be easily split using standard gigabit switches or the RSS S-4000-SP making it easy and very cost effective to have lossless all-digital splits of the stage audio for FOH, monitor, broadcast and recording locations.
The beta version of REAC Recording Technology for SONAR being made available to program participants is part of a complete REAC recording solution from Cakewalk to be introduced in the second quarter of 2007. Those interested in participating in the beta program should visit the following URL on the Roland Systems Group U.S. web site to apply: http://www.rolandsystemsgroup.com/REACbeta.
About Roland Systems Group U.S.
Roland Systems Group U.S. (RSG) supplies the commercial and performance audio/video industries with application specific equipment from the RSS by Roland and EDIROL by Roland product lines. These product lines address applications for houses of worship, clubs/casinos, theaters/performing arts centers and rental and staging companies. Roland Systems Group U.S is headquartered in Bellingham, Washington. RSG is a member of the worldwide group of Roland companies. For more information, visit www.rolandsystemsgroup.com or call 800.380.2580.
About Cakewalk
Cakewalk is the world’s leading developer of powerful, yet easy to use products for music creation and recording:
    * Award-winning Digital Audio Workstations and Sequencers
    * Integrated Music Hardware and Software Solutions
    * Innovative Virtual Instruments and Effects
    * Entry-level Consumer Products
Millions of musicians around the world choose Cakewalk products to produce audio for the professional music, film, broadcast, and video game industries. These customers include Grammy® and Emmy®-winning producers, composers, sound designers, and engineers.
We invite you to learn more about our company and products by visiting www.cakewalk.com.

NAMM Float Wins Craftsman Trophy in the 118th Tournament of Roses Parade
NAMM's musical float featured the Oak Ridge Boys, a 100-person choir and a live NAMM drum circle, all in an effort to bring the joys of making music to viewers around the world.
The joys of making music came to life as the NAMM float cruised down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, Calif. at the 118th Tournament of Roses Parade New Year’s day. The float featured live musical performances to motivate millions of parade watchers around the world to get involved in playing music and supporting music education.

The float, themed “Natural Harmonies: Oh Say Can You Sing,” commemorated MENC: The National Association for Music Education’s National Anthem Project, and won the Craftsman trophy for Exceptional Showmanship and Dramatic Impact for a float more than 55 feet long.

The musical float was viewed by millions in the United States who watched live media coverage of the Tournament of Roses on ABC, NBC, Univision, Tribune (KLA), KWHY-22, HGTV (Home & Garden Television), Sky Link TV, the Discovery HD Theater Channel and the Travel Channel.

Performing live on the float were the world renowned Oak Ridge Boys, a 100-person choir made up of outstanding vocal students representing all 50 U.S. states, and a live NAMM drum circle playing drums provided by REMO.

The float, designed by Studio Concepts of Portland, Ore., was 24 feet high, 18 feet wide and 75 feet long. In honor of the National Anthem Project, the design of the float reflected American patriotism with a majestic 24-foot animated eagle decorated with amaranthus seed, flax seed and pampas grass at the front carrying two American flags in its talons.

In the back, a shield made of yellow mums and yellow straw confetti, housed a choir representing outstanding vocal students from all 50 U.S. states called “America’s National Anthem Honor Choir.” The world-renowned Oak Ridge Boys, spokespersons for the National Anthem Project for the past year, were located at the front of the float and entertained the 8,000-person strong Rose Parade crowd with live performances of the band’s new song “It’s Hard to Be Cool in a Minivan.”

The National Anthem Project reteaches Americans the words and significance of the “Star Spangled Banner,” and champions school music education programs.

The float also featured strobe lights and fireworks for effect, an image of Francis Scott Key, the author of the “Star Spangled Banner,” and three smaller floats in front featuring choreography performed with large silk flags.

The parade featured 45 floats, 22 marching bands, and 23 equestrian units. George Lucas served as the grand marshal of the event.

2007 was NAMM’s fourth year as a float sponsor in the Tournament of Roses Parade. In 2006, 2005 and 2004, NAMM’s float took home the Grand Marshal’s, Bob Hope Humor and Isabella Coleman Trophies respectively.

Jan 2

MAJOR RETAILERS & PRODUCTION COMPANIES ON BOARD WITH GEARBYOWNER.COM
While still in the infancy stage of its existence, gearbyowner.com is seeing exponential growth that is well exceeding their initial projections and is attracting major retailers and production companies to post new and used products on the website.
Gearbyowner.com is the brainchild of industry veteran, Phillip Lentini, who saw the needs of musical instrument retailers to move dead inventory off the shelves and into the hands of people who need it. â€œBy broadening the scope of its customer base through a highly trafficked advertising website, an independent retailer can now reach thousands of qualified customers without the expense of building an e-commerce site from the ground upâ€. A customer can buy, sell or trade gear, post job listings and advertise their company all in one centrally located site that costs a fraction of what it would cost to do it yourself or on E-bay. Lentini also went on to say that â€œour site is also attractive to web based retailers looking to grab on to our excellent search engine placement without having to constantly monitor, update and pay for those top rankingsâ€.
The site provides direct contact between buyers and sellers without the hassle of auctions and is specifically focused on the MI and Production industries. Major retailers such as Pro Sound &Stage lighting, and Ed Roman Guitars have already placed ads and hundreds of product listings on the site but what surprised Lentini was the number of production houses that have sought out their services. Washington Arias, President of Everlast Productions in Miami pointed out that â€œvery often, we will purchase a specific lighting fixture or effect that a show will require, only to never have to use it again-we posted several of these items on gearbyowner.com and we sold them in a matter of days, this is a brilliant service that they provideâ€.
Now that the site has caught on, dealers from around the country are posting new, used and refurbished products on gearbyowner.com and the site is regularly listed in the top 10 queries when searching instruments or production gear. The company has recently added more personnel to assist customers in posting their listings and creating banner ads. Lentini who handles marketing for the company, credits creative web and print ad placement and focused direct bulk mailing for the recent surge in business and has plans to begin mainstream advertising on MTV, VH-1 and Comedy Central in 2007.
Gearbyowner.com is populated with new, used and vintage gear with hundreds of categories spanning musical instruments, DJ gear, pro audio, recording, lighting and effects, accessories and even employment opportunities. Site membership is free of charge and product ads begin at less than five dollars each.
For more information log onto www.GearByOwner.com,

DEC 28

NAMM TEAMS WITH MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION ON NATIONAL ANTHEM-THEMED 2007 ROSE PARADE FLOAT
NAMM Float to feature country music legends The Oak Ridge Boys, along with a 100-member children's choir and drum circle to demonstrate the proven benefits of music education to millions of viewers
NAMM, the trade association of the international music products industry, today announced it will work with MENC: The National Association for Music Education to produce its entry in the 118th Tournament of Roses Parade. This year's float will celebrate the music products industry's commitment to music education and will feature live performances by the Oak Ridge Boys, a 100-member honors chorus singing "The Star-Spangled Banner," as well as a live drum circle.
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The 2007 Rose Parade, featuring the theme "Our Good Nature," will take place Monday, Jan. 1, 2007, with millions of people around the world expected to watch.
The NAMM float, themed "Natural Harmonies, Oh Say Can You Sing," commemorates the National Anthem Project, an MENC initiative that reteaches Americans the words and significance of the National Anthem, and champions the importance of school music education programs.
To commemorate the music education efforts of the project, a choir of 100 students from all 50 U.S. states, called "America's National Anthem Honor Choir," will be established to perform on the float. The choir will sing live to prerecorded music tracks. To find out more information about joining "America's National Anthem Honor Choir," visit www.americanmusicalsalute.com/rosebowl.
In addition, the legendary Oak Ridge Boys will ride on the float singing live. The Oak Ridge Boys have served as the national spokespersons for the National Anthem Project for the past two years.
"Learning to play music is fundamental to a well-rounded education and a child's education is not complete without music education," said Joe Lamond, president and CEO, NAMM. "Our 2007 Rose Parade float gives the music products industry a grand stage to present our message about the proven benefits of making music to people of all ages."
At 24 feet high, 18 feet wide and 75 feet long, the NAMM float, which will again be designed and built by Studio Concepts, Inc., will feature a majestic American bald eagle on the front of the float, carrying two American flags in its talons. Strobe lights and fireworks will add a spectacular element to the float that will be decorated with thousands of flowers and natural elements such as seeds and bark.
2007 will be NAMM's fourth year as a float sponsor in the Tournament of Roses parade. In 2006, NAMM's "Making Music is Magical" float, designed with Disney Little Einstein characters, won the prestigious Grand Marshal's trophy for excellence in creative concept and design. In 2005, NAMM's float with Sesame Workshop, "Music Makes Us a Family," won the Bob Hope Humor trophy as the most comical and amusing float in the parade. NAMM's first-time entry in 2004 was in partnership with Sesame Workshop, and won the Isabella Coleman Award for Color and Color Harmony through Floral Use.
About MENC
MENC: The National Association for Music Education, the world's largest arts education organization, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. More than 130,000 members represent all levels of teaching from preschool to graduate school. Since 1907, MENC has worked to ensure that every student has access to a well-balanced, comprehensive, and high-quality program of music instruction taught by qualified teachers. MENC's activities and resources have been largely responsible for the establishment of music education as a profession, for the promotion and guidance of music study as an integral part of the school curriculum, and for the development of the National Standards for Arts Education. For more information, visit www.menc.org/miosm.
About MENC's National Anthem Project
The National Anthem Project is MENC's campaign to restore America's voice through music education. A recent Harris poll found that two out of three American adults do not know all of the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner"—and many do not know which song the National Anthem is or why it was written. The project was formed on the principle that budget cuts to school music programs in recent years have led to dwindling opportunities for students to learn an important part of their cultural heritage. The National Anthem Project was launched to raise awareness about the importance of supporting and funding school music programs. For more information, visit www.thenationalanthemproject.org.
About Studio Concepts Inc.
Studio Concepts Inc. was founded in Portland, Ore., in 1977. It designs, manufactures and manages parade floats, stage productions, and related festival and event services. Studio Concepts Inc. operates year-round out of a 70,000 square-foot facility in Portland, Oregon. The company employs a full-time staff of 26 experienced professionals including designers, sculptors, animators and engineers. The staff of designers works closely with each client in the development of a project's concept, style and presentation. For more information, visit www.studioconcepts.com.

About NAMM
NAMM is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $16 billion international musical instruments and products industry. NAMM’s activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of more than 9,000 Member companies. For more information about NAMM, interested parties can visit www.namm.org

Dec 21
The Future of DJ-ing Is NOW With Denon DJ's New DN-HD2500

WHAT : Denon DJ, a leading manufacturer of reliable, premium-grade DJ
equipment will debut and demonstrate its new DN-HD2500 professional
DJ multimedia player and controller at NAMM 2007. The breakthrough device
provides working DJs with a complete system solution that addresses
virtually all their needs. Rugged and portable, the DN-HD2500 is
designed for everything from small parties to weddings, club installations,
outdoor events or anywhere that professional-quality, reliable operation is
required. It joins Denon DJ's full line of high-performance products
that will also be on display which include:

·        DN-S3500 - Direct Drive CD/MP3 Player

·        DN-X1500S - Transcending 12" Matrix Mixer

·        DN-S1000 - Compact CD/MP3 Player

·        DN-X100 - Compact Mixer

·        DN-D4500 - Dual Deck CD/MP3 Player

WHERE: Anaheim Convention Center

                  Booth 7105

Dec 15 2006
Coffin Case
(December 15, 2006) – Booth #4699 will take the attention at Winter NAMM as Coffin Case presents their new products for 2007. Besides their booth they will have their annual fashion show at the biggest party for the weekend held at the Hilton Hotel.
Coffin will be showing their new line of cases, pedals and clothing at booth # 4699 on the main floor of the Anaheim Convention Center. Their new pedal, The Blood Drive Pedal will be demo’d by guitar shredder Marc Rizzo of Soulfly on Saturday, 01/20 from 3:00-4:00 PM. This pedal won the Guitar One Magazines ONE Award –
Other artist scheduled to sign at the Coffin Case booth are:
FRIDAY 1/19/07
1:00 – 2:00 PM – John ‘JD’ Deservio – Bassist/ Black Label Society
2:00 – 3:00 PM – Richie Kotzen – Guitar / Mr. Big & Stanley Clark
3:00 – 4:00 PM – Blasko – Bassist / OZZY
4:00 – 5:00 PM – Steve Stevens – Guitar / Billy Idol
SATURDAY 1/20/07
1:00 – 2:00 PM – Max Cavalera – Vocals/Guitar – Soulfly/Sepultura
2:00 – 3:00 PM – John 5 – Guitar / Rob Zombie
3:00 – 4:00 PM – Marc Rizzo – Guitar / Soulfly

MBN: THE MONTE BUBBLES NETWORK

NAMM NEWS

Information on the new guitars being introduced at the NAMM show is below, the full list of artist appearances at the booth is as follows:

Thursday, January 18th

2:00pm Laurence Juber 3:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally l 4:00pm Nancy and Ann Wilson Friday, January 19th12:00pm Sally Jay

1:00pm Brett Dennen 2:00pm Graham Nash 3:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally Saturday, January 20th12:00pm Bobby Syvarth 1:00pm Kenny Sultan 2:00pm Diane Ponzio 4:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally Sunday, January 21st2:00pm Dick and Jimmy Dale

3:00pm George Sabolick

SIGNATURE MODELS:

D-7 Roger McGuinn

On the heels of the excitement and success of last year’s 7-string HD-7 Roger McGuinn guitar, one of the most unusual instruments in Martin’s Signature Series history, Martin proudly introduces a scaled down, more economical 7-string follow up, the D-7 Roger McGuinn.

This 14-fret dreadnought features a top of Sitka spruce with hybrid pattern and scalloped bracing. The sides and two-piece back are East Indian rosewood, a hard African tonewood. A black ebony headplate adorns the special headstock used to accommodate the unique 7-string arrangement

with three tuners on the bass side and 4 tuners on the treble side. The black ebony fingerboard features the “Roger McGuinn” signature between the 19th and 20th frets in maple. The finish is polished gloss top with vintage toner with satin finish back and sides.

OMC – Jacques Stotzem

One of the band’s founding members, guitarist Tom Johnston is a master of rock, soul, and blues idioms. While primarily an electric guitarist, Johnston has long had an affinity for Martin guitars. In

his personal collection are a 1962 00-18 and a 1975 D-42, and he has written various songs on the 00-18. Given Johnston ’s prominence as a rock guitarist over the last several decades—both with the Doobie Brothers and on his own—it was time to honor him with a signature model.

The Doobie-42 Tom Johnston Model is based on the D-42—Martin’s classic, deluxe Dreadnought. Like the standard D-42, the Doobie-42 has a solid Sitka spruce top, reinforced with scalloped braces, for tone and power, and matched to solid East Indian rosewood back and

sides. The low-profile neck is carved from genuine mahogany and the polished headplate is made from East Indian rosewood. The bridge’s compensated bone saddle is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.

Brothers emblem (from the cover of 1989’s Cycle), the wings of which are inlaid with mother of pearl, surrounded by a circle of select abalone.

X SERIES:

Felix The Cat and Martin Introduce A Very Cool Guitar From A Very Cool Cat:

Since Martin’s issue of the Felix I in 2004, demand for these impish little cat guitars has grown to gigantic proportions. Collectibility is synonymous with both Martin guitars and Felix memorabilia, so the Felix the Cat series has become especially coveted by both players and Felix fans alike.

While the Felix “tie-die” guitar is a fun and wonderful novelty, it is first and foremost a real Martin guitar. And as with all Martins, tone, playability and quality are integral to its design.

Sitka spruce cross braces. Fingerboard and bridge are black Micarta, an excellent and environmentally friendly alternative to ebony.

The colorful Felix graphics, custom designed for this special edition, are carefully applied to the top and the headplate and then coated for protection and durability. Each guitar label will be signed by Don Oriolo with the Felix graphic, serial number and patent number.

The Felix III comes with a premium black travel gig bag, embroidered with a gold C.F. Martin logo (talk about letting the cat out of the bag!)

2:00pm Laurence Juber
3:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally l
4:00pm Nancy and Ann Wilson

Friday, January 19th
12:00pm Sally Jay

1:00pm Brett Dennen
2:00pm Graham Nash
3:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally

Saturday, January 20th
12:00pm Bobby Syvarth
1:00pm Kenny Sultan
2:00pm Diane Ponzio
4:00pm Dix Bruce and Jim Nunally

Sunday, January 21st
2:00pm Dick and Jimmy Dale