Gear Review Archives - Metro Sound & Music Ltd.

Posted on April 28, 2021May 6, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

5 Legendary Guitar Pedals Every Guitarist Needs

Guitar pedals are the foundation of your sound. So, it’s important to grace your pedalboard with effects that will help you achieve your desired tone. Want to equip yourself with some classic pedals trusted by legendary guitarists? Look no further. This guide will take you through some of the most famous guitar effects pedals trusted by iconic musicians.

Ibanez TS9 – Overdrive

The Ibanez TS9 is a legendary pedal used on countless records. This pedal is a reissue of the original TS9 that remains faithful with the same components, same housing, same famous seasick-green paint, and the same sounds. For classic stompbox distortion and drive, pick up the Ibanez TS9.

Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi – Fuzz

The Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi is a big name in the fuzz world. Legends including Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour, and Jack White have all used this pedal. Its widespread adoption is due to its rich and creamy sustain. For an iconic sound that has shaped rock guitar history, add the Big Muff Pi to your collection.

TC Electronic Flashback – Delay

The TC Electronic Flashback has impressive delay and looping capabilities. With 11 solid delay types, including the 40-second looper and audio tapping, this pedal provides every delay type you could wish for. For a feature-loaded delay pedal, add the TC Electronic Flashback to your arsenal.

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Dunlop Fuzz Face – Distortion

Another pedal that has toured on the boards of legends is the Dunlop Fuzz Face. Used by the likes of Jimi Hendrix and David Gilmour, this classic fuzz box is famous for its thick, warm tones. To achieve great guitar tones from the ’60s and ’70s, plug into the Dunlop Fuzz Face.

Dunlop Cry Baby 535Q – Wah

The Cry Baby is an industry-standard wah pedal. Easily customize the shape and sound of your wah with a turn of the Q dial. And with six guitar wah ranges with a variable boost from 0 to +16dB, this pedal is like having your own custom Cry Baby wah.

Each of these guitar effects pedals have been trusted by legendary guitarists for years. You’ll know that you’re making good use out of your precious pedalboard space when you install one of these effects. Want to look for more sounds to shape your ideal tone? Shop our extensive range of guitar effect pedals.

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Posted on April 11, 2021March 24, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

5 Best Studio Monitors For Every Experience Level

When making music, there comes a point where your headphones or computer speakers just don’t cut it anymore. To hear your music transparently and in as much detail as possible, you must invest in a high-quality pair of studio monitors. Fortunately, there are many options available to deliver clear sound for every budget. Read on for our recommendations on the best studio monitors for every experience level.

Best Beginner Studio Monitors

1. PreSonus Eris E4.5

The PreSonus Eris E4.5 are affordable and accurate studio monitors ideal for beginners. These speakers feature a 4.5″ woven composite woofer and a 1″ low-mass silk-dome tweeter to deliver true accuracy. Also, unlike similarly priced studio monitors, these have controls for flattening the frequency response for accurate mixing. At this price point, the PreSonus Eris E4.5 delivers serious bang for your buck.

2. Behringer Studio 50USB

This pair of Behringer Studio 50USB studio monitors is another excellent choice for beginners. These active two-way studio monitors are equipped with a 150W bi-amplification system that powers a 5″ woofer and 1″ tweeter to deliver high-quality sound reproduction. If you want to experience excellent studio quality without breaking the bank, give the Behringer Studio50USB your consideration.

Best Intermediate Studio Monitors

3. M-Audio BX5 D3

The M-Audio Bx5 D3 are small and powerful studio monitors built to last. Their frequency range of 52Hz to 35kHz gives you clarity across the entire spectrum. And with fusing superb drivers, meticulously engineered enclosures, great-sounding amplifiers, versatile control options, and standardized connection facilities, M-Audio’s BX5 D3 delivers sound quality you can trust.

4. PreSonus Sceptre S6

The PreSonus Sceptre S6 is a great studio monitor, delivering excellent sound quality and mid-range clarity. Its 1″ tweeter is positioned in front of the 6.5″ woofer, allowing for a more balanced dispersion compared to traditional two-way speakers. Also, this studio monitor is equipped with a dual-core DSP that handles crossover frequency adjustments. If you want a studio monitor that delivers stunning mid-range clarity, consider the Presonus Sceptre S6.

Best Advanced Studio Monitors

5. Mackie HR824MK2

The Mackie HR824MK2 studio monitors are outstanding for their price point. The built-in passive radiator allows accuracy in the lower frequencies, while the wide-dispersal horn surrounding the tweeter spreads high-end frequencies out further. These high-quality speakers deliver true accuracy and are well worth the price if you’re serious about your music.

No matter your needs, there is a great pair of studio monitors for you on this list. With any of these monitors, you can be assured that you will be able to listen to your music with high accuracy. Want to look at more options? Browse our entire collection of studio monitors.

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Posted on March 20, 2021February 25, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

4 Best Alesis Electronic Drum Kits

Alesis is a manufacturer with a solid reputation in the world of electronic drums. They offer affordable kits for novice players and feature-loaded sets for those wanting more. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a drum kit on a budget or a professional looking for a powerful workhouse, there is an Alesis electronic drum kit for you. This guide should help narrow down your choices and find you the perfect option.

Alesis Nitro Mesh

The Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit features three mesh toms, a mesh dual-zone snare pad, and three cymbals. These are connected to the Nitro electronic drum module with 40 kits and over 385 sounds, giving you endless creative potential. An included 8GB SD card also means you have virtually unlimited storage for your own kits and instruments. This drum kit is ultra-quiet and accurate, meaning you can gig out without disturbing your neighbours. For those looking for an impressive practice kit, the Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit is a great option at this price point.

Alesis Command Mesh

The Alesis Command Mesh Kit is a mid-level drum kit with a whole lot to offer. This powerhouse features three 8″ dual-zone mesh toms, a 10″ dual-zone mesh snare pad, three 10″ cymbals, an 8″ bass drum tower, and a hi-hat pedal. This kit is also packed with 74 kits and 671 sounds, with the capacity to add more of your own drum samples via a USB drive. No matter your skill level, you’ll get some serious value out of the Alesis Command Mesh Kit.

Alesis Surge Mesh

With a similar setup to the Nitro Mesh Kit, the Alesis Surge Mesh Kit is the perfect choice for many drummers. With dual-zone 8″ pads for great feel and response and a 10″ dual-zone mesh snare for a greater playing surface, you’re sure to love gigging with this drum kit. The three cymbals provide a huge range of playing expression: a ride cymbal, a crash cymbal with choke function, and a hi-hat. Finally, the Surge module includes 40 ready-to-play kits and 385 sounds. For the beginner or intermediate drummer, the Alesis Surge Mesh Kit is a great option.

Alesis Strike Pro SE

Need a feature-loaded drum kit that feels and sounds like the real thing? The Alesis Strike Pro SE Kit answers your call. With 8″, 10″, 12″, and 14″ dual-zone mesh tom pads, a 20″ mesh bass drum, and a 14″ dual-zone mesh snare, this kit takes your playing experience to the next level. Also, the Strike Performance Module includes an extensive sound library of over 136 custom kits made from over 1,800 instruments and 45,000 samples. The Alesis Strike Pro SE is an incredibly versatile drum kit that looks, feels, and sounds phenomenal.

Electronic drum kits are incredibly versatile and fun to play on. No matter your needs, there is a drum set for you. Want to do more browisng? Check out our entire range of electronic drum kits and find your workstation.

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Posted on March 2, 2021February 17, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

5 Best DJ Mixers To Get Mixin’ With

The mixer is the heart of the DJ setup, so it’s important to research your options before you commit to a purchase. If you’re looking for recommendations on some of the best DJ mixers to buy, you’ve come to the right place. Before we dive into our top picks, let’s first discuss what you need to consider before buying.

What to Look for in a DJ Mixer

Number of Channels

The most important consideration when buying a DJ mixer is how many channels you need. Each mixer has at least two channels, allowing you to plug in and mix at least two different audio sources. While two channels are all you need to DJ, you may want to consider four or six, depending on your needs. The more channels you have, the more possibilities for other turntables or add-ons like drum machines, samplers, etc.

Budget

Obviously, your budget will play a big part in what mixer you choose. You want the best bang for your buck, so depending on how strapped your budget is, you may have to make sacrifices. For instance, you may have to choose between a two-channel mixer with extra features and a bare-bones four-channel mixer.

Effects

Depending on your needs, you may want more than what a basic mixer has to offer. If you want effects and features such as an integrated audio interface, filters, and more I/O, you will have to pay more for these. Consider what you want to do with your mixer and what additional features you may need.

Brand and Quality

Look for reputable companies that are well-known for producing quality mixers. You want your mixer to last for venues to come, so lesser quality mixers may cost you in the long run if they prematurely break. Some reputable brands include Pioneer, Behringer, Denon DJ, Allen & Heath, and Rane.

Compatibility

There’s nothing worse than setting up your mixer and finding out it’s not compatible with your preferred DJ software. Be sure to check for any compatibility issues before purchasing.

Now, let’s dive into our top DJ mixers picks for all needs.

Best DJ Mixers to Buy

1. Pioneer DJM-900NXS2

Best 4-Channel Mixer

Number of channels: 4

Pioneer is one of the most reputable market leaders in the DJ industry, and for a good reason. The DJM-900NXS2 is a studio-quality 4-channel DJ mixer featuring a 64-bit mixing processor for more nuanced sound. Also, the EQ and fader curves and FX controls give you extensive creativity potential. Then, the independent send/return function only adds to this system’s versatility. And with four phono inputs and two USB ports, you can set it up your way.

2. Behringer DDM4000

Best Feature-Packed Mixer

Number of channels: 4

If you want all of the features of a high-end mixer with the price tag of an entry-level one, look no further than the Behringer DDM4000. Although simplicity is thrown out the window with this mixer, you get numerous features often reserved for higher-end models. Among these features are: four channels, four FX sections, fully programmable EQ and Kill switches, high-precision BPM counters, a digital crossfader, MIDI in/out, and more. This mixer may appear overwhelming, but its intuitive layout makes adjusting quick.

3. Pioneer DJM-250MK2

Best For Beginners

Number of channels: 2

If you’re a beginner searching for something straightforward, consider the Pioneer DJM-250MK2. You get to produce warm, high-quality audio from analog or digital sources. With two channels, excellent sound and build quality, and included rekordbox software, you get everything you need to start mixing.

4. Pioneer DJM-V10

Best For Advanced DJs

Number of channels: 6

The DJM-V10 is another excellent option from Pioneer. With six channels, per-channel compression, isolator, and various routing options, this mixer is suitable for more advanced DJs. Additionally, it offers elite sound quality and excellent controllability, making this an optimal choice for professional mixers.

5. Pioneer XDJ-RX2

Best All-In-One Mixer

If you want an all-in-one DJ system, the Pioneer XDJ-RX2 is an outstanding option. The 7-inch screen lets you manage the mixer without the need to bring your laptop to events. Some of its features include channel faders, EQs, Beat FX, and Sound Colour FX. This mixer utilizes Pioneer’s rekordbox music management software, and a license key is included with the purchase.

Get Mixing

Start DJing with one of our best picks for mixers. Your choice will ultimately depend on your needs and the previously-discussed considerations, but no matter what you decide on, you’ll be in for a great experience. Want to do more browsing? Check out our entire range of DJ mixers.

Posted on February 22, 2021March 24, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

6 Best Synthesizers To Buy In 2021

Software synths are a great tool, but there’s nothing like having the hardware of a real synthesizer underneath your fingertips. With so many out there, it is hard to know which synthesizers are the best. To help navigate through the sea of synths, we’ve compiled our list of some of the best synthesizers you can buy today.

1. Korg Prologue 16

Type: Analog

Polyphony: 16-voice paraphonic

For serious musicians, the Korg Prologue 16 is one of the best options out there. This synth gives you a wide, 61-key keyboard, four voice modes, a powerful arpeggiator, and a 24-bit digital effects engine. The robust arpeggiator provides a four-octave range and six arp types, letting you create complex and intricate melodic runs not possible through manual playing. To top it off, its extensive capabilities are easy to navigate thanks to eight program sorting methods. If you’re looking to create professional music, the Prologue 16 is a great weapon of choice.

2. Arturia MicroFreak

Type: Analog, digital

Polyphony: 4-voice paraphonic

The Arturia MicroFreak is a hybrid analog/digital synthesizer featuring digital oscillators, an analog filter, and a touch-plate keyboard. This device is jam-packed with features, and its sound design possibilities are nearly endless. If you want a synth with an astonishing amount of paraphonic performance capabilities and unique synthesis styles, look no further than the MicroFreak.

3. Korg Minilogue XD

Type: Analog

Polyphony: 4-voice paraphonic

The Korg Minilogue XD is everything great about the original Minilogue and then some. With the XD, you get a full-featured sound design system equipped with build-in effects, a powerful sequencer, and micro tuning capabilities. The digital multi-engine also gives you access to four types of noise, a VPM/FM oscillator, and your own custom user osculators. It’s easy to get creative with the Korg Minilogue XD analog synthesizer.

4. Behringer Model D

Type: Analog

Polyphony: 2-voice paraphonic

Behringer is known for its great synthesizers, and Model D is no exception. The pure analog signal path is based on authentic VCO, VCF, VCA and ladder filter designs in conjunction with a dedicated and fully analog triangle/square wave LFO. The Model D puts a world of musical creation under your fingertips, letting you create any monophonic sound imaginable. If you want fat old-school tones at an affordable price point, this is your synth.

5. Korg Odyssey

Type: Analog

Polyphony: Monophonic/Duophonic

The Korg Odyssey synthesizer is an authentic reproduction of the legendary Arp Odyssey synth from the ’70s. The two true analog oscillators allow you to produce insanely fat sounds reminiscent of that period. The world-clas Klark Teknik FX boasts reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter, and multi-effects, letting you conjure virtually any sound. If you want to produce the defining sounds of the ’70s, pick up the Korg Odyssey.

6. Behringer MS-1

Type: Analog

Polyphony: Monophonic

The MS-1 is Behringer’s take on the legendary Roland SH-101, and then some. With features such as a 32-step sequencer, arpeggiator, and attachable handgrip, the MS-1 is a fantastic synth to create big, fat tones with. Recreate the legendary sounds of the ’80s and ’90s with this affordable homage.

Each of these synths opens a world of music creation possibilities. No matter your sound creation needs, we have a synth for you. Want to browse more options? See our full range of synthesizers and find the best one for you.

Posted on January 27, 2021January 28, 2021 by Jasbir Kumar — Leave a comment

7 Best Microphones For Home And Live Recordings

When recording your vocals or instruments, your microphone can make or break your production. There are many microphones on the market, and sorting through them is difficult and time-consuming. Worry not, we’ve got you covered with our list of some of the best microphones for home and live recordings.

Best Home Office Microphones

Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Mic

Connection: USB, Lightning
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

If you want a stylish retro microphone that delivers excellent sound quality, look no further than the Shure MV5. It is Apple MFi certified, meaning you can plug it into any iOS device with a Lightning port, and comes with both a USB cable and a Lightning cable. The microphone is also equipped with a headphone jack for real-time monitoring and three preset DSP modes. If you need a budget-friendly microphone for your home office, consider the Shure MV5.

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+

Connection: USB
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Audio-Technica is highly-regarded in the professional audio industry, and for good reason. They’ve produced many iconic microphones for users of all levels. The AT2020USB+ is the USB version of their popular AT2020 microphone. This microphone features a headphone jack for live monitoring and mix control to blend your microphone signal with pre-recorded audio. Compatible with most computers, this microphone is an excellent choice for audio recordings and Zoom meetings.

Best Microphones For Recording Vocals

Shure SM58

Connection: XLR
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

The Shure SM58 cardioid vocal microphone is one of the most popular microphones worldwide. In fact, famous singers use them worldwide in their performances every day. So, why are pro studios with massive budgets using this microphone? Well, it’s excellent at eliminating feedback, and its rugged construction makes it perfect for live performances. If you want a legendary vocal recording microphone that pros around the world trust, the Shure SM58 is the obvious choice.

Shure SM7B

Connection: XLR

Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

The Shure SM7B microphone has been used by music legends such as Michael Jackson over the years. It provides a rich, balanced tone and virtually eliminates feedback. Not only that, but its rugged construction and excellent cartridge protection mean you can rely on this legendary microphone for years to come.

Best Microphones For Recording Guitar

Shure SM57

Connection: XLR
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Many regard the Shure SM57 as the industry standard for recording guitar amps. This microphone handles high sound pressure levels easily and picks up on high and low frequencies. It also has high feedback before gain functionality, making it perfect for stage use. The Shure SM57 is practical, cheap, and packs a punch, making it the standard microphone for many, including the President of the United States’ official podium.

Sennheiser e 609

Connection: XLR
Pickup Pattern: Supercardioid

Explicitly designed for miking guitar cabs close to the source, the Sennheiser e 609 has the features you need to record your electric guitar. First, the flat design of this microphone allows it to kiss your amp. Second, the supercardioid polar pattern isolates the instrument from other sounds, which is especially useful for on-stage performances. So, if you’re looking for one of the best microphones for recording your guitar, look no further than the Sennheiser e 609.

Shure SM81-LC

Connection: XLR
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

For isolating your acoustic guitar, the Shure SM81-LC microphone is a fantastic choice. The frequency response is flat; however, the selectable low-frequency response is an option if you wish. Since it is a condenser microphone, it does requires a phantom power source with a decent pre-amp to get an optimal sound level out of the mic. However, if you want a great microphone for recording live acoustic guitar, consider the Shure SM81-LC.

Pick up one of these great microphones to sound your best in your next recording session. Hopefully, our list helps you find the best microphone for home and live recording needs. Want to browse more microphones? Check out our wide range of recording devices!

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