We're back with our monthly feature of the latest gear to arrive in the Middle East - July 2020 Edition.
As a part of our mission to empower musicians and creators, we share a monthly update on the latest gear to hit the streets of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Riyadh and the rest of the Middle East from our portfolio of 150+ leading brands in the music, production, and recording space. Check back in every month to see what's new in the Middle East music, audio, production and recording market, or sign up for our newsletter here, and we'll notify you when new and hot products make an appearance. You can also check out our previous update here: The Hottest, Newest Gear - June 2020.
Here are our top picks of the latest gear this month:
AT A GLANCE
- Audio Technica ATR2500X-USB Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
- Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
- Novation Launchpad Mini MK3
- Casio Privia PX-S1000 Digital Piano
- M-Audio AIR 192X8 Audio MIDI Interface
- M-Audio AV32 Compact Active Desktop Monitor Speakers
- M-Audio AV42 Compact Active Desktop Monitor Speakers
1. Mic Check 1,2,3 - Audio Technica
Audio Technica has made a suit of their newest microphones available to the Middle East. Following is a short description of the best-selling ATR2500X, but learn more about all the available AT products here.
The Audio Technica ATR2500X-USB Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone will make for a brilliant starter microphone, aimed at artists who primarily make podcasts, record voice-overs, and need to capture field audio. The pivotal benefit of this mic is the capability to plug and play; it does not require a secondary audio interface. Also, the mic is future-proofed with a USB C-type connection and has a durable metal construction for longevity.
2. Launch Your Music with Novation
Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
This is a well-crafted 25-key MIDI controller best paired with Ableton Live. The robust package notably has 16 RGB velocity sensitive pads, an arpeggiator function, and a fixed chord mode. This is a perfect DAW controller for those looking for the functionality of a keyboard and the benefits of pads.
Novation Launchpad Mini MK3
This is a minimal, yet sturdy 64 RGB pad MIDI grid controller. As a Novation product, it best works with Ableton Live. Despite its "mini" designation, it does have a slightly large footprint. However, the wider berth does help hit the pads accurately.
3. Reddot Design Award 2020 Winner - Casio Digital Piano
Casio Privia PX-S1000 Digital Piano
The Casio Privia PX-S1000 Digital Piano is the company's latest installation of electronic pianos, and is a. With its sleek build, comparative portability, and Casio's trusted Piano tones, the PX-S1000 is nothing short of a bang for the buck. The weighted, 88-key thing of beauty also supports Bluetooth connectivity and has no protruding buttons! Above all, it certainly is a well-designed digital piano.
4. Clean and Clear - M-Audio
M-Audio AIR 192X8 Audio MIDI Interface
This interface is a professional, 2in4out MIDI interface that has a premium finish and feel to it. The low-latency USB connection, paired with M-Audio's iconic central knob makes the interface an easy tool, with little to no learning curve. The device supports switchable inputs for both mic pads or instruments - aptly powering them as required.
M-Audio AV32 Compact Active Desktop Monitor Speakers
These are an intermediate option to consider when upgrading from a more starter set of studio monitors. M-Audio are known for their high quality audio solutions; this option being a gateway into their higher-end range of products. These have a 10W power output, making it ideal for use in quieter soundscapes. It also sports a headphone jack for increased private listening.
M-Audio AV42 Compact Active Desktop Monitor Speakers
These sport all the features of the AV32, but for the higher power output. If you're looking to get a bigger punch out of your system, this would be the apt intermediate desktop monitor speaker to consider. This also comes with an aux output for other sound purposes. Both these models have a simple design and user interface.
We are building a community of musicians and creators in the Middle East – those not afraid to follow their dreams and expand creative horizons. One way we support and empower aspiring, active creators on their journey is by sharing a variety of content and information across essential topics in this complex and exciting industry of musical instruments and content creation gear.
When you're looking to pick up instruments or music and sound gear, get in touch with us for recommendations, the latest information on new and discontinued models, as well as sales and promotions. Whether you’re looking for a guitar, a keyboard, a piano, a drum kit, studio recording equipment, music production tools, or DJ gear – we can promise the widest variety, knowledgeable advice and the lowest prices across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, UAE, the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.