FRACTAL AUDIO AXE-FX II All-in-one preamp and effects processor The Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II has earned kudos from the likes of Steve Vai and John Petrucci based on the staggering depth of the sounds it creates. Powered by dual Analog Devices TigerSHARC Digital Signal Processors, the Axe-Fx II is the most powerful processor of its kind, providing stellar amp, effect, cabinet and microphone modeling in addition to traditional signal processing. The... 

PRESONUS FIRESTUDIO MOBILE Next-generation, studio-quality FireWire interface to go The engineers at PreSonus have been keeping themselves busy developing an array of intelligently crafted audio solutions. FireStudio Mobile comes bundled with Studio One Artist, making it one of the smartest buys on the market. The front panel’s dual combination instrument/mic inputs deliver superior sound thanks to PreSonus’ XMAX Class A preamps. Throw in the... 

DIGITECH iSTOMP iOS-fueled versatile stompbox Over the past several years Harman-owned DigiTech, HardWire and DOD have released a number of outstanding and innovative guitar products. The iStomp downloads these successes into what DigiTech describes as an e-pedal. While the iStomp functions like a traditional pedal, it can be reconfigured to virtually any guitar effect. Download the free Stomp Shop app and configure the iStomp by connecting DigiTech’s... 

SONOR STEVE SMITH SIGNATURE SNARE  Immediate and effortless response Steve Smith has been a Sonor endorser for 30-plus years, spanning his tenure in Journey and his work with Vital Information. Sonor’s signature Steve Smith snare brilliantly reflects this range of experience with its tonality and playability. For drummers in the studio or live, the snare can make or break a mix—and this beautiful 14”x5.5” steel cast drum sounds every bit... 

PROPELLERHEAD FIGURE Putting the fun in functionality for iOS devices The concept behind Figure was to inject Reason’s signature sounds into an app designed for the way people actually use their mobile devices—in quick bursts and on the go. Its core functionality centers around two bar loops. Tapping the drum, bass or lead tabs allows you to select your instrument of choice, while sideways swipes on the patch names enable you to select alternate... 

ABLETON LIVE 8 Inspiration at the speed of live Ableton Live 8 adds even more mojo to a loop-centric recording and performance application popular with musicians and DJs alike. Live’s hyperflexible workflow is driven by the Library menu, allowing you to drag and drop elements from multiple folders at any time. Parameter presets from previous Live Sets sessions can easily be repurposed, further reducing repetitive workflow from song to song. While... 

MIKTEK C7 LARGE DIAPHRAGM CONDENSER MIC Precision engineered for superior performance Miktek was founded by studio owner and industry vet Michael Ketchell, inventor of MegaMix Automation. Blending vintage character with modern features, the C7 has garnered more than its share of kudos from noted artists, engineers and producers. While the C7 excels at recording vocals, the selectable cardioid, omni and bidirectional patterns make it a real powerhouse...