Interesting new developments in audio technology

22.11.2024 Tommi Saarela

Knuckles '92 Rev F Dual Rec Amplifier

Tips Musicians New arrivals Sound Technology

Californian roar

Universal Audio’s long-named Knuckles ’92 Dual Rec Amplifier offers a Californian high-gain amplifier sound that has been favored by legendary punk, alternative rock, and metal bands such as Foo Fighters, Incubus, Nevermore, and Dream Theater.

The Mesa-style Knuckles ’92 features six authentically described microphone/speaker pair simulations, as well as a built-in TS-style OD/Boost and Noise Gate.

The speaker simulations are suggestively named UK V30 (4×12 British), CA V30 (4×12 Oversized American), White 75 (4×12 British), as well as 2×12 EV12, 4×12 Celestion 80’s, and 4×12 Brown.

The Knuckles ’92 Dual Rec Amplifier has two 6.3mm jack inputs and outputs, as well as a USB-C port for computer delivered updates, and it costs around 430 euros.

Inspiring streamlining

Boss’ streamlined GX-10 incorporates the sound tools familiar from its predecessor, the GX-100, in the form of a compact guitar/bass processor.

The GX-10 promises the same core features and inspiring experience as the slightly more expensive GX-100, but in a more portable, small form factor than its predecessor.

Through the GX-10, the user gains access to a wide range of AIRD amplifiers and effects, making it easy to quickly create sounds for any style. With its color touchscreen, multifunctional footswitches, integrated expression pedal, and USB audio connectivity, the GX-10 serves seamlessly both on stage and in studio setups, for songwriting, and daily practice.

With 32 amp types and 170 Boss effects in total, the GX-10 costs around €420.

Three combos

Line 6 has updated the Catalyst range, which was launched a couple of years ago, to Catalyst CX.

Like the original, the new generation offers three powerful 2-channel combo amps that work like traditional guitar amps, but with many of today’s versatile features.

The smallest, 60-watt Catalyst 60 CX is, according to the manufacturer, the perfect amplifier for practice, recording, and performances in small venues, while the most powerful Catalyst 200 CX offers performance for even the largest stages. In between, there’s the 100-watt all-rounder, the Catalyst 100 CX.

Compared to its predecessor, the CX generation combo offers double the options, with twelve different amplifier types ranging from bright and clean to modern overdrive. In addition to standard connections, the new model features a four-channel USB recording interface and a comprehensive, customizable effects palette for the player.

Catalyst CX combos range in price from 300-640 euros.

Some low-end punch

Designed specifically for recording bass drums and bass guitar, the Earthworks Audio DM6 microphone is quickly becoming the go-to tool for recording engineers, mixers, and musicians in both the studio and on stage. The manufacturer highlights the microphone’s versatility and exceptional sound as key features that have garnered widespread praise.

The DM6 features a supercardioid polar pattern, and its sound is described as open and precise. Its ability to capture detail, along with its dynamics and clarity, is also considered exceptional.

In a drum set, the DM6 is equally suitable for recording a bass drum from the inside or outside, and also works for toms and snares, as well as for mixing a percussionist’s set-up.

The Earthworks DM6 costs just over €550 and includes a ball-jointed stand adapter and windscreen.