NAMM 2015 - Yamaha Creates New Mixer Category Perfect for Podcasters, Gamers and Musicians
The Swiss Army Knife.
Yamaha today introduced the AG03 and the AG06—hybrid mixing consoles and USB audio interfaces for webcasting, podcasting, gaming and music production. The AG Series offers high-resolution (24-bit/192kHz) audio recording and playback, iOS compatibility and battery operation.
A key feature of the AG Series is the intuitive ‘TO PC’ switch that allows users to select which inputs are routed back to a computer or iOS device. Selecting Dry CH 1-2 allows the computer or iOS to record inputs 1 and 2, while the INPUT MIX switch routes all inputs to the computer or iOS device via USB for standard music production applications. The LOOPBACK function in the TO PC section, which is perfect for podcasters, routes all inputs to the stereo USB output, along with the USB input from the computer. This makes mixing mics and instruments with music beds, sound effects or the audio from computers and iOS devices a breeze.
Gamers are also able to adjust their sound in real-time with the included headset interface and hardware controls, removing the need to open a software control panel. The AG is the perfect tool for creating videos on sites like Twitch.tv.
The Swiss Army Knife.
Unlike USB audio interfaces which typically rely on software to control routing, effects and monitoring, the totally new AG series eliminates the need for software and brings easy-to-use routing and DSP controls to the front panel. All of this is combined with high resolution 24-bit, 192kHz audio.
The AG series also features the acclaimed high-quality Yamaha D-PRE microphone preamps and onboard DSP effects, along with an AUX input for additional music source – such as an iPod. The inclusion of a foot switch input means that performers can add a footswitch to kill the FX on a mic channel when talking between songs. Separate headphone/monitor volume controls are perfect for gamers who share videos. The layout brings hidden or difficult-to-find software controls to the front panel with easy-to-use faders, knobs and switches. 1-TOUCH DSP makes it easier than ever to get professional sound quality.
The AG06 features six channels: a main input optimised for vocals with a D-PRE studio-quality mic preamp, a second flexible channel for another mic or a guitar and two stereo inputs for keyboards or other line level sources. The flexible second channel features 1-TOUCH AMP SIM DSP for great guitar tone at the touch of a button. The three-channel AG03 features a single 60mm fader for the main input with D-PRE mic preamp and a Hi-Z input that allows direct connection for guitars and basses.