<![CDATA[CosmoMusic.ca Blog]]> Wed, 22 May 2013 22:42:15 +0000 en hourly 1 <![CDATA[Yamaha Clavinova CVP400 Series & CVP500 Series Sale!]]> Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:51:52 +0000 Save on all Yamaha Clavinova CVP400 Series & CVP500 Series from February 8, 2013 to February 28, 2013 here at Cosmo:

PLUS receive a FREE Yamaha PDX-11 Portable Player Dock with the purchase of a Yamaha CVP400 Series or CVP500 Series Clavinova!

Cosmo Clavinova Sale

Stock is limited so hurry in!

Speak to a Cosmo Music Specialist for more details.

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<![CDATA[Top Picks from NAMM: Pianos, Keyboards & Recording]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 22:10:17 +0000 NAMM Show Top 3 Hot Items: Pianos

Premium Products: Yamaha CVP609
Yamaha cvp609
The new Clavinova series from Yamaha comes with much improved sounds and greater expression on the individual instruments so the easy play orchestration is realistic. Actual wave recordings, of say a Brazilian percussion section playing together, are used in the easy play accompaniments for astonishing realism.

Mid-Level Cost: Weber W121 Upright Piano
weber vw121 upright piano
Piano designer technician guru Del Fandrich was on hand at the Hyundai Development Corp booth explaining the re-design of the Weber and Young Chang uprights providing wider tonal range and expression, employing the finest in woods and premium performance but able to maintain the entry level pricing.

Something for Everyone: Yamaha YDP142 Digital Home Piano
Yamaha ydp142 digital home piano
Continuing in the Yamaha piano tradition, the new YDP142 comes with bench and stand with new and improved tone for a added expression perfect for the young beginner on a budget.

 

NAMM Show Top 3 Hot Items: Keyboards
Analog is back with all the tone, user requested updates and sound.

Premium Products: New Korg King Analog Modelling Synth
korg king analog modelling synth
Huge sounds emulating the various analog synths. 61 note velocity sensitive and programmable.

Mid-Level Cost: Arturia Mini Brute Synth
arturia mini brute synth
Lots of knobs, sliders and buttons to tweak. Big filter sweeps, 24db with resonance, 25 keys with easy octave switching and aftertouch, traditional analog style CV inputs and solid construction for the rigors of the road.

Something for Everyone: Arturia MiniLab
arturia minilab
25 mini-key solid construction controller and a great analog pack of the renowned Arturia plug-ins all for about $100.

 

NAMM Show Top 3 Hot Items: Recording Hardware & Software

Premium Products: Avid Pro Tools HD with Thunderbolt
avid pro tools hd thunderbolt
The standard of the recording world adds the Thunderbolt speed into the HD rig providing the highest of sound recording and playback, higher track counts and endless plug-ins.

Mid-Level Cost: Pianodisc Magic Time Silent Piano System
quiettime silentstar
Turn your old or new upright piano into a silent practice piano with headphones. An easy quick install silences the acoustic side of your piano while maintaining the piano touch but still allows for the expression while listening on headphones. Other applications include playing any keyboard sound from orchestral to synthesizers on your piano or recording and printing out the music notation of your piano playing.

Something for Everyone: DoreMIR Score Cleaner
DoreMIR Score Cleaner software
A music notation software with intelligence. Play your song into your computer from any MIDI keyboard or controller and it will interpret your playing and set the tempo, make the bar lines, add the key signature and then you can print it and give to the band members.

 

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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<![CDATA[NAMM 2013: Day 1 Round-up]]> Thu, 24 Jan 2013 17:49:16 +0000 And it has begun! Here are a few things we've spotted so far today: Elton John among a group performing live (and you can watch it), Fender basses and a whatchamacallit, Jackson Guitars, Peavey's next generation, Sennheiser & Shure launches more wireless, Pigtronix pedal, Digitech JamMan SoloXT, Korg MS-20 Mini + more goodies, M-Audio, Akai, Numark, Levy’s straps, Eventide H9 Stomp re-thunk, Kala Banjo Uke, Presonus, DW Drums, from the floor and pre-NAMM Suhr party pics (and breathe).

 

Yamaha’s 125th anniversary
To commemorate Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, a concert featuring Elton John will be held at the Hyperion Theater is Disneyland California will be streamed live for the world to watch on January 25th at 8 pm PST. Joining Elton onstage will be Amy Grant, Chaka Khan, Dave Grusin, Earth, Wind & Fire, James Newton Howard, Leogun, Lucy Schwartz, Michael McDonald, Sarah McLachlan, Sinbad and Toto. Legendary bass player Nathan East will serve as music director. Watch it live here.
Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, a concert featuring Elton John

 

Fender American Vintage Series Basses
Historic Benchmarks, American Originals. The resurrection of vintage 50’s tooling allowed for the recreation of these masterpieces. Take a look for yourself!

Fender Mando-Strat… Whatchamacallit?
The classic Fender electric mandolin returns as the new Mando-Strat. This highly distinctive and charmingly diminutive instrument evokes the Fender electric four-string mandolins of the 1950s and ’60s, with an updated and improved design for modern players.
Fender Mando-Strat… Whatchamacallit

 

New Jackson Guitars for 2013
A plethora of new guitars for Jackson in 2013, 20 new models in fact!

New Artist Signature models include a Chris Broderick Pro Series Soloist™ 6 and 7, Corey Beaulieu USA Signature KV6 and KV7 and Dave Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass.
Jackson Chris Broderick Pro Series Soloist™ 6 and 7Jackson Corey Beaulieu USA Signature KV6 and KV7Jackson Dave Ellefson Signature Kelly Bird Bass

New Pro Series models include a Pro DKA Dinky™ 7/8 and Pro DK2HT, Pro DK2MHT, Pro DK2QHT, and Pro DK2MQHT.
Jackson New Pro Series models Jackson New Pro Series models

New USA Select series models include USA Select B7MG, USA Select B7MG Deluxe, USA Select B8MG, and USA Select B8MG Deluxe
Jackson new USA Select series models

New JS Series includes a JS22-7 DKA Dinky, JS32-7Q Dinky, JS32-8Q Dinky, JS3QM Concert™ Bass, and JS3VQM Concert Bass
Jackson new JS Series

 

Peavey introduces the next generation ValveKing® Series
The original award-winning ValveKing line was designed to feature all of the tonal qualities and attention-to-detail circuitry of a boutique amplifier, but with a price point real working guitarists could afford. With the next generation of ValveKing, Peavey has taken this idea even further and delivered one of its most tonally sophisticated lines of amps yet, tailored for the versatile needs of today's working guitarists.
Peavey Introduces the Next Generation ValveKing® Series

Peavey debuts new Vypyr® VIP Series Variable Instrument Performance™ Amplifiers
The world’s first Variable Instrument Performance™ amplifiers. After the award-winning original Peavey Vypyr series set the new standard for modeling guitar amplifiers, the Vypyr VIP series introduces an entirely new level of technological sophistication and tonal versatility. With the Vypyr VIP series, Peavey introduces the world’s first amp that contains Bass guitar, Acoustic guitar and Electric guitar amplifier models. With Peavey’s Variable Instrument Input™, a single amp can provide amplification for a variety of instrument types.
Peavey Debuts New Vypyr® VIP Series Variable Instrument Performance™ Amplifiers

 

Sennheiser launches digital 9000 series wireless
Digital 9000 wireless, with uncompressed digital audio with up to 40 channels within a 24 megahertz range – bodypack and mic transmitter options available.
Sennheiser Launches digital 9000 Series Wireless

 

Shure unveils new BLX and GLX digital wireless series
Adding to Shure’s already impressive lineup, the BLX series grants great performance at an affordable price, while the GLX series adds its Digital Audio Clarity technology with rechargeable batteries from upper end units.

 

Pigtronix introduces Quantum Time modulator pedal
Pigtronix introduces Quantum Time Modulator pedal for Winter NAMM 2013. It produces a parallel universe of analog time stretching effects with only three knobs and a single switch. Reflecting the fundamental principals of modern atomic physics in pedal form, the Pigtronix Quantum can be in any number of places at once and will change in response to both input and observation.
Pigtronix Introduces Quantum Time Modulator Pedal

 

Digitech introduces JamMan SoloXT
DigiTech’s JamMan Solo XT brings you the definitive stereo looping experience. Build up the energy in your performance and find new inspiration with virtually limitless loops. Seamless transitions between looped phrases make the JamMan Solo XT an invaluable tool for composing and performing.
Digitech Introduces JamMan SoloXT

 

Korg MS-20 Mini – Monophonic Analog Synthesizer, the classic MS-20 recreated in mini size!
An analog synthesizer featuring the original circuitry from 1978. Korg’s MS-20 monophonic synthesizer, first introduced in 1978, is still a coveted instrument to this day, thanks to its thick, robust sound, its powerful, iconic analog filter, and its versatile patching options. Over 300,000 people have enjoyed the distinct MS-20 sounds from the original, from Korg’s MS-20 plug-in synth, or the iMS-20 iPad app.
Korg MS-20 Mini – Monophonic Analog Synthesizer, The classic MS-20 –recreated in mini size!

Korg debuts KAOSSILATOR PRO+
Korg exhibits the latest addition to their acclaimed Kaoss family: the Kaossilator Pro+ Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer/Loop Recorder. The Kaossilator Pro+ is packed with 250 programs, including more of the cutting-edge synth sounds that Korg is known for. Like all Kaoss-based products, this versatile new instrument offers creative musical possibilities and intuitive control over multiple parameters simply by moving a finger across the X-Y touchpad.
Korg Debuts KAOSSILATOR PRO+

Korg’s new KP3+ KAOSS PAD
Yet another addition to the series: the KP3+ Dynamic Effect/Sampler. The KP3+ provides even more creative power for live and in-studio use while retaining the intuitive and user-friendly Kaoss touchpad interface. It offers the original KP3 effects, sounds and features, plus 22 all-new, diverse effect programs for everything from various EDM genres to rock and beyond. All are complemented by an enhanced, intuitive pad illumination system.
Korg’s new KP3+ KAOSS PAD

Korg announces Pitchblack Portable
Korg announces the newest addition to the Pitchblack family of tuners, the Pitchblack Portable Handheld Polyphonic Tuner for Guitar and Bass. This new, compact tuner offers convenient tuning by enabling all strings to be tuned simultaneously.
Korg Announces Pitchblack Portable

The all new Korg SP-280 Digital Piano
The newest model in its series of Digital Pianos, the SP-280. It faithfully recreates the experience of playing a genuine Concert Grand in a beautifully designed digital piano that's ideal for use at home or on stage. With 30 sounds in total, plus customizable ambience effects, the SP-280 is versatile enough for a wide variety of applications.
The All New Korg SP-280 Digital Piano

Korg announces King Korg Analog Modeling Synth
Korg USA announces the King Korg analog modeling synth. Focused on live performance, it features Korg's new XMT (Xpanded Modeling Technology) engine, with many types of oscillators and filters that can accurately model sought-after vintage analog synths. With its controls laid out in easily identifiable sections, King Korg delivers the unique characteristics of a dedicated synthesizer, while remaining approachable to players who are new to synthesizers. It not only shines on stage with high quality sound, but also with a champagne gold finish befitting its royal name.
Korg announces King Korg Analog Modeling Synth

 

M-Audio launches assortment of new products for 2013
New products from M-Audio include the new Axiom AIR 25, 49 & 61 keyboard controllers as well as the AIR Mini 32. The new M-Track, M-Track Plus and MTrack Quad 2-4 channel USB Audio/Midi interfaces as well the new M3-8 three-way active studio monitors are great new additions to the M-Audio lineup.
m-audio 2013

 

New Akai Professional products for the masses!
New products from Akai include the MPX8 SD sample pad controller, the compact MAX25 and MAX49 USB/MIDI/CV controllers and a slew of new MPC – Music Production Controller products including the Renaissance, Studio, Fly, Software and iMPC App for iPad.
akai 2013

 

Numark’s new gear for 2013
Numark releases all sorts of new performance DJ controllers including the Mixtrack II, Mixtrack Pro II and Mixdeck Quad, as well as the iDJ Pro and Live II. The 4-Channel NS7 II and the wireless handheld Midi DJ Controller – Orbit.
Numark 2013

 

Levy’s introduces new LOXX series straps
Using premium garment leathers and using LOXX strap locks, these new straps are the definition of functional beauty!
Levy’s introduces new LOXX series straps

 

Eventide H9 Stomp – Stompbox Re-Thunk!
The H9 delivers Eventide's acclaimed sound and can run all of Eventide's stompbox effects. It features a simple, one-knob user interface and also connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to iPods, iPhones and iPads for creating and managing presets, live control and in-app algorithm purchases.
Eventide H9 Stomp – Stompbox Re-Thunk!

 

Kala Ukuleles presents the Banjo Uke!
Kala's banjo ukes will be available in soprano and concert sizes and are distinctively appointed with a luxuriant black satin finish, Remo Weatherking Banjo Head, deluxe geared tuners with black buttons, rosewood fingerboard, maple bridge with ebony cap, and a closed back design.
Kala Ukuleles presents the Banjo Uke

 

Presonus shows up with new Capture 2.0 Live Recording Software
The new software adds additional major features that come along with a new look! Version 2 further streamlines workflow—one of Capture’s strengths—and adds significant new safety features to an already remarkably stable recording platform.
Presonus shows up with new Capture 2.0 Live Recording Software

 

dw adds Concrete snare to their popular Collector’s Series Specialty Snares
Concrete drums are perfectly suited for both live and studio applications and provide a decidedly different tonal quality than either wood or metal. The thin, cast 5.5mm shell includes a standard 45 degree cut bearing edge and snare beds.
dw adds Concrete snare to their popular Collector’s Series Specialty Snares

 

Pre-NAMM Suhr factory party
We always make sure to visit our friends at Suhr when we attend NAMM - last night's Pre-NAMM Factory party didn't disappoint as Doug Aldrich, Andy Wood & Pete Thorn rocked it. Check out our pics on Facebook.
Pre-NAMM Suhr Factory Party [Jan 2013] - Facebook

 

Pics from the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center
Check out our pics on Facebook.
NAMM 2013 pics from the floor

 

NAMM is a very exciting trip for all of us and we want to share it with all of you. So our pledge to you is to give you as much of our experience through pictures, video and write ups so that you too have something to look forward to this time every year!

So visit us often!

Like us on Facebook - posting daily pics from the floor
Facebook

Follow us on Twitter - tweeting up-to-the minute discoveries
Twitter

Watch us on YouTube - posting daily videos from the floor
YouTube

Follow us on Instagram - posting up-to-the-minute captures
Instagram

Cosmo Music at The NAMM Show 2013

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<![CDATA[Yamaha NU1 Digital Piano Review]]> Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:44:14 +0000 A look at the Yamaha NU1 Digital Piano and comparing it to the real action of a Yamaha Upright Piano.

 

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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<![CDATA[Yamaha Avant Grand Review]]> Fri, 07 Dec 2012 13:24:09 +0000 A look at the Yamaha Avant Grande, including an exclusive look at what goes inside the piano!

 

 

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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http://cosmomusic.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/b54fd99fb6-240x160.jpg <![CDATA[Yamaha Avant Grand Review]]>
<![CDATA[Yamaha Rebate - Save up to $500 on Yamaha Wind & String Instruments!]]> Fri, 30 Nov 2012 10:03:30 +0000 Celebrating 125 years…

To mark Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, we’re offering up to $500 in mail-in rebates on intermediate, professional and custom wind & string instruments.

Here’s how it works...

For every $1000 (excluding taxes) you spend on eligible instruments receive $125 in cash rebates. You can receive up to $500 with this special offer!

Spend $1,000 or more   Receive $125 rebate
Spend $2,000 or more   Receive $250 rebate
Spend $3,000 or more   Receive $375 rebate
Spend $4,000 or more   Receive $500 rebate

Valid on eligible new in-stock instruments at authorized Yamaha dealers in Canada for purchases made between October 12 and December 31, 2012. Redemption must be made online by January 31, 2013. Conditions and exceptions apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Only valid in Canada. Yamaha Canada Music reserves the right to cancel these offers at any time. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Shipping to physical mailing addresses only; we cannot ship to PO boxes

For further information click here!

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<![CDATA[Yamaha Rebate - Save up to $625 on a Yamaha Clavinova!]]> Fri, 30 Nov 2012 10:00:40 +0000 Celebrating 125 years…

To mark Yamaha’s 125th anniversary, we’re offering up to $625 in mail-in rebates on Clavinova CVP Series digital pianos.

Here’s how it works...

Purchase one of these eligible instruments to receive your mail-in rebate.

Model Rebate
CVP501/PE $125
CVP503/PE $250
CVP505/PE/PM $375
CVP509/PE/PM $500
CVP409GP $625

Valid on eligible new in-stock instruments at authorized Yamaha dealers in Canada for purchases made between October 12 and December 31, 2012. Redemption must be made online by January 31, 2013. Conditions and exceptions apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Only valid in Canada. Yamaha Canada Music reserves the right to cancel these offers at any time. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Shipping to physical mailing addresses only; we cannot ship to PO boxes.

Yamaha rebate

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<![CDATA[Receive a FREE PDX-11 Portable Player Dock with the purchase of a Yamaha CVP-500 Series Clavinova.]]> Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:42:39 +0000 This easy-to-carry, powerful speaker system frees your iPod/iPhone music for your active lifestyle. Enjoy your music wherever you go, including performances you create on your CVP Clavinova.

Details:

Purchases must have been made between July 1st, 2012 and December 31st, 2012 from an authorized Yamaha dealer (that's us!). Submission deadline: 01/31/13. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All Promotions are while supplies last. Only Valid in Canada. Yamaha Canada Music reserves the right to cancel these offers at any time. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Shipping to physical mailing addresses

Visit www.yamahapromos.ca for more.

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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<![CDATA[A Closer Look at Young Chang Upright Pianos]]> Wed, 20 Jun 2012 11:48:44 +0000 Today we are going to take a closer look at what goes into a high quality Young Chang Upright Piano.

The best upright pianos in the world do not have any plastic action parts, only the best woods like this piano. As a result, it is a much finer musical instrument but still remains affordable.

Used Pianos have no manufacturer's backing with a warranty. Young Chang offers 10 years parts and labour warranty on this series of pianos and makes it transferrable to every owner, so when you want to upgrade, the resale price can be higher with a real valid warranty.

Parent company Hyundai has undergone an immense engineering investment in order to create a finer piano. Just like Hyundai cars winning 2012 Car of the Year, best design and best small car awards, this investment has resulted in better value for piano buyers.

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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http://cosmomusic.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Young_Chang_Y1311-e1340207584262-179x160.jpg <![CDATA[A Closer Look at Young Chang Upright Pianos]]>
<![CDATA[Getting more out of your Piano with the PianoDisc QuietTime System]]> Tue, 29 May 2012 09:17:33 +0000 Today we look at the PianoDisc QuietTime system, featured here on this Young Chang Grand Piano.

The Pianodisc Quiettime System allows me to:
-To practice on a real acoustic piano but silently with headphones
-To print out the piano music I play
-To record the piano music I play and be able to correct my wrong notes upon playback

Underneath the keys of your acoustic upright or grand piano, a MIDI contact strip is installed connected to a box to connect any MIDI module or computer. One moves a lever which silences the piano so now you can listen via headphones or speakers to your sound module or computer program’s sounds. Computer sequencing software will allow you record your playing and notation software will allow you to display and print out your performances even with individual note corrections. Thus all the benefits of tone colour of acoustic pianos is combined with the functional benefits of digital technology.

One can also add a player system from Pianodisc which turns your piano into what is often thought of as the piano-roll player piano. This system moves the actual keys up and down so after recording one plays back and the keys move. There are also many prerecorded video files so from even a wireless device like your Iphone or Ipad ,one can watch a video of stars from Dianna Krall to Coldplay on the phone and hear the piano part played with moving keys from your piano. The grand piano now has become an integral part of families’ home theatre room.Pianodisc player systems come with a huge library of files with thousand more of all types of styles and performances available online downloadable directly to your wireless device.
Make your piano music-making even more fun with Pianodisc.

John Ebata
Piano Division, Keyboard & Recording Manager
Cosmo Music
905.770.5222 x 261
john@cosmomusic.ca

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http://cosmomusic.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/39795-240x160.jpg <![CDATA[Getting more out of your Piano with the PianoDisc QuietTime System]]>