Build a Compact DTM Environment!

Hello! Kaoru the composer here!

This time, I would like to talk about "compact DTM environments!"

When you spend a looooong time composing at home, you tend to get stuck and run out of ideas, don't you?

In times like those, a compact DTM environment is very convenient.
Composing in a change in environment refreshes the mind and helps with springing forth all sorts of ideas!

Let’s pick out some recommended products!!

AUDIENT / evo4 USB Audio Interface

An audio interface that packs the trio of high functionality, high performance, and a wallet-friendly price into a compact body!
I have been using it myself for about half a year, and I like it very much because it is quite easy to use!

Above all, the gain range, mic preamp EIN, and output dynamic range are worth noting.

Gain Range = 58dB
Mic Preamp EIN = -128dBu
Dynamic Range = 113dB

The point is that all of these values beat others in the same price range!

It is a highly recommended audio interface that handles everything from recording to mixing with superb sound!

The price is around 15,000 yen! So cheap!!!

nextDrive / SPECTRA USB Type-A Black

An ultra-compact audio interface dedicated to monitoring.
Its high-end gunmetal look is quite eye-catching.
While the body size (excluding the cable) is about the same as a standard ballpoint pen, it supports up to 32-bit/384kHz.

Originally developed for Hi-Fi audio playback, it boasts higher specs than general audio interfaces.

Please note that the headphone connection is a 3.5mm stereo mini output, so you may need an adapter depending on your setup!!

Since the body is equipped with a high-grade D/A converter and amplifier functions, it is possible to perform sound checks at quite a high volume.

The DAC chip uses the SABRE9018Q2C made by ESS Technology, a high-performance IC with a solid reputation in the audio world.

According to information from DTM Station, it seems possible to run it using power supplied from an iPhone/iPad if connected via a separately sold USB-to-Lightning adapter.

Highly recommended for those who want to be particular about sound quality even when on the go!!

IK MULTIMEDIA / iRig Keys I/O 25

A rather rare piece of equipment that combines an audio interface and a MIDI keyboard.

Equipped with 25 full-size keys and a 24-bit professional-grade audio interface supporting sampling rates up to 96kHz.

Additionally, it features:

• Balanced stereo output terminals
• Headphone output terminal
• Phantom power-supported mono combo input terminal for connecting microphones or instruments
• Two customizable slider strips (defaulted to pitch bend and modulation)
• Five touch-sensitive knobs
• Eight velocity-sensitive multi-color pads

It condenses an abundance of input and output options that cover every detail.

It supports three types of power supply: USB bus power, four AA batteries, or an optional power adapter (which can also charge iOS devices).

Furthermore, it comes with high-quality IK MULTIMEDIA software worth approximately 77,000 yen (user registration of the product is required).

The content is incredibly luxurious!

KORG / MICROKEY2-25 AIR MIDI Keyboard 25 Keys

A compact MIDI keyboard that can connect wirelessly to Bluetooth-compatible computers, iPhones, iPads, and more.
Of course, it also supports USB connection.

It’s simple, compact, and packed with essential features.

By using the dedicated editor software "KORG KONTROL Editor," you can freely customize detailed settings such as velocity curves.

Additionally, it comes bundled with software such as the KORG Collection M1 Le, which turns KORG's legendary instruments into plugins.

Native Instruments / MASCHINE MIKRO MK3

A groove production system equipped with 16 pads that allows you to create beats and melodies by tapping, quickly turning loops and track ideas into reality. It enables intuitive songwriting.

This gear is particularly perfect for beat-making in genres like EDM!

• MASCHINE Essentials
• MASSIVE
• MONARK
• REAKTOR PRISM
• A 1.6 GB MASCHINE Factory Selection containing samples, one-shots, loops, sampled instruments, presets, patterns, drum kits, and songs.

Because of this, you can start music production right away.

The size, which fits perfectly in a backpack, keeps your footwork light.

SolidBond / MASK-GT-L

In this COVID-19 era, a mask is essential for going out!

The design, hand-drawn by Ken Yokoyama, is simple and very cool!

It is a Made-in-Japan mask with a patent pending, utilizing SilicaClean—the same material used in fret guards.
It might seem a bit expensive for a mask, but because it is highly durable, the cost-performance might be good in the long run!
It comes in three sizes—S, M, and L—so it can be used by anyone regardless of gender!

That concludes my summary of recommended items for a compact DTM environment!
Every single one of these was compact yet made no compromises on functionality.

If anything caught your eye, go check it out!

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