News

• [Hosted by TuneCore Japan] “V-con! ’26,” a Vocaloid Song Contest, Is Here!

  

  2026/10/23

  TuneCore Japan, which not only distributes music but also hosts numerous live-performance auditions and music contests, is once again holding “V-con!,” a contest for Vocaloid tracks created using voice synthesis software. Sound House will also be participating as a collaborator!
  
  The collaborators will each select the tracks they find most compelling from their own perspectives, and the winning artists will receive prizes and promotional opportunities to support their future creative and promotional activities.
  
  Be sure to submit your best track!
  
  -------------------------------
  
  “V-con! ’26” Overview
  
  - Entry Period
  Friday, October 23, 2026, to Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
  
  - Eligibility
  Vocaloid songs created using voice synthesis software
  Both existing tracks available on streaming platforms and newly uploaded tracks are eligible
  
  - How to Enter
  Artists wishing to enter should review the entry requirements on the special event page and submit their entries within the specified period.
  “V-con! ’26” special event page
  
  - Announcement of Results
  Scheduled for January 2027
  
  - Awards
  Grand Prize
  KORG Award
  Sound House Award
  SONICWIRE Award
  VOCALOID Award
  VoiSona Award
  AHS Award
  CeVIO Award
  
  *Prizes and collaborators may be added during the entry period.
  
  Please check TuneCore Japan’s “V-con! ’26” special event page for the latest information.
  “V-con! ’26” special event page
  
  *“VOCALOID” and “Vocaloid” are registered trademarks of Yamaha Corporation.
  
  [TuneCore Japan]
  TuneCore Japan is a music distribution service that allows any registered user to sell their original music through digital music stores in more than 185 countries worldwide. The service launched in Japan in October 2012, and the total royalties paid to artists have exceeded 100 billion yen. The company continues to actively expand its business by adding new features and partnering with more digital music stores, both in Japan and overseas.
  http://www.tunecore.co.jp/

• Staff Blog Post “How to Prevent Feedback at Live Shows” Is Now Available!

  

  2026/10/23

  This article explains why feedback can occur unexpectedly at live shows and events, how PA operators handle it during a performance, and what preventive measures can be taken before the show, such as ringing out the sound system and making EQ adjustments. It also introduces equipment that helps prevent feedback, including digital mixers and feedback suppressors. If you are interested in PA or live sound, be sure to check it out!
  
  How to Prevent Feedback at Live Shows

• [Long-Awaited Arrival] ELECTRO-HARMONIX's Lightweight 100W Guitar Amplifier Head "ABRAMS100" Now Available!

  

  2026/10/23

  The long-awaited "ABRAMS100" guitar amplifier head from ELECTRO-HARMONIX, which packs a powerful 100W output into a compact enclosure, has finally arrived!
  
  Despite weighing only approximately 1.1 kg, it features a 100W (4Ω) Class-D power amplifier. With its clean tone and ample headroom as a foundation, you can turn up the gain to produce a light crunch with pleasing harmonics.
  In addition to offering flexible tone shaping with a 3-band EQ and BRIGHT switch, it features digital spring reverb and an effects loop. The ABRAMS100 works exceptionally well with effects pedals and can also function as a standalone power amplifier when a preamp or amp modeler is connected to the FX RETURN.
  The ABRAMS100 combines portability with authentic amp tone. It is a standout unit that excels in a wide range of settings, from home practice to rehearsals and live performances!
  
  ELECTRO-HARMONIX / ABRAMS100
  Class-D power amplifier with a maximum output of 100W at 4Ω
  Ultra-lightweight, compact design weighing approximately 1.1 kg
  High-headroom design ideal for effects pedals and amp modelers
  Versatile tone shaping with a 3-band EQ and BRIGHT switch
  Built-in digital spring reverb
  Effects loop included; can also be used as a standalone power amplifier
  Compatible with 4-16Ω speaker cabinets
  
  Check out this buzzworthy compact 100W amp head!

• [New Product] Strymon Introduces “LA BREA,” a Drive Pedal Designed to Deliver Tape Saturation!

  

  2026/10/23

  Strymon, known for its high-quality effects pedals, introduces the “LA BREA” analog tape drive!
  
  The “LA BREA” is a fully analog drive pedal inspired by the highly acclaimed “Deco.” It produces warm saturation and rich harmonics reminiscent of vintage tape machines, offering a wide range of sounds, from light overdrive to powerful distortion and fuzz-like tones.
  
  In addition to letting you blend in the dry signal using the dedicated DRY knob, the pedal allows you to fine-tune its tonal character with the SHIFT switch. You can shape the sound to your liking while maintaining note clarity, even at higher levels of distortion.
  
  Whether used as a booster or to create unique fuzz sounds, the “LA BREA” offers a diverse range of drive tones that capture the distinctive character of tape saturation. Why not add a new dimension to your tone?
  
  STRYMON / LA BREA

• [Staff Blog] 6 Soul Classics with Exquisite Vocals to Wind Down With

  

  2026/10/22

  From timeless hits by legends like Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway to hidden gems infused with jazz and Japanese influences, the Sound House staff has carefully selected six soulful tracks that are sure to touch your heart! Plus, in the second half of the article, we recommend five audio products, including earphones, headphones, and speakers, to enhance your listening experience. We hope you’ll discover a new favorite song and find the perfect audio gear to enjoy it with. Why not unwind at the end of the day with some exquisite, soul-stirring vocals?
  
  [Staff Blog] 6 Soul Classics with Exquisite Vocals to Wind Down With

• No PC Required! The Standalone WOLFMIX W1 MK3 DMX Controller Is Now in Stock!

  

  2026/10/22

  The W1 MK3 is a standalone DMX controller that lets you create and control professional lighting effects without a PC. Featuring a 4.3-inch color touchscreen and 37 backlit buttons, it provides intuitive control over a wide range of dynamic lighting effects. The MK3 features improved tactile button feedback, a redesigned housing, and USB-C connectivity.
  
  It includes Color FX for color-changing effects, Move FX for controlling moving lights, and Beam FX for effects such as strobing.
  With a built-in microphone and line input for music synchronization, the W1 MK3 makes it easy to create dynamic lighting effects that respond to the music!
  
  Supporting up to four DMX universes (2,048 channels), the W1 MK3 can control multiple lighting fixtures simultaneously. It also features an extensive fixture library, allowing you to create complex lighting setups using a wide variety of lighting equipment.
  
  Ideal for live music venues, clubs, DJ events, stage productions, and more, the W1 MK3 is a versatile lighting controller suitable for a wide range of applications. Check it out today!
  
  WOLFMIX / W1MK3

• Choosing Your First Pair of Wired Earphones: Our Complete Guide for Beginners Is Now Available!

  

  2026/10/22

  We've released our Complete Guide to Wired Earphones for Beginners, perfect for anyone considering buying their first pair of wired earphones!
  This guide breaks down how to choose the right pair by covering key factors such as intended use, popular brands, and price ranges. You'll be able to find the perfect pair of earphones to match your needs and budget.
  We've also included an FAQ section that answers common questions. Whether you're buying wired earphones for the first time or looking to upgrade your current pair, be sure to check out the guide!
  
  Complete Guide to Wired Earphones for Beginners

• ROLANDの新製品「VC-1SC-4K」が登場！！

  

  2026/10/22

  ROLANDから、4K/60p対応の高性能ビデオ・コンバーター／スケーラー「VC-1SC-4K」が新登場！！
  
  12G-SDIとHDMI 2.0の双方向変換に対応し、4KとフルHDのアップ／ダウンコンバートも可能。さらに、映像の一部を切り出してサイズや表示位置を自由に調整できるROI機能を搭載しており、LEDビジョンなどの特殊な画面サイズや縦横比にも柔軟に対応します。SDI×2系統、HDMI×2系統への同時出力にも対応し、複数のディスプレイへの映像分配もこれ1台で実現。スマートフォンやPCから直感的に操作できる専用コントロール・アプリも用意されており、現場でのセットアップや映像調整もスムーズに行えます。ライブハウスやイベント会場でのLEDビジョン演出をはじめ、会議室、商業施設、教育施設など、さまざまな業務用映像システムで活躍する注目の一台です！
  
  ■ ROLAND/VC-1SC-4K

• New Arrivals from BEHRINGER: JN-80, CZ-1 MINI & UB-Xa MINI!

  

  2026/10/22

  New BEHRINGER products are arriving in quick succession, including three exciting synthesizers!
  
  The new "JN-80" is an 8-voice, fully analog polyphonic synthesizer featuring a classic 3109-style VCF and a lush BBD chorus. Joining the lineup are the compact "CZ-1 MINI," a 3-voice hybrid phase-distortion synthesizer with an analog low-pass filter, and the "UB-Xa MINI," an analog polyphonic synthesizer featuring three VCOs and a versatile dual VCF.
  
  Several popular models are also back in stock, including the "TD-3-MO-SR," a modded-out analog bassline synthesizer with extensive sound-shaping capabilities, and the "PRO-800," an 8-voice analog polyphonic synthesizer featuring two VCOs per voice.
  
  From compact synths to full-featured analog instruments, a wide range of BEHRINGER products is now available. Be sure to check them out!
  
  JN-80
  CZ-1 MINI
  UB-Xa MINI
  TD-3-MO-SR
  PRO-800

• [Limited-Edition Colors Available!] Three British-Inspired Limited-Edition Colors Now Available for the BLACKSTAR ID V4!

  

  2026/10/22

  Three special colors with classic British charm are now available for BLACKSTAR's popular ID V4 home practice guitar amp!
  
  The three available colors are BRITISH RACING GREEN, featuring the traditional British racing color; OXBLOOD, with its striking deep reddish-brown finish; and DOUBLE CREAM, a popular color that has made its long-awaited return.
  
  The ID V4 is a 10-watt guitar amp that packs powerful Super Wide Stereo sound into a compact cabinet. It features six amp voices and 12 effects, providing a wide range of tones from clean to high-gain sounds.
  
  Furthermore, the power reduction feature lets you lower the output to 1 watt, allowing you to enjoy powerful sound even at low volumes. It also offers a wealth of features, including USB-C connectivity for recording and CabRig Lite cabinet simulation. It is versatile enough for everything from daily practice to home recording.
  
  These special British-inspired finishes also look great as part of your decor and will make your daily guitar playing even more enjoyable! Be sure to check them out!
  
  BLACKSTAR / ID V4 BRITISH RACING GREEN [Limited Color]
  Features a deep green that evokes British tradition, paired with a brightly colored front grille for an elegant, classic finish.
  
  BLACKSTAR / ID V4 OXBLOOD [Limited Color]
  Features a bold, vintage-inspired look that combines a deep reddish-brown exterior with a black grille.
  
  BLACKSTAR / ID V4 DOUBLE CREAM
  Features a cream-colored body accented by black knobs. This popular, warm retro color is back!