SN - Hot New Sony Products

When Sony introduced the DRE-1 ($1200 list), a miniDisc-based device created specifically for DJs, more than a few eyebrows were raised. People weren't necessarily skeptical - after all, it's pretty safe to assume a company with a stellar track record like Sony knows what the heck they're doing when it comes to pro audio. But people were surprised that Sony would enter a market where die-hard loyalty to the equipment that serves so reliably night after night is the name of the game. But the DRE-1 easily hits the mark, with a double delivery of superior performance in the two all-important areas of DJ equipment: Professional features and enough “elbowroom” for DJs to put their own personal stamp on the sound.

Dig into this unit and it becomes pretty clear that DJs of all styles could really work some serious sonic magic with the DRE-1. The sampling trigger banks and huge menu of instant looping and scratching features are totally state-of-the-art, providing DJs with a multitude of great-sounding creative options. There's even a big rubber scratch wheel that’s highly responsive and armed with totally genuine sounds so the DJ can add some original rhythmic spice to the mix. A very simple dual slider mechanism lets you adjust speed and pitch together or separately.

But keep in mind that the DRE-1 is also a miniDisc recorder. Sony’s ATRAC data compression technology means you can easily record your performance and have it ready to play instantly, all in realtime. Look closely and you’ll see the DRE-1 has every one of the top-of-the-line features and functions established DJs need to work their wizardry, while hungry newcomers in the DJ field will find the DRE-1 can provide all the nutritious vitamins and minerals they need to grow their own style.

With a product of this type, well to be honest, words will never do it justice. You have to experience it for yourself. And you can! Just call your Sweetwater Sales Engineer. They can tell you more about the DRE-1, as well as giving you your low Sweetwater price. Or you can order one and have it delivered right to your door, spend some time exploring its many sonic possibilities and performance features. Then, if you’re not completely satisfied, return it for credit or refund. But trust us, you’ll find that the DRE-1 works with you like an extension of your own creativity, letting you express yourself without getting bogged down in some endless maze-like operating system. So pick up the phone and tell your Sales Engineer to send you a DRE-1 today.

Next up is a multi-effects processor that packs an amazing amount of power into a package that’s actually reasonably priced (what a concept!). Need a reason why the DSP-V55 ($550 list) is the effects processing king of the pro-audio jungle? We've got five reasons: Roger Nichols, Michael Bernard, Snuffy Walden, Joe Chiccarelli and Tom Jung! And those are just the reasons we could think of off the top of our heads! Some of the top pros, producers and engineers from all parts of the recording and audio industry designed many of the factory presets for the DSP-V55. The result is an effects processor that’s ideal for both musicians and small project studios, with useful, professional-quality effects, easy operation, and enormous flexibility for recording applications.

For those who require great sound and exceptional specs, the DSP-V55 picks up on the 52-bit (!) processing engine of the DSP-V77, providing big, rich reverbs and choruses with infallible on-track pitch shifting. From the most intimate room to huge halls to environments that would be impossible to build (at least on this planet), the DSP-V55 delivers sound that’s unbelievable considering its down-to-earth price tag. There's also the DSP-V55’s full multi-effects processing capabilities with 45 effects types, including EQs, Doppler effects, and up to ten voice chorusing, just to mention a few.

Another advantage of the DSP-V55 is its flexible four-channel processing capabilities. You have a choice of operating modes for processing, like two input / four output surround sound processing, two independent “true stereo” processors, or four independent mono input / four mono output processing. Another great feature of the DSP-V55 is its easy operation. A large velocity sensitive data entry wheel lets you navigate the DSP-V55's many functions without complication, and the algorithm chart on the front panel and Tap Tempo button means you have complete control over the DSP-V55's capabilities.

Finally, the DSP-V55 is affordable, costing far less than many other processors boasting comparable (or even less) power. Musicians who are serious about their project studios and the music they make there need to check out the DSP-V55. You get a fully professional sound with quality effects. Call Sweetwater today for complete details, and (of course) your special pricing.