Blackmagic Design Announces DaVinci Resolve 20

NAB 2025, Las Vegas, USA - Friday, April 4, 2025 - Blackmagic Design today announced DaVinci Resolve 20 a major new update which adds over 100 new features and AI tools such as AI IntelliScript, AI Animated Subtitles, AI Multicam SmartSwitch and AI Audio Assistant, as well as keyframe editing, voice over palettes, multi layer compositing tools, new optical flow vector tools and major updates to Magic Mask and depth map. DaVinci Resolve 20 public beta is available for download now from the Blackmagic Design web site.

The DaVinci Resolve 20 will be demonstrated on the Blackmagic Design NAB 2025 booth #SL216.

DaVinci Resolve 20 introduces more than 100 new features including powerful AI tools designed to assist customers with all stages of their workflow. Use AI IntelliScript to create timelines based on a text script, AI Animated Subtitles to animate words as they are spoken, and AI Multicam SmartSwitch to assemble a timeline with camera angles based on speaker detection. The cut and edit pages introduce a dedicated keyframe editor and voiceover palettes, and AI Audio Assistant analyzes the timeline audio and intelligently creates a professional audio mix. In Fusion, explore advanced multi layer compositing workflows. The Color Warper now includes Chroma Warp, plus Magic Mask and Depth Map have huge updates.

New features in Blackmagic Cloud include Cloud folders, which lets customers easily share extra clips, images or graphics for a project with other collaborators. All cloud content appears as virtual clips and folders until used in a project, after which it is synced locally. Customers can access large amounts of media while keeping their media pool organized.

Customers can also now review projects in Presentations with clients who don’t have a Blackmagic Cloud account. To activate guest access simply generate a URL link of the Presentation customers want to review and share it with clients. Customers can review clips, make notes on the timeline using markers and even group chat.

Cloud storage has also been updated with an icon view that displays thumbnails of all clips so customers can visually identify them and manage their media. Hovering over thumbnails lets customers scrub through the content for quick media preview. The inspector panel displays camera and clip metadata, as well as production notes.

On the cut, edit and color pages, when a vertical timeline or project is loaded, the page layouts automatically rearrange to optimize working with a vertical viewer. Tools and palettes are moved to ensure that customers have maximum use of the screen without wasted space and without the need to constantly zoom.

The voiceover palette on the cut page records a voice over track during timeline playback. Customers get cue, record, and stop controls, plus quick access to voice isolation and dialogue leveling tools. A dedicated track is added automatically. Customers can load and work with a prompter script and a countdown.

A dedicated keyframe editor in the cut and edit pages allows for finer parameter animation. Use the keyframe curves and parameter modes to edit keyframes and customize animation shape with ease controls. Customers can also use the keyframe tray below the timeline to review and navigate timeline keyframes.

The Text+ tool has been updated to include the layout’s point, text box, circle or path styles giving customers more refined control over the layout of their text graphics. When working with PSD files on a timeline, customers can choose to split the PSD layers in place in order to work with each individual layer.

The MultiText tool creates multiple text layers in one place for greater flexibility. Customers can use the inspector tabs to set individual style parameters within each text layer, including appearance, layout, warping and keyframe animation. The text list lets customers navigate, rearrange, lock, and delete layers.

On the cut page, customers can now drag directly in the viewer to live overwrite a camera angle directly into the timeline. With the sync bin active, or when in multi source mode, customers can drag horizontally to live paint at the playhead, or drag down to turn the angle into a draggable clip.

The cut page now also has a safe trimming mode to prevent crucial edits from being accidentally overwritten. Customers can drag trim points to quickly fill gaps in the timeline. When they reach a cut point, DaVinci Resolve will pause. If they do want to overwrite the edit, just keep dragging to trim the adjacent clip.

A full audio mixer with professional loudness metering has also been added to the cut page. Each channel strip has a left-right pan slider, fader, solo, and mute buttons, plus professional panning, EQ, Dynamics, and FX controls. Now customers can mix and monitor audio while they record, edit and finish their show.

On the edit page, the voiceover tool lets customers record directly into the timeline. There are quick controls to set file name, audio input and destination track. With automatic track selection and customization options like countdown and input monitoring, creating a voice over has never been easier.

On the color page, new chroma warp lets customers intuitively adjust color and saturation with a single motion in the viewer. The stroke control moves colors in one direction, while the point to point mode isolates regions for more precise hue correction. Customers can add pin points to isolate regions customers do not want to affect.

When streaming remotely, customers can choose to display power windows and other overlays on the reference monitor. This is helpful for remote workflows where the grading system is in a separate location from the colorist, or their client, and their local monitor. Customers can also now stream H.265 4:2:2.

Fusion now offers deep image compositing tools, so customers can access the depth data found in deep image EXR files. A range of new nodes allows customers to merge, transform, resize, crop, recolor, and generate holdouts. Render from Fusion’s 3D environment and export deep EXR’s with the Fusion saver node.

Support has also been added for multi-layer images across all nodes. Fusion can read multi-layer EXRs or photoshop files, preview the layers in the viewer, and access and manipulate any layer in any node. Now artists have seamless layer interaction without needing independent renders of a source file.

Vector warp, vector transform, and vector denoise are new optical flow vector tools integrated within Fusion. These tools enable intricate temporal effects by leveraging motion vectors. Utilizing a clip's natural movement for warping and denoising presents a powerful time saving solution for artists.

Fusion’s PanoMap, spherical stabilizer, LatLong patcher, 3D VR camera and the 3D viewers have been updated to support 180-degree angle of view to allow production of immersive content. Customers can also render 3D scenes to VR180 using a spherical camera and Renderer3D for a simplified production process.

The enhanced Dome light is a 3D tool that simulates natural ambient lighting in a 3D scene. It allows the integration of 360 HDRI images for accurate reflections and global illumination. Now customers can create more realistic environments, ensuring their 3D models respond convincingly to light conditions.

Customers can now preview color page clip grades directly in the Fusion page viewer through the MediaOut node. This will give customers a better representation of their final composition and save customers time by not requiring customers to leave the Fusion page every time customers need to review the final look of a clip.

Clip EQ now features 6 bands on the cut, edit and Fairlight pages. This allows for more tonal control at the clip level, and matches the track EQ in the mixer. So now customers can easily copy and paste settings between the clip, track and EQ plug-in for more consistent, flexible and precise control.

Fairlight has two new clip processing options that lets customers adjust a target clip’s audio to match a reference clip’s level or tonal spectrum. EQ match is dynamic and is automatically automated across their clip to maintain a tonal match. Level Matcher lets customers seamlessly intercut clip sections without manual changes.

DaVinci Resolve 20 Features

• Import Blackmagic Cloud Shared folders to media pool.

• New optimized UI layouts option for vertical videos on cut, edit and color pages.

• Voiceover palette with cue, voice tools and teleprompter.

• Improved keyframing with dedicated curve view and timeline drawer.

• Text+ paragraph, line wrapping and bounding tools.

• MultiText tool with layers and easy transform, clip and wrap controls.

• Live overwrite now supports edit keys and search dial.

• Mouse drag to live overwrite multi source and sync bin.

• Trim with safe edit avoids overwriting adjacent clips.

• Full featured audio mixer added to cut page.

• Voiceover tool with record and monitor options in edit page.

• Chroma Color Warper grading.

• Display viewer overlays for remote monitoring.

• Stream and monitor H.265 4:2:2 on supported hardware.

• Deep image compositing toolset.

• Multi layer pipelining for OpenEXR, PSD and stereoscopic 3D.

• Vector warping toolset for image patching and cleanup.

• Fusion support for 180 VR.

• 3D Scene Dome Light.

• View color page grade in media out node on Fusion page.

• Clip EQ now features 6 bands.

• EQ and Level Matcher processes match tone and clip levels.

• EQ and Gain now also available as Fairlight FX plugins.

• Fairlight Chain FX to create and restore frequently chained plugins.

• Resolve FX AI Set Extender.

• AI IntelliScript creates timelines with a user provided script.

• AI Dialogue Matcher matches clip tone, level and reverberance.

• AI Music Editor automatically edits music to desired length.

• AI animated subtitles highlights or animates spoken words.

• AI Multicam SmartSwitch for automatic angle switching.

• AI Voice Convert with built-in and user trainable models.

• AI SuperScale now includes 3x and 4x enhanced upscaling.

• AI Magic Mask v2 with paint brush.

• AI Resolve FX Depth Map v2.

• AI IntelliCut to remove silences.

• AI IntelliCut to checkerboard dialogue by speaker.

• AI IntelliCut to generate ADR Cues using transcription speaker info.

• AI Audio Assistant automatically creates a finished mix.

• AI Detect Music Beats displays and allows beat snapping.

Availability and Price

DaVinci Resolve 20 public beta is available now for download from the Blackmagic Design web site.

Blackmagic Design Announces New Blackmagic PYXIS 12K

NAB 2025, Las Vegas, USA - Friday, April 4, 2025 - Blackmagic Design today announced Blackmagic PYXIS 12K, a new digital film camera that features a revolutionary 12K RGBW sensor in the versatile PYXIS camera design! This new model features the same sensor as URSA Cine 12K LF with a massive 16 stops of dynamic range along with dual CFexpress media recorders, 10G Ethernet and Blackmagic Cloud global sync, all in a customizable body. Blackmagic PYXIS 12K is available in three models, with customers able to choose between L-Mount, PL or Locking EF lens mounts.

Blackmagic PYXIS 12K will be available in July from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide for US$4,995.

The Blackmagic PYXIS 12K will be demonstrated on the Blackmagic Design NAB 2025 booth #SL216.

With multiple mounting points and accessory side plates, it’s easy to configure Blackmagic PYXIS into the camera customers need it to be! PYXIS’ compact body is made from precision CNC machined aerospace aluminum, which means it is lightweight yet very strong. You can easily mount it on a range of camera rigs such as cranes, gimbals or drones! In addition to the multiple 1/4″ and 3/8″ thread mounts on the top and bottom of the body, Blackmagic PYXIS has a range of side plates that further extends the ability to mount accessories such as handles, microphones or even SSDs. All this means customers can build the perfect camera for the any production that’s both rugged and reliable!

Blackmagic PYXIS models feature a large full frame sensor with a native resolution of 6048 x 4032 or a massive 12288 x 8040. That's almost three times larger than a Super 35 sensor and lets customers shoot with a shallow depth of field or use anamorphic lenses uncropped for a true cinematic look. Whether users are shooting in bright light or in almost no light at all, the massive dynamic range with high performance sensor provides stunning low noise images in all lighting conditions. Plus, PYXIS lets customers shoot up to 112 fps on the PYXIS 12K. This amazing sensor combined with Blackmagic color science gives customers the same quality as the most expensive digital cinema cameras.

Using the full area of the sensor gives customers a unique open gate 3:2 image which also lets them reframe their shots in post production. The large sensor also lets customers work in true 6:5 anamorphic without cropping, making widescreen cinematic images more detailed and in higher resolution than previously possible. Customers can even use the classic Super 35 sized window on the sensor to create an instant ‘close up’ version of their shot that fits seamlessly with open gate footage.

Customers can choose between L-Mount, EF or PL lenses, making Blackmagic PYXIS compatible with the largest range of cinema and photographic lenses in the world. The L-Mount model works with the latest full frame lenses from Leica, Panasonic and Sigma but can also accommodate lens adapters, allowing customers to use a wide variety of new and vintage lenses. The EF model lets customers use high quality photographic lenses they already own from DSLRs or even Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Cameras. Or the PL model lets customers work with professional cinema lenses from Zeiss, ARRI, Cooke and more without needing an adapter.

Blackmagic PYXIS models can shoot in all standard resolutions and frame rates from HD up to DCI 4K, 6K, 8K and even 12K. Blackmagic PYXIS 12K features a multi scale sensor with that lets customers shoot in 12K, 8K or 4K at the full sensor size. Shoot up to 40 fps at 12288 x 8040 3:2 open gate or 60 fps at 12288 x 5112 2.4:1 and 112 fps at 4096 x 2160 4K. With the 6K model, customers can shoot up to 36 fps at 6048 x 4032 3:2 open gate or 60 fps at 4096 x 2160 4K DCI.

The built in LCD on Blackmagic PYXIS is more than just a simple status display. It’s a 4″ high resolution HDR touchscreen that is also perfect for monitoring and reviewing shots on set. Its full HD resolution means customers can frame and focus their shots without needing to carry around a bulky external monitor.

Blackmagic PYXIS Monitor is a versatile 5″ HDR touchscreen monitor with full camera control that can be mounted almost anywhere. It provides the same controls and overlays as PYXIS’ built in LCD, so it’s perfect to use when rigging or accessories block the internal display. Multiple mounting points make it easy to attach on any camera rig and use as a large viewfinder for easier focusing and framing. Or use it as an assist station so crew can frame and monitor shots from any position on set. Plus, the bright 1500 nit display and removable sunshade ensure visibility, even in sunlight.

Blackmagic PYXIS supports the optional Blackmagic URSA Cine EVF to make outdoors and handheld shooting accurate and easy. Customers get an integrated high quality 1920 x 1080 color OLED display with built in proximity sensor, 4 element glass diopter for incredible accuracy with a wide focus adjustment.

The innovative side plates expand the riggability of their camera even further. The standard plate included with Blackmagic PYXIS is made from the same aircraft grade aluminum as the camera body and features 2 1/4″ thread mounts and one 3/8″ thread mount, allowing customers to add microphones, brackets or other accessories. Or customers can attach the included SSD plate which offers a convenient location to securely attach a USB-C drive for recording or even a mobile phone for live streaming.

Blackmagic PYXIS records in Blackmagic RAW to preserve control of detail, exposure and color during post production. It also records HD H.264 proxies in real time making it easy to share media around the world in minutes. This means their images always maintain unprecedented resolution and quality for color, keying, compositing, reframing, stabilization and tracking in HD, 4K, 6K, 8K or even a massive 12K.

The Blackmagic PYXIS features two built in CFexpress card recorders, and a USB-C expansion port for recording direct to external flash media disks or an SSD. CFexpress media are more durable and faster than even older media so are perfect for recording full resolution, 12-bit Blackmagic RAW files. Plus, with dual CFexpress slots, customers can keep recording because they can hot swap full cards without stopping.

Blackmagic PYXIS records an HD proxy in H.264 in addition to the camera original media. The small proxy file can upload to Blackmagic Cloud in seconds, even as the camera’s recording, so their media is available back at the studio in real time. The ability to transfer media directly into the DaVinci Resolve media bin as editors are working is revolutionary and has never before been possible. Any editor working anywhere in the world will get the shots.

When uploading to Blackmagic Cloud, customers can use an Apple or Android phone to get a connection to the internet via mobile data. Simply connect the phone to the USB-C port and Blackmagic PYXIS will configure for mobile data. Customers can also connect via wired Ethernet using the camera’s Ethernet port. This lets customers get their media out as they shoot so post production teams anywhere in the world can start work in real time.

Blackmagic PYXIS features a wide range of connections for audio, monitoring, power and more. The camera includes a 12G-SDI out for monitoring with support for HDR and Ultra HD output. That means customers can connect an SDI display for on set monitoring of images, with or without overlays that show critical information and camera status. SDI allows for much longer cable runs than HDMI making it easier to reach monitors that are further away on set.

Blackmagic PYXIS features a built hardware streaming engine that supports RTMP and SRT streaming to YouTube, Facebook, X and more. For internet access, customers have two options, one to connect via Ethernet or they can connect a 4G or 5G phone for mobile data. As the streaming is built into the camera, customers can see the stream status and data rate in the viewfinder and the LCD.

“Since the introduction of the Blackmagic PYXIS 6K, we’ve been working hard to make our amazing RGBW sensor from the URSA Cine available to even more customers,” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “We have redesigned the electronics and processing to be able to handle the massive sensor and we think customers are going to love shooting incredible large format images in 4K, 8K and now 12K. We are really excited to offer this sensor in the flexible PYXIS design that has been so popular with our customers!”

Blackmagic PYXIS 12K Features

• 36 x 24mm full frame RGBW 12K 12288 x 8040 sensor.

• Open gate 3:2, full height 6:5 anamorphic and 9K Super 35 for creating cinematic content.

• Multi scale RGBW sensor for capturing 12K, 8K or 4K at the full sensor size.

• Choice of models with L-Mount, PL or locking EF lens mounts.

• Records full resolution up to 40 fps or 112 fps at 8K.

• Built-in 4″ HDR 1500 nit LCD screen.

• Records Blackmagic RAW and H.264 proxies.

• Extremely fast dual CFexpress card recording.

• 10G Ethernet or mobile data for mobile remote streaming.

• Optional Blackmagic URSA Cine EVF.

• Optional Blackmagic PYXIS Monitor.

• Features 12G-SDI for monitoring with status overlay.

• Professional mini XLR input with 48 volt phantom power.

• Complete streaming solution for YouTube, Facebook, X and more.

• High capacity BP-U series batteries.

Availability and Price

Blackmagic PYXIS 12K will be available in July for £4,179 GBP, excluding VAT, from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Microphones for Podcasting

Podcasting aficionados, it's time to amplify your voice with the perfect mic! Geekanoids brings you the definitive list of the best podcasting microphones to suit every need and budget.

For the wandering podcaster, the Rode SmartLav+ offers unparalleled convenience as a lavalier microphone. This is perfect to vlog on the go or indeed capture on location snippets of audio that could later become part of your podcast.

When versatility is key, the Blue Microphones Yeti Nano has been around for a long time and stands out for its adaptable recording patterns. However, if you're diving into voice recordings, the Rode Podmic is your go-to for rich, warm audio that captivates listeners. In fact, I have personally used the Rode Podmic USB (which has both XLR and USB connectivity) for my own recordings and have always been impressed.

Do you crave that studio-quality sound without breaking the bank? Look no further than a brand that may well not be on your radar. The Earthworks Audio EVO looks absolutely stunning and the tonal quality is exceptional. This would certainly be one of my top picks.

The Shure SM7dB reigns supreme as the all-around champion for podcasting, delivering professional-grade audio that has graced the studios of podcast legends. This new version has a beefier output, so is a little easier to use in your audio production setup.

If you are ready to let your voice be hard and elevate your podcast to the next level, snag your ideal microphone and capture every nuance of your vocal brilliance. Stay tuned for more of the latest geek findings in the world of podcasting, only on Geekanoids.

The New Wave of Retro Gaming Enthusiasm

Welcome to the digital playground where nostalgia meets modern technology. At Geekanoids, we've observed a remarkable trend that's as colourful and dynamic as the pixelated worlds of our favorite retro games: the new wave of retro gaming enthusiasm.

Why are vintage games making such a comeback? It seems that in today's fast-paced, ultra-high-definition world, gamers are seeking the charm and simplicity of the classics. But this resurgence isn't just about playing the games of yesteryear; it's about re-experiencing them in new and innovative ways.

With a surge in demand for retro gaming consoles and the birth of 'retro-inspired' indie games, the market is pulsating with energy. This energy is fueled by tech enthusiasts and gamers who find delight in the 8-bit sounds and sights that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Two new games are coming soon to Evercade and are easily accessible with low prices, these are the awesome Evercade Piko Collection 4 and Sunsoft Collection 2, both due in May, they represent great fun and amazing value. If you can’t wait until then and want to prepare yourself with the latest Evercade console, check out our links below.

Let's dive into the pixelated universe and explore how the old-school is becoming the new cool. From the re-release of classic consoles to the incorporation of retro aesthetics in current games, this is a phenomenon that transcends generations and genres. It's not just about reliving the past; it's about celebrating it in the present.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking to revisit the games of your childhood or a newcomer curious about the origins of today's gaming marvels, there's something incredibly satisfying about the retro gaming experience. So, grab your joystick, and let's embark on a journey through the timeless realms of retro gaming.

Stay tuned for the latest geek findings in the world of retro gaming, only on Geekanoids. And remember, when you're ready to snag that hot deal on the latest tech or a classic console, hit the country specific links below—you won't regret it!

Get your Evercade EXP Console here
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Get your Evercade VS Retro Premium Pack here
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Get your Evercade Games here
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RØDE MAKES ITS BIGGEST NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT at NAB 2023

RØDE has today made its biggest product announcement ever at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, introducing seven new products and product updates, which will be launched over the coming weeks. This includes new firmware updates for the industry-leading Wireless GO II and RØDECaster Pro II, groundbreaking new products like the Streamer X, RØDECaster Duo and PodMic USB, and much-anticipated accessories.

RØDE will be showcasing these products alongside recent new releases, including the NT1 5th
Generation, Wireless ME and RØDE Capture, at the NAB Show from today, Sunday April 16, until tomorrow, Monday April 17 at the B&H Booth at NAB, Central Hall, #C8317.

WIRELESS GO™ II FIRMWARE UPDATE 

 A new firmware update is coming for the Wireless GO II, which will unlock even more features for what is already the most feature-packed compact wireless microphone system available. This includes the ability to save on-board recordings as WAV files for easy transfer to a computer on-the-go and start/stop on-board recordings using the transmitter and receiver power buttons – two highly requested features – as well as new camera models added to the camera preset feature, which was introduced in the most recent firmware update, and a number of system enhancements and workflow improvements. 

RØDECASTER PRO II™ WIRELESS MICROPHONE CONNECTIVITY

A new firmware update will also soon be released for the RØDECaster Pro II, which unlocks an incredible hidden feature: wireless microphone connectivity. Already the most powerful audio solution for content creators on the market, the RØDECaster Pro II features a flexible array of audio inputs, including combo jacks for connecting both microphones and instruments, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-USB interfaces for connecting computers and mobile devices. With this new update, users will also be able to connect any RØDE Series IV wireless transmitter – including the Wireless GO II and Wireless ME – for recording pristine wireless audio directly to the RØDECaster Pro II. This incredible feature is a world-first and makes the RØDECaster Pro II even more versatile, with more inputs and outputs than any other device of its kind on the market, affirming its place as the ultimate audio production console for content creators. 

RØDE created the world’s first compact wireless microphone system with the original Wireless GO and revolutionised the category again with the Wireless GO II and, most recently, the Wireless ME. These latest updates see RØDE continue to innovate in the wireless category, expanding product capabilities and ensuring they offer maximum creative potential. 

STREAMER X 

The Streamer X is a revolutionary new product that combines a professional audio interface and video capture card in a compact, easy-to-use console. It features studio-grade audio inputs for XLR and line-level devices, headsets and RØDE wireless microphones, with an ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp™ and powerful APHEX audio processing delivering pristine sound quality. It also offers 4K30 / 2K60 streaming and up to 2K120 / 4K60 pass-through for incredible video quality in a wide variety of applications, from streaming and gaming, to podcasting and content creation, to business presentations. Two USB-C connections seamlessly accommodate dual PC setups, and four customisable SMART pads allow for on-the-fly triggering of sound or voice FX and other actions on a computer. It is also fully compatible with RØDE software solutions, including UNIFY, RØDE Central and RØDE Connect for expanded functionality and unmatched flexibility. The Streamer X represents a new way to livestream with incredible audio and video. Never before has broadcast-quality video and audio capture been possible using a single console. This is the ultimate all-in-one streaming solution.

RØDECASTER DUO

The RØDECaster Duo is a compact and incredibly powerful all-in-one audio production solution for podcasters, streamers, musicians and content creators​. It offers the same unmatched feature set and peerless versatility as the revolutionary RØDECaster Pro II – with the same high-power quad-core audio engine, Revolution Preamps™, APHEX® audio processing and endless customisability – now in an even more compact and portable form factor. 

RØDE created the all-in-one podcasting console category with the original RØDECaster Pro in 2018 and, since its release in 2022, the RØDECaster Pro II has been praised as the most powerful audio production console of its kind. The RØDECaster Duo will continue this legacy, delivering everything that users have come to love about its sibling in a more compact footprint – perfect for creators that require fewer audio inputs but don’t want to compromise on audio quality.

PODMIC USB

The PodMic USB is an ultra-versatile, broadcast-grade dynamic microphone for podcasting, streaming and content creation. It offers the same incredible sound quality and compact yet rugged form factor as the best-selling PodMic, with a powerful new feature up its sleeve: XLR and USB connectivity. 

Fresh off the back of the release of the NT1 5th Generation – the world’s first studio condenser to offer both XLR and USB connectivity – this incredible feature has now been added to the PodMic. When using the analog XLR output, the PodMic USB is exactly the same as the original, albeit with a sleek new finish and studio-grade pop filter. When using the digital USB output, it offers a range of next-generation features that make it super flexible, including a Revolution Preamp and high-quality analog-to-digital conversion for pristine audio capture, advanced DSP for adding professional APHEX voice processing to any recording, and compatibility with smartphones and tablets for use on the go. It also features a zero-latency headphone output and on-board volume control and is compatible with the complete RØDE software suite, including RØDE Central, RØDE Connect, RØDE Capture and UNIFY, making it the most versatile microphone ever.

RØDECASTER BACKPACK

The Backpack is a custom-designed carry bag for the RØDECaster series, including the RØDECaster Pro, RØDECaster Pro II, and RØDECaster Duo. Made from high-quality materials, including a soft, durable Alcantara® handle, ballistic nylon straps and water-resistant exterior, it is rugged and hard-wearing. It can accommodate a RØDECaster Pro, Pro II or Duo, plus microphones, studio arms and other accessories, as well as laptops up to 16 inches. Ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps with back and chest support ensure absolute comfort, with exterior pockets and compartments providing additional storage.

WIRELESS GO II CHARGING CASE

The Charge Case is a handy charging case for the Wireless GO II. It accommodates both transmitters and the receiver and features an integrated battery that facilitates three full recharges for up to 30 hours of continuous use. With a rugged enclosure and zip system, it is also perfect for protecting the Wireless GO II when in transit or storage. 

Roland SP-404MKII EXCITING V3.0 Update

If you’re looking for a compact, standalone unit for tight playback of multi-track audio, MIDI syncing external gear, and DJing, the SP-404MKII is for you. The v3.0 update expands the SP’s capabilities to support an even wider range of performance and programming possibilities, including motion recording effects, automating mute actions, and quick conversion of complex patterns into manageable samples. Learn why new workflows, a boosted DJ mode, and other enhancements make the SP-404MKII the ultimate sampler for creating and performing any kind of music.

Check out the SP-404MKII here.

BUY in the UK

Brother launches printer supplies subscription to help small business and consumers save money

Business technology solutions provider Brother has announced its dedicated ink and toner subscription service, EcoPro, is available across Europe.

Designed to save customers money while adding a layer of convenience to everyday printing, subscribers pay low monthly payments starting at £1.99 to receive automated deliveries of ink and toners direct to their doorstep. Plans are scalable and available to cancel at any time, giving users complete flexibility to manage their print needs and costs in the workplace or home office. 

Russell Brother, Head of SOHO sales at Brother UK, said: “Advances in technology have led to a change in the relationship people have with the products they use - and an increased desire for efficiency in how we live our lives. 

“From home working to homework, we’ve seen increased demand for home printing following the shift towards hybrid setups. Yet, ordering and waiting for replacement printer ink or toner can and has been costly and inconvenient. We have launched EcoPro to support our customers and offer a more cost-effective way to keep printers well stocked and ready to work.”

Customers with eligible printers can sign up to EcoPro easily by choosing a plan online and installing the Brother Mobile Connect app on iOS or Android to manage their subscription. The service also comes with an innovative repair warranty which covers a customer’s printer for the duration of their subscription.

EcoPro will has launched in the UK and customers are invited to trial the service free of charge. To find out more and sign up, visit www.brother.co.uk/ecopro

Brooks innovates with the Energize shoe trio

Brooks Running, expert in running shoe technology, innovates with its popular Energize shoe category. Levitate, Bedlam and Ricochet are the running shoes that give runners the power to run further and go faster. The shoes all feature Brooks’ innovative DNA AMP midsole technology, which was first introduced in fall 2017. Now, the most energizing midsole technology is reformulated, resulting into a DNA AMP midsole that is 20% lighter than the predecessor. Brooks reduced the density of the foam without sacrificing energy return. The new Energize 4 has the most energy return of leading performance running shoes.  

“Again, we’re pushing the limits of energy return, this time with the lighter side of DNA AMP,” says Hugo Chouissa, EMEA Footwear Merchandiser. “We are excited to unveil three new power-packed shoes: the super springy and lightweight Levitate 4 and Bedlam 3, and the extra lightweight Ricochet 2.” 

DNA AMP is a polyurethane-(PU)-based cushioning system engineered to provide unparalleled energy return. The foundation of DNA AMP is a PU foam that naturally expands, returning energy as force is applied. The reformulated DNA AMP is 20% lighter than before, covered with the same thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) skin, that resists horizontal expansion to deliver energy directly back to the runner.  

Levitate 4 – The best energy return, super springy  

The new Levitate 4 let’s runners enjoy the same incredible energy return, but with 20% less weight. The outside of the sole has an updated arrow-point pattern to move the foot from heel to toe quickly, enhancing the shoe’s springy feel. The shoe weighs 261 grams (W) and 292 grams (M) and has a midsole drop of 8 mm. 

Bedlam 3 – Springy and supportive 

The Bedlam gets even better with the new DNA AMP cushioning ánd GuideRails support to keep runners in their stride. The Fit Knit Upper provides a close-to-foot fit that’s lighter, softer, and more breathable than before. The shoe weighs 269 grams (W) and 306 grams (M) and has a midsole drop of 8 mm. 

Ricochet 2 – Springy and super light 

The second version of Ricochet is designed to kick runs into overdrive. This shoe combines BioMoGo DNA and DNA AMP cushioning to provide an even lighter, responsive ride to give the energy back to the runner. A hidden heel wrap, sueded heel tab and integrated collar guarantee a comfortable and sock-like fit. The shoe weighs 238 grams (W) and 275 grams (M)and has a midsole drop of 6 mm.  

Pricing and availability 

Levitate 4 is priced at £140.The shoes are available from June 1st at selected retailers and on www.brooksrunning.eu. 

LG Introduces WORLD’S First 4K IPS 1MS GTG Gaming Monitor

LONDON, July 21, 2020 — LG Electronics (LG) is bringing new meaning to immersive gaming with its new UltraGear™ (model 27GN950), the world’s first 4K IPS 1 millisecond Gray-to-Gray (GTG)1 gaming monitor.

A 2020 CES Innovation Award and Red Dot Design Award winner, the 27-inch model more than lives up to UltraGear’s name and reputation for gaming excellence and is a worthy successor to the brand’s first 1ms GTG IPS gaming monitor (model 27GL850) introduced last year. Featuring advanced IPS displays, LG UltraGear monitors achieve stunning speed without compromising picture quality, contributing to the brand being named the top gaming-designed monitor in the United States.2

The new UltraGear monitor builds on the fast, accurate colours of its predecessor to deliver 4K resolution for maximum gaming impact. A combination of speed, high resolution and 98 percent coverage of the DCI-P3 colour space 3 gives gamers a total sense of immersion. And thanks to VESA® Display Stream Compression (DSC) technology, the 27GN950 can deliver virtually lossless 4K UHD images in 10-bit colour with a 144Hz refresh rate via just a single DisplayPort cable.4

LG’s one-of-a-kind monitor supports hardware calibration enabling the company’s proprietary Nano IPS display to offer the most precise colour reproduction possible. And with VESA DisplayHDR™ 600 certification,5 the UltraGear 27GN950 guarantees a certain level of quality in the form of outstanding colour accuracy, dynamic contrast, high luminance and a wide colour gamut. NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible and support for HDR ensures enhanced image quality with reduced screen tearing and minimised stutter that works seamlessly with VESA DSC for an incredibly realistic and exhilarating gaming experience.

“We are excited to bring NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible support to LG’s most advanced UltraGear model yet,” said Kaustubh Sanghani, vice president and general manager, GeForce OEM at NVIDIA. “Gamers will be blown away by the responsiveness and the lifelike visuals when playing the latest PC games that feature real-time ray-tracing powered by GeForce technology.”

LG’s new UltraGear is the ideal all-in-one solution for those who livestream their gaming sessions thanks to its expansive 4K-resolution screen. The generously proportioned display can also be a big advantage for creative professionals when editing high-resolution files or accessing multiple applications simultaneously. What’s more, support for 10-bit colour depth and hardware calibration gives the monitor the level of colour accuracy needed for professional-level video production work.

“Our latest gaming monitor delivers the unrivalled performance consumers have come to expect from LG UltraGear,” said Jang Ik-hwan, senior vice president and head of the IT business unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company. “UltraGear monitors will continue to push the boundaries of monitor technology, leveraging our advanced IPS 1ms GTG display technology to take gaming to even greater heights.”

The 27GN950 will be the first LG UltraGear monitor to sport the new “wings” emblem designed specifically with victory in gaming in mind. Fans can expect to see the new LG UltraGear starting today in key markets of Europe, North America, Asia and other regions. Check local retailers for price and exact date of availability.

Key Specifications:

·      Display Type: Nano IPS

·      Screen Size: 27-inch

·      Resolution: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160)

·      Brightness: 400 nits (Typical)

·      Color Gamut: DCI-P3 98 percent

·      Color Bit: 1.07B

·      Refresh Rate: 144Hz

·      Response Time: 1ms GTG

·      HDR: VESA DisplayHDR™ 600

·      Adaptive Sync : NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible

·      Stand: Height Adjustable / Pivot / Tilt

·      Connectivity: HDMI x 2 / DP        x 1 / USB 3.0 / H/P out (Maxx Audio)

# # #

1   Tested by LG internal lab March 2020 based on iBoson’s GRT-100 at room temperature of 25°C. Average value of GTG measured the rising/falling response time every 16 steps, available in Faster Mode setup.

2 Based on dollar, May 2019 to April 2020, NPD Group Inc., U.S. Retail Tracking Service, Monitors, Gaming Designed.

3 Tested by LG internal lab March 2020 based on CIE1976.

4 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 16/20 series, AMD Radeon RX 5500 or higher graphics card required for UHD 4K 10 bit at 144Hz with DSC.

5 Certified by VESA May 2020 based on VESA DisplayHDR CTS version 1.1.

About LG Electronics Business Solutions Company

The LG Business Solutions Company is a trusted partner offering innovative products and solutions for diverse industries worldwide. With a portfolio of unique offerings ranging from industry-leading OLED and LED signage to high efficiency solar solutions, LG is a respected name among customers around the world. LG’s IT solutions include business monitors, laptops, projectors, cloud devices and medical displays all designed to maximise work efficiency and return strong value to its customers. For more on LG’s Business Solutions, visit to www.LG.com/b2b

Here’s how you Build an Internet Brand that People will Love #AD

Do you want to make a brand that people are going to love? Maybe you just want to make sure that you are doing everything you can to stand out from the crowd. Either way, this is the guide for you.

Discover the Purpose of your Brand

Did you know that every single brand out there has a very powerful purpose? You should too. Your purpose is what makes you wake up every day and gets you excited to work. If you don’t have a purpose, then you may find that your customers are unable to connect with your brand and this is the last thing that you want. Studies have shown that 50% of consumers across the world buy based on a company’s brand values too, so dig deep and make sure that you find those little nuggets of truth so you can put them on show for the world to see. Look at the casino.netbet.co.uk website, for example. When you do, you will see that the brand focuses on honesty, integrity and customer experience. 

SOURCE: Pexels.com

Research Competitors

You should never copy the big brands who operate in your industry. You should however try and make yourself aware of where they fail. The ultimate goal here is for you to differentiate yourself from your competitors. You need to convince your customers to buy from you, rather than buying from them. Research the main competition you have and then find out how well they are doing. Create a brand research spreadsheet and then write down your own observations. This might sound boring but at the end of the day, it can help you to really make sure that your brand is better than everything else out there. 

Determine your Target Audience

The foundation for your brand would be for you to determine your target audience. When you have done this, you will then be able to market your product way more efficiently and this can work in your favour. If you are not sure how to determine your target audience, then try and piece together who is going to be buying your product so that you can make the most out of your brand while giving support to your customers.

Establish a Mission Statement

Have you ever given your brand mission a thought? Your brand mission should be a very clear expression of what you are most passionate about within your company. It’s the reason why you market the way you do. Before you can create a brand that your target market audience can trust, you have to make sure that you always do whatever you can to solidify who you are. This will help you to make the best decisions and it will also help you to make sure that every decision you make is a good one.

Of course, there are so many things that you can do to try and rocket your company success, and if you follow this guide then you should have no problems in making sure that you stand out from the crowd while also solidifying your brand for the future.

NordVPN vs. free VPNs – which should you choose?

If you want to access all streaming services, be able to buy video games early, and save a few euros while shopping, chances are, you’ve considered getting a VPN. A lot of internet users turn to free VPNs first, hoping to get the same service for free. The price (or lack of it) is tempting, but let’s see how they compare with paid services, like NordVPN, on other fronts.

Speed

Whenever you use a VPN, you lose some speed, because all your traffic has to go through a remote server before connecting to the internet.

Unfortunately, free VPNs make it even worse. They tend to have a tiny number of servers compared to paid providers, so they are often overcrowded. The servers can't manage the load, slow down, and even crash. And as if this slow and unstable connection wasn't enough, free VPN providers also limit how much data you can send and receive and how fast it travels. So it doesn't matter how fast your internet connection is, it will slow to a crawl whenever you connect to these VPNs.

Paid VPN providers work tirelessly to ensure a fast and stable connection to their users. With NordVPN, you can send an unlimited amount of data. They don't apply any speed or bandwidth limits, and with their new NordLynx technology, you will barely notice that you’re connected to a VPN server. Combine it with more than 5500 servers in 59 countries to choose from, and you are sure to enjoy the best speeds the VPN industry currently has to offer.

Reliability

Free VPNs are unreliable. You will have to connect and disconnect from multiple servers before you find one that works. And even then, there’s no guarantee that your connection will stay up. The servers crash constantly, terminating your connection, so you have to reconnect and reload often. The developers don’t put too much effort into their apps either. They might crash, bombard you with unskippable ads, or have hidden backdoors. What’s even worse, some free VPN apps are malware in disguise. They infect your device and use it for botnet attacks, or collect your data and sell it online. 

NordVPN has dedicated apps for all your devices that receive new functionalities and security patches regularly. You can also install it on your router, so you won’t have to set it up on multiple devices. And if you ever run into any kind of issue regarding any aspect of the service, NordVPN’s award-winning customer support is there for you 24/7 via email or direct chat. You would never get that level of customer service with a free VPN.

Price

The main reason why people turn to free VPNs is the price. NordVPN offers plans that start from €3.10 per month if you choose the three-year plan. And free VPNs are just that – free. But as it usually is with things that are too good to be true, there’s a catch. Whenever you opt for free VPN services, you’re using your privacy to pay for it.

Running a VPN service is costly. Even if the provider doesn’t care about privacy and speed too much, they still need servers in a bunch of different countries to be usable. And maintaining servers does not come cheap. If they are not charging their clients, how do they pay for it all and make a profit at the same time? By collecting your data and selling it to the highest bidder. 

Free VPN providers store all users’ logs: their real IP address, browsing history, what content they interacted with the most, etc. They sell this data to advertisers who use it to create tailored content for you. It makes your digital footprint larger, and there’s no way for you to take this personal information back. 

Security

People use VPNs not only for easier content access. It’s  an essential tool for everyone who wants to stay safe online. 

However, free VPNs won’t protect your internet connection. You won’t be able to choose between different security protocols, and a lot of providers won’t encrypt your traffic at all. This means that everything you do online could be visible to third parties.

NordVPN offers three security protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and its own NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard. You can choose which one you prefer speed and security-wise. No matter which one you pick, any data you send or receive over the internet will travel through a secure VPN tunnel, hidden from prying eyes. 

Bottom line

Free VPNs offer limited speeds and data caps, they are unreliable, and there’s no guarantee they will work when you need it the most. Their only attractive feature is that they are free. However, these VPNs are only free because you are the product.

If you choose a trusted VPN service like NordVPN that has been around for a while, you can hardly go wrong. It offers everything that you could want from a VPN: bulletproof encryption, reliable connection, and amazing speeds, all for a fair price. They won’t sell your data or infect your devices with malware, and they will be there for you should any issues come up.

Therefore, if you want to stay safe online, choose a safe service first.

New Sky TV packages combine Sky Sports and BT Sport in one single subscription

Today Sky launches two new sports packages that combine Sky Sports and BT Sport channels for the first time on Sky TV, bringing together major tournaments from across the sporting world, including the Premier League from Sky Sports and BT Sport, and the Emirates FA Cup and UEFA Champions League from BT Sport.

Sport fans can now easily find all the sport they love in one place, with all eight Sky Sports channels and BT Sport channels – BT Sport 1, 2, 3 and BT ESPN – together in one subscription.

The three new sports packages are available from today, exclusively on Sky TV:

• Sky Sports and BT Sport: at just £35 per month[i] alongside their Sky TV subscription, the new package combines all the sport from Sky Sports and BT Sport and saves sports fans an incredible 35% on standalone monthly subscriptions.

• Sky Sports and BT Sport, plus Sky Entertainment: all the great sport from both Sky Sports and BT Sport, plus award-winning entertainment and thousands of shows on over 300 Sky TV and 40 catch up channels with Sky Entertainment for just £47 a month[ii] - a saving of over 40% on standalone monthly subscriptions.

• BT Sport: for those that prefer greater flexibility, it’s £25 a month[iii]  to bolt on BT Sport to an existing Sky TV package.

Sports fans can enjoy a feast of football fixtures from the Premier League, UEFA Europa League, Scottish Premiership, Emirates FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League; all the action from the pit lanes and tracks of F1 around the world; every tee off and putt from all four majors, and every wicket from every England home Test, ODI, T20 and the ICC Women’s and Men’s T20 World Cup. Fans will also be able to enjoy Gallagher Premiership Rugby, UFC and MotoGP™. Plus, customers can access all the best entertainment, TV and movies.

With Sky Q’s Voice Search it’s easy to find a specific sport, channel, match, or race from Sky Sports and BT Sport. The BT Sport channels will also be HD as standard and available on Sky Go across mobiles and tablets. There will be no additional fees for multiroom access on Q, or for the full BT Sport VOD catalogue.

The new packages launch just in time for Leicester City vs. Manchester City on Sky Sports on Saturday and the head-to-head between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on BT Sport.

Lyssa McGowan, Chief Consumer Officer, Sky said: “Our customers have always loved sport and we’re delighted to now be able to offer them even more. From the excitement of the UEFA Champions League, Tiger Woods defending The Masters and the rise of Fallon Sherrock, 2020 is a huge year of sport. Now, through our partnership with BT and the launch of our new sports packages, millions of fans can watch all the sports they love.”

Jim White, Sky Sports presenter, said: ‘It might not be January 31st but what a great signing for Sky Sports customers! More sport, whenever you want it, all in one place.’

The deal is the latest in a series of content partnerships for Sky, with the BBC, Channel 4, Channel 5, Netflix and Warner Media all entering into new agreements. In 2020, Sky will also start building Sky Studios Elstree, Europe’s leading production Studio resulting in 2000 new jobs and £3bn production investment in UK creative sector expected in first five years.

NOW TV customers will soon be able to enjoy BT Sport on their NOW TV Smart Stick or NOW TV Smart Box with Voice Search, when the BT Sport app launches in the app store later this spring.

To find out more about the new packages and upgrade, visit sky.com/sport for details. 

BT TV has also launched a new range of TV packages which integrate NOW TV and offer flexible access to Sky Entertainment featuring Sky Atlantic, Sky Cinema, as well as all the live sporting action on Sky Sports.