HOT
GEAR
Whirlwind pcUSB USB-to-Analog
Stereo Direct Box
Whirlwind has released the pcUSB, which converts digital
audio from USB outputs – a laptop, smartphone, or tablet – to
high-quality, transformer-isolated analog audio for a clean, easy
connection to a PA system or mixing board.
The USB 2.0-compliant (with no device driver required) type-
B input jack supports sample rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz
at 16-bits, and the box is powered from the host device’s USB bus.
Output is via left and right balanced XLRs. A digital 0dBfs input
signal level delivers -3.4 dBV balanced at the analog outputs.
Other features include switches for ground lift that disconnect
the outputs from the circuit ground to help eliminate hum and
buzz, a 20dB output pad, and a stereo/mono switch that sums
the stereo output to two identical mono feeds from the XLR
jacks. A USB hook-up cable is included.
For more information, contact Whirlwind: 585-663-8820,
[email protected], www.whirlwindusa.com.
Ernie Ball Expanded Slinky String
Line
Ernie Ball has added new gauges to its Slinky line of electric
guitar strings. The Turbo, Mondo, Skinny Top Beefy Bottom, and
Mighty Slinky guitar sets feature the same bright and balanced
tone as the rest of the Slinky range in new combinations. All sets
feature nickel-plated steel wrap wire around a tin-plated hex core.
Turbo Slinkys (9.5, 12, 16, 26, 36, 46) sit between the Regular
and Hybrid Slinkys while providing a balanced, comfortable feel
across all six strings. This combination is ideal for players who are
looking for added playability with minimal diff erences in tone
and tension. Mondo Slinkys (10.5, 13.5, 17.5, 30, 42, 52) are ideal
for players who prefer a heavier low-end with only a slight dif-
ference in tension on the plain strings. Skinny Top Beefy Bottom
Slinkys (10, 13, 17, 32, 44, 54) combine the lighter playability of
the Regular Slinky set with slightly heavier wound strings than
the Beefy Slinky set. This combination is ideal for lead players who
like to bend for solo work coupled with a beefi er bottom-end for
rhythm and chords. The Mighty Slinkys (8.5, 11, 15, 22w, 30, 40) sit
between the Super Slinky and Extra Slinky sets while providing a
fast, light tension across all six strings.
For more information, contact Yorkville Sound: 905-837-8777,
[email protected], www.yorkville.com.
Zildjian I Series Cymbals
Zildjian has released the I Series of cymbals, which is replacing
the ZBT line that has been around since 1998.
The I Series is designed for intermediate-level drummers
and takes its name from “Ilham,” the Turkish word for inspiration.
The cymbals are made from B8 bronze with thinner weights
and modern profi les, as well as several eff ect sounds. The I Series
launches with a 10-in. splash; 14-, 16-, 17-, 18-, and 19-in. crashes;
18- and 20-in. crash-rides; 20- and 22-in. rides; 13- and 14-in. hi-
hats; 14-in. Mastersound hi-hats; a 14-in. trash crash/hi-hat top; a
17-in. trash crash; and 16- and 18-in. China cymbals. A variety of
confi gurations are also off ered in six cymbal packs.
For more information, contact Coast Music: 514-457-2555,
[email protected], www.coastmusiconline.com.
68 CANADIAN MUSICIAN