Sheeran Looper+
Price: £299.99
Ed Sheeran is renowned for his mastery of loop pedals, and, in collaboration with a skilled tech team, he has launched the Sheeran Looper+. This is a dual-track looper, enabling users to create and playback loops on two separate tracks. For example, one track can play a rhythm while the other captures a vocal. The Looper+ has four looping modes, ranging from a simple single-track for overdubbing to dual-tracks that can sync or function independently for recording and playback. It has a combo XLR and 1/4” input for microphones and stereo inputs for instruments such as guitars and keyboards. You can also connect additional footswitches or a MIDI controller. It is powered by a 9V power supply or four AA batteries. It can store up to 128 loops, three hours of audio, and can import/export loops via USB. It also features a built-in USB audio interface for recording to PC or Mac.
Spark LINK wireless guitar system
Price: £129
A good wireless guitar system relies on several key factors: the quality of the sound, how well the tone of your guitar is maintained, how reliable the signal strength is, and the range of that signal. It needs to operate with very low latency (the delay between playing a note and when it's heard). It needs to be easy to set up, and needs a good battery life. Positive Grid's Spark LINK system ticks all those boxes. To set it up, just plug the receiver into your amp, connect the transmitter to your guitar, switch the units on and they will link automatically. The robust hinged plug ensures a snug fit and secure connection. It facilitates high-quality audio (24-bit/48kHz) up to a range of 21 metres and has a very low latency of under 3ms. The system uses a 2.4 GHz wireless signal, which provides high-quality reliable and stable audio transmission. The battery is rechargeable via the included USB-C cable and will last up to six hours.
IXO12 audio interface
Price: £89.99
Steinberg's new IXO12 is a compact audio interface at an affordable price. The front panel has a combined mic/line input with a high-quality mic preamp, and a jack input for electric guitar or bass. There is a gain control for each input. There is +48V phantom power for condenser mics and a headphone output. The back panel has two line outputs and two USB-C ports for connecting to Mac, PC, iPad or iPhone. The IXO12 offers direct monitoring and loopback functions for live streaming; the loopback function makes this easy. Audio signals, such as from a mic or instrument, are merged with content from playback software (e.g. a DAW). The merged signals are then broadcast via streaming software. Direct monitoring ensures minimal latency by sending input signals directly to the headphone and line outputs. The signal is also sent to your DAW so you can record it. The IXO12 is available in black or white. Cubasis LE iOS and Cubase AI are included for use on Mac, PC or iPad.
ODD Ball app
App: Free | Ball: £85
The ODD Ball was first rolled out in 2020 as a Bluetooth-powered, motion-sensing bouncy ball that turns movement into music. Fast-forward four years, and the ball itself remains unchanged – it is the same durable bouncy ball. However, with the launch of a new app, the full capabilities of the ball's motion sensors have been unlocked. This means there are now more movement options to trigger sounds. You can tap the ball to control the drum track, shake it for percussion, move it smoothly for melodies, twist it for a solo, throw it for effects, and more. Using the app, you can select sounds in your favourite genre and record your performances. You can also create your own playlists and mix in the next track by simply throwing the ball in the air. It is a fun way of creating music, and will get your students moving! Multi-ball packages are available, and the app supports up to six balls for a jam session. The app is compatible with iPads, iPhones and Android devices.
