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Apogee Electronics has announced a price drop for the Mini•Me, their high end award winning portable A/D Converter. At first glance you will notice that the Mini•Me offers some unique features that are worth mentioning.

Notice the Sample Rate/Bit Depth control parameter located on the front of this device. This is handy in my opinion. The D/A converters output 24 bit audio at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88kHz and 96kHz. You also have the option of selecting 16bit or 20bit resolution at 44.1kHz and 48khz. In addition to this, the Mini•Me offers a three curve soft-knee compressor/limiter, referred to as Push-It™. You have the option of disengaging the compressor in order to utilize independent limiting.The Mini•Me is in fact a USB device. It’s interesting to note that this device is priced without the USB interface at $795 US. The USB upgrade will set you back an additional $195, and to the best of my knowledge there is no software included. Two mic/line inputs are available with high-quality preamps, as well as S/PDIF•AES/EBU digital outputs, and Direct Return mix-monitoring.Apogee Electronics also brings us the ultra-sleek Ensemble firewire interface that is endorsed by Apple Computer, and is described as a ‘natural extension of Logic Pro.’

If you are considering a high-end interface that is functional as a stationary or portable device, the Mini• Me is worth looking into in my opinion, based on the stellar workmanship and reputation of Apogee Electronics. The company offers a nice selection of additional high-end components.-ptfigg.

I finally had the opportunity to complete my simple [and sleek] vAudioFile player. I have a few minor adjustments to make before I distribute it.

As referenced in this post from a few months ago, I thought that this type of project would be a logical choice for me to pursue as an aspiring developer. The first build was fine. However vAudioFile lacked some basic functionality [volume, pause, etc]. At that particular time, implementation was just too advanced for me to incorporate. I’m finding that as I delve deeper into the process of developing applications, specific aspects sort of pop up unexpectedly during the process of working on more complex issues. These aspects can be incorporated into similar applications.

In terms of complex projects, there is something bigger and better in the works. I can report that have made progress. On the other hand, time will tell whether I can actually bring the application to life. There is just so much to learn … to be continued …

-ptfigg.

This is my second formal endorsement of an application that I promise will impress you in terms of Podcasting and your production work-flow management. I am referring to AudioFinder, by Iced Audio.

Let me stress that I support the entire iTunes concept. However in my honest opinion iTunes is not structured to function as an advanced audio media management tool, or something that is required within a professional production environment. Personally, I need something that will offer: advanced searches and management, batch processing, various aspects of media conversion [sample rate, bit depth, file format, etc], plugin auditioning, basic cutting with subsequent export, and analysis tools. If you share similar requirements, I highly suggest that you check out AudioFinder.

Besides the features noted above that meet my personal requirements, this application offers a host of additional processing and management utilities that create a seamless experience. This translates into a high level of efficiency. I am particularly fond of the Meta Editor module. This provides a super fast method of extracting and exporting ’slices’ of a referenced clip.

Also, due to the embedded plugin support, auditioning clips, as well as processing clips through your favorite plugins is accomplished with ease. The site describes the application perfectly: ‘AudioFinder is an audio asset management system housed in a single [and let me stress beautifully designed] application’ … and it is highly recommended.A few final thoughts: The user forum is active, and the developer is accessible on the forum and on a personal basis [email]. Lastly, this is not your typical $20 piece of Mac shareware. AudioFinder sells for $69 US, and in my opinion, it’s worth every penny …

-ptfigg.

This post was inspired by the latest episode of MacBreak Weekly.

I have been thinking about building a page for the site that references my recommended Podcast Work Flow Management Tools. The MacBreak crew discussed a handful of applications that are supposedly ‘must have applications for every new Mac user’. Nothing specific in terms of podcasting, production, distribution, etc. However the issue of preferred FTP clients was discussed, and I thought I’d formally make reference to, and endorse the client that I use daily as part of my production work flow. In fact, I think it is safe to say that this application gets more use than any other application that is currently installed on my main system. And it’s Yummy.

I didn’t think it would be possible to be lured away from the sort of high-end FTP client that *most* Mac users prefer. Yummy has. Besides the absolutely gorgeous design in terms of aesthetics, this full featured client provides just about everything a power user can possible ask for.

This page link showcases most of the fantastic features available. My favorite feature is, and let me stress that this is in no way unique to this specific application: the implementation of FTP Aliases. These are essentially droplets that generate a direct connection and subsequent upload to specific locations. The concept works flawlessly. File previewing and editing with your application of choice is also part of the mix.

In terms of support, there is an associated user forum on the site. The developer participates regularly. It’s just about the best 25 bucks I have ever spent …

-ptfigg.

GigaVox Media is determined to improve your podcast/videocast production work-flow and efficiency in the very near future. If you have a few minutes to spare, please access the link for the GigaVox Media Survey.

We are confident that suggestions and feedback provided by the community at large will help us to maximize the quality of potential services offered.

There are many exciting things planned … so stay tuned.

Thanks for your help.

-ptfigg.