Product Highlights from the Tonmeistertagung in Leipzig

• QUADRIGA 2.0 - Support for up to four parallel imports
• CD-Inspector Manual: CD Capturing - now up to 16 individual drives
• SCAN-Solution: Document Scanning with automatic OCR and database relevant processing
• AudioCube 6: Even more power with two XEON 3,2 GHz Processors
• SpectraPolator: New possibilities for the removal of diverse noise signals using spectral interpolation
• CubeDVD-A with Proof Function: Simulation of the DVD-A to detect and correct remaining errors
• DDP-Solution 3.0: New Version with many additional features

 

 

Release of QUADRIGA 2.0

To make the QUADRIGA more useful for our customers we have developed four-fold parallel capturing. It is now possible to digitise inputs from up to 4 devices simultaneously, and to use the audio analysis of the AnalogObserver in real-time for each input using the current QUADRIGA workstation D650, 3.2 GHz.

For detailed information have a look at our new QUADRIGA-Webpage.

 

AudioCube 5 Installed at Master House Studios

Miami, FL . . . . An AudioCube 5 Mastering & Restoration System was recently installed at Master House Studios in Miami - home to the well-known and highly respected mastering engineer Jose Blanco.

The dual Xeon processor based AudioCube 5 systems includes 36 GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, the Merging Technologies Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab & Nuendo editors, and NetSupport remote help software.In addition to Cube-Tec DDP Solution, the Master House system includes several Cube-Tec Mastering VPI's - the 64-bit / 192kHz mastering tools unique to the AudioCube platform.

"After a lot of research and testing of several audio workstations for our mastering facility, we decided the AudioCube is the complete system we had been looking for.

The ease of use of the system, the sound quality of the VPI's, the overall speed and the on-line tech support really puts the AudioCube way above all the other workstations."

Jose Blanco - Chief Mastering Engineer
Master House Studios

Facility Profile:
Master House Studios has been providing mastering services in the Miami area for over 4 years. They cater to a diverse clientele from the United States, Latin America, The Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. The Master House U.S. client list includes Aerosmith, Collective Soul, TLC, Toni Braxton and Tom Lord-Alge . In the Hispanic market, they work with all major labels and artists, and three of this year's projects - Jennifer Pena #2 , Franco De Vita #4 , and Luis Fonsi #43 - are currently listed in Billboard's "Hot Latin Tracks" . Other Hispanic artists include Sin Bandera, Dante (which won a Latin Grammy nomination in 2003 for Best Rap/Hip Hop Album), Julio Iglesias , Jaci Velasquez and Grupo Niche.

 

3 Cube-Tec AudioCube 5's at Oasis Mastering

Studio City, CA . . . . . Oasis Mastering , the prestigious Studio City based mastering facility and home to renowned mastering engineer Eddy Schreyer , recently completed the installation of three Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 mastering systems.

The 3 dual Xeon processor based AudioCube 5 systems all include 36GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab 4 & Steinberg Nuendo 2.0 editors, and NetSupport remote help software.

Since all 3 of the AudioCube 5 systems will be used for both stereo and multi-channel work, they are configured with a combination of eight 2 channel and three 8 channel Cube-Tec Mastering VPI's (plugins).

"I'm thrilled to announce that the Audio Cube System is now our platform for CD mastering here at Oasis. Editing is extremely fast and flexible. The mastering VPI's (plugins) are the finest I've heard. Overall this system helps us create a better product."

Eddy Schreyer - Owner & Chief Mastering Engineer, Oasis Mastering

 

Cube-Tec at AES Berlin

• At the 116th AES convention Cube-Tec International showed it's new QUADRIGA version 2.0. One feature of this major upgrade it is the possibility to record from up to 4 independent sources simultaneously.
• The Media-Inspector family has been extended with 'CD-Inspector Manual'. This product will support clients appreciating inspector's capabilities, but don't want to buy a CD jukebox. The CD-Inspector manual can be equipped with 1 up to 8 CD-readers.
• AudioCube with more power on a DUAL XEON 3.2 GHz workstation.
• CubeDVD-A with proof for a faster workflow, checking the DVD-Audio without burning DVD-Rs.
• Scan-Module - sophisticated scan and processing of associated documents of audio archiving material is now integrated in the QUADRIGA workflow.

 

Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 at LB Labs

Los Angeles, CA . . . . . The most powerful AudioCube system in the western United States was recently installed at LB Labs in Studio City, home to well know audio restoration specialist Lars Bjerre .

The AudioCube 5 system, which will be used primarily for film sound restoration, is equipped with 32 Cube-Tec VPI's - the 24-bit / 192kHz restoration and mastering tools unique to the AudioCube platform. The installed VPI's include several highly specialized tools such as NoiseDeModulator, DePop, DeMotorizer and SpectralDeHiss , all of which are especially effective at dealing with noise problems typically encountered in the restoration of film sound.

The dual Xeon processor based AudioCube 5 system includes 36GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab 4 & Nuendo editors, and NetSupport remote help software.

"For professional audio restoration and mastering the AudioCube is top of the line. The "Ferrari-Class" in speed, precision, resolution and quality. For film sound restoration, Cube-Tec has made another leap forward with a unique collection of VPI's exclusive to this platform. Unsurpassed in quality, the AudioCube system tackles anomalies in optical soundtracks with ease and transparency. The philosophy, "the right tool for the job is half the job" applies to restoration and AudioCube has truly raised the bar!

For LB labs, the full-scale restoration/ mastering setup of the AudioCube also blew the doors wide open for my company to handle restoration in high-resolution music recordings. The scalability of this system, the Quadriga for archival, mastering options in both PCM and DSD, plus with the DVD-A authoring solutions, Cube-Tec has found a new way to spell success!

My compliments to the programmers in Germany for their skills and commitment behind the AudioCube."

Lars Bjerre - LB Labs - Los Angeles

 

Cube-Tec QUADRIGA at University of Missouri

Kansas City, MO . . . . . The University of Missouri - Kansas City , which is home to the MARR Sound Archives , recently took delivery of a Cube-Tec QUADRIGA system , the installation of which was handled by Cube-Tec distributor Sascom Marketing Group .

UMKC chose the AudioCube 5 based QUADRIGA system, utilizing the Dell D650 dual 2.66 GHz processor workstation. The AudioCube 5 system includes 36GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab 4 & Nuendo editors, and NetSupport remote help software.

To facilitate the restoration of a significant portion of the archive, the system includes 5 VPI's - the 24-bit / 192kHz Restoration and Mastering tools unique to the AudioCube platform. The UMKC system includes DeClicker, DeCrackler, Azimuth, MultiComp , and the Loudness Maximizer .

On the QUADRIGA software side, the system is configured with 9-Pin-Module for source machine control, and the BWF-Editor , which includes the "BatchProcessor" , "FSC-Checker" (File Security Code), and "BWF-Merger" modules. For audio analysis during the capturing process the system includes AnalogObserver - the analytical engine for all audio analysis done on the QUADRIGA system. To facilitate the analysis of audio files that are already in the digital domain, the system includes the "Audiofile-Inspector", an analytical module that identifies and logs errors that exist in both the analog and digital domain within digital files. Quality Reports generated during capturing, or subsequent to capturing with Audiofile-Inspector are stored with other metadata in the header of the Broadcast Wave file.

The University of Missouri joins a QUADRIGA user base that has grown to over 60 systems in 12 different countries.

 

CubeDVD-A Case Study - Universal Music Group DVD-A Titles

The Media Authoring department at Emil Berliner Studios recently authored 13 classical DVD-Audio titles of Universal Music Groups' first DVD-Audio release for the United States. For this project we used three Cube-Tec CubeDVD-A systems and are enthusiastic about the results and the efficiency of the process.

We found that the intuitive "drag and drop" approach enabled us to utilize a very straightforward workflow and to simplify the process of arranging assets. Using CubeDVD-A Proof saved an incredible amount of time during the authoring process because we could check our authoring work immediately, without multiplexing and burning proofing-discs.

The time saved with CubeDVD-A Proof and the efficiency of the drag and drop environment enabled us to meet the very tight delivery deadline for re-authoring the 13 titles within DVD-A 1.2 specifications. The system's flexibility does not force us to use a predefined step-by-step authoring approach - we were able to utilize our own workflow. We had the option of starting with audio track arrangements, or creating the audio manager, or assigning screens and buttons for the slideshows. Thanks to this we could start the authoring process with the first available finalized assets for each title.

CubeDVD-A's efficiency was also demonstrated with the Beethoven Symphonies series with Claudio Abbado and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra . We first created a template, which we could use for all five DVD-As. The template includes most parts of the manager and the tracks' slide shows, which are similar on all discs. Utilizing the template enabled us to finalize all five discs in a parallel process, saving a great deal of valuable time.

Harald Gericke - Head of Media Authoring
Emil Berliner Studios - Deutsche Grammophon GmbH
A Universal Music Company - www.emil-berliner-studios.com

 

Chace Productions Restores Orbison Tracks with AudioCube5

Burbank, CA . . .The enduring legacy of Roy Orbison is showcased in a new DVD release from Eagle Rock Entertainment - Roy Orbison - Greatest Hits . A talented guitar player and hypnotic vocalist, Orbison's career spanned some 40 years and remains strong today thanks to timeless classics like You Got It, Blue Bayou, Claudette and Oh, Pretty Woman. The anthology DVD captures Orbison's magic with rare archival footage culled from his numerous live and broadcast appearances over several decades.

To present these vintage performances in 5.1 multi-channel stereo, Cass Paley, Producer/Project Coordinator for Barbara Orbison Productions, selected Burbank-based Chace Productions . Chace is well-known for its feature film sound restoration work and its proprietary Chace Digital Stereo® (CDS) process which converts mono or stereo into 5.1 or 6.1 multi-channel sound.

Chace Restoration/Mastering Engineer Noa Lazerus used Cube-Tec's AudioCube 5 (AC5) to perform the meticulous restoration. The AC5 system uses software based Virtual Precision Instruments (VPI) which can be layered or cascaded to allow for multiple processing passes as a single real-time process.

This was particularly effective in the track for Blue Bayou. According to Lazerus, "The version of Blue Bayou that was selected, was from a concert in Australia that was almost unusable because of a multi-harmonic amplifier hum that changed frequency as Roy moved around the stage. At some points this hum was actually as loud as Orbison's band." Interestingly, this particular segment was presented to Chace years ago for an evaluation. Technicians performed an extensive assessment of these harmonic anomalies that infected the audio. That evaluation was made available to Lazerus and provided him with a thorough overview of the problem areas. "Based on that I was able to conform the AudioCube's DeBuzz processors and RepairFilter to remove nearly all the hum, though remnants can still be heard in the quiet sections."

After the restoration work was complete Lazerus applied his Grammy-Award winning music skills and the AC5's music mastering VPI's to bring a sonic fullness to the selections.The sonic quality derived from the 1'' C tape is a true testament to skilled engineering and high-powered digital technology.

 

Fullersound Installs Second AudioCube System

Miami, FL  . . . Fullersound , the popular Miami based mastering facility, recently completed the installation of a Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 system which is now networked with the existing AudioCube 4-II system that was installed in 2000.

Fullersound has been active in the Miami area since 1986, when Michael Fuller opened the facility after a long and successful career at Criteria Recording. The addition of the AC5-D650 enables Fullersound to handle the increased demand for their existing services, as well as position themselves for expansion into other areas such as DVD-A and SACD .

The AudioCube 5 system includes dual 2.66 GHz processors, 36GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab 4 & Nuendo editors and NetSupport remote help software. More importantly, the AC5 is configured with 32 Cube-Tec VPI's , the 24-bit / 192kHz mastering and restoration tools exclusive to the AudioCube platform. A system with such an extensive array of the industry's most powerful audio processing tools will enable Fullersound to handle virtually anything requested of them by their ever expanding client base.

"We purchased our first AudioCube 4-II in 2000. After years of using the industry's standard for mastering, it was time to upgrade to a high resolution system. The AudioCube met and exceeded our expectations. The VPI's are extremely smooth, musical and easy to use and there is a tool for every need. We had been accustomed to the best audio restoration tools available and the Cube's VPI's simply blew us away with their speed and accuracy to detail. Now in the Fall of 2003, we have purchased our second system, the AC5-D650. The ability and dedication of the Cube-Tec staff to continue to come up with new and exciting VPI's that work at even faster speeds is just one of the many reasons why we chose the AudioCube again. With this great system, we look forward to moving into DVD-A and SACD in the future."

Michael Fuller - Fullersound Inc .

 

Cube-Tec QUADRIGA at Library of Congress

Washington, DC .... Cube-Tec distributor Sascom Marketing Group has delivered one of the most comprehensive QUADRIGA audio archival systems ever built to the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.

Since future plans include audio restoration on the same system, the Library of Congress chose the AudioCube 5 based QUADRIGA system, utilizing the Dell D650 dual 2.66 GHz processor workstation. The AudioCube 5 system includes 36GB System and Audio drives, CD & DVD burners, Mykerinos 24 channel audio card, Steinberg Wavelab 4 & Nuendo editors, and NetSupport remote help software.

The system includes 4 QUADRIGA Import Modules to facilitate automated or semi-automated capturing from several different sources, including 1/4'' tape, vinyl, cassette and a variety of other source machines.

On the QUADRIGA software side, the system is configured with the BWF-Editor , which includes the "BatchProcessor" , "FSC-Checker" (File Security Code), and "BWF-Merger" modules. For audio analysis during the capturing process, the system includes AnalogObserver - the analytical engine for all audio analysis done on the QUADRIGA system. To facilitate the analysis of audio files that are already in the digital domain, the system includes the 192KHz version of the "Audiofile-Inspector" , an analytical module that identifies and logs errors that exist in both the analog and digital domain within digital files. Quality Reports generated during capturing, or subsequent to capturing with Audiofile-Inspector are stored with other metadata in the header of the Broadcast Wave file.

The Library of Congress joins a QUADRIGA user base that has grown to over 60 systems in 12 different countries .

 

Capitol Records Installs AudioCube 5 With 20 VPI's

Hollywood, CA .... The mastering department at Capitol Records recently completed the installation of a Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 system at the landmark Hollywood facility.

The Capitol AudioCube 5 system is configured with 20 VPI's , Cube-Tec's 24-bit / 192 kHz Mastering and Restoration tools, making the Capitol system one of the most powerful AudioCubes in existence. The system also includes Steinberg Wavelab 4 and Nuendo editors, as well as RemoteHelp software to facilitate web based remote diagnostics and maintenance by Cube-Tec's support team.

On the hardware side, the Dell D530 based system includes dual 2.2 GHz Xeon processors, the Merging Technologies Mykerinos DSP board with 24 channels of AES I/O; Combo DVD+RW / CD-RW Burner; 36GB Audio Drive; and the Cube I/O-24 interface module. The system is configured to support stereo and multi-channel mastering, restoration, DVD-A authoring and DSD / SACD Mastering.

"I love working on the Cube. It has been a quantum leap forward in efficiency and ease of editing and I can't think of anything in the way of features that these guys didn't think of first. Working on it has been a real pleasure. I recently used SpectralDeHiss Expert on some originals that had been recorded on cassette and I was amazed at how well it cleaned them up."

Bob Norberg- Capitol Records

 

Cube-Tec Announces Numerous AudioCube 5 Sales

Los Angeles, CA .... At the recent AES show in Los Angeles, Cube-Tec announced several new AudioCube 5 system sales to mastering and film sound restoration facilities in both Chicago and Los Angeles.

In L.A., Capitol Mastering, Marcussen Mastering and Sound Solutions placed AudioCube 5 system orders for early November installations. At the same time, Bernie Grundman Mastering added their 7th AudioCube at the Hollywood facility, and ordered the first AudioCube 5 system for Bernie Grundman Mastering Tokyo .

In Chicago, ARS Recording , a facility that has been active in the Chicago area for almost 20 years, purchased 2 AudioCube 5 systems for an October installation. ARS has recently undergone a major renovation, including a new surround mastering room in which one of the AC5 systems will be installed. That particular system is equipped with 28 Cube-Tec VPI's, the 24-bit / 192KHz Mastering and Restoration tools exclusive to the AudioCube platform. Both systems are configured with 24 channels of AES I/O via the Cube-I/O-D530 19'' rackmount I/O enclosure, as well as 24 channels of TDIF I/O in one of the two systems.

 

Cube-Tec Shows 'Cube-DVD-A Proof' At AES

Los Angeles, CA .... During the recent AES show in Los Angeles, Cube-Tec demonstrated CubeDVD-A Proof - a powerful addition to the company's DVD-A authoring package. With CubeDVD-A Proof , the operator can check the complete DVD-A menu and its structure with all links and commands, as well as the audio groups with "browsable" slideshows, prior to actually burning a DVD.

During the DVD-A authoring process, the operator is able to make changes and view the results of those changes in real time by simply saving the scenario and then displaying it on the AudioCube. Additionally, all GPRM and SPRM registers are displayed with their actual values, which can be changed within CubeDVD-A Proof to see how a player will react to the revised register values. This simplifies and expedites the process by enabling the author to test the register values 'before' applying them in the scenario.

Some of the DVD-A authors that participated in the AES sessions indicated that the combination of 'Proof' and extensive 'Drag & Drop' implementation could reduce the time required to complete a DVD-A title by as much as 50% to 60%.

• To view a screen shot of CubeDVD-A Proof, click here
• To download a high-res image of CubeDVD-A Proof, please click here.

 

Gateway Mastering & DVD Adds AudioCube 5 System

Portland, ME .... World renowned mastering facility Gateway Mastering & DVD has purchased a Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 multi-channel workstation for immediate installation. The Gateway AudioCube is configured to support multiple applications, including DVD-A Authoring (CubeDVD-A), CD Mastering, Restoration , and multi-channel DSD Mastering .

In addition to a variety of Cube-Tec 24/192 Restoration tools, both Stereo and 8 Channel 24/192 Mastering tools ( VPI's ) and CubeDVD-A , the system is equipped with Steinberg Wavelab 4 and Nuendo editors.

The system also includes the Cube I/O-D530-24 - a 24-channel audio and sync I/O interface housed in a 3U x 19'' rackmount enclosure.

"When choosing our new audio workstations, the importance of providing clients with a comprehensive range of services at the highest possible level of quality led us to the Cube-Tec AudioCube 5. With CubeDVD-A and both CD and DSD mastering capabilities, combined with one of the most powerful arrays of 24/192 restoration and mastering tools we've seen, the AudioCube enables Gateway to add significant value to our clients' projects."

Bob Ludwig - Gateway Mastering & DVD

 

Grundman Mastering Adds 5th AudioCube System

Hollywood, CA . . . . .Renowned mastering facility Bernie Grundman Mastering recently completed the installation of a 5th Cube-Tec AudioCube workstation at the Hollywood location.

In conjunction with the new system installation, Grundman also expanded 3 of the original 4 AudioCube workstations with the addition of 2 Mastering VPI's on each of the systems. The AudioCube systems used by Bernie Grundman , Brian Gardner and Chris Bellman each received AnalogEQ and MultiComp VPI's - 24-bit / 192kHz mastering tools exclusive to the AudioCube platform. On each system, the new tools compliment the original VPI configurations of DeClicker , DeNoiser, DeClipper , Loudness Maximizer and Spectralizer.

Considered for many years to be one of the top mastering facilities in the world, Bernie Grundman Mastering continues to excel in numerous musical genres. In December of last year, 6 of the top 10 'Billboard Hot 100' singles were mastered at BGM. Some recent major projects include Michael Jackson's 'Invincible', 'Greatest Hits' packages from both Greenday and Barenaked Ladies , the new Box Set from Quincy Jones , and the 'Ali Soundtrack' , among many others.

The first 4 AudioCubes were installed at Bernie Grundman Mastering in April of 2001. "We at Bernie Grundman Mastering have always gone to great lengths to insure that our equipment is of the highest quality. When considering any changes in our equipment, we must always consider that we have a significant reputation to uphold. Our engineers have mastered many of the industries' top recordings. Some are "landmark" recordings such as Alanis Morissette's "Jagged Little Pill", Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and Steely Dan's "Aja" . Some of our current artists include Joni Mitchell, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Beck, Barenaked Ladies, Cypress Hill, Goo Goo Dolls, Janet Jackson, Lucy Pearl, Missy Elliott, and Fastball , to name but a few."

Bernie Grundman

 

Cube-Tec Announces 'DynamicEQ' VPI

Albstadt, Germany . . . . . Cube-Tec recently announced the new ' DynamicEQ ', a 24-bit / 192 kHz tool providing dynamically controlled equalization within three separate frequency bands. As you adjust an EQ setting for a single band, the dynamic control analyses the degree to which these settings should be applied to the signal.

It is possible to boost and cut up to 20 dB, while you can choose three different filter characteristics for each band. The dynamic stage offers the typical parameters - "threshold", "ratio", "attack" and "release" - for fine-tuning the dynamic analysis in each band. It works much like a compressor for controlling the amount of applied equalization.

An additional SideChain within the dynamic stage can be used to change the level of a dedicated frequency range within the analyzed audio signal. The "Gain Meter" displays the applied amount of equalization, while the adjusted EQ curve is visualized in the transfer function display.

The DynamicEQ can be used for multiple applications. In mastering for example, an EQ setting might only affect the quiet parts or specific instruments of a mix, while the loud areas are not affected. For restoration applications, it is possible to reduce ringing effects of old recordings without affecting softer parts without ringing. DynamicEQ can also be used for the correction of tonal imbalance on single musical instruments and voices. Intelligent De-Essing can be facilitated using different filter bands - while the first band is working very fast on sibilant peaks, a second one is running with smoother and wider settings.

There are currently a total of 34 24-bit / 192 kHz Mastering and Restoration tools available for the AudioCube platform.

 

Cube-Tec Announces Multiple AudioCube 5 Sales

Albstadt, Germany . . . . . Both of the new multi-channel AudioCube 5 systems - the flagship AudioCube 5-II and the Dell based AudioCube5-Dell530 (AC5-D530) - have been extremely well received by the mastering, archival and audio restoration communities. During the 8 week period since the March launch, Cube-Tec has received orders for 25 of the new systems , 11 of which have already been installed in facilities.

In Germany, 2 AC5-D530's have been installed at Emil Berliner Studios , the first phase of what will ultimately be an 8 system installation . In France, the first AudioCube 5-II was installed at INA Phonoteque . In Switzerland, 2 AC5-D530 based QUADRIGA systems are in production for Radio Swiss Romande (RSR) , and Swiss Radio DRS has also ordered an AC5-D530 based QUADRIGA system for a June installation.

In the U.S., the new AC5-D530 has already been installed in 8 facilities, with another 5 systems in production for May or June installations. U.S. purchasers include The Smithsonian Institution, Wolf Productions and Sterling Productions in Washington DC, Chace Productions and The Sounding Post in L.A., Absolute Audio , The Image Group , Vidipax and The Criterion Collection in New York , Master Mix Studios in Minneapolis, and Falcon Pictures Group and Castek Systems Solutions in Chicago.

In San Francisco, DeNoise.com installed an AC5-D530 with CubeDVD-A the comprehensive DVD-Audio authoring software which includes "CubeDVD Proof", a powerful utility permitting the operator to check the complete DVD-A menu structure with all links and commands, as well as the audio groups with "browsable" slideshows, prior to actually burning a DVD .

 

Several New Cube-Tec Products at AES Munich

• CubeDVD-A The comprehensive DVD-Audio authoring module has been enhanced with the addition of several new features, increasing capability, while simplifying operation.
• CubeDVD-A ProofA tool designed to "proof" a completed DVD-A-Scenario created during the DVD-Audio authoring process, by facilitating the playback of the CubeDVD-A-Scenario on the AudioCube - without burning a DVD.
• Tape-24The new QUADRIGA Import-Module, provides real-time capturing from analog tape, of 8 to 24 audio tracks at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz resolution, on AudioCube 5-D530 and AudioCube 5-II based QUADRIGA systems.
• QUADRIGA - PE-2550 Capturing Station Developed in response to requests from many QUADRIGA users for a smaller scale and cost-effective platform, dedicated exclusively to the task of analogue audio capturing.
• PlaybackEQ VPI Precisely emulates the analogue circuits of 20 different playback equalizer transfer functions, including RIAA/CCIR, all the different NAB and IEC curves, and numerous others.
• 192kHz QUADRIGA Import Modules All QUADRIGA Real-time Import Modules are now capable of capturing at sample rates ranging from 16-bit to 24-bit, with a resolution range from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz.

 

Cube-Tec Announces New and Updated VPI's

Albstadt, Germany . . . . .In parallel with the announcement of a new VPI called PlaybackEQ, Cube-Tec recently released significantly improved versions of eight existing VPI's.

NEW - The PlaybackEQ VPI precisely emulates the analogue circuits of 20 different playback equalizer transfer functions, including RIAA/CCIR and all the different NAB and IEC curves, among many others. Standard VPI preset functions facilitate switching between the various curves in a simple and intuitive user interface. The crossover frequencies can be edited, which facilitates modifications and/or creation of new presets. Additionally, 'inverting' the playback curve allows one to generate the various original pre-emphasis transfer functions that would have been used for cutting records and other media.

DeCrackler v3.0 - There is a new mode called "Smooth" in the DeCrackler, which utilizes an improved and highly optimized algorithm. Smooth mode is especially effective on very "dynamic" material, and the optimized algorithm requires much less CPU power than "Complex Mode".

DeScratcher v3.0 - DeScratcher also gets a new mode called "Fingerprint Mode" . In this mode, the DeScratcher "learns" click shapes and "trains" the algorithm to remove clicks that look / sound similar to the "learned" click.

DeClicker v2.0 - The new version of the DeClicker utilizes updated algorithms, tweaked to deal more effectively with single clicks. The results on "regular" clicks are similar to results obtained with the DeScratcher on "large" clicks, with the added bonus of a significant improvement in audio quality.

DeNoiser v2.0 - Further enhancements to the algorithm make it more effective while producing fewer artifacts. Estimated noise floors are now stored in presets, which also results in better Steinberg WaveLab batch processing compatibility.

Loudness Maximizer v2.0 - The new algorithm improves signal transparency and clarity, but since some prefer the original algorithm for certain applications, so both are still present and users can switch easily between the two. Also the addition of an "Output Ceiling" enables a user to define a specific headroom, as exact as 0.01 dB in the upper range.

DeBuZZ v2.0 - "Learned" order of harmonics is now stored in presets, which also results in better Steinberg WaveLab batch processing compatibility.

Azimuth v2.0 - "Fast Mode" is now implemented, enabling Azimuth to follow really quick Azimuth changes in the program.

SpectralDeHiss v2.0 - In addition to the release of the optional " Expert Page " , the algorithm is much more effective, while producing fewer artifacts. This also applies to the standard 'non-Expert' version.

The updated versions of all eight VPI's are provided to license owners free of charge.

 

Cube-Tec CD-Inspector Jukebox

Albstadt, Germany . . . . .Cube-Tec is now shipping the CD-Inspector Jukebox, a powerful new import module for the QUADRIGA Automated Audio Archival System.

The first in a group of QUADRIGA import modules called the 'Media-Inspector Series' , the CD-Inspector Jukebox is a "Faster Than Real Time" import module providing fully automated, uninterrupted supervision of the digital media import process, reducing the necessity for the presence of a system operator.

The CD-Inspector Jukebox module links QUADRIGA to the CD-Jukebox, which can hold up to 560 CDs and contains 4 customized high speed CD-ROM drives, working simultaneously at up to 6x speed. In addition to the supervision of the capturing quality, it will automatically recognize related data such as track number, index, pause, ISRC and UPC/EAN codes, copy mode (ok/prohibited), emphasis (on/off) and CD text, which can be exported to a connected database.

With Media-Inspector-DDP , the system also supports DDP-Image export of the captured CD's - a very useful feature for record labels and pressing plants. The integration of QUADRIGA and the CD-Inspector Jukebox into a Content Management System is made possible through the exchange of XML Files. A 'Job File' generated by the database, specifies the capturing specifications, while an 'Import File' contains additional metadata derived from the database. All of this information, along with audio quality data derived from the QUADRIGA import module, is managed by QUADRIGA, and all of the metadata created can be exported by QUADRIGA to the database as an XML export file.

 

6 of Billboard Hot 100 "Top 10" Mastered on AudioCube at Bernie Grundman Mastering

It's interesting to note that on December 15, six of the top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 were mastered on the AudioCube systems at Bernie Grundman Mastering in Hollywood.

• 'Family Affair' (2)
• 'Hero' (4)
• 'Turn Off The Light' (5)
• 'Get The Party Started' (6)
• 'Living It Up' (8)
• 'I'm Real' (10)

were all mastered by Brian "Big Bass" Gardner on his AudioCube 4-II.

 

Cube-Tec Releases AudioCube 5 - Dell530 Dual 2 GHz Workstation

Albstadt, Germany .... Cube-Tec has released an "entry level" addition to the AudioCube family of D.A.W's, which is built around a Dell D-530 dual 2 GHz workstation. The D-530 was chosen as the host platform because of its incredible price / performance ratio, its impeccable reputation for stability, and Dell's reputation for superior service and technical support. The 24 channel AudioCube 5 - Dell530 will retail in the U.S. for under $12,000 , including Steinberg Nuendo and Steinberg Wavelab editors, as well as 'CubeRescue' and 'RemoteHelp' software.

The AC5-D530 Workstation supports all AudioCube software, including CubeDVD-A, QUADRIGA , and all VPI's - the company's acclaimed mastering and restoration tools. In addition to DVD-A , the system fully supports SACD Mastering, enabling system owners to offer their clients a full spectrum of mastering, restoration, editorial and archival services.

On the hardware side, the system features dual 2 GHz, Xeon processors, a 36GB SCSI Audio Drive, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, Dual Monitor Card, external Ultra160 SCSI, and the Merging Technologies Mykerinos DSP board. (Detailed specifications available at http://www.cube-tec.com) All systems include the Dell 3 Year, Same Business Day, On-Site Service Contract.

Cube-Tec has already received AC5-D-530 system orders from several facilities, including Emil Berliner Studios, Chace Productions, The Sounding Post, Wolf Productions, and DeNoise.Com.

 

Todd-AO Expand AudioCube With Powerful New Restoration Tools

Los Angeles, CA .... Todd-AO Video Services recently completed a hardware upgrade on their AudioCube 4 D.A.W. to facilitate the operation of several new restoration VPI's on the system.

The upgrade involved the installation of the Merging Technologies Mykerinos DSP board, which makes the AudioCube 4 system compatible with VPI's recently developed for the new AudioCube 5 multi-channel system.

The VPI's added to the system include DePop, NoiseDeModulator , and Cube Waveform Restorer . DePop is a tool designed to remove low frequency impulse noise bursts, typically associated with optical film sound.

NoiseDeModulator It is the first such tool to successfully eliminate "time variant" noise in audio signals, and it is equally effective on 'quickly' or 'slowly' modulating noise. The tool is especially effective in dealing with time variant modulating noise commonly found in film sound, tape and gramophone recordings.

Cube Waveform Restorer is a suite of 7 advanced manual interpolation algorithms useful in the restoration of audio containing clicks, pops and dropouts.

 

Cube-Tec Launches Range of A/D & D/A Converters

Albstadt, Germany.... Cube Technologies GmbH (Cube-Tec) recently introduced a complete line of 24 bit / 96 kHz A/D and D/A converters.

The range includes 2 and 4 channel A/D's, 2 and 4 channel D/A's, a 2 channel combined A/D D/A and an 8 Input D/A with front panel controlled input / output switching and monitoring selections including mono summing, channel soloing, channel reverse, phase reverse, and mute.

In keeping with other Cube-Tec products such as the AudioCube ® workstations and QUADRIGA ® archival systems, Cube-Tec converters feature state of the art technical specifications including 115dB Dynamic Range and 105dB THD+N @ -1 dBFs.

 

Cube-Tec AudioCube 5's & QUADRIGA For Emil Berliner Studios

Langenhagen, Germany . Emil Berliner Studios / Deutsche Grammophon GmbH recently completed a significant equipment upgrade that included the installation of 2 Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 workstations, as well as a QUADRIGA automated audio archival system. The sophisticated facility was an early adopter of AudioCube technology, having used two channel AudioCube 4 systems prior to the installation of the multi-channel AudioCube 5 systems.

The AudioCube 5 systems, both of which include a wide variety of VPI's, the 24 bit / 192 kHz processing tools exclusive to the AudioCube platform, are being used for CD mastering, audio restoration, and DVD-A authoring applications.

The QUADRIGA audio archival system was installed to facilitate audio archival work for Universal Music International (UMI) , as part of an on-going relationship between the two companies, encompassing the digitization and preservation of UMI audio assets.

In addition to the standard QUADRIGA system modules, the Emil Berliner Studios system includes the CD-Inspector Jukebox software and an NSM6000, a 575 CD capacity Jukebox with 4 CD-ROM drives. The system also includes a new CD-Inspector Series module called 'CD-Inspector-DDP-Module' which facilitates the capture / transfer of a complete CD, stored as a PreMaster DDP Image.

The inclusion of the CD-Inspector Jukebox module in the QUADRIGA system facilitates an incredibly efficient workflow, handling data streams from the 4 CD-ROM drives simultaneously at max. 16 x speed and soft error rate analysis during the capturing process.

 

Cube-Tec QUADRIGA at University of Missouri

Los Angeles, CA .... Sascom recently announced the purchase of a Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 workstation by The Sounding Post , a Santa Monica, CA-based facility specializing in sound restoration and archival services for the Hollywood film, television and music communities. The AC5 at The Sounding Post is equipped with 14 high performance 24 bit / 192 kHz restoration tools, including several new tools Cube-Tec developed specifically for film sound restoration, that are exclusive to the AudioCube platform. Installation is scheduled for early December.

This is the second AudioCube to be installed at The Sounding Post and the two systems reside on a high speed network to facilitate "bouncing" projects between multiple rooms for increased throughput. Both systems are fully equipped with the latest tools, including NoiseDeModulator, DePop, SpectralDeHiss, and the latest generation of Manual Interpolation software called 'Cube Waveform Restorer'.

The Sounding Post president Reid Caulfield stated:

"At The Sounding Post, the vast majority of our restoration work is done for major Hollywood film studios, resulting in the need for us to meet uncompromising quality standards, as well as strict delivery deadlines. We installed our first AudioCube in May of 2000 and it has consistently exceeded our clients' expectations. The addition of the second, multi-channel AudioCube 5 increases our throughput and enables us to significantly expand the scope of services we offer our client base. In addition to the AC5, we recently added Quadriga to our AudioCube 4 system, enabling us to offer automated, quality controlled audio archival services to our client base."

 

Cube-Tec Delivering AudioCube 5 Multi-Channel Systems

Albstadt, Germany . . . . Subsequent to the official product release in September, Cube-Tec dealers in Europe, Australia and North America have installed the new multi-channel AudioCube 5 system in several facilities.

In the U.S. , Sascom has delivered AudioCube 5 systems to National Public Radio and Wolf Productions in Washington DC, and has systems in production for delivery to Chace Productions and The Sounding Post in Los Angeles, as well as The Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC.

In Europe , AudioCube 5 systems have been delivered to Centre National de l'Audiovisuel , (CNA) in Luxemburg and Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen (ZDF) in Germany.

In Australia , Screensound National Screen and Sound Archive is currently awaiting the arrival of 2 AudioCube 5 systems which will be used in conjunction with 5 previously installed AudioCube 4 QUADRIGA systems at the prestigious Canberra based facility.

 

37 Cube-Tec QUADRIGA Installations / Purchases Announced

Albstadt, Germany .... Cube Technologies GmbH ( Cube-Tec ) recently announced numerous installations and purchases of the Cube-Tec QUADRIGA system. A total of 36 QUADRIGA systems have recently been installed, or ordered for immediate installation, by facilities in Australia, Austria, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and the United States. The automated, quality controlled audio archival system, unique to the Cube-Tec AudioCube platform , is rapidly becoming an industry standard in quality controlled analogue to digital conversion of sound archives.

A wide range of facilities have adopted the QUADRIGA platform, including numerous Broadcasters, National Archives, Educational Facilities, and specialists in Magnetic Media Archives. In the German Broadcast sector, 7 QUADRIGA systems have been installed by Bavarian Broadcast ( BR ), in addition to systems at Southwest Broadcast ( SWR ), North German Broadcast (NDR ), Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen ( ZDF ) and Radio Bremen . Other broadcast installations include RTE in Ireland, Swiss Radio ( DRS ), Swiss Radio International ( SRI ), Finish Broadcast ( YLE ), and Austrian Broadcast ( ORF ). Due to the significant commitment to QUADRIGA by Broadcasters in Germany, systems were also installed at the SRT , the leading broadcast training facility in Germany, and at the Broadcast Technology Institute ( IRT ).

Additionally, the National Archives of Luxembourg (CNA), Emil Berliner / Deutsche Grammophon ,and Australia (Australian National Archive), as well as the Phonogram Archive in Austria and Screensound, War Memorial Museum and the National Library of Australia (NLA) have chosen the QUADRIGA platform.

In the U.S., New York based VidiPax , best known for their work in video archiving, chose the QUADRIGA system for their expansion of services to include audio. In Los Angeles, National Audio Restoration Services (NARS) installed QUADRIGA to service the needs of film sound restoration clients, as well as those of record companies with large tape based archives. Also in New York, Absolute Audio recently completed a QUADRIGA installation.

QUADRIGA utilizes sophisticated technology unique to the Cube-Tec AudioCube platform, providing automated monitoring and logging of both analogue and digital audio streams for technical parameters of archival significance. For example: audio drop outs, clipping, clicks, hum, signal to noise ratio, azimuth/phase, analogue distortion error, and splice identification and analysis, among others. The captured audio data can be stored in the standardized EBU / UER Broadcast Wavefile Format (BWF) together with all related meta data and error reports. This frees system operators from monotonous and time consuming procedures, while guaranteeing the highest possible level of quality control and dramatically reducing archive transfer costs .

 

Cube-Tec Expands Technical Support Services

Albstadt, Germany . . . .  Cube Technologies GmbH has expanded the technical support options available to AudioCube and QUADRIGA owners with the addition of three new services.

'Live Help' - Through Cube-Tec Forums, an AudioCube operator can click on the 'Live Help' icon and a message is sent to all tech support team members in several different countries. Any team member that happens to be at his computer at that time can respond in real time, via an "Instant Message" style live chat window.

'RemoteHELP' - AudioCube 5 systems come with special software that enables Cube-Tec technical staff to 'log in' to a system via the web. This is used for remote diagnostics, software updates, and remote training purposes, as well as technical support.

'Cube-Tec Forums' - All system operators and technical staff are enrolled in 'Forums'. In addition to a large Knowledge Base, 'Forums' includes Service Bulletins , ' F.A.Q's ', Software Utilities , Technical Manuals , ' Tips & Tricks ', Tutorials , Quick Starts, an FTP Site, and on-line interaction with other AudioCube owners through open forums.

 

Cube-Tec Releases Cube Waveform Restorer

Albstadt, Germany . . . Cube Technologies GmbH is now shipping Cube Waveform Restorer , a powerful add-on to the standard Waveform Restorer included in AudioCube's Steinberg Wavelab editor. The standard Waveform Restorer offers a variety of manual interpolation algorithms useful in the restoration of audio containing clicks, pops and dropouts.

The newly developed 'Cube Waveform Restorer' provides an additional 7 algorithms, significantly enhancing the AudioCube's manual interpolation capability.

For smaller sections of disturbance (max. 5 ms), with a low level of background noise, the 'Optimal Small Clicks' algorithms should be used first. 'Long Clicks' is optimized for longer clicks (up to 100 ms), but can also be used for small clicks, or "disturbed regions". It is more effective dealing with a higher background noise level, and program with a strong tonal component (brass, voice, etc.). Both algorithms can be used in a "from left only" or "from right only" version, if the clicks reside within a region of general disturbance.

The 'Very Long Clicks Interpolator' is optimized for large regions of disturbance with a maximum length of 250 ms and is especially effective for disturbances with a higher background noise level. This algorithm automatically widens the selected region to accommodate the large crossfade required between the interpolated data and the original program.

 

Cube-Tec Announces 3 New QUADRIGA Modules

Albstadt, Germany . . . Cube Technologies GmbH recently released CD-Inspector Jukebox , a new 9-Pin-Module and BWF-Merger for the QUADRIGA Automated Audio Archival System.

The CD-Inspector Jukebox is part of the new 'Media Inspector Series' of modules that offer fully automated, uninterrupted supervision of the digital media import process, reducing the necessity for the presence of a system operator.

CD-Inspector Jukebox links QUADRIGA to a CD-Jukebox, which can hold up to 575 CDs and contains 4 customized high speed CD-ROM drives, working simultaneously at up to 16x speed . In addition to the supervision of the capturing quality, it will automatically recognize related data such as track number, index, pause, ISRC and UPC/EAN codes, copy mode (ok/prohibited), emphasis (on/off) and CD text, which can be exported to a connected database.

The system also supports DDP-Image export of the captured CD's, a very useful feature for record labels and pressing plants. The integration of QUADRIGA and the CD-Inspector Jukebox into a Content Management System is made possible through the exchange of XML Files. A 'Job File' generated by the database, specifies the capturing specifications, while an 'Import File' contains additional metadata derived from the database. All of this information, along with audio quality data derived from the QUADRIGA import module, is managed by QUADRIGA and included in the BWF or DDP File. Additionally, all of the metadata created can be exported by QUADRIGA to the database as an XML export file.

The new 9-Pin-Module significantly broadens the spectrum of machines that can be controlled remotely by QUADRIGA. Machines that support the Sony 9-Pin protocol can now be controlled, as can other machines (parallel / bi-phase) via synchronizer with 9-Pin protocol conversion. The 9-Pin-Module also handles machines that cannot be controlled remotely, such as wax cylinders, wire recorders and standard turntables, with a simple audio connection.

Like all other QUADRIGA import modules, when used in conjunction with AnalogObserver, the new 9-Pin-Module supports automated monitoring and logging of audio streams for technical parameters of archival significance. For example: audio drop outs, clipping, clicks, hum, signal to noise ratio, azimuth/phase, analogue distortion error, and splice identification / analysis, among others. The captured audio data can be stored in the standardized EBU Broadcast Wavefile Format (BWF) together with all related metadata and error reports.

The BWF-Merger provides the capability of merging two existing BWF-files into one, e.g. Side A and B of an LP. The operator can edit both files and the position, length, and fade shape of the newly generated crossfade can be adjusted. The metadata of both files is merged, the event timestamps are adjusted to the new file length and the merged file will be stored as a newly created BWF-file.

 

Cube-Tec Announces Several New AudioCube VPI's

Albstadt, Germany . . . . Cube Technologies GmbH recently released several new AudioCube Virtual Precision Instruments (VPI's), increasing the number of VPI's available for the AudioCube platform to 32. All AudioCube VPI's are 24 bit / 96 kHz with 64/32 bit resolution and most restoration tools include the unique 'Audition' function which facilitates the monitoring of "removed elements" only.

DeMotorizer is a new instrument developed to remove motor noise from camera and camcorder recordings. Using a specialized harmonic pattern analysis, the DeMotorizer detects additive disturbances in the recorded signal, caused by the motor of a video camera. With this technique, different harmonic structures can be analyzed and the noise source can be clearly separated from the desired signal.

NoiseDeModulator is the first such tool to successfully eliminate "time variant" noise in audio signals, and it is equally effective on 'quickly' or 'slowly' modulating noise. The tool is especially effective in dealing with time variant modulating noise commonly found in film sound, tape and gramophone recordings. The NoiseDeModulator completely "demodulates" time variant noise, so that other AudioCube tools such as the DeNoiser, SpectralDeHiss and SpectralDeHiss Expert can function more effectively.

DePop is the first real-time restoration processor designed specifically to remove low frequency impulse noise bursts, typically associated with optical film sound. In contrast to clicks, the frequency range of this type of noise is very close to that of dialog, compounding the difficulty of removal. Pops are removed by adjusting the 'Threshold' slider, and a 'Voice Protection Slider' helps to prevent the generation of artifacts during dialog passages.

SpectralDeHiss Expert

'Expert' page is an optional 'add-on' to the standard SpectralDeHiss VPI which adds the ability to edit the SpectralDeHiss parameters. On the 'Expert Page' the estimated noise floor is displayed and can be edited by hand for further optimization. Additionally, the user can alternate between the display of the input and output spectrum of the signal and between the left and right channels.

 

Narada Productions Installs AudioCube

Milwaukee, WI . . . . Narada Productions recently completed the installation of an AudioCube 4-II in the mastering suite at the Milwaukee based facility. The Narada Cube is configured with Dual Pentium processors, CD Writer, CD ROM, Removable Audio Drive, Dual SCSI & Dual Monitor Cards, 100Mbit Ethernet and several AudioCube VPI's including Analog EQ, Loudness Maximizer, MultiComp and FreeShaper.

Narada is world renowned as one of the leaders in defining and establishing new instrumental and world music. Now part of Virgin Music Group , Narada has continued to expand its musical offerings, becoming the principal US licensee for Peter Gabriel's Real World Records and the worldwide licensee of David Byrne's Luaka Bop label. Twice Billboard magazine has recognized Narada as the No. 1 adult alternative-new age record company in the North American music industry.

"When we decided to replace our existing digital workstation, we had three key priorities - audio quality, productivity, and file compatibility. The AudioCube exceeded our expectations in all three areas. The audio quality is outstanding, and the VPI's are amazing - some of the best digital processing I've used. The editing and processing is extremely fast (and we have to do stuff fast here... the A&R guys are so used to having mastering "just down the hall" - I have to be able to turn projects around on a dime). I can archive the sound files in WAV format on CD-R which is what our parent company (EMI) has laid out in their archiving specifications as one of the best digital archive formats."

Trevor Sadler - Narada Productions

 

AudioCube Installed at Todd-AO

Hollywood, CA .....Todd-AO Video Services in Hollywood recently became the second company within Liberty Livewire group to install a Cube-Tec AudioCube 4-II audio restoration system from Sascom . Configured specifically for film sound restoration, the Todd-AO AudioCube is fitted with dual 1 GHz Pentium III processors.

Since Todd-AO will be working closely with sister company POP Sound , the AudioCube systems in both facilities are equipped with the same assortment of VPI's, the 24 bit, 96 kHz restoration tools exclusive to the AudioCube system. The list includes: DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeBuzz, Azimuth, SpectralDeHiss, and the new suite of Analytical tools which consists of ZoomAnalyzer; SpectroGraph; MatrixScope and PhaseScope.

 

Bernie Grundman Mastering Installs 4 AudioCubes

Hollywood . Sascom Marketing, the North American Distributor of Cube-Tec products, recently completed the installation of 4 Cube-Tec AudioCube systems at Bernie Grundman Mastering in Hollywood. The 4 AudioCube systems are configured identically, with Dual Pentium processors, CD Writer, CD ROM, Removable Audio Drive, Dual SCSI & Dual Monitor Cards, 100Mbit Ethernet, DDP Pre-Mastering software, and a full compliment of VPI's, the 24 bit / 96 kHz mastering and restoration tools unique to the AudioCube platform.

Pictured with the AudioCube are Bernie Grundman, and Rob Poretti, Sascom's AudioCube product specialist.

"We at Bernie Grundman Mastering have always gone to great lengths to insure that our equipment is of the highest quality. When considering any changes in our equipment, we must always consider that we have a significant reputation to uphold. Our engineers have mastered many of the industries' top recordings. Some are "landmark" recordings such as Alanis Morissette's "Jagged Little Pill" , Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and Steely Dan's "Aja" . Some of our current artists include Joni Mitchell, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Beck, Barenaked Ladies, Cypress Hill, Goo Goo Dolls, Janet Jackson, Lucy Pearl, Missy Elliott, and Fastball, to name but a few.

All of this adds up to a passion for having only the highest quality tools at our disposal. That is why after months of testing, the superior sound quality of the AudioCube convinced us to make it our primary workstation. They also have an upcoming 5.1 system, which we expect to be the most advanced 5.1 system on the market - we're going to put that in our new 5.1 mastering suite."

Bernie Grundman, Bernie Grundman Mastering - Hollywood

 

Cube-Tec Releases 'CubeDVD-A' For AudioCube 5 System

Albstadt, Germany . CubeDVD-A is a comprehensive DVD-Audio authoring module for the new Cube-Tec AudioCube 5 digital audio workstation. Developed in cooperation with Nippon Columbia Co. Ltd., CubeDVD-A is the first commercially available authoring package supporting Version 1.2 of the DVD-Audio Standard. CubeDVD-A supports all sample rates and Bit resolutions available within the current DVD-Audio standard, including 24 bit /192 kHz in 2-channel and 24 bit / 96 kHz in multi-channel formats.

CubeDVD-A is capable of reading 'Audio Assets' that have been mastered with Steinberg Nuendo , without file format conversion, with immediate production of encoded DVD-Audio according to the CPPM Process 1 (Copy Protection for Prerecorded Media). In addition, production of DVD-Audio with 8.5 GB dual layer DVD-9 is fully supported, as is MLP (Meridian Lossless Packing), SMART (System Managed Audio Resource Technique), 4C / Verance Watermark and all other Version 1.2 Standard audio functions.

CubeDVD-A supports interleaved AIFFs, MLP encoded audio streams and the direct importation of mono WAV and AIFF files, eliminating the awkward conversion of mono files into an interleaved AIFF stream. A new tool for testing menus allows one to check all button commands, the "colorizing" of highlighted areas and the navigational behavior of remote control buttons.

CubeDVD-A is DVD-Video compatible. An authored VIDEO_TS Folder can be delivered from a standard DVD-Video authoring system and included in CubeDVD-A to produce a DVD which is playable on both DVD-Video and DVD-Audio players. It will integrate the folder into the disc image and a layer break for 8.5 GB dual layer DVD-9 can be assigned automatically, or manually. CubeDVD-A also makes use of the imported video streams to create AVTTs to combine DVD-Video elements with the high resolution audio content of the DVD-A.

CubeDVD-A files can be written to Digital Linear Tape (DLT), and/or Disc Images. With an optional DVD-R Burner, media can be produced for immediate playback on DVD-A players for quality control and evaluation purposes.

 

National Public Radio Installs AudioCube

Washington, DC .... National Public Radio recently completed the installation of a fully equipped AudioCube 4 Integrated Audio Workstation in their Washington, DC facilities. The NPR Cube is configured primarily for audio restoration work, with 7 VPI's (Virtual Precision Instruments)-the 24 bit / 96 KHz audio processing tools with 64/32 bit floating point precision. These include DeCrackler, DeClipper, DeBuZZ, RepairFilter, DeScratcher, MultiComp & SpectralDeHiss.

On the hardware side, the NPR AudioCube is configured with dual 850 MHz Pentium III processors; Plextor CD Writer and CD ROM; 100 Mbit Ethernet; Dual SCSI; Dual Monitors; and a Removable 18 GB Audio Drive.

Founded in 1970, NPR serves a growing audience of nearly 15 million Americans each week via more than 644 public radio stations. NPR Online at www.npr.org brings hourly newscasts, news features, commentaries and live events to Internet users through original online reports, audio streaming and other multimedia elements. NPR also distributes programming to listeners in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa via NPR Worldwide, to military installations overseas via American Forces Network, and throughout Japan via cable.

It is NPR 's dedication to maintaining the highest possible quality within their production workflow that resulted in the decision to install the AudioCube workstation.

Mike Starling, Vice President for Engineering , commented: "We are accustomed to having access to top-notch audio restoration capabilities, having invested in high-end digital audio workstations with noise-removal tools as early as 1992. The AudioCube increases these capabilities for us by an order of magnitude through the sophistication and subjective quality of its audio processing algorithms, the elegance of its user interface and the sheer speed at which it operates."

 

Film Sound Restoration with AudioCube 4 at TaurusMediaTechnik

Munich, Germany . In cooperation with the Netherlands Film Museum , the Deutsche Film Institute , the Bundes Film Archive , the Cinémathèque Suisse and ZDF/Arte , Munich based TaurusMediaTechnik (a KirchMedia company) recently completed the restoration the two Fritz-Lang film classics "The Testament of Dr. Mabuse" and "M" . On the occasion of the Fritz-Lang Retrospective at the Berlinale, restored versions of both films were shown with dramatically improved audio and film quality. The primary objective of the restoration project was to improve audio and film quality while maintaining the authentic nature of the dialog and ambiences from the original 1930's sound tracks. To accomplish the ambitious audio restoration objectives, TaurusMediaTechnik utilized the Cube-Tec AudioCube 4 Mastering and Restoration System, configured with Dual 700 MHz Pentium III Processors. To authentically restore the severely damaged and incomplete original audio material, a full compliment of sophisticated AudioCube restoration and mastering software tools (VPI's) were utilized. These included DeNoiser, DeClicker, Loudness Maximizer, Spectralizer, SpectralDeHiss, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuZZ, DeMotorizer, Magneto, FreeFilter, RepairFilter, DoubleRate, AnalogEQ, Azimuth, DeES, MultiComp , and various Analyzers. These 24/96 tools are exclusive to the AudioCube platform. The popularity of the AudioCube system for film sound restoration is growing significantly on both sides of the Atlantic. In the U.S., three major Hollywood facilities that specialize in film sound restoration, Chace Productions , POP Sound and The Sounding Post are using the AudioCube with extraordinary results.

 

'Cube-Tec' Formed To Market AudioCube & QUADRIGA

Albstadt, Germany .... In a recent AudioCube development, a new company, Cube Technologies GmbH ( 'Cube-Tec' ) , has been launched to handle marketing and distribution of the AudioCube and related technologies on an exclusive, worldwide basis.

The founding partnerAlbstadt, Germany .... In a recent AudioCube development, a new company, Cube Technologies GmbH ( 'Cube-Tec' ) , has been launched to handle marketing and distribution of the AudioCube and related technologies on an exclusive, worldwide basis.s of Cube-Tec are Jörg Houpert , MD of Houpert Digital Audio (HDA); Siegfried Acker , MD of International Consulting & Marketing (ICM), and Curt Smith , President of Sascom. Siegfried Acker and Curt Smith will share Cube-Tec management responsibilities as Co-MD's, enabling Jörg Houpert to focus on product R & D, as Chief Technology Officer. Key individuals at HDA and ICM will also play significant roles in Cube-Tec.

The AudioCube and QUADRIGA product lines are well represented around the world, so the launch of Cube-Tec will not result in immediate changes within the distribution network. However, Cube-Tec will play a very "pro-active" role in the sale of AudioCube and related technologies, so existing dealers will see immediate benefits resulting from the launch of the new company.

Sales of AudioCube and QUADRIGA systems continue to grow significantly around the world. The recent installations by the National Archive and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC are clear indications of the system's acceptance at the highest levels of the audio restoration industry. QUADRIGA , the quality supervised 'Front End' for mass storage systems, has established itself as an industry standard, with multiple QUADRIGA installations at high level facilities throughout Europe. The first North American QUADRIGA installation was completed at New York based Vidipax in September. Additionally, the AudioCube is finding acceptance in film sound restoration, with recent installations at Chace Productions and POP Sound in Hollywood, two major film restoration companies.

With widening product acceptance, improving market penetration, and exciting new products, combined with a new company dedicated to marketing, the future certainly looks bright for Cube-Tec and their network of industry leading business partners around the world.

 

Smithsonian Chooses AudioCube Platform

Washington, DC . . . . The Smithsonian Institution recently scheduled the installation of the most comprehensive AudioCube 4-II system currently available. The Smithsonian system is configured with a total of 23 VPI's (Virtual Precision Instruments) - the 24 bit / 96 KHz audio processing tools with 64/32 bit internal floating point precision.

The AudioCube will play two important roles at the Smithsonian. On the restoration side, the system will be used to digitize, preserve and restore the Smithsonian archive, a project partially subsidized by a Federal grant under the "Save America's Treasures" program. On the mastering side, the AudioCube will be used for re-mastering some of the restored material for release on the "Smithsonian Folkways Recordings" label. Smithsonian Folkways draws heavily on an archive of analog tape and early acetate disc recordings. High level mastering is certainly nothing new to the folks at the Smithsonian. In 1997 they were honored with 2 Grammy Awards for their work on "Anthology of American Folk Music" and received 2 more Grammy nominations last year for work on "The Best of Broadside".

According to the Smithsonian's Pete Reiniger, it is the "dual duty" planned for the AudioCube that resulted in the decision to install all of the VPI's on the system. The list of VPI's in the Smithsonian system includes: DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuzz, RepairFilter, Azimuth, Spectralizer, Demotorizer, Multicomp, DeES, SpectralDeHiss, ZoomAnalyzer, SpectroGraph, MatrixScope, PhaseScope, Loudness Maximizer, Magneto, FreeFilter, DoubleRate, AnalogEQ, and FreeShaper.

On the hardware side, the Smithsonian AudioCube is configured with dual 850 MHz Pentium III processors; Plextor CD Writer and CD ROM; 100 Mbit Ethernet; Dual SCSI; Dual Monitors; Removable 9 GB Audio Drive; SMPTE Time Code and an Exabyte drive.

Coming hot on the heels of the installation of 2 AudioCube systems by the National Archive in Washington, the decision by the Smithsonian to install AudioCube technology is a clear indication of the system's superiority in the field of audio restoration and archival.

 

Audio Restoration at POP Sound with AudioCube

Los Angeles, CA . . . . . POP Sound , one of the "institutions" in the Los Angeles audio community, recently completed the installation of an AudioCube system configured specifically for audio restoration work. The system is based on dual 933 MHz Pentium III processors , which makes it the fastest AudioCube delivered to any facility to date. The extra "horsepower" is essential for POP Sound's extensive use of the system for real time restoration of film sound.

The POP Sound system is configured with several of the most popular 24 bit, 96 kHz restoration tools available on the AudioCube platform. The list includes: DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeBuzz, Azimuth, SpectralDeHiss , and the new suite of Analytical tools which includes ZoomAnalyzer; SpectroGraph; MatrixScope and PhaseScope .

 

Fullersound Adds AudioCube, Expands Services

Miami, FL .....Upon completion of the installation of the AudioCube system on December 6th, Fullersound will become the first facility in Miami to offer clients the benefits of AudioCube technology. Fullersound plans to expand the services offered by including both mastering and high level audio restoration, capitalizing upon the flexibility provided by the AudioCube platform.

In order to facilitate the servicing of both mastering and restoration clients, the Fullersound AudioCube will be configured with most comprehensive array of 24 bit, 96 kHz restoration tools available on the AudioCube platform.

The list of 'Mastering' VPI's includes: MultiComp, Magneto, FreeFilter, FreeShaper, AnalogEQ, DoubleRate, Loudness Maximizer and Spectralizer .

The 'Restoration' and 'Analytical' tool kit includes: DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuzz, DeES (De-Esser), Demotorizer, RepairFilter, Azimuth, SpectralDeHiss, ZoomAnalyzer, SpectroGraph, MatrixScope , and PhaseScope .

This comprehensive array of mastering and restoration tools will enable Fullersound to handle the most sophisticated requirements of their rapidly growing client base.

 

Decca "Legends Series" Taps The AudioCube for Latest Releases

The Emil Berliner Studios - a division of Deutsche Grammophon GmbH - recently used the AudioCube for re-mastering several new titles to be released on Decca's successful 'Legends-Series', which will be available in September of this year. The original analogue master tapes were digitized with 24 bit / 96 kHz converters, and then transferred to the AudioCube. The restoration was done with Cube-Tec's restoration - VPI's . The titles were then copied to a U-Matic system in 44.1 kHz / 16 bit format for the pre-mastering process.

"With the AudioCube , it was the first time we did a complete restoration job in 96 kHz, so we could work with the highest quality currently possible. To do this, we used the VPI's and the editing functionality of the Steinberg WaveLab editor. The AudioCube was integrated into our our studio environment without any problems and was very easy to handle. The user interfaces of the VPI's are extremely intuitive to operate and we only needed a very short time to get the desired results."

Gernot von Schultzendorff (Emil Berliner Studios)

"I was very happy with the AudioCube . For restoration, we used the DeNoiser, DeCrackler, RepairFilter and AnalogEQ . The excellent quality of the filters and the noise suppression of the DeNoiser had me totally convinced we made the right decision. The SpectroGraph was often used for both signal analysis and the visualization of problem signals. This special display simplifies looking for a particular problem. I was equally happy about the simple operation of the system -- it makes doing the job a real pleasure."

Andrew Wedman (Emil Berliner Studios)

 

New AudioCube VPI's Released

Toronto ..... Christmas came early this year for AudioCube users, with the release of significant updates to 3 of the most popular AudioCube VPI's (Virtual Precision Instruments) and the simultaneous release of two brand new VPI's.

The DeScratcher received the most significant update with the addition of a ' Manual Interpolator ', which replaces disturbances such as clicks and pops with a manual interpolation of audio preceding and following the area affected by the disturbance.

DeBuZZ received a new ' Learn' mode that uses high resolution audio analysis between 20 and 130 Hz to automatically recognize the dominant hum harmonic. This process also automatically sorts the hum harmonic spectrum based on amplitude. Other functions added to DeBuZZ include the ability to set the number of filters to be created -- from 1 to 150, in single increments and 'Freeze Mode' that anchors the dominant harmonic to prevent unwanted drifting.

DeCrackler has been optimized to remove up to 8000 disturbances per second, along with the addition of four different detection algorithms, facilitating an even better adaptation to click problems. A new ' Complex Mode' adds a more sophisticated analysis model, and they added two new 'specialty algorithms' - 'Voice/ Brass' and 'Noise Bursts' to the DeCrackler.

The two new VPI's are MultiComp , our brand new multi-band compressor VPI, and SpectralDeHiss , a new noise removal tool. MultiComp offers extremely precise and powerful control over the dynamics of up to five different frequency bands. This permits a mastering engineer to easily "segment" a mix into its various components with precise control. SpectralDeHiss employs a sophisticated 'fingerprinting' technique whereby the noise floor of a signal is analyzed during real-time program playback - even if the noise floor is not separate from the program.

On the SurroundCube front, HDA announced Magneto - Eight, an eight channel version of the immensely popular two channel mastering VPI.

 

National Archives Add 2 AudioCubes

Washington, DC.....The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has chosen the AudioCube for their restoration & archival requirements at the Washington DC facility. The two systems are configured identically with dual 700 MHz Pentium processors and a full compliment of hardware including CD Writer, CD ROM, Removable audio drive, dual SCSI & dual monitor cards, and 100Mbit Ethernet .

The 2 NARA systems host a comprehensive selection of 24 bit, 96 kHz restoration tools, including DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuzz, FreeFilter, Azimuth, Spectralizer, and MultiComp .

Both systems also include the CD-Inspector option . Among other things, the CD-Inspector checks the CD(R) media for Block Error Rate (BLER), Burst Error Length (BERL), E32 (non correctable errors) and Non Valid samples (NV) and Mutes, according to the Red-Book standard. With the AudioCube as a multitasking workstation all data inspection is done in the background, in parallel to other real time processing. The test reports can be saved and printed in different sizes (even as a CD-cover). For verification, all track information, indices, pre-gap, emphasis flags, ISRC-codes and UPC/EAN-code are extractable.

 

VidiPax First To Offer Automated Audio Archival with 'QUADRIGA'

New York, NY..... Upon completion of the installation of the AudioCube QUADRIGA system at the end of September, VidiPax , located in the Chelsea district of New York City , will become the first facility in North America to offer fully automated audio archival services .

The QUADRIGA software utilizes sophisticated technology unique to the AudioCube platform, providing automated monitoring and logging of both analogue and digital audio streams for technical parameters of archival significance. These include: audio drop out, clipping, clicks, azimuth/phase, analogue distortion error, splice identification, level analysis, digital coding errors, digital clipping, DC offset, mutes.

The VidiPax system will be configured with the most comprehensive array of 24 bit, 96 kHz restoration tools available on the AudioCube platform. The list includes: DeClicker, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuzz, RepairFilter, Azimuth, Spectralizer, Demotorizer, Multicomp, and SpectralDeHiss .

Jim Lindner, Founder of VidiPax , feels the decision to expand the audio restoration side of the company represents VidiPax 's commitment to the preservation of all forms of magnetic media. "When working with collections of historic and artistic significance, existing VidiPax standards of excellence must be not only maintained but advanced."

Edward Beaty, Audio Director of VidiPax , expects the QUADRIGA system to be invaluable in documenting the condition of original masters. "The thorough and consistent evaluation of each reel when dealing with tens of thousands of tapes is now achievable. Our clients can feel confident that VidiPax will re-archive their material with exceptional quality and documentation using QUADRIGA."

VidiPax is the world's largest and most advanced magnetic media restoration company. With clients ranging from major museums and archives to leading broadcasters, VidiPax has restored and re-mastered over 100,000 video and audio tapes .

 

Sasom Expands Audiocube Technical Support Network

Toronto . . . . Sascom recently announced the expansion of the AudioCube service and tech support network with the addition of 3 well respected and highly qualified people to the Sascom / AudioCube team.

Craig Anderson , based in Los Angeles , will be responsible for Southern California and Southern Nevada. In addition to 3 years of experience as a Sonic Solutions product specialist in L.A., Craig has extensive experience in audio restoration, and as a mastering engineer / film music editor. Craig brings a great deal of practical experience to the team, having worked with several major facilities, including A & M Records, Sony, Paramount, Warner, Fox and Virgin Records .

Oliver Masciarotte, based in San Francisco , will handle the Pacific Northwest . Oliver is a 22 year veteran of the pro audio industry, with an extensive background in both audio production and new media product development. In addition to a Grammy award winning stint at Criteria Recording in Miami , Oliver was both a support specialist and training manager for Sonic Solutions .

Brad Johnson , based in New York , will handle all Northeastern U.S. cities , in addition to New York. Brad has an extensive background in the mastering and recording industry, both as a mastering and recording engineer, and as technical consultant involved in support, training and studio systems design. Most recently, Brad worked as a mastering engineer and training specialist at Absolute Audio in New York. Prior to his stint at Absolute, Brad was chief technical engineer at both Masterdisk and Sterling Sound.

In addition to handling service and technical support responsibilities, Craig, Oliver and Brad will also be involved in on-site AudioCube demonstrations, and operator training at AudioCube equipped facilities in various locations across the U.S.

 

RSRT Digital Master Works Installs Audiocube

Overland Park, KS . . . . RSRT Digital Master Works recently completed the installation of an AudioCube 3-II mastering and audio restoration workstation. The system is configured with a total of 18 AudioCube VPI's (Virtual Precision Instruments) - the 24/96 mastering and restoration tools available exclusively on the AudioCube platform.

"The Cube-Tec AudioCube is a mastering engineers dream come true. The sonic quality is excellent and the clean-up and manipulation tools at my disposal are nothing short of phenomenal! The Cube's wide variety of audio clean-up and adjustment parameters, in conjunction with allowing me to work with true 24 bit, 96k sound files (there are other options), and its multiple dithering scheme option, puts state of the art high end CD Mastering within my reach for the first time. And what really blows me away is the fact that it's not static. It's an ever evolving piece that can change as our needs change.

The audio restoration capabilities of this device are nothing short of amazing! It's set up to process in real time (!) with multiple "Virtual Precision Instruments" . In fact thanks to the "audition" features on a number of the VPI's, I can pinpoint problem areas and adjust my parameters on the fly. That way I can maximize the noise removal and preserve the sonic integrity of the sound file without even having to load it into the hard drives. I can use it like any other piece of outboard gear, which is a great time saver. And best of all, I no longer encountering weird digital artifacts. It's great!"

Larry Johnson - RSRT

 

AudioCube Installed at Absolute Audio in New York

New York . . . . Absolute Audio, founded in 1991 by brothers Tom and Jim Brick and one of the top mastering facilities in New York, recently completed the installation of an AudioCube mastering and audio restoration workstation. The system is configured with a full compliment of hardware and a total of 18 AudioCube VPI's (Virtual Precision Instruments) - the 24/96 mastering and restoration tools available exclusively on the AudioCube platform.

"This is the future of mastering", comments Fred Kevorkian, mastering engineer for Absolute Audio, who recently used the AudioCube for The Dave Matthews Band live album due out this winter. "The AudioCube was ideal for the Dave Matthews Band project. Some of the obstacles we encountered when mastering this album were bad audio connections and digital clocking problems, which the AudioCube handled flawlessly."

Fred Kevorkian - Absolute Audio

"The AudioCube is not only DVD audio ready but also allows us to create MP3 files for our clients who may not be able to supervise the sessions in person. We can email files to our clients for reference and they can approve edits almost immediately, rather than wait overnight for a CD."

Jim Brick - Absolute Audio

Recent work by Absolute Audio Inc. includes projects for: Tommy Boy Music, RCA Records, Arista Records, Stimulated, Universal Records, and Sony Music Entertainment with work for artists such as Mariah Carey, The Dwellas, Boyz II Men, Next and The Dave Matthews Band. Absolute Audio Inc. is located at 56 West 45th St, 3rd Floor, New York, New York.

 

AudioCube Powers Web Based Audio Restoration @ DeNoise.com

05/00 - Emeryville, CA . . . . CD Premasterin g owner Albert Benichou is well known around the Bay area for CD mastering, as well as specialized audio restoration work. He realized some time ago that the Web would be an ideal means of expanding his restoration business by extending his reach beyond the San Francisco bay area. Until recently, the biggest obstacle he faced was technological. Real time, high resolution (24/96 only) audio restoration capability was essential to the successful execution of his business plan. The dual 700 MHz Pentium III based AudioCube , configured with 20 high resolution (24/96) real time restoration and mastering tools, proved to be just what the doctor ordered - removing the technological obstacle.

The restoration services DeNoise.com will be offering include DeNoising, DeEssing, DeClicking, DeScratching, DeCrackling, DeClipping, DeBuzzing, DeMotorizing (camera noise removal) and Phase Error Correction (Azimuth).

Company founder Albert Benichou commented: "For the last two years I have been searching for a high resolution editing system with full integration of mastering and high definition restoration tools. Prior to testing the AudioCube VPI's, I never felt comfortable using "plug-ins" for high level mastering or restoration work. But the AudioCube's 32 / 64 bit floating point processing and 24 Bit / 96kHz resolution completely turned me around. With the AudioCube's integration of mastering and restoration tools, I can work within one single environment from start to finish. And more importantly, thanks to the real time processing power of the AudioCube's 24/96 restoration VPI's , we have been able to launch our ftp site, DeNoise.com ."

Albert Benichou - CD Premastering / DeNoise.com - Emeryville, CA

 

HDA Announces Support Of Additional Tape Machines

The Studer A820 and A812 tape machines can now be used with the Tape Inspector Audiostream Observer module in the QUADRIGA Audio Archival System . Support for the two machines was added as a result of significant demand from QUADRIGA owners who have, until now, been limited to working with the A807 and A816 machines. Existing QUADRIGA system owners will receive the upgrade free of charge.

 

AudioCube Nominated for the Mix Magazine Tec Award

05/00 - AudioCube has been nominated for a Mix Magazine TEC Award in the category "Workstation Technology" For more details on the 16th Annual Awards, have a look at Mix Online

 

Chace Acquires 1st AudioCube For Sound Restoration In Los Angeles

04/00 - Los Angeles . . . . Chace , a well known audio preservation and restoration company, has purchased the first AudioCube 4 for use in the Los Angeles area. The system at Chace is configured with dual 700 MHz Pentium III processors and a compliment of 12 specialized restoration and mastering software tools, called VPI's.

According to Chace president Bob Heiber ... "The commitment demonstrated by Cube-Tec to creating new and more powerful sound restoration tools for this platform was a major consideration in choosing the AudioCube system. Our engineers are especially impressed with the sonic quality and intuitive design of the Audio Cube sound restoration tools."

 

Sounding Post Chooses AudioCube

04/00 - Los Angeles . . . . Sascom recently announced the purchase of an AudioCube 4 Mastering and Restoration system by The Sounding Post Audio Services in Los Angeles. The Sounding Post system is configured with dual 700 MHz Pentium III processors and a comprehensive selection of 14 VPI's - the specialized restoration and mastering software tools exclusive to the sophisticated AudioCube platform.

Sounding Post President Reid Caulfield commented ..."The restoration and mastering tools available in the AudioCube are just amazing - excellent sonic quality with a very fluid and logical user interface. We needed a platform that would move forward with us as we take on more challenging and difficult audio issues, and Cube-Tec has certainly stepped up to the plate with the AudioCube . Sascom's commitment to customer service and technical support was also a major factor in our decision."

 

Radio Spirits Choose AudioCube and CD Inspector

03/00 - Chicago . . . . Radio Spirits, the well know Chicago based facility which specializes in the restoration and re-distribution of "old time radio" broadcasts, recently ordered four AudioCube 3-II mastering and restoration systems for an April installation by Sascom.

Program material consists primarily of radio broadcasts from the 30's, 40's and 50's, commonly referred to as "the golden age of radio". The programs are restored by Radio Spirits and then re-distributed via syndicated broadcast, as well as on CD and cassette.

All four AudioCubes will share storage resources on a 100 Mbit Ethernet network, and are configured identically, with dual Pentium III processors, CD Writer, CD ROM, Dual SCSI card, 9 GB removable audio drive, and Dual Display card.

VPI's selected for each AudioCube include DeClicker, DeNoiser, Loudness Maximizer, Spectralizer, DeCrackler, DeScratcher, DeClipper, DeBuZZ, and Analog EQ.

In addition to the four AudioCubes, Radio Spirits will be installing the CD Inspector, also manufactured by Cube-Tec. Among several other functions, the CD Inspector checks the CD(R) media for Block Error Rate (BLER), Burst Error Length (BERL), E32 (non-correctable errors) and Non Valid samples (NV) and Mutes, according to the Red-Book-standard.

"As the leading source for old-time radio enthusiasts, Radio Spirits often encounters source material that can be very challenging for any audio restoration software to repair. We were extremely impressed with the AudioCube's speed and power. Combine that with the easy-to- use Steinberg WaveLab editing software, AudioCube was an easy choice for us to meet our ever growing demand and shorter deadlines while maintaining the highest quality."

Roger Wolski Senior Producer - Radio Spirits

 

Universal Polygram Installs AudioCube

03/00 - Hannover, Germany - Universal (Polygram) Hannover, one of the world's largest CD pressing plants, with 8 Mastering suites, recently completed the installation of the Cube-Tec AudioCube 3-II CD Mastering and Restoration system.

Universal also announced plans to upgrade of the system to SurroundCube, which supports 5.1 and 7.1 formats, as soon as it is released.

 

Cube-Tec Announces Multiple QUADRIGA Installations

03/00 - Bremen, Germany - Cube-Tec, the developer and manufacturer of the AudioCube, SurroundCube and QUADRIGA digital audio mastering, restoration and archival systems, recently announced several new QUADRIGA installations.

Systems have been installed at Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR), Südwestrundfunk (SWR), and Radio Bremen (RB) in Germany. In Vienna, Austria, a QUADRIGA system was installed at The Phonogramm Achive. Established over 100 years ago, Phonogramm is the oldest audio archive in the world and includes a large number of wax cylinders, vinyl, and tape assets, all of which are being restored on a gradual basis.

QUADRIGA'S open architecture offers interfaces to several storage systems, including CD-R, Exabyte and DLT.

 

Cube-Tec Introduces New Products At AES

• AudioCube 4

Cube-Tec showed the latest generation - AudioCube 4 - which now includes Dual 700 MHz Pentium III Processors with 128 MB Ram in a 5U 19'' Rackmount Enclosure; 100 Mbit Ethernet card; Ultra Wide SCSI Card; Dual Monitor Card; 8/20x CD Writer; 40x CD ROM; 9 GB Removable Hard Drive; 4 GB System Hard Drive.

Initial tests indicate a 40% increase in performance.

• EditControl

The new ' EditControl ' for AudioCube was designed especially for use with all AudioCube systems equipped with Steinberg WaveLab 3 . EditControl is an extension for the standard PC keyboard, which offers direct access to all Steinberg WaveLab 3 editing functions. Switching between various fade-ins and fade-outs, or adjustment of the length of a fade is now possible by hitting one single key. Additional "soft" keys are available for personal settings and functions, to facilitate custom programming suited to an editor's personal preferences. EditControl significantly improves the efficiency of day to day work on the AudioCube .

• Integration of D.A.I.S. Matrix

Designed and manufactured by Audio-Service of Germany, the D.A.I.S. (Digital Audio Interconnection System) consists of a 72 x 72 stereo matrix and functions as patch bay, format converter and signal router. The D.A.I.S allows easy access to all source machines, while converting all digital formats, providing the perfect interface for the AudioCube and SurroundCube systems. In addition to analog I/O, supported digital formats include AES, ADAT and TDIF. Control of the matrix is handled directly from the AudioCube 4 and/or SurroundCube . The software is easy to learn and makes the AudioCube the perfect control device within a complex digital network.

• New Surround VPI's

Spectral was demonstrating the latest version of SurroundCube at the show, which now includes several new VPI's, and all now sport a new "look and feel".

• Ambiance Eight - 8 channel Digital Reverb with 8 parameters
• Compression Eight - 8 Channel Mastering Compressor
• EQ Eight - 8 Channel version of the popular Analog EQ with 6 frequency bands for each channel.
• Loudness Maximizer Eight - 8 Channel version of one of the most popular VPI's in the AudioCube
• LFE Merger - merges the LFE in to your full range channels

 

2 AudioCubes Installed By W.P.S.

02/00 - Washington, DC - Washington Professional Systems, the DC area AudioCube representative recently completed the installation of AudioCube system in 2 area facilities.

At Wolf Productions in Falls Church, VA an AudioCube3-II was installed with dual 500 MHz Pentium III processors and a CD ROM, CD Writer, Removable 9GB audio drive, Dual Monitor, External SCSI and 100Mbit Ethernet cards. The Wolf Productions system is configured with a full compliment of restoration and mastering tools (VPI's) including Loudness Maximizer, DeNoiser, DeClicker, Spectralizer, DeClipper, DeBuZZ, Magneto, FreeFilter, RepairFilter, AnalogEQ, DeES, FreeShaper and DeCrackler.

In addition to CD mastering, Wolf productions is quite active in the area of audio restoration and does a great deal of work with the Smithsonian Institute.

"We recently completed a project combining 24 bit mixes (done this year) with Vinyl disc transfers from the 1970's. The Audio Cube's powerful restoration tools made the transition from new to old seamless and nearly undetectable."

Bill Wolf - Wolf Productions

At Sterling Productions / Century of Brass, Frank Mesich installed an identically configured AudioCube 3-II system with Loudness Maximizer, DeNoiser, DeClicker, Spectralizer. Frank is active primarily in the area of audio restoration.

 

01/00 - Phonogram Archiving With AudioCube

Vienna, Austria .... Cube-Tec distributor Ton Eichinger recently completed the installation of an AudioCube3-II system at Phonogram Archive in Vienna, Austria. Established over 100 years ago, Phonogram is the oldest audio archive in the world. The Phonogram archive includes a large number of wax cylinders, vinyl, and tape assets, all of which are being restored on a gradual basis.

The archival team assembled by Dr. Schuller is using an AudioCube 3-II equipped with dual 500 MHz Pentium III Processors, 128 MB RAM, 100Mbit Ethernet, External SCSI, and Dual Monitor Cards; 8/20 CD Writer, CD ROM, and a 9 GB removable Audio hard drive. The restoration and mastering tools (VPI's) they selected include Loudness Maximizer, DeClicker, Spectralizer, DeNoiser, DeCrackler, and DeBuZZ.

 

01/00 - AudioCube Installed At Colossal Mastering In Chicago

Sascom recently completed the installation of an AudioCube system at Colossal Mastering in Chicago, one of the city's most popular mastering facilities. The "Colossal" system is configured with dual 500 MHz Pentium III processors and loaded with a full compliment of hardware, including CD ROM, CD Writer, Removable 9GB audio drive, Dual Monitor, External SCSI and 100Mbit Ethernet cards.

Colossal's Dan Stout considered his entire client base when deciding upon the mastering and restoration tools (VPI's) to be included in the system. In addition to DDP software, the system was delivered with Loudness Maximizer, DeNoiser, DeClicker, Spectralizer, DeClipper, DeBuZZ, Magneto, FreeFilter, RepairFilter, AnalogEQ, DeES, FreeShaper and DeCrackler. This unique combination of hardware and software provides Colossal with incredible capabilities, and the ability to dramatically enhance the services they offer their client base.

After completing several sessions on the system, Dan Stout stated:

"The Cube-Tec AudioCube represents a true advance in the audio processing capabilities of the mastering and restoration industries. This system addresses an enormous range of tasks from repair and restoration to EQ and creative effects, all of which can be processed at high bit rates (64-bit in most cases) and high sample rates (up to 192kHz). The system's new editor, Steinberg WaveLab 3 , is clean and well organized. Similar commands are grouped together for ease of use with unlimited Undo's available. I was able to learn the editing basics in only an afternoon. That's not to say the AudioCube isn't powerful. Once past the basics, you can immerse yourself in a wealth of options. These options truly allow you to make the system feel comfortable, rather than confining you to presets that are not of your choosing. From start to finish, the AudioCube provides the tools to create a master of exceptional sonic quality."

Dan Stout - Colossal Mastering - Chicago, IL

 

12/99 - AudioCube Installed At West Side Sound In NY

"We integrated the AudioCube into our studio work environment without a hitch. The user interface looks and feels great. The Steinberg WaveLab editor is a powerhouse; a highly efficient editor, and the batch processing feature is an incredible time saver. The restoration tools are the best I've ever worked with. Azimuth and DeNoise are magical. I adapted to the mastering VPI's immediately - in particular, I love the Analog EQ - smooth and extremely musical Magneto and Loudness Maximizer."

Chris Scott - West Side Sound - New York, NY

 

11/99 - AudioCube For Film & TV Post Production

We received some interesting comments from Casablanca Sound in Toronto, where they have been using the AudioCube for film post production applications for several months now. Ryan explains how they are using the system:

"I have been actively using the AudioCube 3 audio restoration system for film and television post production and found it to be a valuable tool in a post production environment.

I use the system in two main areas:

The first is restoring bad location dialog. Generally, contamination originates with the location recordist or in transfer. Things like radio mic noise, dirty DAT heads (digital glitch). Sometimes I hack at actual ambient contamination such as rain, fans, camera noise, rivers/streams and gas fireplaces.

The second is SFX re-mastering. I load SFX from sources like 1/4'', DAT or CD, right to our m-Soft effects server over the network and do all processing on the remote volume, which eliminates time consuming file transfers. Generally for a 20-min. reel of 1/4'' it takes me 2-3 hours to go from tape to live on the WWW.

All in all I am very impressed with this system. It's fast and clean and I have experienced very few software problems (network implication is kind of finicky). Those guys in Germany are extremely anal with their programming and won't release anything until it is 100%. As far as ease of use, I would be confident in saying that someone with operational knowledge of Windows computers and a good ear could pick it up in less than a day."

Ryan Fraser, Restoration and Effects Administrator/Sound Design, Casablanca Sound & Picture

 

11/99 - SurroundCube Used For DVD-Audio Production

Syrinx, based in Hamburg, Germany, used a pre-release version of the SurroundCube to produce the DVD-Audio disk used to demonstrate the new Technics Universal DVD player at the IFA convention in Berlin.

Syrinx was asked to produce an audio and video production of the Westport Jazz festival in Hamburg, featuring legendary artists like Pat Metheny, Stanley Clark and John McLaughlin.

"When Panasonic asked us to realize the first DVD-Audio worldwide, we got pretty excited. We have gathered a lot of experience with recording a live concert and capturing all the ambiance in one take, but to get all this high resolution recording gear to work (which was a beta version, partly) was a big challenge for us. In early planing we started to think about how to master a 5.1 surround recording and we found that no manufacturer was ready for this. So we asked Joerg Houpert if we might get an early version of the SurroundCube and he was glad to help us out.

We mixed all tracks down to our Sonic Solutions system, where they where edited, and from there we sent them through the SurroundCube into the new HDSP-Sonic Solutions system for DVD-Audio Pre-mastering. I knew the Loudness Maximizer from several two channel mastering sessions and of course I was delighted that this helpful instrument became one of the first Multi-channel VPI's. Together with the five channel compressor we could control the tremendous dynamics of the live recording and got it to the master without destroying the natural balance between the front and rear channels."

Marcus Herzog - Syrinx

 

AudioCube Reviews For Download

In addition to the review in the December issue of Mix, two other system reviews are available for download from our web site. URL's are listed below:

• April / 99 Studio Sound in PDF
• April / 99 Studio Sound in HTML
• August / 98 Pro Audio Review in