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The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) holds two annual trade shows. Winter Namm 2011 took place in Anaheim, California from 13-16 January 2011. The Namm show allows people to seek out the newest innovations in musical products, recording technology, sound and lighting. The shows allow suppliers including Fender, Roland and Zildjian to introduce new products to the market which will be available in our store in the next few months.

These products include:

Zildjian Gen 16 AE Acoustic Electric Cymbal

The AE Cymbal is an actual cymbal that has reduced volume levels, allowing a unique duel microphone and DSP engine to amplify and model the cymbals output. ‘The Acoustic Electric Cymbal is capable of creating a wide range of sounds from that of a classic Zildjian cymbal to some very non-traditional sounds’ (Roderick, 2011).

Mapex Black Panther Drum Kits

Mapex have introduced a new lineup of fourteen snare drum models, each drum features hand built and hand finished Black Panther Shells and new hardware.

Yamaha Club Custom Drum Kits

Yamaha have launched the new ‘Club Custom Drum Kit’ which is a totally new concept in drum design producing a completely new sound. They have a dramatic and eye-catching retro appearance; this kit offers a unique sound and feel due to the swirl lacquer finish. It is available in  Swirl orange, Swirl Black and Swirl Blue.

Sonor Ascent and Force Series Kits

Sonor have introduced the brand new Sonor Ascent Series which is a revived version of their famous Beech Shell construction. This series offers the latest features and technology which has allowed them to create a quality kit offering a full and powerful tone. The new Sonor Series is available from February/March 2011.

Roland TD-9KX2 and TD-4X2 Electronic Drum Kits

Roland has upgraded the V-Tour with a newly designed Kick Pad, V-Cymbals and an enhanced TD-9 sound module to improve the total playability of the drum set. There are a diverse range of sounds to play aong to and a USB port to allow the user to frum along to their own songs.

The TD-KX2/TD-4K2 has been upgraded to allow the user to maximise their performance and practice time. This kit offers a built-in coach and quick record/play function.

Meinl FX Pedal

Meinl FX Pedal was introduced at Namm 2011; it looks smart and features 10 different sound options that you can add to your beat.

Mapex Raptor Direct Drive Bass Drum Pedal

This pedal combines a unique design with advanced technology to provide a pedal with flexibility and responsiveness which offers power and stability. It is available soon in a single and a double model.

Gibraltar Turning Point Hardware

Gibraltar’s new turning point hardware is designed to give the stability of double bracing but the weight of a single braced stand.

Korg Wavedrum Oriental

The Wavedrum Oriental boasts an infusion of popular, unique and accurate Arabic percussion sounds, all playable from the dynamic rim and real drum head surface. It now has 150 preset programs and a total of 300 variations to choose from. The Wavedrum Oriental will deliver performances that are both traditional and creative.