NAMM 2016: The Future is Now with the Zoom Arq Controller
Today at NAMM 2016, Zoom revealed a revolutionary machine, the ARQ Aero RhythmTrak, which takes the producer out of the booth and onto the stage. It's a drum machine, sequencer, synthesizer, looper and MIDI controller in one. The most remarkable thing about it though, is its removable ring with illuminated pads that acts as a wireless remote control.
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Loads of functions
One of the best things about performing live is the direct interaction with the audience, which isn't easy to do when you're contained inside a DJ booth. The Zoom Arq consists of a base station and a removable Ring Controller. On the Base Station, there are 468 drum and instrument sounds, tons of digital effects and an audio source with 70 one-shot sounds, but this compact synth also allows you to create your own unique sounds. The sequencer can build tracks made up of 32 layers at a time, and up to 400 patterns can be formed into a single track. The looper allows you to play 32 loops forwards or backwards simultaneously and adjust the pitch and speed. This goes for external audio sources as well as on-board tracks.
Ring Controller
The real eye-catcher of this device that will win the hearts of your audience members is the Ring Controller, which has 96 illuminated pads with aftertouch. Thanks to the built-in 3-axis accelerometer, you use your own body movements to control the music. Via Bluetooth, you can operate the base station as well as other DAWs (for both Android and iOS). That means you can remove the ring from the base station and continue to create music as you walk.
The Zoom Arq Aero RhythmTrak is expected to arrive around April 2016. Keep an eye on the relevant product page for up-to-date information on availability and pricing.
For more NAMM news, check out our NAMM 2016 news feed.
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