NAMM 2025 Day Three: What’s New?

Day three at NAMM 2025 was a whirlwind of innovation, revelations, and a few surprises. The music industry seems to be embracing a new era of technology, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge advancements. Let’s dive into some of the highlights that caught our attention amidst the bustling exhibition halls.

Solid State Logic’s Revolutionary Interface

SSL 18 Review

The SSL 18 redefines rackmount audio production, combining SSL’s legendary sound quality with cutting-edge features in a 26-in/28-out USB interface. Priced at $1,199, it boasts 8 SSL-designed preamps, next-gen 32-bit/192 kHz converters, and +24 dBu line outputs, ensuring pristine audio performance with unrivaled clarity.

With Legacy 4K analogue enhancement, dual headphone outputs, flexible monitoring, and comprehensive digital I/O (ADAT, S/PDIF), SSL 18 is built for seamless integration into any studio. Whether recording, mixing, or producing, it’s a versatile, high-performance centerpiece for professionals who demand the best.

SSL Alpha 8 Review: Expand Your Studio

The SSL Alpha 8 is a versatile 8-in/8-out AD/DA converter and 18-in/18-out USB audio interface. With next-gen 32-bit/192 kHz converters, flexible routing, and DC-coupled outputs for CV, it’s perfect for expanding your setup or serving as a standalone hub. Priced at $899, it delivers SSL-grade sound quality and seamless integration for any studio.

Harrison 32cs channel strip

The Harrison 32cs channel strip delivers the essence of the legendary Harrison 3232 console in a compact, rackmount design. Rooted in the legacy of the 3232, a cornerstone of analog recording history, the 32cs offers modern convenience while retaining the original’s hallmark sound quality and versatility.

At its core, the 32cs features a mic preamp with a Lundahl transformer and a 5534 op-amp, delivering up to 70 dB of gain, making it capable of handling even gain-hungry ribbon microphones. The EQ section, inspired by the 3232 console, includes a four-band sweepable EQ with proportional Q, providing precise tonal shaping. Fully sweepable high- and low-pass filters, a signature feature of the original console, add an extra layer of flexibility, with the “Bump” button offering a subtle low-end boost just above the high-pass filter frequency.

The 32cs is packed with modern features designed for today’s workflows. Front and rear mic inputs with a Neutrik Combo jack, pushbutton controls for polarity flip, phantom power, pad, and output mute, as well as a multi-colored LED meter for gain-setting, enhance its usability. A differentially balanced send/return insert, which can be set pre- or post-EQ, adds further versatility, while a stereo cue mix input with a blend knob and headphone output enables latency-free monitoring—perfect for DAW-based recording setups.

Sound-wise, the 32cs excels in delivering detail and punch with a fast transient response, making it ideal for a wide range of sources, from electric guitars and vocals to kick drums and acoustic instruments. Its ability to contour sound through its EQ and filters is particularly noteworthy, offering clarity and precision without excessive warmth. Compared to other vintage-style preamps, such as the A-Designs Pacifica and Universal Audio 2-610, the 32cs stands out for its clean, present sound and adaptable tonal options.

While the 32cs isn’t without minor drawbacks—such as tightly spaced EQ knobs that require careful adjustments and the absence of a master output control—these are small trade-offs for a device that so faithfully captures the spirit of the original Harrison 3232. For engineers and producers seeking the sound of a classic large-format console in a more accessible form, the 32cs is an excellent choice. Its combination of vintage tone, modern features, and exceptional build quality makes it a standout addition to any studio.

Z&H Design

Founded in 2018 and officially launched in 2024, Z&H Designs is a UK-based brand crafting premium, handcrafted pro audio gear for modern studios. With 5 years of R&D and contributions from over 30 engineers—including Grammy winners and creators across genres like Hip-Hop, Jazz, Rock, and more—Z&H ensures its gear is rigorously tested to meet professional standards.

Z&H’s designs bring together the best of analog tradition and modern innovation. Each unit undergoes extensive testing in commercial studios and features carefully crafted components, including custom-made transformers and high-voltage op amps. This balance delivers “Zen”—a clean, musical sound—and “Hit,” an analog vibe rich with distortion and harmonics. Together, they create the unique character Z&H is known for.

Every unit is handcrafted and individually tested by audio engineers, blending boutique craftsmanship with attention to detail. With customizable parts, robust linear power supplies, and a 720-hour burn-in test, Z&H prioritizes quality inside and out. Backed by a 5-year warranty, Z&H Designs combines timeless sound with reliability for today’s studios.

Milab and Pearl Reunite After 40 Years

Swedish microphone manufacturers Milab Microphones AB and Pearl Mikrofonlaboratorium AB have reunited after four decades. This historic merger reconnects two companies that share a legacy dating back to 1941, when founder Rune Rosander introduced the revolutionary rectangular capsule design. Now, the combined expertise of these brands promises to push the boundaries of microphone innovation while maintaining their distinctive identities in the market.

One of Pearl’s standout creations, the ELM-T Bernt Malmqvist Signature Edition, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. This large diaphragm tube condenser microphone features Pearl’s unique rectangular capsule design, which offers a high signal-to-noise ratio, smooth off-axis response, and warm tonal characteristics. In testing, the ELM-T BM excels on acoustic instruments, providing a rich low end and smooth highs reminiscent of a ribbon mic, with the added benefit of a low noise floor. Its darker tonal profile is versatile and responds well to EQ adjustments, making it an excellent choice for live ensembles, studio recordings, and applications where warmth and detail are paramount.

Highlighting this milestone, Steve Maggiora, our friend, mentor, and talented musician, stopped by the Milab and Pearl booth at NAMM, showing his support and celebrating the exciting future of these legendary brands. With a shared dedication to high-quality, handcrafted microphones, this reunion honors over 80 years of audio excellence and sets the stage for a bright and innovative future in microphone technology.

ASM164 Summing Mixer: Detailed Overview

The ASM164 is a 16-channel analog summing mixer that delivers the renowned API summing performance in a compact 19-inch rack format. Inspired by the summing section of API’s THE BOX® Console, the ASM164 is designed for professional project studios, home studios, and production facilities of all sizes. It provides the legendary API sound in a streamlined, cost-effective package, making it an essential tool for achieving rich, professional mixes.

Key Features and Specifications:

• • 16 Analog Summing Channels with Balanced, Line-Level DB-25 Connectors for seamless integration into any studio setup.
  • Global 0dB Channel Level Control Bypass, ideal for maintaining consistent input levels.
  • Proprietary API 2510 Input OpAmps, ensuring pristine analog signal fidelity.
  • Insert Send/Return on Each Channel, offering flexibility for external processing.
  • 4-Segment LED Level Meters for precise level monitoring.

Dual Stereo Program Buses:

• • Mix-A and Mix-B stereo buses allow for versatile routing and creative mixing options.
  • Each channel can be assigned to Mix-A, Mix-B, or both.

Additional Controls and Functionality:

• • Continuously Variable Panning with a Center Detent for precise stereo placement.
  • 31-Step Detented Level Control, delivering accurate and repeatable settings.
  • Balanced Stereo External Input, assignable to Mix-A or Mix-B, for additional summing capabilities.

Signature API Sound:

• • Powered by API 2520 OpAmps and Proprietary Output Transformers, the ASM164 delivers the warm, punchy, and harmonically rich sound API is known for.
  • Includes Analog Stereo Output Level VU Meters for intuitive output monitoring.

Connectivity and Build:

• • Comprehensive Rear Panel Connections with fully Balanced In/Out for professional-grade signal flow.
  • External Power Supply for reliable performance and reduced noise interference.

The ASM164 is perfect for engineers and producers looking to bring API’s iconic sound into their workflow. With its robust features, high-quality components, and intuitive design, the ASM164 is an invaluable addition to any studio environment.

API introduced the ASM 164, a 16-channel summing mixer with two stereo buses. This mixer is based on the summing side of their box console, offering API’s renowned analog sound in a compact form. With detented gain control and hardware inserts on every channel, the ASM 164 is perfect for those wanting to incorporate API’s analog warmth into their digital setups.

Priced at $3,195, this mixer is expected to ship immediately after NAMM, showcasing API’s commitment to providing ready-to-use solutions for audio professionals.

Panel with Alina Smith

Alina Smith (born August 25, 1987) is a Russian-American pop singer, songwriter, and record producer, renowned for her work in the global music industry. As a co-founder of the music writing and production company Lyre, she has been instrumental in creating chart-topping hits for artists such as Betty Who, Itzy, Kep1er, Gabi DeMartino, and Red Velvet.

Born in St. Petersburg, Soviet Union, Alina began showcasing her musical talent early, singing and playing piano at just three years old. By five, she was already composing music, writing poetry, and touring with the music group Aurora. Her multicultural background and early exposure to music laid the foundation for her career as a dynamic artist and producer.

Alina’s professional journey took off in 2010 when her composition “Fallin’ 4 U” became the debut single for Sony Japan artist Aisha, featuring Darryl McDaniels of Run DMC. She continued gaining recognition, signing a publishing deal with BMG/Chrysalis in 2015 and releasing her own single, “Free Beer,” which was featured on Sirius XM’s The Highway.

In 2016, Alina and Elli Moore founded Lyre, quickly establishing themselves as sought-after creators in the pop and K-pop scenes. Alina has contributed to projects for globally renowned artists, including Red Velvet’s “Talk to Me,” Itzy’s“In The Morning,” and Kep1er’s “Giddy.” Her ability to craft captivating melodies and innovative productions has earned her collaborations with acts like BLACKSWAN, Purple Kiss, and Cyndi Wang.

Beyond her work as a songwriter and producer, Alina has also released her own music, including the EP 2000s Teen, and continues to inspire with her creative vision and dedication to the craft. Proudly blending her Russian roots with her American experiences, Alina Smith remains a trailblazer in the music industry, shaping sounds that resonate with audiences worldwide.

In the panel we did together with AudioMovers Matt Soczywko Alina shared her insights into the evolving landscape of audio technology and production techniques drew a crowd eager to soak up every word. She delved into the nuances of modern recording practices, offering a glimpse into the future of audio engineering.

Xmax – High-End Class-A Stereo Masterbus Processor

The Xmax is a premium Class-A stereo masterbus processor, purpose-built for both mixing and mastering. Designed to deliver transparency, precision, and versatile control, it elevates your sound in the studio or during live performances.

At its heart lies advanced Class-A circuitry with integrated Mid/Side processing, ensuring crystal-clear audio quality while preserving the natural character of your mix. Its multiband compression—divided into low, mid, and side bands—offers meticulous control over each frequency range, empowering you to shape your sound with unrivaled precision.

The New Austrian Audio OC-S10 Microphone

One of the standout products at the show was the new microphone from Austrian Audio. Designed with a focus on clarity and openness, the OC-S10 model features a CKR12 capsule and high-transient, fast electronics. This mic promises to capture every nuance of sound with stunning accuracy. The innovative design minimizes reflections, ensuring that the microphone’s performance is as close to the capsule’s natural sound as possible.

The OC-S10 is a premium large-diaphragm condenser microphone, expertly engineered for capturing lead vocals and solo instruments with remarkable clarity and precision. Featuring five selectable polar patterns, three low-cut filter options, and switchable -10dB and -20dB pads, the OC-S10 delivers exceptional versatility for any recording situation. Its dual-output design, utilizing standard XLR connections, ensures maximum flexibility in post-production, allowing you to shape and refine your ideal sound effortlessly.

The included shock mount, equipped with a ball-joint connection, allows for precise and seamless positioning, making setup a breeze. A magnetically attached metal mesh filter effectively minimises plosive sounds while maintaining the full richness and detail of the vocal spectrum.

Matt Lange at PreSonus

My good friend Matt Lange’s presence at the PreSonus booth was a highlight for me. Matt is one oif mentors, an all around amazing guy, stupidly talented and a huge asset for Pre Sonus! Now that Fender own Pre Sonus he, as a world class guitrarist himself, discussed the integration of guitar technology with Studio One, he showcased the seamless blend of Fender and PreSonus products. Matt’s is excited for the new reamp outputs on the PreSonus Quantum series, they are designed to route recorded tracks back through guitar amplifiers or other outboard gear with optimal impedance matching, these reamp outputs open up endless creative possibilities for sound design and tonal experimentation.

Introducing Kali Audio’s SM-8: Precision Meets Power

Kali Audio has unveiled their latest innovation, the SM-8, a high-performance studio monitor featuring an 8-inch woofer. Designed for professional mixing and mastering, the SM-8 delivers unmatched clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum.

At this NAMM 2025, Kali Audio shared a booth with Sony, where Sony showcased their Sony 360 Immersive Audio setupusing Kali’s speakers. The collaboration highlighted the SM-8’s exceptional precision and ability to handle complex, multidimensional soundscapes, solidifying its status as a top choice for immersive audio.

Sound Radix’s Innovative Tools

I’ve been using Sound Radix’s Muteomatic plugin, it simplifies workflows by automatically muting and unmuting channels, enhancing efficiency in the studio. This kind of tool is invaluable for streamlining the recording process and maintaining focus on creativity.

Sontronics and Their Visionary Approach

Sontronics is celebrating their 20th anniversary with exciting new developments. Under new ownership, the company is poised to take bold steps forward while honouring their legacy of quality and innovation. Their latest products feature advanced technology, such as their Saturn 2 microphone, which offers nine polar patterns for unparalleled control over sound capture. This commitment to pushing boundaries while maintaining accessibility is what sets Sontronics apart.

QSC’s KC12: A New Era in Loudspeakers

QSC unveiled the KC12, a 3,000-watt, three-way loudspeaker system that redefines the column loudspeaker aesthetic. Unlike traditional designs, the KC12 uses a one-inch compression driver paired with a LEAF waveguide, ensuring high clarity and performance.

The system offers a wide 145-degree horizontal and 35-degree vertical coverage pattern, minimizing unwanted reflections and maximizing clarity. Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy pairing, and the system can link up to four units for a comprehensive audio experience.

Mantra’s Spatial Reverb: Living Sky

Mantra’s latest offering, Living Sky, is touted as the most advanced spatial reverb ever made. Utilizing ambisonics, it runs 540 impulse responses in real-time, all while consuming minimal processing power thanks to its reliance on NVIDIA GPUs.

This reverb allows for unprecedented control over spatial sound, with a modulation matrix that lets users automate and manipulate parameters seamlessly. It’s a game-changer for those looking to push the boundaries of audio production.

The X Vive More You Hub: Revolutionising Collaborative Audio

At NAMM 2025, amidst the buzz of new gear and groundbreaking tech, I had the chance to chat with drummer and producer Matt Starr about music, creativity, and the power of innovation. One standout from our discussion was the More You Hub, a cutting-edge expandable audio interface and perso1`nal monitoring system designed to simplify recording, rehearsing, and collaborating like never before.

The Heart of the System

The More You Hub is the central piece of the system, featuring two combo inputs for microphones or instruments, along with outputs for your DAW, headphones/IEMs, and studio monitors. Perfect for solo artists or full bands, the system can expand up to eight stations by adding More You 2X units or additional hubs. This flexibility makes it a game-changer for everything from intimate songwriting sessions to large-scale rehearsals.

Precision and Control

At the core of the Hub’s brilliance are its True Gain Mic Preamps, offering 60 dB of gain in 1 dB increments, 48V phantom power, phase control, and a high-pass filter on all inputs. Each user can independently adjust their level and reverb for ultimate personalization. Even better? You can connect it to your DAW via USB-C and monitor signals with your plugins applied in real time.

Intuitive and Efficient

The LCD screen offers clear, intuitive navigation of audio levels and system settings, while the Auto Gain feature ensures precise input levels across channels. Whether you’re powering one hub or an expanded setup, the system can run on just a laptop or computer—no need for bulky external power supplies.

Streamlined Communication

For seamless rehearsals, each unit includes talkback microphones, allowing musicians to communicate without removing headphones. The included mic stand clip also makes it easy to mount and access during sessions.

Memory and Recall

All settings are automatically saved and recalled after shutdown, so you can pick up where you left off without missing a beat.

Education and Innovation: A Blend of Old and New

The educational aspect of NAMM 2025 was as enlightening as ever. From hands-on workshops to insightful panels, attendees had the chance to learn from industry veterans and innovators alike. Topics ranged from the basics of audio for educators to advanced discussions on AI in music production.

Particularly noteworthy was the focus on adaptive and inclusive music classrooms, highlighting the industry’s commitment to making music accessible to all.

Final Thoughts

NAMM 2025 has been a testament to the music industry’s resilience and innovation. As we’ve seen, the blending of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology is paving the way for new possibilities in music production and performance. Whether it’s SSL’s groundbreaking interface, Z&H’s customizable preamps, or Mantra’s revolutionary reverb, the future of audio is bright and full of potential.

We can’t wait to see how these innovations will shape the soundscapes of tomorrow. Until next year, keep creating, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music.