Hello New Gear – April 2025

With eight motorized, touch-sensitive knobs, the Roto-Control from Melbourne Instruments gives you seamless hands-on control over both software and hardware—without parameter jumps. It features 16 RGB-backlit buttons and nine LCD displays, leaving virtually nothing to be desired. Highlights include 64 preset slots, a motion recorder for up to eight parameters, and deep integration with Ableton Live. For a full walkthrough, check out the video below.

The Hotone Pulze Control is a versatile MIDI foot controller with a built-in rechargeable battery. It can transmit MIDI data wirelessly or via cable. Thanks to its host and client modes, it pairs effortlessly with the Ampero II Stage and other MIDI-enabled devices. Each footswitch supports up to 16 MIDI messages (32 via A/B grouping). Watch the video below to see it in action.

German guitar virtuoso Thomas Blug – renowned for both his playing and engineering savvy – brings us the 1Control, a compact MIDI controller designed for the BluGuitar Amp1. It provides direct access to 2nd Gain, 2nd Master, and Powersoak settings. You also get four user presets, each with customizable settings for channel, gain, master volume, boost, reverb, and FX loop.

Now in its third generation, the KeyLab Essential 88 Mk3 by Arturia features a Fatar TP/110 hammer-action keybed with 88 weighted keys and aftertouch. It also boasts 12 backlit, velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, 9 touch-sensitive faders, 360° encoders, full transport and DAW control, plus pitch and modulation wheels. Scale, chord, and arpeggiator modes are built in. Available in black or white. See the video below for full details.

The Valeton VLP-400 is a dual looper and sampler that includes 100 drum patterns, all independently controllable. It allows for two loops to run simultaneously or switch between song parts. With 99 user projects and up to six minutes of stereo recording per project, you’re looking at a total of up to 12 hours of recording time. Find all the specs on our product page.

The EC-1 Delay from Strymon captures the warmth of a classic 1960s tape echo, complete with the harmonic richness of its tube preamp. It features two authentic preamp voicings, three tape saturation settings, and flexible mono/stereo routing options. With 300 onboard presets and full MIDI control, it’s a dream delay for any tone connoisseur. For sounds and more, watch the video below.

Behringer introduces an analog reissue of a beloved ’70s modulation pedal with lush chorus and vibrato effects. The Chorus Symphony features a fully analog signal path with authentic BBD chips, designed to replicate the original as closely as possible. And as usual with Behringer, the price is extremely competitive. Curious how it sounds? Check the demo below.

Small in size but big in sound, the JT Mini from Behringer packs three VCOs with selectable waveforms, a multimode VCF, arpeggiator, and a 16-step motion sequencer. Its all-analog signal path is inspired by classic early-’80s synth designs. Watch the video below to hear and see it in action.

The HD 550 is Sennheiser’s latest audiophile-grade headphone. This open-back, over-ear dynamic model features a modular design for easy replacement of cushions and cables. Equipped with custom-developed 38 mm drivers, it boasts an exceptional frequency range from 6 to 39,500 Hz and a sound pressure level of 106.7 dB—all while weighing just 237 grams (without cable). Ideal for serious listening and critical monitoring.