In this video, I review the IK Multimedia ARC On-Ear, a portable studio simulation device that promises to solve my biggest frustration with the Qudelix 5K—the difficulty of switching between different headphones. I'll show you how this compact, battery-powered device works, demonstrate its on-device headphone correction and studio simulation features, and share whether it lives up to my hopes for a more user-friendly alternative.

In this video, I explore BeatGen from Novo Notes, a new AI-enhanced beat-making software that uses large language models like Claude as a collaborative assistant to help develop drum patterns—a unique approach that's quite different from typical "prompt-to-music" AI tools. While the software is still in early stages with significant limitations (Mac-only, expensive API costs, no MIDI export), I walk through the installation process, demonstrate its capabilities, and discuss why this collaborative AI approach represents an interesting glimpse into the future of music production interfaces.

In this video, I introduce a free MIDI controller feature within NovoNotes Duo, an iOS app that turns your iPhone or iPad into a fully functional MIDI controller with expressive features like pitch bend and MPE support. I'll walk you through the complete setup process, showing you how to connect your iOS device and integrate it with your DAW, all using this completely free tool that only requires downloading the NovoNotes Duo app from the App Store.

In this video, I explore version 2 of Ginger Audio's Ground Control Sphere, a virtual monitoring application for immersive audio that brings new features including a redesigned interface, multiple audio interface support, improved bass management, and deeper Apple Spatial Audio integration with AirPods head tracking. While the update significantly improves upon version 1, I discovered some workflow issues with the AirPods integration, though the software remains a powerful tool for immersive audio monitoring on Mac systems.