3DRealms drops lawsuit against Gearbox over Duke Nukem Forever royalties

3DRealms and Gearbox settle lawsuit over Duke Nukem Forever royalties

There's been a lot of fallout from the Duke Nukem Forever launch in 2011, and not just from critics -- 3DRealms sued Gearbox earlier this year for allegedly skimping on royalties until it paid off a loan. All that's now water under the bridge, as 3DRealms has dismissed its lawsuit. The game developer's Scott Miller describes the suit as a "misunderstanding;" Gearbox is in the clear following an evidence review, he says. The dismissal may not patch things up with gamers, but it shows that industry disputes don't always have to reach a bitter conclusion. Read 3DRealms' full statement after the break.

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Apogee One for iOS and Mac hands-on

Apogee One for iOS and Mac handson

Apogee strolled into NAMM with a trio of audio interfaces newly outfitted for both iOS and Mac. While the Duet and Quartet are certainly formidable pieces of recording kit, the more compact Apogee One caught our eye for its dual capture ability without adding too much heft to the ol' backpack. The unit accepts input from a built-in mic and either a XLR or 1/4-inch analog input -- both of which connect via a two-headed Y-cable. From there, the One connects to a power supply and either your iPad, iPhone, iPod touch or Apple computer of choice for that dual-tracking capture. After seeing the device up close and spending a few minutes handling it, our main gripe remains the lack of a Lightning connection. Sure it's great that we can outfit our iDevices, but we'd love to see an included cable for the latest port to come out of Cupertino rather having to locate an adapter.

Without being able to capture a solid vocal track on the bustling show floor here at NAMM, we unfortunately can't speak to the quality of that on-board condenser microphone. However, the One seemed to handle guitar licks quite well when recorded with GarageBand on an iPad mini. As we've mentioned before, the outfit has also outed its Maestro app for low-latency monitoring and a bit more control over how matters progress. Aside from all of that, the gadget sports a similar dial knob to that of the original release for selecting functions and controlling input / output levels with dual LED stacks for a visual indicator of said signals. The One wields the same solid build quality that we've come to expect from Apogee based on a few of the other products we've spent extended time with. For a quick walkthrough, take a look at the video that lies beyond the break.

Update: Apogee has passed along the info via the comments below that a Lightning cable is on the way in Q2 and that users shouldn't experience any difference in performance with the adapter that they'll need in the meantime.

James Trew contributed to this report.

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Apogee revamps One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Apogee intros revamped One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

Apogee wants bring pro audio interfaces to the mobile realm. To that end, it's coming to NAMM with a trio of options that cover most Apple-bound musicians and podcasters. Its next-generation One interface (seen after the break) can take simultaneous input from both a built-in condenser mic and one device plugged into either an XLR or quarter-inch jack, passing along the resulting tunes to an iOS device or a Mac's USB port. A similarly reworked Duet adds direct iOS connections to the two-input, four-output Duet (above). Full-fledged bands aren't left out of the equation, either -- the existing, four-input Quartet has received iPad support without changing its formula. Lighting-based iOS gear unfortunately requires an adapter, but we'll take consolation in a new Maestro app for iPads that offers control over connections and session monitoring. Producers hoping for more mobility can pick up the Duet or Quartet in February at their respective $595 and $1,295 prices, although they'll have to wait until March to buy the One at $349.

Apogee intros revamped One and Duet audio interfaces for iOS and Mac, updates Quartet to match

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Apogee Electronics introduces all new "ONE", audio interface & microphone featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, upgraded sound quality and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce the completely redesigned ONE, a 2 IN x 2 OUT USB audio interface and microphone. The all new ONE is the first studio quality audio interface and microphone that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. ONE features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, optional battery power for portable recording with iPad and professional sound quality. ONE is the all-in-one solution that makes it easy for musicians, songwriters, recording engineers, film makers, audiophiles, and anyone else to enjoy professional sound quality on iPad and Mac.

ONE offers three input options; a built-in omni-directional condenser microphone, XLR input for dynamic, condenser or ribbon microphones, and 1/4" instrument input for electric guitars, keyboards or any instrument with an electric pick-up. An upgrade from the original design, ONE now has the ability to record two inputs simultaneously (instrument plus built-in microphone or external microphone). The updated AD/DA converters and mic preamps deliver best-in-class, studio quality sound and allow you to capture and playback your recordings with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE's audiophile quality headphone amplifier/DAC is a favorite for enhanced music listening on Mac. Now ONE delivers the same hi-fi quality sound to iPod touch, iPhone and iPad users for listening to streaming radio and music libraries with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE's built-in condenser microphone is a unique feature allowing anyone to record with incredible results and without the need for an external microphone. This paired with the option of connecting to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad and battery power enables studio-quality recordings to be created in any location.

"We have completely redesigned ONE, incorporating highly anticipated features; iPad compatibility, simultaneous recording of guitar and a microphone, enhanced sound quality, and a much desired metal chassis," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. "This is an innovative interface, ideal for the musician who wants an all-in-one solution they can count on for ease of use and professional studio quality results, no matter where they are. We're excited to welcome this next generation of a classic Apogee product and we know our customers will love it."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. As a studio quality microphone and audio interface, ONE delivers key features to this new paradigm. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control ONE's inputs, mic preamp, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. ONE's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. The option of battery power for ONE allows for truly portable professional recording.

When used with iPad or an iOS device, ONE works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, ONE works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

ONE for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First studio quality audio interface and microphone for iPad
New circuitry, mic capsule and upgraded sound quality
Redesigned die cast aluminum chassis
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Lighting adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, MultiTrack, Spotify; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton, iTunes; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
Optional battery operation for remote recording on iPad (2 AA batteries not included)
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/96kHz A/D and D/A conversion
Built-in omnidirectional condenser microphone (mic stand adapter included)
2 Analog Inputs (XLR microphone and 1/4" instrument connector on breakout cable)
Record up to 2 inputs at a time (instrument + internal microphone or external microphone)
1 1/8" stereo output for headphones or powered speakers
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.7.5 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
Power supply or two AA batteries required
(Batteries not included)
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $349
Availability: March 2013

Apogee Electronics introduces new Duet featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, MIDI I/O and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce Duet for iPad and Mac, a 2 input, 4 output USB audio interface. The new Duet is the first professional stereo audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Duet features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity and professional sound quality. Duet is the ideal personal studio interface for stereo music recording, mixing and audiophile-quality listening on iPad and Mac.

First introduced in 2007, the original Duet was a 2 IN x 2 OUT FireWire Audio Interface for Mac and became one of the most popular audio interfaces of all time, starting a home studio revolution and winning many industry awards and accolades. Duet received an upgrade in May of 2011 when Duet 2 took its place with a new 2 IN x 4 OUT format, redesigned AD/DA conversion and mic preamps, and USB 2.0 Mac connectivity. The new Duet for iPad and Mac builds on this legacy by offering the same professional quality as the Duet 2 for the iPad based personal studio.

"Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad and iPhone. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. "Enabling amazing products like Duet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we're proud to be at the forefront."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Duet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional stereo audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control Duet's inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Duet's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Duet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Duet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Duet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Duet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Duet for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First professional stereo audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple's Lighting to 30-pin adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack; Any Core Audio compatible app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton; Any Core Audio compatible app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
2 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
2 Balanced analog line outputs
1 Independent 1/4" stereo headphone output
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
USB bus powered; DC power optional
(DC power supply included)

iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $595
Availability: February 2013

Apogee Electronics announces iPad compatibility for Quartet USB audio interface and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to announce iPad compatibility for Quartet, a 4 input, 8 output USB audio interface. Quartet is the first professional multi-channel audio interface that makes a direct digital connection to Apple's iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. Quartet for iPad and Mac features Apogee's Maestro control software, iOS device charging, MIDI connectivity, advanced monitor control and professional sound quality. Quartet is the ideal studio control center for multi-channel music recording and mixing on iPad and Mac.

"Apogee has pioneered professional digital recording on iPad and iOS devices with products like JAM, our studio quality guitar input, and MiC, the first studio quality digital microphone for iPad & iOS. We are now taking the next step, offering a range of professional multi-channel recording solutions for iPad and all iOS devices," says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett.

"Enabling amazing products like Quartet to be directly connected to the increasingly powerful iPad and all other iOS devices, seamlessly integrated with apps like GarageBand and Auria, controlled with our Maestro software allows you take mobile music creation to the next level. It truly is a new frontier for the personal studio and we're proud to be at the forefront."

Apple's iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. Quartet delivers key features to this new paradigm that bring professional multi-channel audio recording to iPad for the first time. Apogee's Maestro software for iOS lets you control Quartet's inputs, mic preamps, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. Quartet's DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. Quartet provides plenty of power for studio headphones, microphones and MIDI keyboards. In addition, Quartet accepts and provides professional audio level (ie. balanced, +4 dBu reference level).

When used with iPad or an iOS device, Quartet works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, Quartet works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Quartet for iPad and Mac - Highlights

First professional multi-channel audio interface for iPad
Direct digital connection to iPod touch, iPhone, iPad
Works with new iPhone 5, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini
(Apple's Lighting to 30-pin adapter required - Sold separately)
Works with GarageBand, Auria, MultiTrack and any Core Audio compliant app on iOS
Works with GarageBand, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton and any Core Audio compliant app on Mac
Low latency monitoring, complete input/output control with Apogee's Maestro software (iOS & Mac)
MIDI input/output (USB-A type connector)
DC power supplies charge to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad
USB 2.0 audio with 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
4 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power
6 Balanced analog line outputs
ADAT/SMUX digital Inputs
Monitor control - up to 3 speaker sets
1 Independent 1/4" stereo headphone output
QuickTouch pads for input/output selection and advanced control
Legendary Apogee sound quality
Designed in California - Made in the U.S.A.

System Requirements

Mac OS:

Computer: Intel Mac 1.5GHz or faster
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended
OS: 10.6.8, 10.7.4 or greater
Connection and power: Any available USB port on a Mac
Power: DC Power supply included
iOS:

iOS version: 5.1 and later
Connection: 30-pin dock connector
DC Power supply included
iOS device compatibility (Lightning connector)

iPod touch* (5th generation)
iPhone 5*
iPad* (4th generation)
iPad mini*
* Requires Apple's Lightning to 30-pin adapter. Sold separately.

iOS device compatibility (30-pin connector)

iPod touch (4th generation)
iPhone 4S
iPhone 4
iPad (3rd generation)
iPad 2
iPad

Price: $1295
Availability: February 2013

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Engadget holiday gift guide 2012: accessories

Welcome to the Engadget holiday gift guide! Picking presents for friends and loved ones is never a simple task, and with thousands of options for each category, buying technology can be an especially frustrating experience. We're here to help. Below you'll find today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to our hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season. And don't forget to enter our giveaway -- leave a comment for a chance to nab AT&T's LG Optimus G.

DNP Engadget holiday gift guide 2012 accessories

Sure, Ultrabooks and Windows 8 tablets are flashy gift options, but it's extras like the ones found here that really make 'em sing. Whether it's a desktop or portable storage solution, a smart thermostat or a secondary camera for those more experimental shots, we've got you covered. This collection of high-tech add-ons will surely snag the attention of anyone on your holiday shopping list, so mosey on past the break to start perusing.

Continue reading Engadget holiday gift guide 2012: accessories

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