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Artist Spotlight: Dave Otero

Artist Spotlight: Dave Otero

Hosa Music Artist Testimonials | Dave Otero

Keeping the Inspiration and Creative Flow

This month, we were fortunate enough to talk with Dave Otero, producer, audio engineer, and mixing and mastering expert at Flatline Audio. Dave started as a musician and quickly turned himself into one of metal’s biggest names producing modern bands with modern sounds. He also teaches techniques and his approach through instructional URM courses.

As a recording engineer for countless music artists, Dave knows all about making sure the audio is as reliable, noiseless, and transparent as possible. Anything that gets in the way of recording and the creative process isn’t good enough. When your job is to produce the best sounding record possible, there’s no room for compromise in audio quality.

 

Dave Otero, Flatline Audio, Interview

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

I’m Dave Otero, a music producer working with rock bands and metal bands here at my studio, Flatline Audio, in Denver, Colorado.

Bands come here with their songs as they’ve written them in the rehearsal room. We put those final polish elements to them, patch them up, record them to tape, do any kind of editing and post-production that’s needed, I mix and master those records, and it’s off to release.

I’ve been doing this for 20 years and kind of slowly putting it together, and building the pieces and workflow that fits me and fits my clients the best. It’s been a long, slow process of collecting gear and trading gear. I feel like I have a lot to offer. I can bring a lot to the table working with bands and with clients and feel pretty strong in my convictions musically, and I do a pretty good job at making bands and labels happy with the product they leave here with.

I super love it, for pretty obvious reasons, too. Who wouldn’t like to just create albums day in and day out and work with really awesome people in creative capacities? It’s definitely gratifying, especially when you get to the end of a long project. You know, if I had a band here for six weeks and everyone’s tired and a bit beat down and exhausted creatively, but then we have a chance to listen back to everything right before they head out of town and that sense of accomplishment is there and the band is really excited, I can tell they’re going to be proud to release it. Everyone has high hopes for how the album’s going to do, that sort of stuff. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever witnessed.

Hosa has slowly kind of become the cables that I have that I’ve learned to rely on the most. When I first started playing around with those, I’d use them in situations where I can kind of keep track of them. It’s a new cable and I want to make sure that it’s going to be reliable, and if it’s not, I know right where it is to flip it out and go back with something I’ve used in the past.

Over time, they’ve gone from that position, like “the new kid on the block”, to the one I reach for first for the most critical applications. The reliability is there, the quality is there, but the variety that they have is so good, and the innovation. Especially as of late, I know if Hosa releases something, that will one, fit a need, and two, be of a reliable and sturdy quality to last for years and not be something you have to think about and worry about all the time.

 

Hosa Cables That Dave Otero Uses

  • Hosa Edge Guitar Cable
    Hosa Edge Guitar Cables are designed to provide a lifetime of outstanding performance. Genuine Neutrik® plugs combine with world-class manufacturing techniques to deliver the most neutral, dynamic tone in their class.
  • Hosa Edge Microphone Cable
    Hosa Edge Microphone Cables are designed to provide a lifetime of outstanding performance. Genuine Neutrik® connectors combine with world-class manufacturing techniques to deliver a noise-free signal transmission ideal for any stage or studio.
  • Hosa Edge Speaker Cable
    Hosa Edge Speaker Cables are designed to provide a lifetime of outstanding performance. Genuine Neutrik® plugs combine with world-class manufacturing techniques to deliver exceptional quality.
  • Hosa Pro Interconnect Cables
    Hosa Pro interconnect cables are designed to interconnect pro audio gear with balanced or unbalanced inputs. It is ideal for use in touring, studio, and other live-sound applications. Hosa Pro relies on nickel-plated REAN® plugs for efficient signal transfer and superior durability.
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Why Use DeoxIT Spray on Your Connections?

If you use sensitive electronics or music equipment, then you know how important it is to keep your connections clean and free of buildup with electrical contact cleaners. Buildup from oil and dust can cause irregularities in electronic transmission, leading to sound distortion, crackling, and — in some cases — unusable equipment.

Using an electrical contact cleaner spray like DeoxIT on your connections and other metal surfaces can help improve conduction and reduce distortion, leading to better sound quality or overall electrical performance. From vintage restorations to regular maintenance, DeoxIT will greatly improve the function of your electronics and prolong the life of your components.

Shop all Hosa-approved electrical contact cleaners for your audio equipment.

Types of DeoxIT Electrical Contact Cleaner

There are various types of DeoxIT electrical contact cleaner spray available for your specific needs. The DeoxIT D5 and DN5 sprays both contain solvents but have slightly different composition. DeoxIT D5 will evaporate in 1-2 minutes, leaving behind a small amount of wetness that evaporates slowly for tougher cleaning jobs.

DN5 is a dripless spray that evaporates almost instantly, leaving behind no wetness. It also comes with a flexi-tip for effective application on hard-to-reach components. DN5 is preferable for areas where you’re concerned about dripping into water-sensitive components, such as sound boards.

Unlike the DeoxIT D5 and DN5, the D100 DeoxIT spray contains no solvent, so it’s better used as a lubricant for highly sensitive equipment. DeoxIT GOLD is another gentle cleansing conditioner spray for new or recently cleaned surfaces.

100% vs. 5% Spray Volume: What’s the Difference?

The DeoxIT D5 series is so named because it contains a 5% solution of DeoxIT added to propellant and solvent. The DeoxIT D100 is a 100% concentrated solution of DeoxIT.

Due to its added propellant, DeoxIT D5 is briefly flammable, whereas D100 is non-flammable. DeoxIT D5 does, however, offer more flushing action to remove debris. D100 has no solvents, making it a gentler choice that offers more lubrication. The lack of propellant in D100 also makes it more environmentally friendly.

How to Use a Standard DeoxIT D5 Spray

Standard D5 DeoxIT spray is ideal for bringing audio equipment back to life, whether it’s vintage or just a heavily-used favorite. Like the rest of the DeoxIT D series, D5 gently dissolves buildup such as dust, debris, and even corrosion on your metal components. It can remove oxidation, lubricate and condition, and protect important audio pieces from future wear.

Rather than replacing your expensive audio equipment when sound quality starts to wane, you can clean and renew your prized possessions. Simply apply a short spray of your DeoxIT D5 onto your receiver controls, cable connectors, switches, or other audio components. Wait 1-2 minutes for moisture to fully evaporate. Whatever you’re working on, try not to oversaturate the components, as you may strip the lubricant. If this happens, you’ll want to re-apply a lubricant coating.

Amplifiers and Receivers

Depending on your receiver box or amplifier, you may need to remove top and/or bottom covers to access the internal audio parts. Only remove the faceplate if necessary. You can use a DeoxIT equipment care kit to clean jacks, audio connections, knobs, switches, fuses, and potentiators.

For potentiators, insert the straw nozzle on your DeoxIT spray into the hole openings to access the interior of the pots and apply 1-2 sprays for each pot. Make sure to rotate corresponding knobs back and forth so the electrical contact cleaner can be evenly distributed.

Pro Tip: Clearly label any knobs that you remove so that you can replace them accurately!

Sound Boards and Mixers

If you’re hearing crackling in the faders and potentiators in your sound boards or mixers, this may be a sign that you need to clean your connection points. You can try spraying an air duster into the slots of your faders, but you may need a quick burst of DeoxIT if the buildup is more severe. It’s possible you may need to consider removing the faceplate of your sound board in order to clean harder-to-reach places.

Guitars and Pedals

Remove grime and buildup on your electric guitar components by spraying a small amount of DeoxIT spray onto pots (potentiators) and metal parts of knobs and switches. This may require removal of knobs, so make sure you carefully remove and label each knob so you replace them in the proper location. Clean electrical connections on your pedals to ensure proper conductivity.

Small Electronics

DeoxIT can also restore and rejuvenate vintage household electronics or well-loved items like VCRs, CD players, cassette players, ham radios, and more. Even vintage game consoles can be rejuvenated using a well-placed application of DeoxIT spray. For vintage audio lovers, DeoxIT can make the difference between non-functional or rough-sounding equipment and fully restored, functional collector’s pieces.

Automotive Parts

DeoxIT is also used in the automotive industry to restore and degrease auto parts, such as engine and electrical system components. Technicians might use DeoxIT on faulty dashboard feature wiring, gauges, HVAC system parts, ABS systems, or cabin light connections. As you might have guessed, DeoxIT spray can also be highly effective in restoring car stereo systems and audio wiring. These highly regarded cross-industry uses of DeoxIT spray demonstrate its quality and versatility as a product.

Benefits of DeoxIT Spray

Keeping your audio components clean and well-lubricated helps prevent further corrosion and also ensures smooth performance. DeoxIT can fix distortion caused by buildup on sensitive audio components and guarantee smooth operation of knobs and switches. Reducing this friction also prolongs the life of your audio components, avoiding premature part replacement.

DeoxIT can therefore:

  • Maximize conduction on electrical contact points
  • Remove distortion-causing buildup and corrosion
  • Restore faulty connections
  • Avoid electrical failures and component burnout

Pairing Your DeOxit D5 Spray with Other Products

You might also consider using DeoxIT F5 Fader Lube for cleaning plastic and carbon components on your audio equipment. By protecting your newly cleaned surfaces with electrical contact cleaners, you can help prolong the life of your audio components and reduce the need for regular cleaning. Ultimately, adding a conditioning spray or protectant to audio components will reduce friction wear and defend your sensitive surfaces against scratches and damaging corrosion.

To get started, shop all CAIG audio cleaners and conditioners hand-selected by the experts at Hosa.

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History of Recording Studios in Los Angeles

LA recording studios have a rich history, an exciting present, and a fascinating future. The longevity of music culture in LA and its constant reinvention make the city a special place for musicians and audiophiles alike. From big pioneering labels like RCA and Columbia Records, the dawn of the post-war music culture ushered in a wave of recording studios from east coast to west.

Feeling inspired? Shop Hosa studio essentials to stock up on the best home recording studio equipment.

Most Famous Recording Studios in Los Angeles

After the boom of west-coast recording studios, both commercial and independent, a new and exciting world of record making emerged. In the 60s, 70s, and 80s, recording studios were the heartbeat of the LA music scene and the homebase for some of the greatest musicians to meet, work, and collaborate.

As both a cultural hangout, party space, and functional audio arena, the LA music studio has long played a key role in creating some of the biggest names in the business. Many of the most famous LA recording studios have an extensive history and maintain some of their most coveted original recording spaces to this day.

Capitol Records

Capitol Records was among the most notable in the LA scene during its heyday in the 50s and 60s, and its recording studio at the Capitol Tower saw such notables as Nat King Cole, The Beach Boys, and Frank Sinatra. This self-proclaimed homebase for artisan craft lives up to its name with 7.1 surround monitoring capabilities, Grammy-nominated sound engineers, and fully preserved original echo chambers that have housed some of the most notable musical recordings. The iconic Capitol Records Tower also boasts a stunning event space for formal events and showcases.

Paramount

Since the 1960s, LA’s Paramount Studios has been recording some of the biggest names in music. From their legendary recording studios, founder Brian Brolin recorded and mixed for the Jackson 5, The Talking Heads, Jimi Hendrix, the B-52s, Sheryl Crow, The Backstreet Boys, and more. The famous Studio C Hidley-designed control room and affiliated Paramount Pictures offshoot also kept the Paramount dynasty firmly in the music television space. Today, Paramount Studios continues to host some of the biggest names in music with eight separate studios for pre-production, recording, and mastering. Their tracking and mixing studios feature an 80 channel SSL 9000J with Ultimation, while their overdubbing studios feature 56 channel SSL 6000E/G and a 40 channel SSL 4000E/G.

Sunset Sound

Founded in 1958 by Tutti Camarata, the Sunset Sound recording studio spent its first five years recording exclusively for Walt Disney. After opening its doors to outside artists, Sunset Studio saw the likes of Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and Whitney Houston. Unlike many other studios of this age, Sunset Sound has functionally retained its original echo chambers and boasts a wide variety of vintage and state-of-the-art equipment. Within the humble three-room facility of the Sunset Sound space, some of the biggest artists of the past and present have created their masterpieces.

Henson Studios

Henson Studios is located in the original space of Charlie Chaplin’s 1917 studio, which was later owned by Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss of A&M Records. After taking ownership in 1966, A&M Records renovated Chaplin’s former soundstages to create recording studios, including mixing and mastering rooms and reverberation chambers.

In 1999, The Jim Henson Company bought the studios and continued the legacy of delivering top-tier professional audio recording. Henson has hosted legendary musical icons over the years, including Carole King, John Lennon, Joni Mitchell, and many more. Their classic blend of vintage and new-age recording technology makes this a favorite among artists far and wide.

The Village Studios

The Village Studios boasts one of the more unique architectural spaces, as it was converted from a 1920s Masonic temple. This conversion occurred in the late 1960s, and ever since it’s been a stronghold of top-tier recording, mastering, and mixing for the music and movie industry.

Its auditorium and ballroom spaces also serve as event spaces, adding to the dynamic use of the building. Famous artists that have recorded at the Village include Lady Gaga, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and Phil Collins.

Modern Studio Equipment Inspired by the LA Recording Scene

If you’re far from LA recording studios or looking to build your own home recording studio, finding the right modern studio equipment f is key. Designing your space like the pros may come with time, but it’s important to know upfront what your core studio components are. Aiming for quality investments, even if you assemble your studio piecemeal, will ultimately help you get better sound quality, performance, and longevity out of your equipment.

Essential Equipment for Your Home Recording Studio

If you’re just getting started or looking to expand, here’s a helpful overview of what you’ll need. You may not be competing with the leading LA recording studios right away, but every legendary studio has to start somewhere.

Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and Audio Interface

In addition to your computer, you’ll need a good digital audio workstation (DAW), which is the complementary software that pairs with your digital audio interface. As the heartbeat of your studio, this is the combo that allows you to properly capture the sounds you produce from various instruments, microphones, etc.

Studio Monitors

While studio monitors may look like speakers, they are specifically designed for the audio recording industry. Unlike commercial speakers, a studio monitor produces linear phase response, meaning there is no distortion or over-emphasis on certain frequencies. Monitors are also designed to handle the power of high volumes and rough elements of unmastered mixes.

Headphones

Quality headphones are a must, particularly for remastering and mixing. For the sake of sound isolation and cost-effectiveness, you’ll likely want to focus first on using closed-back headphones. This is especially important if you’re working to further isolate and protect your space from outside noise. Open-backed headphones are ultimately susceptible to noise flowing both in and out of the headphones, despite their overall increased sound quality.

Microphones, Pop Filter, and Mic Stands

Over time, it’s likely you’ll amass a small collection of microphones and mic stands for various purposes. To get started, you’ll likely only need one or two, and the ones you choose depend largely on what types of sounds they’ll be capturing. For vocals, you’ll want a large diaphragm condenser mic, while higher frequency sounds (piano, acoustic guitar, cymbals) do best with a small diaphragm condenser mic.

Cables

You may quickly come to realize that a large portion of your home studio is about having the right cables for the right jacks, staying organized, and keeping your space tidy. You’ll likely have various power cords, AES/EBU cables, adapters, instrument cables, MIDI cables, all running across your workspace. Eventually, you may want to invest in some easy-to-use cable organizers for safety and sanity.

Setting up your home recording studio or professional space is all about finding the best quality products to suit your needs. Proper care accessories and cleaning tools help ensure long-term sound quality and reduce wear on your most prized possessions. If you’re looking for an upgrade on a most-used piece of equipment or hoping to add a new audio toy to the collection, we’ve got you covered.

Shop all Hosa-approved audio recording products to upgrade your studio space.

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Why You Might Want to Use Fiber Optic Cables

Fiber optic cables are already well regarded for use in data applications, most popularly internet functions because of much faster transfer speeds. Continue reading to learn more about fiber optic audio cables and come back to Hosa News any time you want to learn something new, refresh your knowledge, or stay up to date on all things Hosa.

And if you’re ready to buy some fiber optic audio cables, check out the Hosa Fiber Optic Cable and Pro Fiber Optic Cable.

So what is it that makes fiber optic cables perform better, and how do those advantages relate to audio?

 

What is a Fiber Optic Cable?

What makes fiber optic cables unique is their use of light to transmit digital data. It’s a very simple design comprising of 3 main parts:

  • Glass Fibers – Each strand is usually thinner than a strand of human hair
  • Cladding – Layer of glass to keep light reflected within the core
  • Core – The pathway for light to travel from one end to the other

 

How is a Fiber Optic Cable Different From a Copper Cable?

What makes a fiber optic cable different from a traditional copper cable is that instead of using physical electrons, it uses photons through light. This makes for far less physical impediments.

Fiber optic cables are also not susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which is the reason copper cables require shielding. Fiber optic cables, not having interference to weaken the signal, can transmit stronger signals over much longer lengths—and nearly at the speed of light.

 

Fiber Optic in Audio

You may have noticed on some pieces of audio equipment that there is a trapezoid-shaped port labeled “TOSLINK”, “optical”, or “digital audio out.” And if you’re unfamiliar with digital audio, you might be wondering what on earth that’s used for or if it’s even necessary.

How Fiber Optic Cables Became an Audio Staple

In 1983, Toshiba introduced fiber optic audio cables for their new CD players. These cables were known as “Toshiba-Link” and later shortened to “TOSLINK.” This quickly became adopted as the digital audio standard by devices across the consumer audio industry.

Since the fiber optic design is a faster, more pure way of transmitting digital data & audio, manufacturers started offering customers the option in addition to traditional copper cable connections.

 

When to Use Fiber Optic Cables

One key to using fiber optic audio cables is the format. Fiber optic audio cables most often use S/PDIF digital audio format with TOSLINK connectors. If you are using two digital devices that both have optical inputs and outputs, this is when to use the clean signal fiber optic cables provide.

If, however, only one device has fiber optic, a converter will be needed and you will not have the full benefits of fiber optic signal transmission. Using an optical connection means you are keeping that signal preserved in the digital format it was created in, ensuring there’s no signal degradation by the time it reaches its destination.

 

Fiber Optic Cable vs HDMI

Newer audio and video equipment has opted for HDMI as the standard connection since it carries both audio and video. HDMI cables also support more modern formats that TOSLINK does not, such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio. So does that make fiber optic obsolete? Not so fast.

While HDMI provides a slew of benefits, not every piece of gear uses or even needs it. Fiber optic cable still gives you very high digital audio resolution. Not only is fiber optic cable important for legacy equipment from the past 40 years, but TOSLINK is still used in modern audio equipment being released today.

 

Hosa Fiber Optic Cables

Hosa offers a couple different options of fiber optic cables. They utilize standard TOSLINK connectors and support ADAT and all S/PDIF formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS surround.

The OPT-100 series is the standard fiber optic cable, while the OPM-300 series offers a large-diameter Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) for maximum signal clarity, and a thicker jacked to resist the elements. The GOP-490 adapter helps convert from TOSLINK to Mini-TOSLINK.

To purchase Hosa’s fiber optic cables, follow the product links or visit our Shop.

Artist Spotlight: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Hosa Music Artist Testimonials | Noir Et Blanc Vie

Keeping the Inspiration and Creative Flow

This month, we were fortunate enough to talk with Stephen Fitzgerald, also known as Noir Et Blanc Vie on YouTube. Stephen has been a musician for almost his whole entire life, and in the process of creating art, also found himself another preoccupation as a content creator.

Over the years as Stephen expanded his craft, he learned the importance of reducing things that take away from your creativity. He explains how even simple things like the reliability of the cables he uses help keep him in a creative and inspired mindset.

Stephen Fitzgerald, Noir Et Blanc Vie, Interview

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

You don’t realize how incredibly powerful the ability to post a video somewhere and have it reach hundreds of thousands of people, I never thought that it would be me.

My name is Stephen, also known as Noir Et Blanc Vie. I am a musician and a YouTuber. I’ve been doing it for about 4 years and been a musician for my whole life it seems. I definitely didn’t think my life would be down the path of making content online, but as a musician and someone who enjoys the world of video, it seems to be the right fit.

The funny story is, I was working for a company that did sound for the movies, and television, and whatnot. I just felt like at some point I needed to break out and not be so creatively bankrupt, it felt, and I just didn’t even think YouTube was an avenue. I just was so inspired that YouTube wasn’t cat videos, it was a person scripting, and shooting, and making something, and then I thought why not take all those years of being a musician and maybe I can be an overall entertainer.

It’s sort of been a dream come true as you meet musicians and other creators who are fans of yours. People have always said that I’ve improved musically over the years, but they don’t realize the difference really is that I’m getting better sources. For years I didn’t realize how the components in a cable and the quality of the cable can affect the sound. I was literally turned into a believer overnight, and I switched over to, it was a Hosa Edge cable, and I literally got no more of that crazy mid-rangy interference. It was literally changing the tone of my entire instrument.

Hosa just became the trusted brand because the other cables continually broke over time. Those things just take you out of a creative flow. When you’re trying to problem-solve and something’s taking you out of your creative flow, I don’t think that there’s anything less fun or less sexy than, you know, holding it up to your ear, “What is this? What is this? What is this?”

My thought is, you want to have everything that isn’t totally creative removed from the process. You don’t want to think about, “How do I use this”? You don’t need to learn how to use a cable. If you get a good cable, you don’t need to learn where it needs to lay on a floor so that you don’t get something weird happening, and so for me it’s all about trying to keep the inspiration as pure as possible. And just, the less you’re worrying about certain components in the chain, honestly the better you are in the end. 

Hosa Cables That Stephen Uses

  • Hosa Pro Microphone Cable
    Hosa Pro Microphone Cables are engineered to deliver years of rock-solid reliability. Combining REAN® connectors by Neutrik AG with world-class manufacturing techniques, they redefine what performance and value are all about.
  • Hosa Edge Guitar Cable
    Hosa Edge Guitar Cables are designed to provide a lifetime of outstanding performance. Genuine Neutrik® plugs combine with world-class manufacturing techniques to deliver the most neutral, dynamic tone in their class.
  • Hosa Modular Patch Cables
    Hosa 3.5mm patch cables are designed to interconnect pro audio gear with unbalanced mini phone jacks. They are ideal for use with modular synthesizers and sound modules.
  • Hosa Hopscotch Patch Cables
    Hosa Hopscotch Patch Cables are the perfect solution for modular synthesizers equipped with mono mini jacks. The pigtail mono mini jack gives users the ability to “jump” the signal to another input point while keeping the original patch intact.
Hosa

Hosa Introduces New Cable Organizers

DIY solutions adaptable for small and large setups

Buena Park, CA, August 2021 — Hosa is pleased to introduce two new highly adaptable cable organizers fit for any setup. With such a variety of solutions needed to accommodate ever-changing setups, these cable wraps offer the kind of customization customers have been requesting.

The Hosa Neoprene Cable Wrap is a simple hook & loop sleeve capable of organizing small and large bundles of cable. The hook & loop design, which firmly fits around any number of cables, makes any addition or subtraction a quick adjustment. The sleeve itself is 5ft long and can be easily cut into custom lengths with simple scissors.

The Hosa Spiral Cable Wrap features a more unique design that allows you to insert or remove cables at any point along its run. This design is beneficial for longer setups that would otherwise require many different cable ties and organizers. The plastic spiral is 10ft long, flexible, and can also be cut into customized lengths with simple scissors.

“With all of the cable options Hosa has offered since 1984, we understand the need to keep them organized and out of the way,” adds Mayumi Allison, Hosa’s CEO. “You realize how vital simple solutions like cable organizers are once you start adding equipment to your setup. So we developed these cable wraps to be as flexible and customizable as possible.”

The new Hosa Neoprene Cable Wrap is available at an MSRP of $18.95. The Hosa Spiral Cable Wrap is available at an MSRP of $5.95.

Hosa

New Hosa Headset/Mic Breakouts

Adaptable for any setup combining headphones and microphones

Buena Park, CA, July 2021 — Hosa is adding to its already extensive catalog of breakout and splitter cables with a TRRS breakout designed for headsets and microphones.

With an ever-increasing number of people working remotely, streaming, and gaming, single-connection headsets with built-in microphones are becoming more commonplace. Likewise, existing setups with separate mics and headphones are having to conform to single TRRS jacks on newer devices.

The Hosa YMM-107 Headset/Mic Breakout Cable splits a TRRS connection into separate TRS outputs, making it ideal for gaming headsets requiring a connection to computers using separate jacks for microphone and headphones. Simply plug your existing TRRS headset cable into the breakout and you will have separate male connectors for headset and microphone on the other end.

The Hosa YMM-108 flips the connector configuration with a TRRS plug and two TRS female connectors designed for microphone and headphones. This can be used to combine separate mic and headphone outputs into a single TRRS connection. When using a professional balanced microphone, simply add a Hosa XVM-100F series cable to complete the connection.

Both breakouts use the CTIA wiring standard for the TRRS jacks, making them compatible with most TRRS inputs. Each of the dual plugs is color-coded and identified as microphone and headphones.

“TRRS connections have been around for a while already, but with so many new headsets, TRRS-based equipment, and rise in remote work, the number of people needing an effective breakout to connect their legacy equipment has increased,” adds Jose Gonzalez, Hosa’s Director of Marketing & Product Development. “We’ve answered the many requests to bring in these solutions that perfectly complement our already vast array of splitters, breakouts, and adapters.”

The New Hosa Headset/Mic Breakout Cables are both available at an MSRP of $9.95 each.

Hosa

General Bluetooth Tips

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that uses a radio frequency to share data over a short distance, eliminating the need for wires. Bluetooth technology allows for the wireless sharing of documents – so long as each device is paired accordingly. The process by which pairing happens varies by each device. Be sure to read the manual for each device you plan on using.

Bluetooth technology has made it fairly easy to connect devices without having to wire them together. In other words, getting devices to “talk” to one another without having to use a cord. Originally developed in 1989, bluetooth grew fairly popular in the 1990’s. At this point, nearly every device has bluetooth capability. Today, we’re going through some general bluetooth tips.

Minimizing Bluetooth Interference

Setting up bluetooth should be easy and stress-free. The range of Bluetooth is specified as roughly 30 feet. However, similarly to all other wireless devices (wi-fi, cell phones, etc.), Bluetooth range can vary on a number of factors. Before you get started, make sure you know what’s around you and your devices. Believe it or not, even if things are wireless, you can still get physical interference from certain materials. Try to not have any physical obstructions in the path of your wireless signals. Here’s a starter guide on bluetooth material and interference:
Potential low interference: wood, glass, many synthetic materials.
Potential medium interference: water, bricks, marble.
Potential high interference: plaster, concrete, bulletproof glass.
Potential very high interference: metal.

Troubleshooting Your Bluetooth Devices

Simple and quite often missed, make sure your bluetooth device is switched to “on” – for each of the devices you are planning to use. When pairing, it’s likely easier that each of the devices are as close to each other as possible. One of the most common causes of Bluetooth pairing difficulty is devices being paired to other (unwanted) devices. To solve this, simply:

  • Bring your devices closer together to troubleshoot
  • Reset or turn off/on each of the device’s Bluetooth capabilities
  • Pair again

At Hosa, we know how frustrating Bluetooth pairing can be – but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re pairing an iPhone, laptop, or a digital audio device – these general principles still apply. Be sure to read the manual of each of your devices and troubleshoot when necessary. And if you’re looking to add Bluetooth capabilities to any older equipment, try the Hosa Drive Bluetooth Audio Interface.

Artist Spotlight: Panda Studios

Hosa Artist Testimonials | Panda Studios

Whether Bedroom or Studio Setup…

Whether you’re a creative in a bedroom setup or in a professional recording situation, signal flow is of utmost priority – yet often overlooked. At the core of each recording setup are reliable cables that help ensure workflow. From guitars to microphones to audio interfaces and all that’s in between – cables are the common denominator of what makes a session run smoothly. Our very own Dylan put it best:

“It’s often the things we don’t think about that can have a huge influence on our results. In the world of cooking, it may be the type of knife or cutting board we use; in automobiles, the grade of oil put in our engines; in audio & video, the quality and type of cables can make for dramatic differences that often get underappreciated.”

This month, we were fortunate enough to meet with Sam Pura of Panda Studios. Pura has worked with countless bands from all different kinds of life. Watch as Sam fills us in on his creative process and explains why Hosa cables are his favorite.

Sam Pura, Panda Studios, Interview

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Hello, welcome to the Panda Studios. Let me show you our first room here. We have nine beds in this room so bands can come and just crash here and just focus on making a record.

Here we are in the main hallway. I like to call this the Wall of Fame because it has all of the records that I’ve done that have been pressed to vinyl. It’s a room that I use for microphones and for reverb so it actually is an active recording room.

Okay so we’re in the west live room here at the Panda Studios. I like it to be a turnkey solution where you can just get off of a plane and show up at the studio. And I have everything for you. I have drums, I have guitars, basses – I have all microphones – everything you need to make a record. You just need to come experience it. You don’t need to bring anything.

So, now we’re in the west control room. That’s what I kind’ve like to explain to people what happens here – people with a strong vision and a strong goal of what they want to achieve and what they want to sound like and what type of art they want to make, they have a really good time making records here because there’s plenty of option for us to actually achieve the final end result and that’s what makes making records and collaborating with other so fun. Everyday when I’m making records or making any sort of audio, the audio path is going through Hosa cables. Hosa is involved in some way, shape, or form inside of the work that I do every single day at the studio. Hosa is the thing that helps empower what I do everyday.

Now we’re in the isolation room – as I like to call it. You might be able to hear by the sound of my voice, it’s very dead in here. We store a lot of guitars in here, I have a lot of cabs ready to go. I have a bunch of pedals in here and I’ve got a bunch of fun stuff. Every room has Hosa cables and is ready to just plug and play and walk in and have fun and start making noise and be inspired.

Okay, so now we’re in Panda East. This is the second control room, second studio we have here on the property. I usually start most of my records in this room. I it’s my production room where I can start throwing down some basic keyboard ideas. The other fun part about it is that it’s connected right to the other live room right here. So, this is the east live room – a fun second studio to have here on the property, to be able to use and bounce some ideas around.

Well, thanks for stopping by – I hope you enjoyed having a deep dive in the Panda Studios here. Come by anytime, you’re always welcome and thanks for checking us out. Cheers.

Popular Hosa Cables and Accessories for Audio Engineers

– Hosa Edge Guitar Cable
Every electric guitarist needs a guitar cable. Our Edge series isare designed to provide a lifetime of outstanding performance.

– Goby Labs Guitar Care Kit
Inevitably when you use music and audio equipment, you’re going to get some wear and grime build-up and potentially expose yourself to unwanted germs. Our Goby Labs Guitar Care Kit can help with that.

– Pro Headphone Extension Cable
Our Pro Headphone Extension Cables are designed to extend the reach of hard-wired headphones. These are especially useful when playing your instrument away from your console or DAW.

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Artist Endorsement Key Tips

Artist Endorsements and Sponsorships: The Right Approach

There are some helpful resources online about this topic, but many of them come from the artist or creator side of the proverbial fence. We here at Hosa work with many artists and creators, and get approached every day by people looking to build a direct relationship. While we can’t speak for other companies, we’ll go over some fundamentals that will make for the best approach when you’re ready to send that email.

Every Situation is Different

Companies come in all shapes and sizes, which means they have different sized budgets, marketing departments, staff, and requirements before working with artists. Some companies may require contracts, others a hand-shake agreement. Some may offer free product, others may only offer some kind of artist pricing structure. There is also the possibility there are certain metric thresholds that you’re required to meet beforehand, such as subscribers, follows, views, sales, streams, etc.

Important Things to Know and Do

We’ll list off 9 fairly universal things that will help you get off on the right foot and make companies more receptive to your approach.

Research the Company

If you’re attempting to create a relationship, you should already know about the company, what they do, and preferably already have experience with their product or service. There’s a big difference between someone who has a history and experience with them vs someone looking to try it for the first time.

Think of the Company’s Interests

It’s always helpful when the company you’re approaching can see that you understand some kind of equal value provided. Be as specific as you can with ideas so the artist rep has a good understanding that you’ve given this a lot of thought and value the mutually-beneficial aspect of the relationship.

Have a Plan

Like in the last suggestion, have your ideas already crafted to present. Know what it is you’re asking for and what you are offering in return. That could be promotion on social media in posts or videos, at events on banners, showcasing products in a tour or clinic atmosphere, etc.

Be Specific

Once you have your plan, be specific about your request and also the return value you’re offering, but also be open to alternatives if they’re proposed or required. The less specific you are, the less an artist rep knows where to start or what you’re going to do and may not take the time to respond.

Self-Awareness

Even though you’re emailing a company, you have to remember that you’re talking to another person, and they will be paying attention to how you present yourself. It’s okay to be smaller and growing, but it’s not okay to exaggerate your audience or buy followers/likes/engagement because those can be detected quickly and come off as dishonest.

Make it Easy to Find You

A good idea is to have a link or a document to copy from which includes clickable URL links to anything requested. Don’t just send @ handles or tell them they can Google your name or band, because you’re asking the person on the other side to do the work to find you, and that increases the odds that they may not.

Don’t Just “Fish” for Free Stuff

We get it, lots of companies send promotional products to artists and creators in order to advertise directly with their audience. However, remember that this is viewed as a relationship, which may be long-term or short-term. If it seems like all you want is something free for yourself and you don’t value that relationship, chances are very low that you get any type of response.

Have Confidence in What You’re Offering

If you’re approaching a company, you should have some honest understanding of the value you bring. You don’t have to over-promise or exaggerate. Part of that value is how you show sincere confidence in what you’re able to bring. Actions always speak louder than words, so this should be supported and emphasized with some kind of established content or example, such as a previous post or video that shows how you present other products and brands.

Spell Check and Format Properly

It may seem kind of silly, but we promise it’s not. While we’re all musicians and creative types, this is still a professional email and request. You should take care to spell correctly and use proper fonts and colors. It’s a simple thing to show respect to the recipient, and they notice.

Don’t Make Assumptions

It’s ok to take “no” as an answer, or accept less. Remember, if you value this relationship enough to make that initial approach, then you should understand that relationships can change and grow over time.

Business is Nothing but Personal

You’ve probably heard the old cliche that, “It’s business, it’s not personal” when in actuality, the polar opposite is true. You’re emailing another person who will read your email through their own prism and respond to you through theirs, as well. If you’re respectful, patient, personable, and reliable, people will notice. The music business is the people business.

Hopefully that gave you a little insight from “behind the curtain” that companies like Hosa are looking for, but a lot of these tips are just generally good rules to follow in many aspects of life. While we’d love to work with every artist who is interested in Hosa, there are only so many we can accept every year. If you have any interest in applying to be a Hosa artist, you can find our online form here.

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