Azorra Delivers Mongolia’s First Embraer E195-E2 to Hunnu Air
Azorra has delivered the first of two new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft to Hunnu Air, marking a new partnership for the lessor and the first E2 to operate in Mongolia. The E195-E2 delivered from Azorra’s firm orderbook with Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3) will support Hunnu Air as it grows its fleet and expands its route network to key destinations across Asia-Pacific, offering greater capacity and longer-range capability. John Evans, CEO and Founder, Azorra, says: "We are thrilled to deliver Mongolia's first new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft to our valued partners at Hunnu Air. This is a significant step in the growth of Hunnu Air and a major milestone for the future of aviation in Mongolia. This delivery also reinforces our strong partnership with Embraer. The E195-E2 is a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that is optimally designed to reduce operating costs and improve efficiencies in existing markets, while facilitating the exploration and development of new markets. As demand for these jets surges across the Asia-Pacific region, we are excited to continue providing our airline partners with innovative fleet solutions.” Munkhjargal Purevjal, CEO, Hunnu Air, says: “We’ve been an E190 operator since 2019 and the E195-E2 is the perfect extension as we meet growing demand for air travel across Mongolia and beyond. These new generation aircraft will allow us to increase capacity to Haikou, Sanya, and Phu Quoc, expand services to Japan, China, Vietnam, India and South Korea, and introduce scheduled flights to Tashkent. We’re thankful for the support of Azorra and Embraer as the E2 will be integral to our long-term growth.” Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “The entry of the E195-E2 into Mongolia is a key development for the region’s aviation landscape. The aircraft’s advanced technology, low noise levels, unbeatable efficiency, and unparalleled passenger comfort make it the ideal choice for airlines looking to grow strategically while optimizing operational costs. We look forward to supporting Hunnu Air’s strategic growth and thank Hunnu Air for their continued partnership and our leasing partner Azorra for their continued collaboration, combining again with Embraer.” Azorra continues to work with Embraer to strengthen the E2’s presence in Asia, having previously delivered the region’s first E2 aircraft to Scoot in April 2024. The addition of Hunnu Air to Azorra’s expanding network of airline customers highlights the increasing demand for fuel-efficient, comfortable, new generation aircraft in the region.
LOT Polish Airlines launched direct flights between Warsaw and Malta on 16 April 2025
Despite its small size, Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, captivates all who visit with its unique charm. This is why LOT Polish Airlines welcomed passengers aboard on 16 April, at 8:05 AM, for the inaugural flight, LO671, from Warsaw Chopin Airport to Malta International Airport, located near the capital, Valletta. The national carrier offers four weekly flights to Malta – on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Passengers bound for Warsaw will also be able to travel on the same days. "With its rich history, crystal-clear seas, and mild climate, Malta is well worth visiting year-round. The new LOT Polish Airlines connection allows travellers from Poland to discover this extraordinary island’s charms, with four convenient flights operating each week. I believe this route will benefit tourism and economic development in both countries. We invite you to join us on board." - Michał Fijoł, CEO of LOT Polish Airlines Valletta: A City Where Every Corner Tells a Story Valletta, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see on any visitor’s itinerary. Despite its compact size, it features an extraordinary array of monuments and attractions that delight visitors at every turn. Valletta is a city brimming with historical treasures and spectacular views. Key sights include the baroque St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio; the impressive Grand Master’s Palace, with its richly decorated interiors and armour collection; and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Fort St. Elmo and the National War Museum highlight the island’s strategic importance throughout history. Don’t miss the Manoel Theatre – one of Europe’s oldest working theatres – or the lively Strait Street, with its many restaurants and live music venues. Valletta captivates at every turn with its history and Mediterranean charm. Gozo – A Coastal Slice of Paradise While in Malta, don’t miss the chance to explore Gozo. This charming islet is just a 25-minute ferry ride from one of Malta’s ports. At Dwejra Bay, you can see where scenes from the global TV hit ‘Game of Thrones’ were filmed – unsurprisingly, given the breathtaking rock formations and incredible landscapes. Local legends say that mermaids once inhabited these waters. Today, Dwejra and its surroundings form a nature reserve, making it an ideal spot for diving and admiring the local flora and fauna. Ramla Bay, Gozo’s most beautiful beach, is famed for its unique, red sand, and a truly special holiday atmosphere. It’s said that Caligula had his summer residence here, and the mythological goddess Calypso held Odysseus captive in a nearby cave. During the season, Ramla Bay buzzes with cultural life, as many festivals take place there. Marsaxlokk – Where Time Seems to Stand Still For those who enjoy relaxed mornings, leisurely strolls, and moments of peace, Marsaxlokk, Malta’s oldest fishing village, is truly enchanting – a perfect place to unwind. The colorful ‘luzzu’ boats are captivating, inviting a moment of contemplation. The local market is equally vibrant, offering a dazzling array of fresh fish, fragrant cheeses, delicious sweets, and soft bread. A little off the beaten track lies Anchor Bay, another charming spot, with its beautiful turquoise waters and the film set of Popeye Village. Fans of the film can step into the scenes featuring the golden-hearted, eccentric sailor. While it’s not a typical theme park with rollercoasters, there’s plenty of fun, sunshine, and water-based adventure to be had. This unique setting, now one of Malta’s most unexpected attractions, is worth a visit – whether you’re with children, friends, or exploring on your own. "We are delighted that LOT Polish Airlines will further strengthen Malta’s connectivity with Poland through year-round flights to Warsaw, particularly given the recent rise in popularity of this market locally. Besides serving as a point-to-point link, the newly launched flight can be used as a connection, putting Malta on the map for potential visitors from places that are not directly connected to our islands." - Alan Borg, Malta International Airport CEO Year after year, the popularity of this Mediterranean country is rapidly growing among Polish buyers. In January this year, tourists from Poland made up the largest group of European visitors to Malta – nearly 31,000. According to the latest data, in February, the island was visited by even more Poles – 31,500, ranking second among European nations, second only to visitors from the UK. "LOT adds an additional dimension to Malta’s connectivity from Poland opening the door for segments such as business travel. Furthermore, LOT’s North American and Asian networks provide an additional seamless service for visitors from these long-haul markets wanting to visit Malta." - Carlo Micallef, Malta Tourism Authority CEO A Window to the World The new LOT Polish Airlines connection doesn’t just benefit travellers to Malta; it also offers numerous opportunities, both for leisure and business, to those flying from Malta to Poland. Poland features diverse landscapes, from the coast, through the Masurian Lake District and the forests of Podlasie, to its mountain regions – offering something for every holidaymaker. Warsaw Chopin Airport serves as an excellent hub for onward travel. The national carrier’s extensive network allows passengers to easily connect to flights across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Major cities like New York, Chicago, Seoul, and Dubai are all within easy reach. Chopin Airport’s high-quality service, seamless transfers, and central European location make it a key transit point, connecting passengers to LOT Polish Airlines’ global network. Tickets for flights from Warsaw to Malta are available through all sales channels, including lot.com, the LOT Contact Centre, and LOT Travel offices.
Air Astana receives a string of international awards for In-flight Excellence
Air Astana received a string of international awards for In-flight Excellence during Aircraft Interiors Expo 2025 held in Hamburg 8th-10th April 2025. This included the prestigious Travel Plus, Onboard Hospitality, and PAX International Readership Awards, with multiple accolades across several categories. The airline received the Travel Plus Gold Award for its Economy Class amenity kit, bedding collection, and infant kit. The Onboard Hospitality Awards jury gave top marks to Air Astana’s baby kits for children under two, Economy Class amenity kits, and its digital menu. Air Astana was also named a winner at the PAX Readership Awards in the following categories: Best Inflight Entertainment, Best Onboard Catering, Best Economy and Premium Economy Amenity Kits, and Best Kids’ Kit. “These prestigious awards reflect the strong international recognition of our onboard product,” said Yelena Obukhova, Vice President of Inflight Services at Air Astana. “We take pride in consistently meeting global standards while shaping a uniquely Kazakh approach to hospitality.” International awards in onboard services are considered an independent benchmark of quality in the air travel industry. Airline products undergo rigorous evaluation by focus groups comprising experienced travelers with a deep understanding of passenger needs who evaluate functionality, design, comfort, and sustainability. These awards highlight Air Astana’s commitment to excellence and customer-centric service.
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Embraer E190-E2 and E195-E2 Granted Type Certification in Mongolia
The Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3) E190-E2 and E195-E2, the world’s most fuel-efficient and quiet single-aisle aircraft, have been awarded type acceptance certificates by the Mongolia Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA). This milestone paves the way for the introduction of the advanced E-Jets E2 family into Mongolia’s growing aviation market. The certification follows rigorous assessments by MCAA, aligning with global aviation standards already met by the aircraft through certifications from the FAA (US), EASA (Europe), ANAC (Brazil), CAAS (Singapore) and CAAC (China). “We thank the Mongolia Civil Aviation Authority for their diligent assessment and confidence in Embraer’s aircraft,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Certification paves the way for more business opportunities as we continue to expand our footprint in Mongolia. The E2 is ready to be a strategic asset for Mongolian carriers seeking to modernize their fleets and grow their networks. We look forward to supporting Mongolia’s growing aviation market with these game-changing aircraft.” Embraer’s presence in Mongolia began in 2018, when ERJ 145 entered service with Aero Mongolia. In 2019, Hunnu Air, the largest private airline in the country, added two E190s to its fleet, leveraging their efficiency and versatility to serve domestic and international routes between Mongolia and neighboring countries/regions. Most recently, in 2023, Hunnu Air launched direct services between Ulaanbaatar and Beijing Daxing using E-Jets. These milestones underscore Embraer’s long-standing partnership with Mongolian airlines in advancing the nation’s aviation capabilities.
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LOTAMS Named Europe’s First Embraer E2 Authorized Service Center
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3), a global aerospace leader, announced today that LOTAMS will become Europe’s first Embraer Authorized Service Centre (EASC) for the E2 aircraft family following completion of the authorization and audit process conducted by the Polish Civil Aviation Authority. LOTAMS, one of Europe’s major providers of MRO services, has bases across Poland serving some of the world’s largest airlines. LOTAMS will be the first EASC in Europe for E2 aircraft – providing routine checks; scheduled and unscheduled maintenance; together with component repairs. After working together for 10 years, Embraer and LOTAMS formalized their MRO relationship in 2012, with LOTAMS achieving EASC status for ERJ-145 and first-generation E-Jet aircraft. Since then, LOTAMS has supplied Embraer E-Jets from airlines across Europe, with an average of 250,000 hours/year in heavy and line maintenance checks – around three million hours to date, making them one of Europe’s top MROs. LOTAMS currently has five bays dedicated to E-Jet maintenance and plans to add more to service Europe’s growing E2 fleet. “Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this project and to certify our facilities as an authorized E2 aircraft maintenance center. This continues the long-standing cooperation established at the inception of LOTAMS. With the certification process complete, we are ready to provide maintenance services for the E2 fleet across Europe” comments Ewa Kołowiecka, CEO of LOTAMS. “Our collaboration with LOTAMS spans decades and has resulted in millions of hours of high-quality work. Given this strong and enduring relationship with the Polish MRO, it is only fitting that LOTAMS becomes Europe’s first E2-qualified EASC. We warmly welcome LOTAMS and look forward to seeing E2 fleet maintenance checks carried out in the Polish capital” says Carlos Naufel, President and CEO, Embraer Services & Support.
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Embraer to Offer Intelsat’s Factory Installed High Speed WiFi System
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3), a global aerospace industry leader, has finalized an agreement with Intelsat to install its high-speed in-flight connectivity system on E-Jet E2s during aircraft production. The system, with transmission speeds up to 275Mbps, gives passengers in the sky a similar streaming and surfing experience to their home networks. The Intelsat product is the first multi-orbit satellite system to incorporate an Electronically Steered Array (ESA) antenna, which for passengers means wider coverage, faster transmission, and greater reliability. The Intelsat ESA, which is offered as an option, will be available for line-fit by the end of this year. “Intelsat is the first multi-orbit satellite inflight connectivity system with an electronically steered array (ESA) antenna to be installed at the Embraer factory, allowing passengers access to reliable, streaming connectivity starting immediately when aircraft enters revenue service,” said Rob Baird, Director of OEM Programs at Intelsat. “Passengers on Embraer E2 aircraft will soon enjoy the same high speed internet access from the clouds that they enjoy at home, thanks to our wide coverage and low latency.” “Factory-installation of the Intelsat ESA is a good example of how we’re making it easier for our customers to offer an improved passenger experience as soon as the aircraft is delivered,” said Martyn Holmes, CCO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Reliable, high-speed connectivity is a key opportunity to significantly improve passengers’ onboard experience – helping to keep airlines competitive and their passengers productive and entertained in-flight.” Intelsat’s LEO network has low latency (the delay between sending and receiving data) and covers the entire Earth, including the polar regions. The GEO network is ideal for more densely populated areas, like big cities. The ESA antenna itself is lightweight. Its low profile (less than 3 inches) generates less drag compared to other designs. This helps minimize fuel consumption in keeping with Embraer’s commitment to ensuring the E2’s sustainability characteristics. Intelsat, of McLean, USA, operates the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network and is a leading provider of in-flight connectivity products and services.
Review
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PK Sound Launches Tx Series Intelligent Point Source Modules
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Avalue’s AIB-3588: The Future of Edge AI Computing with Rockchip RK3588’s Advanced Capabilities
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SOLUM Debuts Eco-Friendly Full-Color E-signage with E Ink Using E Ink Spectra 6, Further Expanding Display Collaboration Beyond ESL
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SOLUM Introduces Light-Powered Rail-Based ESL System, Powered by Epishine
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Gibson J-45 Standard and SJ-200 Standard, Handcrafted at Gibson Acoustic in Bozeman, MT
As it celebrates over 130 years of making the most iconic guitars in the world, Gibson has been shaping the sound of music since 1894, when its founder Orville Gibson designed and built his earliest-known musical instrument in his workshop. The innovative and forward-thinking carved top design that revolutionized the mandolin and guitar world delivering a louder, more durable, more playable instrument, remains the DNA of every Gibson. Handcrafted by the expert luthiers of the Gibson acoustic craftory in Bozeman, Montana, Gibson is proud to announce the new Gibson J-45 and SJ-200 Standard acoustic guitars, marking refreshed versions of Gibson’s world-renowned acoustic guitar models in new colors. The Gibson J-45 and SJ-200 Standard acoustic guitars are available worldwide at authorized Gibson dealers, at the Gibson Garage flagship stores in Nashville, and London, and online at www.gibson.com Gibson J-45 Standard: The best-selling acoustic of all time from Gibson, the J-45 is nicknamed "The Workhorse" and first introduced in 1942, this iconic acoustic has become the cornerstone of its round-shoulder, dreadnought line. World-renowned for its full, balanced expression, warm bass, and excellent projection, the J-45 has been refined to carry this legacy to new heights. The Gibson J-45 Standard delivers a sound with incredible dynamic range, warm mids, and a tight punchy bass. The new Gibson J-45 Standard, is available in Vintage Sunburst, or the new Heritage Cherry Sunburst finish, equipped with L.R. Baggs™ VTC under-saddle pickup and preamp, and it is stage and studio-ready from the moment you take it out of the included hardshell guitar case. Gibson SJ-200 Standard: The legacy of Gibson's "King of the Flat-Tops" lives on in the SJ-200 Standard. From its inaugural appearance in 1937, Gibson's SJ-200 set an unmatched standard. The SJ-200 continues a legacy of the world's most famous acoustic guitar, and certainly one of the most popular. The body features gorgeous flame maple and is finished in your choice of stunning Wine Red, or the new Triburst finish. It comes equipped with gold Grover® Rotomatic® tuners, a TUSQ® nut, saddle, and bridge pins, and it is stage and studio ready with an internal LR Baggs™ Anthem mic/pickup system. A Gibson hardshell case is included.
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Top Track Studios unleashes sound innovation with KRK
Now in its fifth year, Top Track Studios has been thriving as one of Music City’s prime recording studios. Designed to enhance the city’s evolving sound, the facility has been acoustically set up with creativity, comfort, and elegance in mind. It boasts a wide selection of top audio equipment, from the well-known classic pieces found in all major studios to the newest technologies available today. Additionally, Top Track Studios prides itself on its commitment to service, ensuring that it respects a musician’s artistry by honoring their needs and vision. “We are heavy on analog processing here at Top Track,” says Studio Owner, CEO, and Lead Engineer Gibran Sponchiado. “Our amazing outboard equipment and microphone collection make us passionate about the type of work we do. Services at the studio include live tracking of full bands; vocal recording and production; mixing; producing solo artists; and recording ADR and voice-over.” To support this vast array of projects at Top Track, Sponchiado relies on a multi-speaker setup, which features a pair of KRK GoAux 4 Portable Studio Monitors for referencing in his control room, as well as creating seamless communication with remote collaborators. Notably, KRK’s parent company, Gibson, has recorded promotional videos for the new Les Paul Studio Guitars at Top Track. “The KRK GoAux sound great and have balanced frequency response, despite the small size,” says Sponchiado. “In a studio, you always need a speaker that can handle loud sounds with extra headroom to avoid distortion on loud transients. When I first sought a small set of speakers for the studio, a friend of mine suggested trying out the GoAux. I bought myself a pair, and they are a great addition to Top Track’s setup.” Sponchiado goes on to explain that his team also relies on the GoAux speakers for sessions with remote clients. “If we are working with a producer in California who wants to direct the recording sessions in real-time, it’s important to have our client’s feed in an alternative set of speakers in order to separate the communication from the actual session material.” Sponchiado also admires the sleek design and modern aesthetics of the KRK GoAux monitors, finding their appearance both appealing and distinctive. “The GoAux matches the vision of the studio and goes great with the wooden elements we have throughout the space,” he adds. “We want to make art here at Top Track, and it is important to have speakers that make an impact on the artists and people who come here, both visually and auditorily. The GoAux speakers are equipped with Bluetooth® capabilities, which allow us to quickly let clients play some of their music from their phones or laptops without having to hook up anything physically.” A devoted audio enthusiast and true maestro of analog gear, Sponchiado blends his wealth of audio expertise with his passion for music and has forged a reputation for excellence over his extensive 20-year career. As a highly skilled Brazilian Producer and Recording/Mixing Engineer, Sponchiado also specializes in serving the region’s Latin communities, bringing a unique cultural perspective and deep understanding of diverse musical styles to his work. Artists looking to elevate their sound will ask to collaborate with Sponchiado because of his commitment to quality and creativity. Sponchiado got his start as an audio engineer in 2004. He earned a bachelor’s in music education from Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul (UERGS) in Brazil in 2008 and an MFA in recording arts and technologies from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in 2016. Some of his past clients include R&B artist Jeremih, Pedro Capó (Sony Music), Rome Ramirez, Brittney Spencer (Elektra Entertainment), Finesse2tymes (Atlantic Records), rapper Rocko, actress Ariel Winter, and actors Luke Benward and Chris Mason. Record labels Top Track worked for include Sony Music, Universal Music, Warner Music, Atlantic Records, and 300 Entertainment, among others. He’s also done ADR and voiceover sessions for production companies such as Monster Factory (Resident Evil Franchise) and Wolf Studios (Doctor Who). Today, Sponchiado approaches every session with a commitment to precision and quality that ensures each project not only meets but exceeds expectations, making him an asset in the world of sound and for Top Track Studios clients.
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PWS Delivers Seamless Audio Support at LATIN MUSIC AWARDS SHOW, PREMIO LO NUESTRO
When Univision presented the 37th annual Premio Lo Nuestro at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Professional Wireless Systems (PWS) was onsite to handle frequency coordination and supply all wireless microphones, IFBs, IEMs and intercom for this year’s Latin music awards show. PWS managed frequency coordination and equipment for the entertainment program, including the red-carpet festivities, livestream and main event. “We have supported this event for 30 consecutive years and continue to evolve our technology package to meet the challenges of the changing RF environment and the needs of the event,” says Jim Van Winkle, General Manager, Professional Wireless Systems (PWS). “Our team continues to provide seamless frequency management and select optimum equipment to make certain the show runs smoothly in Miami’s complex RF environment.” For this year’s production, the PWS intercom team, which consisted of Kasey Gchachu and Justin Van Winkle, ensured seamless communication and performance between the main event and the pre-show red carpet. The team utilized 90 packs of Riedel Bolero wireless intercom. To further enhance performance, PWS provided specially licensed antennas, deploying 20 units throughout the arena, red carpet, media center and backstage dressing rooms. These antennas were strategically placed to guarantee comprehensive coverage across all key areas, for a flawless event. RF mics, IEMs and IFBs were handled by James and Elise Stoffo with James handling overall coordination for the main show and livestream. Stoffo called for the use of seven different frequency bands, which included Shure Axient® Digital G57, K54, X55 and Sennheiser A1 – A4 for mics, G10 for Shure IEMs, Comtek TV5/6 for IFBs and Lectrosonics Block 24 for IFBlue listen-only packs. As television’s longest-running Latin music awards show, Premio Lo Nuestro has been entertaining audiences across the Americas since 1989, featuring dynamic performances and appearances from famous Latin American personalities, including Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin and Pitbull, among others. For more information about Professional Wireless Systems, visit www.professionalwireless.com
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Gibson Publishing Partners with Kirk Hammett on New, Premium Coffee Table Book ‘The Collection: Kirk Hammett’
One of the most iconic rock guitarists of our generation, KIRK HAMMETT, legendary guitarist of the multi-platinum-selling and 9X GRAMMY® Award-winning band Metallica, has partnered with Gibson Publishing to release The Collection: Kirk Hammett, a premium hardcover coffee-table photo book where KIRK tells the stories behind the rare and highly collectible instruments he has used on hit records and on stages worldwide in front of millions of fans. The Collection: Kirk Hammett is available now via Gibson.com and Gibson Garage locations in three premium formats: limited signed and numbered Custom and Deluxe Editions and a Standard hardcover. “I am thrilled to announce the launch of The Collection: Kirk Hammett. I’ve worked diligently on this curated collection of vintage and modern guitars for the book. I feel the book captures the rich history and artistry behind each of these unique and rare instruments. Every picture tells a story and thanks to Ross Halfin and his exceptional photography, every picture in this book is worth a million words! This book could not be possible without the help of Gibson, so I’d like to thank them for making my passion for Greeny, and guitars a reality. I hope all of you enjoy this journey as much as I did.” - Kirk Hammett “It’s exciting the time has come to release The Collection: Kirk Hammett by Gibson,” adds Cesar Gueikian, President and CEO of Gibson. “We have been working on this project with Kirk for years now, and I had the opportunity to work closely with Kirk on the composition of the collection for the book. It was a thrill to put this together and it took a village to get it done! I hope everyone appreciates the work that went into this book and enjoys every story behind the guitars.” “For someone whose early adventures in heavy music in the late 1980s involved listening to Metallica albums until the cassette tapes wore out, working closely with Kirk and the team on this project was a mind-blowing experience. Kirk’s energy and passion comes through on every page and there is no doubt he has one of the coolest guitar collections on the planet.” -Chris Vinnicombe (Gibson Editor-in-Chief) The Collection: Kirk Hammett is a 400-page premium coffee table book that explores in unprecedented detail the extraordinary guitar collection and life in music of one of heavy metal’s true pioneers, Gibson signature artist KIRK HAMMETT. Shot on location in Hawaii and Los Angeles by legendary rock photographer Ross Halfin and featuring rare imagery from Halfin’s photo archives, this latest release from Gibson Publishing features exclusive new interviews with HAMMETT conducted by Chris Vinnicombe (Gibson-Editor-in-Chief) and Mark Agnesi (Gibson-Director of Brand Experience). The Collection: Kirk Hammett takes the deepest-ever dive into the Metallica star’s eclectic guitar collection, documenting the instruments he has leaned on throughout his career, from his early days with Bay Area thrash trailblazers Exodus to selling over 125 million albums worldwide with Metallica and rocking out on the world’s biggest stages. Guitars under the microscope include HAMMETT’s storied 1979 Gibson Flying V™ and Greeny, the legendary 1959 Gibson Les Paul™ Standard formerly owned by guitarists Peter Green and Gary Moore. Written and edited by Chris Vinnicombe and designed by acclaimed graphic designer Tom Jermann, The Collection: Kirk Hammett is a must-have for fans of Kirk Hammett and Metallica and anyone with an interest in fine guitars. The Collection: Kirk Hammett, Custom Edition is limited to just 300 numbered copies signed by KIRK HAMMETT and comes in a huge 19 x 14.5” (490 x 370mm) presentation box featuring custom artwork and an outstanding case candy package. In addition to the large-format 17 x 12” (432 x 310mm) hardcover version of the book with a stunning lenticular cover, the boxset includes a frameable 16 x 11.6” (407 x 295mm) art print of a Ross Halfin portrait of KIRK HAMMETT signed by both Halfin and the Metallica guitarist. Other case candy includes an Axe Heaven® miniature replica of Hammett’s 1979 Gibson Flying V with case and stand, an exclusive pick tin complete with six Dunlop® Kirk Hammett signature Jazz III guitar picks, and a Gibson Publishing Certificate of Authenticity. The Collection: Kirk Hammett, Deluxe Edition is limited to just 1,500 numbered copies signed by KIRK HAMMETT. Presented in a slipcase adorned with exclusive photography of Greeny, the hardcover Deluxe Edition measures 13.7 x 9.8” (348 x 249mm) and comes complete with an exclusive 33 x 23” (841 x 594mm) A1 poster and a Gibson Publishing Certificate of Authenticity. The Collection: Kirk Hammett, Standard Edition is a premium 400-page coffee table book in hardcover format measuring 13.7 x 9.8” (348 x 249mm).
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DPA Meets the Versatile Needs of Sound Engineer Phil Wright
Legendary Sound Designer and Engineer Phil Wright has traveled the globe with artists, producers and companies to produce a diverse array of award-winning projects. Wright’s services extend from mixing live sound recordings and providing setup for radio and TV broadcasts, to preparing playback and cue files for film concerts that feature live orchestras. Among his frequent clients are Ministry of Sound, which calls on him for classical orchestra productions and Senbla Live Events, a London-based national touring and promotion company. With such versatile needs, Wright has found his go-to, all-around microphone solutions in DPA Microphones. A longtime user of the brand, Wright recently had the opportunity to be among the first to utilize DPA’s new CORE+ technology, which he deployed at the Barbican in London for a Jonathan Cohen singalong event. “We miked the principal violins and violas with 4061 CORE+ Microphones and put older 4061 models on the other small strings, which was a very useful experiment,” says Wright. “Placing a mic an inch off the bridge of a violin can often require quite a bit of EQ, so I’ve always preferred the 4061s on high strings because of the vocal presence peak, which is also especially useful in theater. The CORE+ version of that mic was even more forgiving in that range.” Prior to the Jonathan Cohen show, Wright utilized his DPA 4011 Cardioids and a pair of 4099 CORE Instrument Mics for the 2024 Gramophone Classical Music Awards, alongside RG Jones Sound Engineering. “The show had elite classical soloists in attendance, three of whom performed that night,” says Wright. “The team has traditionally had difficulty getting the sound of the broadcast to match that of the live production, because the room is too big and not acoustically appropriate for acoustic performances. I suggested we approach the broadcast more like a concert, rather than using the traditional tactics of a corporate awards show. To accomplish that, we needed transparent mics that translated well, while also being discreet, which is what we found in DPA.” The show consisted of a variety of piano-forward performances, including a solo and duets with a vocalist and a violinist. “I put a pair of 4011ES on magnetic mounts inside the piano to give me a close view for PA, and at the back end of the piano I had a pair of 4011Cs,” continues Wright. “Having the wider cardioid pattern of the 4011 in the piano, without the bulk of a traditional preamp, meant we were able to shut the lid while the mics remained practically invisible. This was a game-changer.” Seeing the benefits of using DPA on the piano, the team decided to also equip the violinist with the 4099. “It was the most discreet reinforcement physically possible; you wouldn’t actually know the microphone was there unless it was muted partway through the performance. This is how a classical performance should be. Using a high-quality microphone so close to the source also meant the recording was absolutely second to none,” says Wright. Included among Wright’s other DPA staples are the brand’s 4015 Wide Cardioids and 2011 Twin Diaphragm Cardioids. “For me, there is nothing that quite competes with the clarity and super-low distortion that you get with DPA,” says Wright. “I often choose the brand because of my preference towards having a show not sound amplified, and part of that is not having the coloration that some other engineers desire. I prefer the transparency of the DPA microphones; a lot of the clients who I work for clearly must favor it as well, because they’re rebooking me and the rental companies I use continue to supply my recommended kit.” Wright says he will continue to depend on DPA, whether it be for live, broadcast or immersive recordings. This includes his recent work for “The Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Orchestra World Tour,” which is currently touring through the U.S. and Europe, and “Spider-man: Across the Spider-Verse Live in Concert,” which is set to have its world premiere in June.
