In this video for Pro Tools Expert, Technical Editor James Ivey reports at the end of Day 1 of a new music show from London's Excel Centre.

BBC Introducing Amplify 17 is a proper music show for those who make and enjoy music. It is not just another tech trade show.  This is somewhere to listen to new and unsigned artists, try out some of the latest gear and soak up as music information from the industry seminars as you can.

As part of James' show roundup, he has chosen 4 brands and products that you might like to take a closer look at. 

Honeyboy Amps

These stunning little 5 and 18 watt all valve point to point wired guitar combo amps sound just stunning. They have cut and sustain and would be perfect for the studio where it's not all about volume it's about sound quality and these have it. There are many options to choose from but the only rule is NO BLACK. The amps are covered in your choice of custom colours.

Schwerkraftmaschine - Der Kompressor

The team from Tegeler were at the show demonstrating their new fully analogue vari-mu compressor with DSP controlled side-chain which is controllable by a DAW plugin. I can't wait for Dan to get his hands on one of these for review. 

Hammer Audio HA-872

The HA-872 is a new take on a vintage U87 microphone.  Each HA-872 is entirely hand built, this includes the plating which gives each mic its own slightly unique look.  I really can't wait to get one or maybe even a pair of these to try. 

Arturia MatrixBrute

The MatrixBrute is the new daddy of all synths from French company Arturia.  The heart of the MatrixBrute is its unique modulation matrix that allows you to create your own routings. You can invent a sound palette of your own that will be sure to be heard in any mix.
The matrix can also be used to recall your presets. So go on stage, and select any of the 256 presets instantly! No menus or awkward selection screens, everything is at your fingertips.
As if it was not enough, the matrix is also made to program and play sequences. This is no ordinary step-sequencer. With its ability to also be used as a modulation source, sounds evolve in melody and texture, just the way you want.