AMD64 Journeys To Shangri-La With Mark Knopfler



SUNNYVALE, CALIF -- October 18, 2004 --AMD (NYSE:AMD) today announced that guitar superstar Mark Knopfler’s latest album “Shangri-La” was recorded in high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz audio and 5.1 surround sound on a dual AMD Opteron™ processor–based digital audio workstation. Basic tracks for the album were initially laid down on dual 16-track analog machines and then immediately transferred to the digital format for the remainder of the recording process. Mixing continued on the AMD64 workstation to provide the 5.1 surround and high-resolution stereo mixes. Chuck Ainlay, AMD64 Masters Group member, engineered the recording that he co-produced with Knopfler.

The AMD64-based workstation by Verari Systems runs Steinberg Nuendo 2 Media Production System software (www.steinberg.net) on the Microsoft® Windows® XP Pro operating system and features superior performance, reliability and sound reproduction qualities. The adoption of AMD64 technology by the world’s top artists and producers underscores a growing trend in the professional digital audio market.

“When it came time to transfer the original analog recording of Shangri-La to digital,” said Knopfler, “I decided on an AMD Opteron processor-based system running Nuendo at 96kHz to retain all the qualities of the original recording. At British Grove, my new studio in London, I once again chose AMD to power the Nuendo system that complements my analog machines.”

“By reducing technology bottlenecks, AMD64 with Direct Connect Architecture allows premier artists and master producers like Mark Knopfler and Chuck Ainlay to maintain their creative rhythm and tempo when the inspiration is flowing,” said Charlie Boswell, director of AMD’s Digital Media and Entertainment group. “When the magic is happening in real time, the technology should simply work, be invisible and allow you to create. That’s what AMD64 does for artists.”

Knopfler earned a reputation as a world-class guitar player, songwriter and from his work as leader of the multi-platinum selling rock group Dire Straits. With the debut of the first Dire Straits album, Knopfler re-defined the rock guitar hero with a signature sound and style that is instantly recognizable. He continues to sell multi-millions of records as a solo artist. The new album was recorded at Shangri-La Studios in Malibu, CA.

“I’m extremely proud of this record,” said Chuck Ainlay. “Mark’s style and artistry are really captured well with the AMD64-based workstation running Nuendo. It’s the best recording device I’ve ever used in terms of speed, flexibility, reliability and great sound.”

In addition to digital audio workstations, AMD64 technology is also available in desktop and laptop PCs, which can provide up and coming artists the same capabilities as musical legends like Mark Knopfler.

For more information on how AMD64 technology is changing the way digital music is being recorded, please logon to: http://www.amd.com/amdopterondmepr

About AMD64
AMD64 evolves the industry-standard 32-bit x86 architecture to support the demanding 64-bit environment that will enable future generations of computer functionality and productivity. AMD designed the AMD64 platform to allow end users to enjoy reliable, best-in-class performance on the 32-bit software they own today while preparing for a seamless transition to high-performance 64-bit applications. The AMD64 architecture also enables a more secure computing environment by integrating technology that can take advantage of advanced anti-virus features in upcoming software.

Since the introduction of the AMD64 architecture in 2003, the AMD Opteron™ processor for servers and workstations and the AMD Athlon™ 64 processors for desktop and notebook computers have earned more than 45 awards for innovation and performance and the support of more than 2,000 OEMs, hardware and software developers, system builders, and distributors.

About Nuendo 2 Software
Steinberg’s Nuendo 2 software is a complete media production system that offers unlimited tracks of audio up to 192kHz with complete surround-sound support and an unparalleled MIDI sequencing implementation. Nuendo 2 can be found in leading studios and production companies the world over, and is especially suited for running on AMD64 processor-based computers.

About AMD
AMD (NYSE:AMD) designs and produces innovative microprocessors, Flash memory devices and low-power processor solutions for the computer, communications and consumer electronics industries. AMD is dedicated to delivering standards-based, customer-focused solutions for technology users, ranging from enterprises and governments to individual consumers. For more information visit www.amd.com.

AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, AMD Athlon, AMD Opteron and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other names are for informational purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.