URS has announced the release of URS Saturation v2.0.

Features :

- Six Vintage Pre Amplifier Algorithms.
- Two Analog Tape Saturation Algorithms.
- Transformer Core Saturation Algorithm.
- Even and Odd Ordered Harmonics.
- Soft Clipping.
- 158 Factory Presets.

The two Mono Tape Head algorithms add Analog Tape saturation. This non-linear saturation produces a smoothing effect on high frequency transients. The Transformer Core Saturation algorithm adds non linear transformer core saturation as found on vintage consoles, tape machines and outboard gear. The two new vintage pre amplifier algorithms are : Tape Deck (Class A Tube Mic Pre) and 1951 (Class A Tube Mic Pre).

URS Saturation v2.0 is now available for Windows (VST) and Mac OS X (VST, AU and RTAS) at an introductory price of $199.99. The update is free for all registered Saturation v1.0 users.

Flux has just released Alchemist, a new plug-in primarily designed for mastering and re-mastering applications. However, it can also be used as a regular dynamic processor.

Based on the Flux dynamic processing algorithms, Alchemist features a state-of-the-art IIR cross-over with selectable slopes from 18 dB per octave to 54 dB per octave, with variable corner frequencies. Every band owns a complete dynamic processing section including compressor, expander, de-compressor, de-expander working in parallel with independent Angel's Share and Hysteresis parameters. A transient processor and a MS controller are also available for each frequency band. The sound can be processed from single broadband to five bands. The whole processing is completed by an adjustable soft knee brick-wall clipper.

An Auto Delay function allows producing a zero attack by introducing a delay line on the processed signal. Angel's Share is the parameter controlling the mix of an auto-ratio determined by the signal dynamic and, the manual ratio setting. Hysteresis is the parameter controlling the mix of an auto-threshold determined by the signal dynamic and, the manual threshold value. Angel's Share and Hysteresis are the key features of all Flux dynamic processors because they depend on on the dynamic range content of the signal, and not only on signal levels as standard processors do.

Alchemist is available now in VST, AU and RTAS formats for both Mac / PC and is priced at €800. Note that a demo version is also available.

Abbey Road Plugins has announced the release of the VST and AU versions of their TG Mastering Pack. This bundle comprises authentic emulations of the Tone Control and Presence/Filter modules from the TG12410 console. Built in the early 1970s, the TG12410 console was custom developed by EMI technicians for use in EMI's disk cutting rooms, and was not commercially available outside of EMI's studios. The features and design of these consoles is considered so good that they are still used today in Abbey Road's transfer and remastering rooms.

The TG12412 plug-in is a four-band, semi-parametric EQ with selectable frequencies and curve shapes on each band. The Shape control provides the shelving and variable bell curves from the original module.

The TG12414 plug-in provides a presence section and low- and high-pass filters. The presence section is the same as the presence EQ on the legendary TG12345 mixing console.

Key Features :
- Four band semi-parametric EQ.
- Selectable curve shapes on each band.
- Presence band and variable low- and high-pass filters.
- Exact replication of original TG controls.
- Automation and control surface support.

The TG Mastering Pack is available now in VST, AU and RTAS formats for Windows and Mac OS X, it costs $335. Note that a TDM version is also available at a price of $560. The AU/VST versions are compatible with the existing LE license, so customers who already own the RTAS license can simply download and install the new AU / VST software. 10-day demo versions are available (iLok required).

Waves Audio has added its Z-Noise noise reduction processor to its Restoration, Broadcast & Production and Diamond bundles. Z-Noise is a noise removal processor which reduces a wide variety of unwanted sonic artifacts from all kinds of content.

The new Restoration bundle lists for $1,800 Native, $3,000 for the TDM version. Diamond, Broadcast & Production and Restoration owners with Waves Update Plan coverage can add Z-Noise for $400 through their user accounts.

Native Instruments should unveil shortly some new Reaktor stuff as they have just released a teaser video upon the upcoming Spiral sequencing instrument.

Check it out on 440tv !

Today JazzMutant has announced the upcoming release of a new firmware for their Lemur multitouch-screen controller.

With the new version 2 firmware update Jazzmutant are taking the Lemur to another level of control, flexibility and intuitive operation. A host of new object features allows users to really interact with sound and manipulate it in real time like never before. Workflow improvements, scripting additions and other features allow the controller to be used better, faster and more in tune with some of the most popular software applications around with Ableton Live users, in particular, benefiting from some of the new features.

What's new :

Breakpoint object : offers total control of synthesiser or sampler envelopes with a multi-segment envelope editor to allow you to reall ...