The 5045 shares some traits with conventional "noise gates", but operates with a different principle. One common aspect is that both reduce the gain during the absence of signal – or more specifically, both begin to attenuate when the level of a signal falls below a certain user-defined threshold.

The 5045 senses when someone is speaking or singing into the mic and allows the signal to pass through, and senses when the person has stopped talking or singing and reduces the gain appropriately, which helps reduce the tendency of a system to feed back.

Lauten Audio announced a new microphone, the FC-387 "Atlantis" model, a solid-state multi-functional, large-diaphragm condenser. The uniquely appointed Atlantis microphone features multiple switches for three different polar patterns, gain, and unique timbre settings. The FC-387 is for recordists seeking an incredibly diverse and useful modern FET studio microphone.

It offers a blend of full and rich low and mid-range, as well as smooth and unique high-mid and high-frequencies. The Atlantis FC-387 microphone retails for $1599. US and will be available in Q2 of 2012.

MOTU unveiled the MicroBook II, an updated version of the compact, studio-grade audio interface that turns a Mac or PC into a personal 4 x 6 recording studio with professional I/O and monitor mixing. The MicroBook II will replace the original model at the same price.

The four inputs (mic, hi-Z guitar, and stereo balanced line in) can be recorded simultaneously. The mic preamp delivers neutral coloration and pristine sound, with 20 dB pad and 48V phantom power for condenser mics.

Building on the proven configuration of its predecessors, the new 01V96i now offers USB 2.0 connectivity along with new multi-track recording features and improved sonic quality.

The 01V96i continues our tradition of digital mixing innovation with 16-in/16-out USB 2.0 computer connectivity, Virtual Circuit Modeling effects and advanced DAW control for Cubase® (as well as Pro Tools,® Logic,®, Sonar,®and Digital Performer®).

The long-awaited follow up to the GT-10 has arrived. Meet the new BOSS effects flagship, the GT-100, boasting next-generation amp modeling that recreates vintage amps as well as providing new COSM tones that soar into the future.

The user interface has been improved with a unique dual-LCD system, and EZ TONE has been enhanced with newly designed AMP CUSTOMIZE and OD/DS CUSTOMIZE features. The GT-100 is a powerhouse processor that spans from classic to futuristic in a friendly, rugged, road-worthy unit.

Some features:
- Advanced COSM amps that model vintage amp tones and delivers never-before-heard tones
- Dual-LCD for simple and intuitive operation with direct access to every parameter
- Improved EZ Tone TONE feature with graphical TONE GRID for constructing new patches; AMP CUSTOMIZE and OD/DS CUSTOMIZE lets you easily create original amps and overdrive/distortion by customizing their behavior
- Newly developed ACCEL pedal for simultaneous control of multiple parameters.

Toontrack Music announces the pending release of EZmix 2 - the second generation of the company's widely popular preset-powered multi-effect mixing tool.

EZmix 2 introduces a completely revised and more intuitive user interface, a large amount of new presets, effects as well as, perhaps most notably, the inclusion of ready-made signal chains for guitar and bass, modeled after some of the world's most popular vintage and contemporary amps, speakers and stomp boxes.