PC and Music News

Novation unveils Launchpad, their hands-on, interactive controller for Ableton Live.

Launchpad is a compact controller designed to give electronic music makers of today the most interactive experience possible in Ableton Live. It communicates bi-directionally with the software to give users real-time session feedback: now you really can Play Live.

Brainworx has just updated its mastering processor bx_digital to version 2.0.

Features :

• 3 Modes (M/S mastering, M/S recording, L/R stereo).
• New and unique 6-knob Center Section (individual PAN for Mid and Side Signals).
• 11-band EQ (TDM, RTAS, VST, AU) incl. Shifter EQs up to 22 kHz.
• Built-in De-Esser / dynamic EQ (1 kHz - 22 kHz).
• Improved Mono-Maker (20 Hz-2kHz).
• Precise Correlation- and Balance-Metering.
• Individual Bypass and Link for every feature.
• 4 Presets, Copy/Paste, Undo/Redo for all functions.
• New Auto-Solo and Auto-Listen modes for TDM & Native.

bx_digital is available for Windows and Mac OS X in VST, AU, RTAS and TDM plug-in formats. It costs €398 including VAT ($502) for the native versions; €598 including VAT ($879) for TDM. All users of bx_digital v1.x (Native & TDM) can upgrade for €98 / €149 (Native / TDM).

Arturia announces that is has updated its reproduction of the legendary Yamaha CS-80, the CS-80V to version 2.0.

The main improvements are :

• VCF audio quality improvements
• Ring modulator audio quality improvements
• A revolutionary preset navigation system called SoundMap
• Lower CPU utilization on Mac OSX
• Better Audio Unit compatibility (Digital Performer most notably)
• Ability to use NRPN midi messages for automation
• Better handling of control surfaces while changing preset
• Fresh batch of presets made by a selection of top sound designers
• MIDI RPN "pitch bend range" message is now recognized
• New Syncrosoft copy protection
• Numerous bug fixes

The upgrade is free for all registered users.

The CMS SUB by Focal is an active subwoofer designed to extend the frequency response of the CMS studio monitors. Its very high efficiency and dynamic capabilities guarantee a perfect integration with the CMS50 & 65 monitors. The CMS SUB offers tight and controlled bass, capable of reproducing every nuance and detail. Thanks to the large front laminar port, the CMS SUB ensures a perfect reproduction regardless of the listening level, facilitating its integration into even the smallest recording studios.

Features :

• 11" Polyglass® cone woofer
The 11" Polyglass® cone woofer used in the CMS SUB is both very light and extremely rigid for a neutral and distortion-free response.

• Custom-built amplification
BASH® te ...

Sample Logic presents a powerful collection of creatively new and inventive organic instruments.

Morphestra is derived entirely from orchestral recordings and psycho-acoustic sound design. In association with Kirk Hunter Studios and powered by Native Instruments Kontakt Player 3, Morphestra is an epic collection of over 27 GB and 1200+ instruments and multis delivered pre-installed on a pocket-sized Glyph hard drive.

Morphestra is available now for both Mac and PC at a price of $699. Note that audio examples are available at :

Myloops has announced the release of their newest sample product : "Ultimate FX Volume 1", a brand new set of sound effects made specifically for dance music producers.

This pack contains 460+ sound effects, categorized into the following folders : Tonal FX, Risers, Descenders, FX Loops, Tonal FX, Explosions and Noise FX. These sounds, recorded alongside talented producer Richard James, are perfect for adding depth and atmosphere to your arrangements and for adding intensity to your transitions.

Features:

* 460+ sounds clearly categorized into folders
* WAV 16bit 44.1 kHz samples
* Uncompressed sounds for full usability
* BPM / Key Information (for FX Loops and Tonal FX)

Ultimate FX Volume 1 is available now and is priced at €29.95.