PC and Music News

Marcel Blum released Soundplant 39 for Windows and Mac, the first major update since 2004 of the popular low cost software sampler that turns the computer keyboard into a low latency digital audio performance tool and playable instrument. Ultra-optimized for the standard QWERTY keyboard, Soundplant allows the assignment of sound files of unlimited size onto 72 keyboard keys, for hours of instantly-playing audio with no need for extra hardware.

New version 39 adds several major features in response to user requests, including support for virtually all audio file formats in existence, a 'background key detection' mode that allows Soundplant to continue receiving key input even while minimized or hidden, waveform display, detailed playback progress indicators for all channels, precise fading control, and randomization settings. Soundplant 39 also marks the first official Mac release after several years in beta on that platform.

Native Instruments introduced Deep Freq, an effects processing suite for use with Kore 2 and the free Kore Player. Deep Freq focuses on intense and intricate frequency manipulation to transform audio material. Deep Freq provides 150 sophisticated multi-effect combinations based on the powerful sound processing engines of Absynth, GuitarRig and Reaktor integrated in Kore. Through complex combinations of filters, resonators, frequency shifting, resynthesis, granular synthesis and other advanced algorithms, Deep Freq can fundamentally alter and reshape the tonality of beats, melody lines, vocals and any other audio material.

It is available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for $79/69 EUR.

AcousticsampleS unveils the OldBlackGrand. Here's what they say about it :

"Everybody keeps on sampling the best and cleanest piano ever… here is a completely different approach. We sampled an old Pleyel Grand Piano (F-71240 model from 1928) with vintage gear like a studer console and tube microphones, it has the rich and warm sound of the old jazz/blues or even classical music recordings."

Features :

• 9 velocity layers for the sustain
• 9 velocity layers for the release
• two microphone positions: close (inside) and rim (singer position)
• sympathetic resonance
• true pedal action.
• all kinds of noises from the pedal, the keys…
• advanced scripting capabilities for a real mechanical behaviour simulation and polyphony saving.
• and more…


It should be available by the end of the month for Kontakt 3 and 4 in the first place, then other formats will come.

Steinberg has introduced Cubase Studio Pack which comprises the music production environment Cubase Studio 5 and the CI2 USB interface/controller.

By purchasing this bundled deal, Cubase Studio Pack saves customers almost 20% off the regular priced purchases. On offer as long as supplies last, this limited summer special is exclusively available from certified Steinberg dealers in selected countries. Alternatively, order Cubase Studio Pack directly from the Steinberg Online Shop.

For more details, please visit the link below :

Unity Audio unveils the Monolith, a robust-looking speaker stand. In their own words :

"We designed and built our own monitor stands because we felt that other current speaker stand brands just were not up to the job for professional applications. The principle behind a good stand is to provide a solid base for the speaker so that energy is not lost through unnecessary movement; so that the speakers energy is projected forward to the listener! Also if your control room has a resonant floor, The Monolith decouples the speaker from the floor, again reduced energy loss.

By using our stands, bass response is dramatically improved with extended lower end performance in conjunction with tighter, better defined mid range."

Once again DontCrac[k] is running a cool promotion on three amazing Flux plug-ins.

Till 14th june, The Flux Alchemist, Epure II and Solera II plug-ins are sold at 50% discount !

• Flux:: Alchemist is actually at $549 (MSRP $1099)
• Flux:: Epure II Native is actually at $275 (MSRP $549)
• Flux:: Solera II Native is actually at $275 (MSRP $549)

For more details about this incredible offer, please visit :