PC and Music News

Rob Papen has updated its bass synth plug-in SubBoomBass to version 1.1.

New Features :

• "Taiko", "Orchestral Bassdrum" and "Timpani" samples have been added.
• 2nd sequencer added, which can be used in variety of ways, including the ability to join it to the original sequencer, to get sequences with up to 32 steps.
• New analog mono modes.
• SBB 1.1, uses a new serial system, if you have SBB 1.0 you will need to register SBB 1.0 and then request a new serial / upgrade.
• Lots of new presets have been are added, included a "DnB session bank" by DubSteb producer "Leon Day".

This update is free for registered users.

Imperfect Samples has announced the release of the Fazioli Ebony Concert Grand, a 24-bit multi-sampled imperfect grand piano.

Features :

• Multi-Sampled Instrument with performance sounds.
• 5 Mic Positions.
• Up to 127 Layers.
• Over 70,000 unique samples.
• Full Length Samples, no loops.
• 24-bit audio fidelity.
• True Staccato
• True Crotchet
• Direct Picked Strings Instruments.
• Unusual FX.
• Imperfectly Sampled Instruments and Perfectly Sampled instruments.
• Organic, Imperfect Sound Character.

The Imperfect Samples Fazioli Ebony Concert Grand is available as a direct download, on DVDs, and on a portable Hard Disk Drive. Currently, this instrument is available for Kontakt and EXS24. A cut-down standalone ...

Keith McMillen Instruments has announced that they are accepting reservations for SoftStep, the first multi-touch USB Foot Controller. The First 100 SoftSteps will be available to select customers before the product hits the stores and they will receive a free Batt-O-Meter, a device which shows hours of life remaining without removing the battery from your instrument.

Features :

• Ten keys each with 5 degrees of freedom.
• Each sensor key controls up to 6 unique notes, CC's or Program Changes
• Four character alphanumeric LED displays and 10 dual color key LEDs give feedback even in bright stage lights
• Weighs in at just over a pound. (Other devices with power supplies can weigh 20 pounds.) Futuristic ...

ReKon audio has released VST-AU MKS-80 Editor, a real-time MIDI synth editor that allows full control of every parameter on the Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter hardware synthesizer.

You can manage, view, and edit all your patches on the computer without the hassle of manual dumps. All parameters are fully automatable and you can even use your favorite VST or AU host, or use it standalone, giving you the ability to visually program the MKS-80 to your music via the host sequencer. This ability to model your synth patches in real-time, inside your main music production environment is part of what makes the VST-AU MKS-80 Editor unique when compared to other hardware synth editors.

VST-AU MKS-80 Editor costs $69.95 and is available for Windows and Mac OS X in stand-alone and VST and AU instrument plug-in formats.

Avid has also announced the release of the HEAT software.

Developed in collaboration with Dave Hill of Crane Song, HEAT (Harmonically Enhanced Algorithm Technology) introduces "the realism of vintage analog sound" globally to a project via the Pro Tools mixer interface - eliminating the time consuming and complex task of managing plug-in changes across multiple tracks and allowing customers to remain focused on the craft of mixing.

HEAT software is available today, in the box or as a download from Avid, for an MSRP of $495.

IKey Audio, a division of GCI Technologies, unveils a new portable digital recorder, the HDR7.

This recorder fits in the palm of your hand and can go anywhere you go. It creates high-quality recordings on the spot of live performances, band rehearsals, interviews, podcasts, meetings, class lectures, seminars, sound effects, field recordings, or anything else you can think of. It fits in your pocket, and is super-easy to use. Plus, it's packed with many features not found in units that cost a lot more.

Features :

• Full color LCD screen
• Built in X – Y microphones for instant field recording
• Records from any MONO or STEREO line source
• Records MP3 & AAC files up to 320 kbps and WAV (BWF) & AIFF files up to 24-bit/96KHz
• Built in Limiter, Compresso ...