PC and Music News

Steinberg has updated its HALion 3 virtual sampler VST instrument to version 3.5. The update adds native support for 64-bit editions of Windows Vista, as well as a new Factory Content sound bank consisting of 128 new electronic instruments and drum kits.

Adding compatibility to 64-bit Vista, HALion 3.5 can now address vast amounts of memory, allowing many more additional instruments to be loaded simultaneously.

Due to several changes needed for 64-Bit compatibility, projects created with HALion 3.5 can not be loaded with any prior version (of course you can load projects created with versions before in 3.5). For 32-Bit and OS X users it is recommended to continue using HALion 3.3.2, except if you need compatibility to the HALion 3.5 64-Bit version. For example in dual boot configurations with 32/64-Bit Vista you need to install HALion 3.5 on the 32-Bit machine as well to keep compatibility between both.

PreSonus has just announced the release of a major firmware update for its StudioLive 16.4.2 small-format digital mixer.

One of the most exciting new features lets you use the mixer's FireWire ports to daisy-chain two StudioLive mixers for 32 channels of recording or to combine up to 4 StudioLive mixers for 64 channels in live performance, with sample-accurate synchronization between units.

The update also adds a 31-band graphic EQ on the StudioLive's main output, perfect for adjusting your sound system to compensate for your space's acoustics. New Save and Load pages enable you to manage the EQ presets. A new Recall mode lets you recall your fader settings without recalling the master section controls or aux outputs, and the auxiliary outputs now mute when the channel mute button is pushed. The auxiliary meters are now post-output level and post-Talkback circuit.

Firmware version 1.11 is packaged in one installer, along with a new 64-bit-compatible FireWire driver and Universal Control software update for all PreSonus FireWire products. With Universal Control, you can daisy-chain any FireStudio-series interface with your StudioLive 16.4.2, completely integrating the units, so that you not only get more inputs and outputs, you also have software control over the FireStudio-series' internal mixers. This installer will be part of the PreSonus open-beta program and is available on the PreSonus Web site at :

Cockos has just released the third version of its sequencer Reaper.

Changes :

• Automation lanes
• Nested track folders
• Multiple tabbed projects
• Multichannel (greater than stereo) media support, including MOGG
• FX parameter controls on track and mixer control panels
• Customize toolbar icons and actions
• Programmable MIDI joystick/game controller support
• Inline MIDI editing
• Edit multiple MIDI items in one editor
• Sync MIDI editor to arrange view, including looped items
• Export project MIDI, with tempo map support
• MIDI event filter
• Track MIDI controls (manage bank/program changes, sysex, automate CC)
• MIDI hardware timing improvements
• Full sysex support
• A ...

The SC800 Instrument Direct Box from Switchcraft converts the outputs of high impedance line level audio devices and musical instruments to low impedance, balanced and isolated mic level signals that can be connected to audio console's, mic pre's, effects processors, and other equipment with 3-Pin XLR inputs. The SC800 was developed with one goal in mind… to provide audio engineers and musicians with the highest quality passive direct box available today. Built by hand in Chicago, USA.

Features :

• Jensen Transformer
• Dual ¼" Thruputs
• All Metal Switchcraft ¼" I/O Jacks
• 20dB Pad
• Pin 1 Ground Lift
• Recessed I/O Panel
• Laser-Etched Product Labeling
• Rugged Extruded Aluminum Enclosure

Avid has unveiled version 6 of its music notation software Sibelius.

New Features :

• Magnetic Layout - designed to cut the writing time between the moment of inspiration and the final printed score -- all individual objects are positioned conventionally on the score where musicians expect to find them. The software automatically spaces and lays out scores to look professional and clear from the very first note. Previously, aligning individual score objects required time-consuming manual adjustments which now occur transparently to the user.

• Versions - enables educators to track student progress, spot plagiarism and promote collaboration. Students can record progress and submit creative commentary with their final coursework. Professionals now have a effective way to ...

Peavey has finally released an official RTAS version of its virtual guitar amp ReValver Mk III. Consumers who have purchased ReValver MKIII can download the RTAS upgrade now at :