PC and Music News

Reaktor 5.5 is a free update available now for existing Reaktor 5 users. It includes number of interesting improvements.

New features :

• A complete overhaul of REAKTOR's interface delivers a new level in usability and improved workflow.
• Addition of two powerful new synthesis modes : Additive Synthesis and Modal Synthesis
• Fresh sounds and ensembles : now-included REAKTOR Electronic Instruments 1 and 2, and a new synth from the creators of MASSIVE - Lazerbass.
• Improvements made to the Structure editor and audio engine.
• Reworked documentation, with the Application Reference manual (400 pages) completely rewritten to reflect the latest improvements, updates and enhancements.

Pricing :

• Free update available now for existing Reaktor 5 users.
• 119 € for REAKTOR 2, 3 or 4 users
• 379 € for Full Version

SSL has just updated the Duende OS to v3.5.2. For more details, follow the link below and scroll down the page to see the vast list of updates and fixes :

Dangerous Music announced today that it has begun shipping its new stereo 'Dangerous BAX EQ'. The new one-rack space unit is ideal for use in mastering and as a final mix buss shelving EQ.

Built in response to demand from a professional studio community searching for unique sonic signatures, the Dangerous design team took inspiration from the classic Baxandall shelving curves of the 60's and 70's and created a unique equalizer with a 21st century mastering aesthetic. The result is pure emotive expression with audiophile accuracy.

Features :

• Stepped controls for repeatability and identical stereo tracking
• Broad Q shelving with a Baxandall character
• 7-position High Pass and Low Pass Filters--2-pole Butterworth configuration (12 dB/oct)
• 8-position High and Low Frequency Select
• +/- 5dB Cut and Boost controls in 1/2 dB steps

Available now for $2529.

The Korg microKEY features 37 velocity-sensing mini keys, using the same Natural Touch keybed found on the Korg microKORG XL Analog Modeling Synthesizer/Vocoder and microSTATION Music Workstation. This keybed has been designed with careful attention to the touch and feel. The proportions of the black keys and white "waterfall" keys have been adjusted for optimal playability, and the key touch makes it easy to play chords, glissandos, and rapid-fire phrases. The microKEY accurately conveys the dynamics of your performance to any software package.

Main features :

• USB MIDI keyboard – thin, lightweight, and USB-powered
• 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys
• Comfortable and easy-to-play Natural Touch keyboard
• Octave Shift and Key Transpose features access the full MIDI note range
• Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels add expression to your performance
• Dual USB ports are ideal for adding Korg's nanoPAD or nanoKONTROL (or other USB devices) to your setup

The microKEY ships with the following software licenses and discount coupons so you can start making music right away :

• M1 Le (license)
• EzDrummer Lite (license)
• Ableton "Live" series (discount coupon included)
• Lounge Lizard Session (license)

The microKey is scheduled to ship in November 2010, price is yet TBA.

The GAIA Synthesizer Sound Designer is a software-based editor application for the Roland GAIA SH-01 Synthesizer. Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X, the GAIA Synthesizer Sound Designer allows users to access the GAIA synth's entire set of sound parameters visually via a computer. The GAIA Synthesizer Sound Designer is the perfect companion for all GAIA synth owners—beginners, music educators, and pros alike.

Once the GAIA Synthesizer Sound Designer is installed, all that is required is a single-cable USB connection between the GAIA synth and the PC. With the GAIA Synthesizer Sound Designer's interactive interface, users have complete command over sound creation. Every control for the GAIA's three synthesizer engines is represented, while the unique Waveform Display shows the shape of the currently edited waveform in a virtual oscilloscope, providing a graphical representation of the sound.

Owners of Eventide plug-ins now have another month to upgrade to the Anthology II bundle at a discount, thanks to Eventide's extension of the Anthology II Upgrade Special.

Until September 30, 2010, Eventide Anthology owners may upgrade to Anthology II for only $199 (regularly $299). Owners of three or more Eventide plug-ins, or Clockworks Legacy owners may upgrade to Anthology II for only $299 (regularly $499). Owners of two or more Eventide plug-ins may upgrade to Anthology II for only $399 (regularly $649). Owners of any Eventide plug-in may upgrade to Anthology II for only $499 (regularly $799). Plug-ins will be surrendered and MassivePack plug-ins are accepted.

Anthology II is comprised of fifteen plug-ins:

- E-Channel - configurable channel strip with gate, compressor/limit ...