PC and Music News

SoundToys has announced that a beta version of Decapitator is now available.

Decapitator models the saturation or distortion created when driving professional analog studio equipment. SoundToys analyzed vintage and modern classics from Neve, API, Ampex, EMI and Thermionic Culture, and more to create accurate models of high-end studio gear. Decapitator creates that highly sought after analog sound from subtle harmonic changes to extreme driven distortion.

Decapitator features an intuitive interface with the look and feel of classic analog gear. A selection of tone controls including high cut, low cut, and a single "Tone" knob give you additional shaping control that take many of these classic sounds past their original design. The "Punish" button pushes even more gain through the modeled saturation circuits for more extreme drive. It also features a "Mix" control for blending the original sound with the sound of Decapitator, without the need for routing and bussing, and built-in auto leveling controls the output volume for a perfect balance automatically, even in the "Punish" mode.

The Decapitator public beta supports RTAS, AudioUnits and VST on Mac OS X and Windows. TDM is coming soon. Note that an iLok hardware key is required.

U-he has updated Uhbik to v1.1, which includes the addition of a new plug-in: Uhbik-G / GrainDad.

GrainDad is a Granular pitch shifter and vast audio mangling device. Tape stop effects, reversing effects, weird metallic drones from otherwise harmless material. Try on drum loops first.

Improvements :

• Uhbik-G / GrainDad (granular pitch-shifter) added.
• Support for RTAS Mac.
• Automatable Softbypass button for click free bypass operation (each Uhbik).
• Gain slider +/- 12dB (each Uhbik).
• Support for MIDI Bank Change (CC#0), to switch through folders in MIDI Programs.
• Support for Favourite & Junk preset tagging.
• Drag'n'drop preset organisation (does not work in Logic 9.0.2).
• Some minor fixes.

Denon DJ is shipping the new DN-HP500 Professional Headphones. The DN-HP500's are stylish, new, entry-level DJ headphones that, like Denon DJ's HP1000 and HP700 models, produce "impeccably clean and vibrant audio while withstanding the high-volume demands of today's DJs".

The DN-HP500's offer 1300mW input power, 40mm driver, 40 Ohms impedance, 103dB output, 10Hz - 28kHz frequency response, and 90-degree swivel mechanism, with comfortable ear pad and headband for prolonged periods of use.

Key Features :

• Type: Air tight Closed Dynamic
• ±90 degree Swivel Mechanism
• Driver Unit: 40-mm Neodymium Magnet
• Impedance: 40 Ohms
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 28kHz
• Output (Sensitivity): 103dB
• Max Input Power 1,300mW
• Cord Length: 1.2m (max. 3m)

Puremagnetik has announced a comprehensive bundle of tools developed specifically for Max for Live. "Max Fuel, the First" will include numerous audio processors and instruments alongside other innovative sound manipulation devices. By utilizing the open framework of Max for Live, any Ableton Live 8 user can fully explore the limitless potential of Cycling '74's celebrated Max/MSP environment. "Max Fuel, the First" will instantly give the end user a professionally developed suite of tools to work with.

The first member of the group is Spectral Mixer and it is available as a free download from puremagnetik.com. Spectral Mixer allows the user to independently adjust a signal's quiet, mid and loud parts. Puremagnetik has posted a detailed video of Spectral Mixer's functionality on the produ ...

Urs Heckmann (u-he) has updated Zebra to v2.5.

Version 2.5 includes improved preset management, a new contrast rich user interface, unlimited undo/redo for parameter changes, improved filter algorithms, a new Duophonic mode, 100+ new presets by Howard Scarr, and Zebrify, a new effect plug-in that puts all the goodness of Zebra on any audio track, and much more...

For more details, please visit the link below :

JDK Audio, the new brand developed and engineered by legendary analog innovator API, announces the fourth product in its line of robust signal processing equipment.

The R22 is a two-channel, rack-mount compressor with linkable stereo operation that uses true RMS power summing, a patented Thrust circuit for chest-hitting low-end, and easy to use, refreshingly musical control of all parameters.

JDK Audio will formally introduce the R22 compressor at the 2010 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, California at API Booth #6411. Visitors will have the opportunity to listen to multitrack material through the new R22 and other JDK gear at the JDK listening station.