Mac and Music News

The update 5.3.1cs7 for Pro Tools HD is available for download on Digidesign website since 14th may.

This update fixes bugs of previous versions, in particular: better handling of the time code (NTSC and PAL), better communication beetween SYNC I/O and Pro Tools, display bugs on the 23 inches Apple screens fixed, and so on ...

The amp simulator is finally available under OSX format, It is compatible with RTAS and HTDM (VST MAS and AUDIO UNIT should follow later) For more infos, go to the Amplitube website.

Sampletank is available right now for OSX platform. Compatible with VST and RTAS, this sampling software is listed around 580 $. A free download version is offered on the website which allows to try out, with download sound libraries ( the free player works only with theses libraries):

The XL version possess a sound converter for AKAI S1000-S3000

Neutrik AG 100% Lichtenstein has just opened a filiale company in France.
Those who need connectors salute them !

Absynth 2, the Native Instrument both synth and sampler is now available for OS 9 and X (supporting RTAS, Audio Unit, VST 2). This instrument can mix several combinations of synthesis as FM, sampling, granular sampling, AM, ring modulation, wave shaping with possibility to have 6 synth and 3 sampling oscillators.
Of course, this is modulable and adjustable with a variety of controllers as envelopes, LFO...).

The price for the update from version 1 to 2 (if purchased before February, 1st, 2003) is 99 euros.

MOTU announced the 828mkII ($795), a single rack-space, FireWire audio interface for Macintosh and Windows computers. The 828mkII replaces the 828 at the same price and adds many new features, including more simultaneous inputs (20) and outputs (22), 24-bit 96kHz operation, 8-bus monitor mixing with front panel LCD programming, stand-alone operation, front-panel mic/guitar/instrument inputs with preamps and sends, SMPTE time code sync and MIDI input/output.

Elemental Audio releases version 1.1 of his plug-ins: Firium, Equium, and Inspector.
Inspector, an audio analysis tool, is available as a free download from the website.
Eqium is a configurable EQ featuring an unlimited number of bands and 11 filter types. Filter selection ranges from high/low shelf to harmonic parametric and steep notch. Filters may be adjusted using sliders, arrows, or directly on the filter graph.
Firium is a linear phase EQ with a built-in spectrum analyzer that allows users to draw their entire EQ curve. User's can easily compare the effect of many different EQs on their audio using Firium's history slider.
Advantages in version 1.1 are improved performance, improved AudioUnit support, and improved preset handling. Firium and Eqium are available separately for $99 each or bundled together for $129. Inspector remains a free download.

Native Instruments has announced that its Reaktor Session and Reaktor 4 products are now shipping. The completely new Library, with over 30 synthesizers, samplers, drum machines, live tools and effects, delivers a high-quality collection of instruments. The Reaktor family is now compatible with Mac OS X and has been radically expanded, boasting countless new features and a fresh new look. While Reaktor Session can load any Reaktor instrument, Reaktor 4 also lets users construct their own sound machines. Reaktor 3 users can order the update with library and manual now or download the online update without the instruments in just a few days.

Spark XL, TC Works' flagship audio processing application, has been updated to version 2.8. The update is Mac OS X only; support for Mac OS 9 has been dropped.