Mac and Music News

Version 2.0.1cs1 of the Digidesign MIDI I/O driver is available. It improves USB support and Audio-Midi setup compability.

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.