Mac and Music News

Mackie posted an update 1.5.1.16 of its Mackie Tracktion software. This new version fixes a large list of bugs : M-Box Fix, Hypersonic Fix, fixed a problem that could make the mouse get 'stuck' after right-clicking some VST interfaces, fixed a midi input bug on the Mac, fixed a bug that could make the cursor get stuck, and more...

Scarbee Imperial Drums (S.I.D.) is now available in Kontakt format (version 1.5.3 and DFD extention are required). Now every tom drum has its separate output allowing the end user for a more precise control of such drums in the mix. Scarbee Imperial Drums is recorded in 24bit/88 khz high definition resolution and provides nearly 30,000 individual drum samples on 3 DVDs.

S.I.D. costs $369 (ex VAT) and the S.I.D. in Kontakt format is a free update for registered HALion 2 version users.

Mackie Control Universal support is currently available in Cubase SX/SL versions 2.2 and Nuendo. But the extension "Mackie Control Universal Extender" gives the possibility to add more fader to the set and to build a greater control interface. (in fact it's the same than the Mackie Control Universal but with no master section). Compatibility includes with Emagic Logic Audio, Digidesign Pro Tools, Steinberg Nuendo et Cubase SX/SL, MOTU Digital Performer, RML Labs SAW Studio, Adobe Audition...

More information on the sites below :
www.mackie.com
www.steinberg.net

The newly announced UA-25 audio/midi interface for USB 1.1 is the newest addition to their UA lineup. Much like the newer UA models, this one has a professional feel to it with its metallic body instead of the cheap plastic body. The form is also sleek with its dual neutrik xlr-1/4" combo inputs on the front and 1/4" headphone ports, combined with the 1/4", RCA, TOSlink, and MIDI ports on the back. The inputs can have phantom power as well as lo/hi impedance. The A/D converter can operate at up to 24bits/96khz. Again, this model is targeted towards more serious users 'on the go' and features USB bus powering and advanced power circuitry to ensure stable operation on finicky USB bus power. Furthermore, they have put in an improved clock generator which should reduce the jitter on audio sign ...

Camel Audio has announced Thursday the release of version 1.3 of their synthesizer Cameleon 5000., an additive synthesizer with morphing and resynthesis abilities. Version 1.3 adds a host of new features including the ability to convert bitmaps to noise, significant CPU optimization and more. Unfortunately there were some issues with the intial release of Cameleon 1.3.

If you have already downloaded Cameleon, check if the version number displayed on the interface is v1.301. If it's not 1.301 please re-download from the same place.

Cycling74 announced a future Max/MSP update : "Next month we will be releasing the Max and Max/MSP 4.5 upgrades. The list of improvements is extensive, so here are a few to whet your appetite. Integration of the Java and Javascript languages into the Max environment. A complete multi-leveled preset management system for multi-layered patches. MSP objects implementing the award-winning OctiMax compression and limiting technology. Several new objects providing spectral display, alteration and pitch-shifting. ReWire support as both Client and Host (including MIDI I/O).

Paid Upgrade: This is a paid upgrade and will be available as a download or on CD. The introductory retail price is $149 for the Max/MSP upgrade, or $100 if you only own Max (no MSP). After September 30th the Max/MSP upgrade will be $179, and the Max upgrade $119. Free Upgrade: People who purchased Max/MSP or Max after April 1, 2004 will be eligible for a free upgrade."