Expert sleepers announced an update to version 1.0.2 in both Audio Units and VST for Minky Starshine, in order to fix several bugs. Minky Starshine is at heart an additive synthesiser, augmented with possibilities for subtractive synthesis (i.e. filtering) and pulse width modulation. A waveform is created by summing 16 independently controllable 'partials'. By setting the relative levels of the partials appropriately you can create familiar waveforms such as sawtooth and squarewave, but you can also create an infinite range of timbres in between.

Cycling '74 has updated Max MSP and Max/MSP runtime to version 4.5.5. This update of MaxMSP adds new editing features (Templates, Shortcuts, Clippings, Prototypes), changes to Patcher Selection of Text Objects, adds new Max/MSP Objects (jstrigger ; mxj~ ; slide) and fixes several minor bugs.

Scarbee has just released version 1.2.1 of Vintage Keyboard FX plug-in. This update fixes several bugs : AU version now gets saved and restored with the AU host song, AU version now correctly loads Presets, AU version has been briefly tested with Logic v6.x, and other minor fixes.

Note that a demo version is also available.

Korg announces the D3200 Digital Recording Studio, the latest addition to its D-series line. The D3200 provides up to 32 tracks of digital audio playback at 16- or 24-bit resolution at sample rates of either 44.1 or 48 kHz, and up to 12 tracks can be recorded at once. The D3200 features a 12-bus, 44-channel mixer with up to 69-bit internal processing resolution. Twelve 1/4" inputs are standard, and eight also feature XLR connectors with phantom power. Optical format S/PDIF digital I/O is included as well. Data may be stored on the built-in 40 GB hard drive, or transferred to a computer-based DAW for backup or editing using USB2.0 connectivity.

The Korg D3200 will be available in August at $1799.

 

Tracktion has been updated to version 2.0.1.13. This release adds Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger compatibility, a new assignable key command to toggle "auto display midi toolbar" behavior on or off, and an option to apply dither during Audio Export. This update also fixes several bugs. Tracktion is an audio/midi workstation - giving you a clean, intuitive, and clutter-free interface without losing the features you find in software costing much more.

Yamaha announces that two new portable digital audio worksations will be available fall 2005. The new AW1600 will feature eight combo inputs (all with Phantom power), USB 2.0 drag-and-drop capabilities for moving files onto your computer, 24-bit recording and a new Pitch Fix algorithm for correcting the pitch of vocal tracks, 40 GB hard drive and effects. The second one, the AW2400 will include 24 simultaneous tracks of playback, motorized 100mm faders, and the same expansion slot found on Yamaha digital mixing consoles.

AW1400 will cost $1495, and AW2400 will cost $2495.

Glaresoft has posted version 1.0.3 of iDrum for the AudioUnit format. This update addresses incompatibilities with the latest version of AUVal, and allows iDrum to run in Logic 7.1 verified. You can grab the update from the downloads section of your my.iDrum account. Customers using iDrum with ProTools do not require an update for Tiger compatibility. Customers using pHATmatik PRO do not require an update for Tiger compatibility

Way Out Ware's TimewARP 2600 virtual emulation of the classic ARP 2600 analog synthesizer, already available in RTAS format for Windows and Mac, will soon be available in VST and AudioUnit formats. It can also be used standalone. TimewARP 2600 replicates every detail of this classic instrument popularized by music pioneers such as The Who's Pete Townsend, Weather Report's Joe Zawinul, Stevie Wonder and Edgar Winter, while adding features that make it even more user friendly. A classic ARP 2600 sound without the headache of maintenance.

ps Clouvel : TimewARP from Way Out Ware is expected to ship in July at an MSRP of $249.95. M-Audio is the exclusive worldwide distributor.

Apple announces its new "recording deal". If you buy Logic Pro 7 with a PowerBook, Power Mac, or Xserve between July 25, 2005, and October 25, 2005, you'll save $500, after mail-in rebate. This offer appears to be a good deal, but it's a strange deal indeed : Apple runs Logic Pro 7 on Xserve and not on new iBooks ?