Mac and Music News

Rob Papen has announced Predator, a new virtual synthesizer that combines "inspiring presets" and "first-class features" with a user interface designed so that almost all controls are visible on screen, making it "fun and easy-to-use". Predator includes powerful features such as Preset Morphing, Intelligent Preset Variation, MIDI and Synth Controllable FX, Unison Detune, Chord Memory and a versatile Arpeggiator. It also includes PredatorFX, allowing you to use the filters, modulations, effects and vocoder as an FX plug-in within your music host.

Predator is expected to be released in February 2007 for Mac OS X (UB) in VST (2.4), AU and RTAS plug-in formats with an MSRP of $149.

Lexicon unveils the new MX300 and the MX500 Stereo Reverb Effects Processors at the Winter Namm 2007.
The MX300 is a single rack-space, 2-in, 2-out unit, it combines an intuitive front-panel design with Lexicon's "Hardware Plug-In" technology, an USB connection and VST/AU interface for use with software recording platforms. The MX500 features 4-in, 4-out, an audio streaming firewire technology and VST/AU interface for use with software recording platforms. The MX500 also offers 4 channel surround algorithms.

The MX300 will be available at an estimated street price of $399.95. The MX500 at an estimated street price of $499.95. For more info, visit Lexicon web site.

Devine Machine Software has announced that the long-awaited Krishna Synth will finally be released this Spring and will be available for Mac OS X in VST, AU, RTAS and Stand-alone formats. Pricing is not yet available but a feature list and a video are available here.

Tascam has announced FireOne, a FireWire audio interface with shortcut keys and a weighted jog wheel developed with Frontier Design Group.

Features :

- 2-in / 2-out FireWire Audio Interface, bus powered or with the included power supply
- Up to 192kHz/24-bit audio resolution
- Two XLR mic inputs with phantom power and pad
- 1/4″ high impedance input for recording guitar direct
- Two 1/4″ stereo headphone outputs with separate level control
- Control surface: weighted, backlit jog wheel, transport controls, eight DAW shortcut keys
- Stereo LED meter
- Footswitch input, MIDI in/out

The FireOne is scheduled to ship in March with a street price of $299 and will include Cubase LE or Ableton Live Lite.

Ohm Force has announced the imminent release of its latest creation, Ohmicide:Melohman, in February.
Based on Predatohm's design, Ohmicide:Melohman is organized around up to four frequency bands, each of them coming with their own Noise Gate, Dynamic, Distortion, Feedback Generator and all mixing abilities with just a twist of pre- and post-processing (distort input, high shelf output...). But the DSP is 100% different from Predatohm: the compressor/expander works differently to fit well with both the very sharp Noise Gate and the huge amount of new distortions which are declined in three variations: normal, ampsim and odd. The "Odd" one gives you control over the harmonics frequency and allows for slightly detuned distortion.
Last but not least, Ohm Force has added a disto type that w ...

M-Audio has announced the KikAxxe from Way Out Ware, an emulation of the classic ARP Axxe synthesizer.

Features :

- authentic emulation of ARP Axxe > vintage 70s sound
- 16-step, analog-style sequencer > ideal for bass lines
- integral sample-based drums > classic drum machine sound
- easy and advanced modes > simple presets or powerful programming
- integral tape-based delay emulation > great for leads and effects
- stand-alone, RTAS, VST and AU support

KikAxxe will be available for Mac OS X (UB) at a retail price of $69.95.

TC-Helicon has announced that a plugin version of its realistic multi voice doubling and detuning processor, VoiceDoubler, will soon be available for the PowerCore and Pro ToolsHD platforms.

For more information, please visit TC-Helicon web site.

CME has announced the latest additions to the UF series: the new UF 50, 60, 70, and 80 with new MIDI features including a built-in USB plug and play interface, a MIDI in added to the expansion slot, and even a built-in full duplex wireless MIDI interface with error detection and 262 ft range. This wireless interface can be used with CME's WIDI wireless MIDI line of products for wireless connection of MIDI devices, remote control, and computer interfacing.

Specifications :

- 49, 61, or 76 key semi-weighted action keyboard with aftertouch (UF50 / 60 / 70)
- 88-key hammer-action weighted keyboard with aftertouch (UF80)
- Built-in duplex wireless MIDI interface
- Over 20 user template, non-volatile memories
- 8 assignable control knobs with preset functions
- 9 assignable cont ...

Roland has announced the V-Synth GT Synthesizer. By integrating a new dual core V-Synth engine, the V-Synth GT can combine Elastic Audio Synthesis, Vocal Designer Technology and AP Synthesis in real time. Roland's proprietary VariPhrase technology is also integrated into the V-Synth GT.

Features :

- Multiple forms of advanced synthesis under the control of a friendly, icon-driven interface
- lNew AP (Articulative Phrase) SYNTHESIS technology models the performance behavior and nuance of musical instruments
- Includes Roland's proprietary Elastic Audio Synthesis engine plus Vocal Designer, playable simultaneously
- Sound Shaper II offers incredibly easy and efficient user programming
- Futuristic, high-quality industrial design
- Color touch-screen display with wide viewing angle

For more information, visit Roland's web site.

Ueberschall has announced the availability of their 7th Liquid Instrument, Liquid Trumpet, a plugin for real-feel trumpets.

Features:

- Control audio material as simply as MIDI data
- Change notes within the phrase
- Adapt tempo and key
- Select from a wide range of musical scales
- Control all parameters in realtime
- Pre-screening with adapted pitch and tempo
- Easily generate your individual setup
- High quality Melodyne technology
- Multiple content management
- Edit start and ending
- Quick sound browser
- All parameters MIDI controllable
- Save audio of original and modified loops
- Export to MIDI
- Sync to host
- Great bandwidth of styles
- Highest quality recording equipment

Liquid Trumpet is available for $199.95 in RTAS, VST, Audio Units and StandAlone versions.