M-Audio has announced a series of 31 free video tutorials designed to help users master every aspect of the company's Torq DJ software. The Torq Tutorial video series encompasses a diverse array of topics to support users of all levels. The first videos explain Torq Conectiv and Torq Xponent setup, the Torq Browser, Auto BPM mapping, QuickCue points, looping, built-in effects, MIDI mapping, VST FX, speed and key adjustment, and Snapshots. Later videos explore the Sampler, synchronization, recording the Master Output, External Control, AMPutate mode, using the Line Input, Pitch/Key Lock with External Control, the Mixer, cueing assignment, microphone recording, and QWERTY keyboard functions.

M-Audio's free Torq video tutorials can be viewed at :

IK Multimedia has released version 2.1 of Sonic Reality's Sonik Synth 2, providing compatibility with Mac Intel Systems plus several other enhancements.

Changes :

- Universal Binary.
- Standalone version.
- Improved Stretch algorithm.
- Improved Pitch/Shift and Time/Stretch algorithms.
- BPM Syncable LFOs.
- Smoother MIDI CC response.
- Improved load time when loading instruments.
- Improved search function reliability.
- Pro Tools 7.x fully compliant.
- Improved Audio Units compatibility.
- 16 Stereo outputs.
- Compatible with VST 2.4 hosts, such as Cubase 4 and Live 6.
- Updated Combi presets (Sonik Synth 2.1 will install a new Combi set automatically).

This update is free for all registered owners. For more information, please visit their web site.

Toontrack Music has announced two new expansions for dfh EZdrummer, Claustrophobic EZX and Twisted Kit EZX. Basically the Claustrophobic EZX is specialized in radical beats of today's top RnB, Hip Hop and Pop producers while the Twisted Kit EZX is based upon Michael Blair's set-up which included a mix of regular drums and odd bits and pieces like trashcans, bedroom furniture and rusty bicycle frames.

The Claustrophobic and Twisted Kit EZX:s are expected to be released in July 2007 with preliminary pricing set at $99 / €89 / £59 each. Note that audio examples are already available.

Sinevibes is excited to unveil the second edition of it's groundbreaking sound design book for Roland V-Synth series. Featuring nearly twice the volume of the previous edition, the new V-Synth TweakBook describes both the underlying concepts and possible usage of available synthesis blocks and technologies, and is provided with sound structure diagrams, parameter map, example patches and audio demos.

This book now is an even greater knowledge resource for those who want to take their sound design skills to a new level and learn how to use the V-Synth's range of building elements both alone and in various simple or complex combinations.

For all analog, modular and hybrides synths geeks, here is a new site totally dedicated to them. ModularSquare.com is a an online store but it also delivers great deal of information and ressources for analog synths lovers...

Zaxcom unveils the Deva 5.8 which is a 10 track hard disk recorder for film and television production. With 8 hardware faders and built-in hard drive, DVD-RAM and Flash memory slot the Deva 5.8 is a complete solution for recording mixing and effects in one package.

Features :

- 10 track recording on built-in hard disk, DVD-RAM or flash media
- 8 hardware faders
- 8 Analog mic/line inputs with 48V phantom power
- 8 Digital inputs
- 8 digital direct outputs
- Built-in 16 channel mixer
- EQ, notch filter, compressor and delay on each channel
- Mix to disk or outputs pre or post fader
- Record to external firewire drive w/no additional computers
- Full metadata entry directly on Deva
- Intuitive integrated color touch screen interface

For more information, please visit their web site.

Garritan has announced the availability of free Kontakt Player 2 / Mac Intel updates for Personal Orchestra and Jazz & Big Band. The Official Kontakt Player 2 versions of both GPO and JABB are now posted for download at the Native Instruments web site. This version extends the features of Kontakt 2 to GPO/JABB and brings Mac-Intel compatibility as well as new features.

For more information, please visit their web site.

We're very pleased to publish in the MacMusic Articles Section a review of AEON studio monitors, written by our friend and well-known sound engineer Steve Forward. AEON is a 2-way active nearfield monitor with a very wide frequency response (30 Hz to 30 kHz), a powerful sound and a great stereo image. AEON monitor is manufactured by APS and distributed by AudioPlanet.

Thanks to Steve, and enjoy your reading !