Digidesign announced that Pro Tools 6.0 for Mac OS X is now available.

Pro Tools 6.0 software for Mac OS X adds a powerful set of new features and improvements that makes this the next evolutionary step for Pro Tools TDM and LE systems. Premier among the new features is support for Apple's OS X operating system, providing improved, solid interaction between the Pro Tools environment and Power Mac G4s. Other benefits include:

- Streamlined new look for the Mix, Edit, and Transport windows
- Increased performance with dual-processor Power Mac G4 systems
- New multi-user login functionality enables individual users to save custom
display, operation, editing, automation, processing, compatibility, and MIDI
preferences
- New DigiBase file management utility
- Enhanced MIDI functiona ...

Apple announced its Spring line of iMac computers, featuring two new models:

The new 17-inch widescreen model features a 1 GHz PowerPC G4 processor and 133 MHz system bus; 256MB of Double Data Rate (DDR) memory; a faster 4x SuperDrive for playing and burning CDs and DVDs; and internal support for AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth, for just $1,799 (US).

The new 15-inch flat panel model features an 800 MHz G4 processor and is now priced at just $1,299 (US) -- $200 less than its predecessor.

Some new freewares are available at www.wildfrontear.co.uk which may be of interest to Digi users(and others):

Spig is a utility which channels the audio from Sound Manager or QuickTime into your Digi001(or other sound card) and also makes a digital connection from your CD drive to you Digi box.
It also allows you to record this stuff directly to disc. This means that, for example, you can use older software with no ASIO support, monitoring it through your Digi hardware, listen to & record Real Audio streams etc. and listen to your CD's using your Digi's convertors directly, instead of via Sound Manager.

There is also a new single instrument version of VSTi Shell, which allows you to play VST instruments into Pro Tools; this is a 'lite' version of the Multi Shell, which was a bit C ...

Digidesign now supports iLok.com, a new plug-in authorisation management tool hosted by PACE. iLok.com is a Web portal that allows you to manage your iLok USB Smart Keys and your software authorisations and provides instant, up-to-date details on plug-in authorisation status.

Elektron announced that the SIDstation is about to come to an end. The stock of chips is running out. A stock of chips is kept on hold for eventual repairs "sufficient for the next 10 years". They will begin to sell the last 100 bunch with a decreasing serial number engraved on at the Frankfurt MusikMesse… Collectors item!

Elektron seem also to be working on something with KEYS… I wonder what it can be…