Roger Nichols Digital’s range of five DAW plug-ins is now available in Universal Binary versions for Intel-based Apple Macintosh Core Duo systems, in VST, RTAS and AU formats for leading species of Digital Audio Workstations.

“We have been working for several months porting our plug-ins to work with the new Apple Core-Duo Mac platform,” offers company CEO Roger Nichols. “These new versions will allow DAW users to take full advantage of the enhanced processing speeds and native DSP capabilities of latest-generation Macintosh computers.” All plug-ins are also Window XP-compatible.

RND has also announced that all DAW plug-ins are now available for a Free 14-day Evaluation Period from its company website; no iLok is required. Also, purchase can be made either against an iLok account, or a conventional challenge/response verification processing and an email sequence.

“We wanted to make sure that our prospective customers can access whatever buying option suits their needs,” says COO Reinhold Probst. “While iLok offers a more secure way of preventing unauthorized use of a customer’s plug-is, there are times when other techniques are more useful, hence our recent change of policy.”

The current collection of RND Plug-Ins comprises:

Dynam-izer™ - Get Those Levels Under Control
This plug-in lets users break audio levels up into zones so they can be controlled exactly as required.
Pro-user price: $249.00

Uniquel-izer™ - The Swiss Army Knife of Equalizers
The unlimited Equalizer. This plug-in lets users determine their ideal EQ. And if you ever need more bands or filters, these are just a click away.
Pro-user price: $249.00

Frequal-izer™ - Surgically Accurate Mastering EQ
This plug-in lets users build a complex FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filter to their own specifications. EQ curves can also be drawn and edited.
Pro-user price: $249.00

Finis™ - Peak Limiter That Controls Dynamics
This plug-in employs the most advanced psycho-acoustic limiting algorithms we know of. There’s nothing else to do after Finis.
Pro-user price: $249.00

Inspector XL™ - Collection of Powerful Analysis Tools
This is a collection of six powerful audio analysis tools designed to fulfill a number of familiar analysis tasks with professionalism, style and finesse.
Pro-user price: $299.00

For more information, visit their web site at www.rogernicholsdigital.com.

Posted in Computer, Effects, Plug-Ins

Previously released as a VST Plug-In for 32 & 64-bit (x64) Windows, Surge is now available to Mac OS X users as well. Delivered as a Universal Binary for both the Audio Units and VST Plug-In architectures, the software synthesizer is compatible with the majority of host applications on both Intel and PowerPC-powered Macs (1GHz G4 or faster).

Combining analog-style & wavetable oscillators, configurable dual filters with a feedback-loop and massive modulation capabilities, Surge goes far beyond the capabilities of most fixed-architecture synths but still retain the directness of one. Along with a powerful effect section and the high sound quality Vember Audio is known to deliver make Surge an obvious candidate to fulfill you synthesis and sound-design needs.

Key updates in v1.2.0:

• Improved filter algorithms. Carefully crafted to provide dependable self-oscillation at high resonance settings and a musical sound
• Updated Graphical User Interface with a fresh new look
• A wider selection of preset patches (914)
• Mac OS X compatible (AU & VST, Universal Binary)

Available immediately, Surge v1.2.0 can be bought in the Vember Audio on-line shop for 120€ (+VAT for EU residents). The v1.2.0 update is free for registered users.

For more information, visit their web site at www.vemberaudio.com.

Posted in Audio, Computer, Plug-Ins, Recording, Software, Technology, VST

Blue Cat Audio has released a new version of the Digital Peak Meter Pro, a unique plug-in able to transform the audio signal to various types of controls.

New in V2.0:

• The plug-in is now 100% real time thanks to the MIDI output capability: generated envelopes can be used to control any MIDI hardware or software plug-in
• Advanced MIDI control with customizable parameters curve response and MIDI learn
• Skinnable user interface with Blue Cat’s Skinning language V1.2.1 support
• RMS envelope support
• new parameters for total control of the peak envelope detection
• Real time envelopes display
• All parameters can now be fine tuned thanks to a text-edit popup window that appears when double clicking on user interface widgets

A step by step tutorial is available to learn how to use the new advanced MIDI control features.

Pricing:
A special introductory price lets you get the Digital Peak Meter Pro for 27.3 EUR (USD $32.76) instead of 39 EUR (USD 46.80).
Upgrade from version 1.x is 12 EUR only (USD 14.40).

For more information, visit their web site at www.bluecataudio.com.

Posted in Computer, Plug-Ins, Recording, Technology, VST

Audiowarrior has released Master Songwriter® v1.0 for Reason, a complete 4GB sample workstation Reason Refill.

Everything you need is here to make complete songs for music demos, TV, Film, or any audio-visual project.

Acoustic drum kits, Electric drum kits, Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Analogue Synthesizers, Acoustic and Electric Pianos, Organs, Acoustic and Electric Basses, Sound Effects, Soundscapes, World Percussion, all from one easy-access DVD. Includes these Pro-SongTool Instruments:

• Acoustic Dreadnought Strummer Rythym/Lead with iStrum® MIDI patterns
• Elektrik Lead Guitar with alternating harmonics and Power Chords
• 30 Drum Kits Plus 12 World Percussion Instruments (All Maple and Birch)
• Axe-N-Skin DoubleBass Drums
• Reason Bass Rig (J-Bass-Slap Bass-Acoustic Upright-18 Synth Basses)
• Banghis Khan Vintage Ludwig®
• The Seven Deadly Synths (Pads, FX, Basses, Leads)
• The Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ (One Man Orchestra)
• Pianos & Organs (two Acoustic Grands, Rhodes, B3, Wurly Electric Piano)
• Vintage ‘63 Collector’s Silvertone® Electric Rythym/Lead Guitar with iStrum® MIDI patterns
• Bryan ‘Brain’ Mantia Drum Track Builder (extremely flexible and adaptable drum beat collection)
• Scott Rockenfield Drum Track Builder (extremely flexible and adaptable drum beat collection)

ReWire Master Songwriter® into Pro Tools® and Cubase® via Reason®.
Requires Reason® 2.5 or 3.0 For Mac OS X and Windows XP

AW Customers who have purchased one or more AW titles since Jan 1st, 2006 are eligible to upgrade to Master Songwriter® for the difference of their original purchase.

DVD or Download from the AW Online Shop: list $199.

For more information, visit their web site at www.audiowarrior.com.

Posted in Audio, Computer, Recording, Software, Technology

Reason is a complete virtual studio, a powerful application with endless creative possibilities — assuming you know how to use it. Indeed, the key to producing and composing in Reason is learning how to master the tools available to you in its MIDI sequencer. MIDI Sequencing in Reason: Skill Pack by Steve Nalepa is your guide to unlocking the power and creative freedom available in this dynamic program.

A key part of MIDI Sequencing in Reason: Skill Pack is the CD-ROM included with this book. It’s full of sample content and examples that you will use to build a song and, in the process, learn all the MIDI-sequencing intricacies of this dynamic and flexible software. Unlike other books with companion discs, the source files on every Skill Pack CD-ROM are an essential part of the book’s tutorials - they are not there as mere examples, but are the building blocks from which you’ll construct the projects. The result is a fully integrated learning experience.

This book/CD package will teach you how to use all the major features of Reason’s sequencer. Every available tool and function will be introduced and explained, with step-by-step exercises that illustrate the various ways to use them to enhance your productions.

Features

• Perfect for any musician, engineer, or music producer who uses Reason and wants to focus on MIDI sequencing within the application
• The book plus CD-Rom combination offers a unique learning experience for readers
• Learn a specific software skill and complete a project with step-by-step instructions from a pro, using the author’s source files on the accompanying CD-ROM
• Truly focused content allows the reader to hone a specific skill within the application

Table of Contents: MIDI and the Modern Sequencer
Sequencing in Reason
Inputting MIDI Into the Sequencer: Playing MIDI Notes
Inputting MIDI Into the Sequencer: Drawing in MIDI notes
Sequencing Beats in Reason
Editing MIDI Notes
Recording and Editing Velocity and Controller Data
Quantization

For more information, visit their web site at www.courseptr.com.

Posted in Computer, MIDI, Recording, Software, Technology

A software update for the Virus TI synthesizer and PC/Mac components is available for download on www.virus.info.

The new version is a Universal Binary build supporting PowerPC and Intel based Macintosh computers. It also improves the startup behaviour of the Virus Control plug-in, feels much snappier, fixes a couple of bugs which caused crackling with certain patches and lowers the CPU consumption when the plug-in window is open.

The free update requires Windows XP SP2 or MacOS 10.4 and is available now.

For more information, visit their web site at www.access-music.de.

Posted in Computer, Software, Technology

Synthax Audio AG today announced that RME is shipping the little brother of the highly acclaimed Fireface 800 - the Fireface 400 - worldwide. Rather than simply being a compact version of its illustrious relative, the portable, fiery little Fireface 400 is a newly designed product whose flexibility, functionality and performance sets it apart from other devices and sets new standards among 19-inch half-rack products in much the same way as its bigger brother has in the full 19-inch category.

The Fireface 400 is the only device in its category to offer active jitter suppression, additional stand-alone functionality, direct device operation, professional quality I/Os, and an unsurpassed 648-channel matrix router. And, everything is operational up to 192 kHz. Included in the Fireface 400:

• Support for up to 192 kHz
• Two digitally controlled high-quality mic preamps
• Two balanced universal line/instrument inputs
• SteadyClock for maximum jitter suppression and clock refresh
• Simple stand-alone operation via display and rotary encoders
• TotalMix: 648-channel mixer with 42 bit internal resolution
• 54 level meters displaying peak and RMS, calculated in hardware
• Full mobility with reliable bus power support
• For use with Windows and on Mac

Thanks to the DSP-based mixers, all 18 input and playback channels can be routed and mixed to any of the 18 physical outputs. This makes the Fireface 400 an indispensable tool for monitoring, with up to 9 completely independent stereo sub-mixes possible. Copy/paste of routings, fader grouping and the unique matrix window represent just some of the other outstanding features. All mix functions can be remotely controlled via MIDI using any Mackie-compatible controller.

The 8 channels from the ADAT optical I/O can be used simultaneously with the analog channels. The coaxial SPDIF I/O is fully AES/EBU compatible (as always with RME) and can operate up to 192 kHz. The optical SPDIF, alternatively provided via the ADAT I/O, also operates up to 192kHz. Rounding off the Fireface 400’s feature set is a word clock in- and output (BNC), plus two low jitter, high-speed MIDI in/outs (using 5-pin DINs), culminating in a versatile, user-friendly product of the highest quality.

The Fireface 400 retails at €899 and US $1199.

For more information, visit their web site at www.rme-audio.com.

Posted in Audio, Computer, Recording, Technology

otiumFX has updated their compressor, Compadre Beatpuncher VST, to version 1.1.

This is a free upgrade for registered users.

Changes in version 1.1:

• Improved CPU performance
• Faster attack time (now goes down to 0.1 ms)
• Changed response for gain reduction meter & clip indicator
• Fix: registration glitch causing the plug-in to sometimes appear unregistered
• Fix: Weird panning behaviour in some hosts with certain material

Unfortunately it has not been possible to maintain preset/song compatibility with the previous version, so it is recommended that you keep version 1.0 on your system while making the transition. The trial version will also soon be updated.

For more information, visit their web site at www.otiumfx.com.

Posted in Computer, Plug-Ins, Software, Technology

Line 6, Inc. announced today that GuitarPort XT is now shipping. The hardware and software bundle, which will include GearBox™ 2.0 software, is a powerful tool for guitarists seeking a no-hassle way to learn, play and record music. GuitarPort XT works with both PC and Mac computers, including the new Intel-based OS X machines.

GuitarPort XT delivers 18 classic and modern guitar amp models, 24 cab models, and 28 must-have studio and stompbox effects. Plus, included tools such as a chromatic tuner, hum reducer, metronome, and riff looper with half-speed playback ensure a great musical experience. “We’ve taken the studio standard digital modeling we perfected with POD XT, and our expertise in guitar-friendly user interfaces, and combined them into a computer-based product anyone can use and afford,” said Mark McCrite, Product Line Manager for POD & PC Products, Line 6.

With the optional GuitarPort Online™ membership, the musical possibilities of GuitarPort XT are almost limitless. Using an Internet connection, GuitarPort Online members can immerse themselves in a world of guitar tones, tracks and tablature. An incredible collection of loops, grooves, in-depth artist lessons, and original Line 6 songs are instantly available for jamming. The online library also features hundreds of the world’s greatest guitar songs. Ranging from blues to hardcore to modern rock and country, most tracks are available with and without guitar.

Recorded with the same painstaking detail as the original versions, users can learn their favorite songs by using the provided tablature, then “sit in” with a band like Double Trouble on Stevie Ray Vaughan tunes. GuitarPort Online members can even jam with the original master tracks from Jimi Hendrix exclusively remixed by original engineer Eddie Kramer. All lesson, cover, and master tracks are matched with perfectly dialed in amp, cab and effect tones for the ultimate in-studio experience that only Line 6 can offer.

GuitarPort XT (hardware/software package) - $139.99 MSRP, $99.99 Street Price

For more information, visit their web site at www.line6.com.

Posted in Amplification, Computer, Digital, Effects, Software, Technology

IPlayMusic enables students to easily incorporate active music making into their daily lives, with the ability to export lessons onto the iPod.

By combining audio, video, animation and interactive technologies, iPlayMusic’s beginner guitar lessons put the fun into learning guitar by teaching users to play actual songs by popular recording artists.

What’s more, iPlayMusic provides a less-expensive and time-sensitive alternative to traditional music study. There is no need to drive back and forth to lessons or purchase costly sheet music. There is no ramp up time as students can purchase their guitar, bring it home and immediately have fun playing songs.

For a sneak peak of iPlayMusic’s suite of music leaning products, visit the site at www.iplaymusic.com for free demos. The following products are currently available for children and adults:

Beginner Guitar Lessons Interactive DVD; Levels 1 and 2
Each lesson presents four on-screen panels that demonstrate a basic guitar skill or technique from different angles. To help beginners master a song or to enable a “karaoke-style” sing-along, a guitar, vocal or scrolling text sections can be easily added or removed.

Beginner Guitar Lessons Level 1 introduces the musician to guitar basics and musical styles. Guitar anatomy, chords, strumming patterns and transitions are demonstrated, as is an introduction to various musical styles, including rock, blues, country and more.

Level 2 presents the next step in content for players interested in mastering the guitar. They are introduced to riffs, licks and tricks that expand on the rock, blues and country styles initiated in Level 1. In addition, musicians are introduced to new styles like reggae and 12 bar-blues.

Beginning Guitar Lessons, Level 1 and 2 are available on www.iplaymusic.com, eBay and Amazon. Each is available for $24.95 as a DVD or for download.

Beginner Guitar Lessons Mac Software
iPlayMusic Beginner Guitar Lessons for the Mac takes advantage of iLife applications including GarageBand, iTunes and iWeb. Aspiring musicians have everything they need to learn guitar, play and sing popular songs and easily create their own performances, which can then be downloaded to iTunes to share with friends.

The software includes more than four hours of video, presented in 140 individual lessons featuring iPlayMusic’s multi-angle video learning method. Users can learn to play more than 25 popular songs made famous by artists like The Beatles and Eric Clapton. Song lessons include guitar chord videos, scrolling lyrics for sing-along, and tips on riffs, transitions, strumming and more.

Beginner Guitar Lessons for the Mac is available for $49.95 at www.iplaymusic.com and carried in select retail stores. A PC version of the product will be available this September.

Play Music Together Interactive DVD Video and Mac Software
Play Music Together, a new Mac software and DVD video product, help preschoolers develop their musical skills and encourages families to learn to play the guitar together.

The interactive learning product features scrolling chords and lyrics, close-ups of the left and right hands and looping features that enables children to learn songs by playing or singing along at their own pace. Capo the puppet models fun songs and activities, so youngsters develop an understanding and appreciation of musical elements including rhythm, tempo and pattern, while parents, teachers or caregivers play along and join in the fun. After just a few basic lessons, children can play and sing-along with six popular family songs including If You’re Happy and You Know It and The Wheels on the Bus.

Play Music Together for the Macintosh is available for $39.95. The video-only DVD version is sold separately for $24.95. The PC version of Play Music Together will be available in September.

For more information, visit their web site at www.iplaymusic.com.

Posted in Computer, Education, Music