Jul 28

Mac Pro

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Apple today made a variety of introductions today ranging from upgrading its top-of-the-line Mac Pro to a drool-worthy 12 cores to giving its sexy iMac line a speed bump.

The most interesting introduction of the day, though, is the new Magic Trackpad – a wireless pad that brings multi-touch gestures to Mac OS X computers running Snow Leopard.

More users are now working on Mac laptops than desktop computers, so the lack of multi-touch input on desktops limits development of Mac multi-touch apps.

The Magic Trackpad changes that. And, at $69, it’s within reach of just about anyone.

It’s easy to imagine interesting musical uses for the Magic Trackpad, ranging from a wireless X-Y controller to a open-ended control surface.

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Jul 28

Intermorphic Apps

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Generative music software developers Intermorphic have announced updates to all of their desktop software apps (Noatikl, Mixtikl and Liptikl), and submitted the related Mixtikl version for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch (variously iDevice) for Apple review.

Here’s what’s new:

Mixtikl 2.2.0.21

Major Update:

  • New extensive & customisable randomisation capabilities to allow easier creation of new mixes
  • Several new dialogs that improve usability (incl. Content Cell and FX Cell screens)
  • Find recent mixes more easily with MRU operation in Open screen
  • iDevice: Much faster UI response for all versions (dialogs, screens, scrolling lists)
  • iPhone: 4 high-def “retinal” skin
  • iDevice: iOS4 fast app switching, and playback that continues when Mixtikl is backgrounded
  • iDevice: Audio file import via Intua clipboard (Apple General Pasteboard) supporting: WAV, AU, Ogg and MIDI files
  • Tap top-right in many lists toggles to top/bottom of list
  • Tap Content cell for new Content Cell Menu; Tap/hold of Content Cell now loops /un-loops cell
  • Better, cleaner UI with an increased mix area in the mixer screen
  • Start-up progress text displayed in the start screen
  • Track/Global FX now colour-coded in the mixer screen, and faded out when disabled
  • Improved trigger/one-shot cell behaviour

Noatikl 1.6.1.1
New:

  • Added new piece “Length Units” parameter, that can be set to Seconds (default) or Bars (new!).
  • This is in the Piece – Basics view.
  • This allows you to specify piece length as an integer number of bars.
  • Noatikl now saves MIDI recordings as Type 1 MIDI files, with embedded Voice Name information
  • in each track to make it easier to figure-out which track came from which Noatikl voice.

Fixed:

  • Fixed crash in Noatikl VSTi when recording in Reaper.
  • Tidied-up the icon displayed in the Noatikl editor window.

Liptikl 1.1.0.5

  • Tidied-up the icon displayed in the Liptikl editor window
  • Fixed windows installer signing
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Jul 27

SpectrumWorx version 2.0

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Little Endian has announced the release of SpectrumWorx version 2.0 – aka “the ultimate sound mangler”. Descripton:Why is SpectrumWorx vastly different from other effects processors? Because of its ability to manipulate the frequency domain, and its modularity.

The audio engine transforms audio input into the frequency domain. The frequencies are then sent through a bank of “modules”, each module being a sophisticated audio processor in and of itself, with its own unique selection of adjustable parameters. With over fifty modules to choose from there are countless possibilities for sound manipulation.

This combination of versatility and usability makes SpectrumWorx a tool for anything from cinematic sound design and exploratory experimentation to original compositions and game music.

SpectrumWorx is available for PC for $119. A demo version is available. Mac version “coming soon”.

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Jul 20

Manta 2

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Snyderphonics’ Jeff Snyder had announced that the Manta 2 music controller is now available for order.

The Manta is a touch-sensitive controller for audio and video with a hexagonal layout and programmable LED feedback.

Changes from the first edition Manta include the following:

  • The LEDs are now bi-color (amber/red). The red LEDs can be controlled from the computer, in the default (locally-controlled) mode, only the amber LEDs are active.
  • There are now inset rubber feet on the bottom of the Manta.
  • A Max for Live patch written by Damon Holzborn is planned to be released soon.

The 2nd edition Manta has been made in a limited edition of 100.

Note: People like to hassle me for calling electronic music gear “sexy”, but  it’s great to see new controllers that are elegantly made, tactile and visually exciting. And why shouldn’t electronic instruments be as sexy as traditional ones?

Sexy Controller News, Pt II

Snyder’s also working on a add-on for the Manta, the MantaMate. It will allow for the Manta to be used without a computer, outputting CV, MIDI and OSC. It will also receive MIDI and OSC for LED control.

CV outputs include 4 16-bit outputs, 4 12-bit outputs, and 8 digital outs. Default configuration allows for 4-voice polyphony with polyphonic aftertouch.

Yes – that’s polyphonic modular synth control that is, how do we say, the sexy.

It’s scheduled for release around late August.

 

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Jul 19

Reaktor 5.5

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Here’s whats new in Reaktor 5.5:

  • Additive synthesis capabilities (based on new “Sine Bank” module).
  • Modal synthesis capabilities (based on new “Modal Bank” module).
  • Instruments can now be loaded as ensembles and vice versa.
  • Revised one-window GUI with flexible “split” view.
  • Unified interface layout for standalone and plugin operation.
  • New full-screen view in standalone mode.
  • New “structure bookmarks” feature.
  • Improved instrument header, properties and sample map editor.
  • Improved audio player with browser integration, drag&drop and auto-mode.
  • Improved preset handling with bank list and “snapshot master” function.
  • Global master volume controls for audio input and output.
  • Improved functionality of send/receive modules.
  • Audio I/O channels increased to 40 in standalone mode.
  • Improved handling of audio I/Os and ports.
  • Improved auto-save in plugin mode.
  • Improved sample rate conversion.
  • New “Lazerbass” monophonic additive synthesizer by Mike Daliot.
  • All ensembles from Electronic Instruments I + II now included.
  • Additional keyboard shortcuts.
  • New “application reference” manual with integrated tutorials.
  • The Reaktor 5.5 public beta is now available for registered Reaktor users.
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Jul 09

696 Drums

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Wave Alchemy has released 696 Drums, a collection of 290 drum samples from the Roland TR-606 drum machine.

606 Drums contains four pre-mapped drum kit patches for use with Kontakt 2, 3, & 4 and Battery 3. Each kit makes extensive use of multiple velocity layers, round robin sample playback and choke groups to create truly expressive sample instruments.

Included In The Free Roland TR-606 Sample Library:

  • Driven Kit – Includes 41 TR-606 drum samples which have been recorded and processed through a Thermionic Culture Vulture MV to give a harmonically rich and extremely colourful sound. This kit includes 5 round robin samples per sound.
  • Dry Kit – includes a whooping 168 TR-606 drum samples which have been recorded clean through an API 512c pre-amp. This kit has been recorded in 96K, 24-bit and includes 8 round robin samples per sound as well as 3 accent / velocity layers per hit!

  • Stereo FX Kit – Includes 41 TR-606 drum samples which have been recorded and abused through a Moog Voyager’s stereo filtering capabilities whilst being controlled by a ton of MoogerFoogers and various other CV gear! This kit sounds almost totally unrecognisable to the true TR-606 sound…

  • Warm Kit – includes 40 TR-606 drum samples which have been treated to generous amounts of vintage compression, EQ and saturation from a range of Wave Alchemy’s extensive outboard collection! This kit includes 5 round robin samples per sound.

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Jul 07

EPQ1200

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·  2 x 600 Watts into 4 Ohms; 2 x 320 Watts into 8 Ohms

·  ATR (Accelerated Transient Response) technology for ultimate punch and clarity

·  Ultra-light, ultra-low noise and ultra-efficient switch-mode power supply for noise-free audio, superior transient response and low power consumption

·  Switchable limiters offer maximum output level with reliable overload protection

·  Detented gain controls for precise setting and matching of sensitivity

·  Precise Power, Signal and Limit LEDs to monitor performance

·  XLR, 1/4″ TRS and RCA input connectors for compatibility with any source

·  Professional speaker connectors and “touch-proof” binding posts support most speaker wiring systems

·  Built-in Subwoofer/Satellite crossover for more flexibility

·  Independent DC and thermal overload protection on each channel automatically protects amplifier and speakers without shutting down the show

·  “Back-to-front” ventilation system including air filter for reliable operation

·  “Built-like-a-tank”, impact-resistant and all-steel 2U rackmount chassis

·  Minimum depth chassis (10.1″ / 257 mm) and ultra-light weight design (14.8 lbs / 6.7 kg), fits into compact, inexpensive effects racks

·  High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life

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Jul 07

MendelSynth

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MendelSynth is based on a genetic algorithm — sounds are synthesized from simulated genomes. New sounds are made from old by mutating and cross breeding their genomes.

In the interface, genomes are represented by movable circular buttons that can be played by tapping on them. Double tapping on a button creates six new mutated child sounds arranged around the parent. Dragging one button on top of another creates five new children that inherit features from both parents.

Child sounds are often not very interesting (or worse!), but with patience you can achieve pleasing effects. One strategy is to select the children with the most desirable features, then create children from those and repeat the process until you find something you like.

Features:

  • A library of 250 seed sounds.
  • Save synthesized audio to a file and send by email.
  • Mutation rate and parameter variability controls.
  • Individual volume, pitch and tempo controls for each genome.
  • A “gene pool” where favorite genomes can be saved and retrieved.
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Jul 07

Finale 2011 From Make Music

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MakeMusic has introduced Finale 2011, a major update to its notation software for Windows and Mac.

Heres what’s new in Finale 2011:

  • Improved Lyric Entry and Spacing — Lyrics are more easily entered, instantly appear exactly as they’ll print out, and are automatically spaced with engraver precision.
  • Easier Staff Layout — New Staff Layout capabilities make it simple and intuitive to hide, move, and edit staves, groups, and brackets. Work in any order you wish, and never lose a note.
  • Garritan sounds — Finale now includes more than 375 world-class instrument sounds from the makers of Garritan Personal Orchestra. Free new sounds include bass trombone, brass section, children’s choir ahs, flute section, electronic drum kit and more.
  • Music Education Worksheets — Finale now includes more than 800 ready-made, customizable music education worksheets and flashcards. New this year are jazz improvisation worksheets and more than 100 titles of classroom repertoire.
  • New Fonts — Hundreds of new font characters are included for percussion, mallet and handbell graphics.
  • Finale AlphaNotes™ Font — Created for use with beginning music students, the Finale AlphaNotes font places note names or solfège syllables inside noteheads.
  • Expanded Percussion Playback — Last year we simplified the process of getting notes on percussion staves to look – and playback – exactly the way you want them to. This year Finale 2011 makes it easy to switch between pitched and non-pitched percussion anywhere in your score.
  • Updated Aria Player — The Garritan Aria Player simplifies the process of changing MIDI channel assignments. Updated for Finale 2011, the Garritan Aria Player has an integrated Ambience reverb and the ability to save Ensembles.
  • Instant Capo Chords — Automatically add capo chords to your music with the freedom to control whether they replace or appear in addition to non-capo chords.
  • Improved Pickup measures and more — Pick-up measures automatically insert the correct rests when you start your score, improved file support for multiple-user environments, and a new Quick Reference Guide that shows you how to complete common tasks quickly and easily in Finale.
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Jul 02

Sonitarium

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Sonitarium is free Windows VST that uses “a variant of DSF synthesis”, with aliasing-free oscillators that generate a quadrature stereo signal.

Features:

  • Aliasing-free DSF oscillators, each generating a quadrature stereo signal.
  • Up to 100 oscillators per voice. Unison controls to alter the pitches and phases of the oscillators.
  • Freely selectable polyphony with up to 16 voices.
  • Text field input for all controls.
  • Envelope and key tracking controlled volume. Adjustable pitch bend range.
  • Freely adjustable Attack, Decay, and Release slopes.
  • MIDI control of all parameters (CC).
  • 60 presets.
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