Apple has updated Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard to 10.6.2 fixing a number of bugs including a serious issue that could result in data loss when using a guest account, potentially wiping files. This update is recommended for all users running Mac OS X Snow Leopard.

FXpansion has announced the availability of demo versions of its suite of advanced synthesizer instruments, DCAM: Synth Squad.

The limitations of the demo are as follows :

• Can load only a reduced set of factory presets.
• Can SAVE but not LOAD user presets - you'll be able to load your saved patches if you purchase the full version.
• Cannot reload settings saved within DAW/host projects.
• Launches a web nag-screen when any DCAM: Synth Squad plugin is launched.
• Demo expires after 28 days.

Available for Windows and Mac OS X (Intel only).

On the heels of the release of their epic new Trilian Total Bass Module virtual instrument, Spectrasonics has announced the release of version 1.1 of Omnisphere Power Synth - featuring native 64-bit Windows support, core library integration with Trilian and more. The new v1.1 is also Mac and Windows 32-bit compatible. For users who have both virtual instruments, sounds from Trilian can now be opened inside Omnisphere - allowing deeper editing of the Trilian sounds, as well as the creation of layers and splits with both instruments' sounds in the same environment.

Omnisphere v1.1 New Features at a Glance :

• Trilian Library Integration - Support for loading Trilian factory soundsources, patches and multis in Omnisphere
• 64-bit native support on Windows
• Support for new STEAM Engine features introduced in Trilian, including:
Round Robin soundsources, Release layers, Multichannel soundsources, Legato articulation triggering
• Memory Management features:
'Lite Version' feature, sample thinning, training/purging for maximizing efficiency and faster loading/auditioning
• Various interface improvements - Soundsource Zoom page mixing, Edit page soundsource images, memory meter, etc.
• RTAS support for any number of processors in Pro Tools

Omnisphere has an MSRP of $499 US and €379 Euro. The v1.1 update is free for all registered users and is now available as a download from Spectrasonics website.

Logidy presents the UMI3 which is an USB MIDI foot controller.

The UMI3 features 3 configurable footswitches and an input for an expression pedal, encased in a rugged little steel stomp box. It connects to a Mac or a PC through USB and shows up as a class compliant MIDI device. No driver is required. It is powered through USB which allows for a clean and simple setup. It behaves like a three note keyboard right out of the box, but can be configured to send many other types of messages to take full advantage of the MIDI mapping features included in most of today's DAWs. The configuration happens in a friendly setup panel for Mac or PC available for download at Logidy's website. The panel can also work as a step sequencer where the function of a given footswitch can be changed each time it is pushed, or when another switch is pushed. Elaborate setups can be designed to trigger as many as 24 different MIDI events !

Logidy is a small new venture based in the USA. Its staff has many years of experience designing digital products for major music industry companies. The UMI3 is the company's first independent offering.

The UMI3 is in stock and available for purchase immediately through Logidy's website at the price of $49.95 plus shipping.

As widely requested by potential customers in a recent survey and in view of the tough economic times, Camel Audio decided to launch the Camel Audio Group Buy. The number of sign-ups Camel Audio targeted to meet the 50% discount has already been achieved so if you sign up now you are guaranteed to pay no more than half price for your Camel Audio products !

If you want to participate, hurry up - the Group Buy will end on Monday, November 16th. Once you have signed up, you will be directed to a page from which you can buy the products at the reduced price. You have till the end of November to purchase.