IK Multimedia unveils the third version of T-RackS, their mastering and mixing suite.

T-RackS 3 is a modular mastering/mixing suite of Dynamics and EQ processors, including:

- 9 processors comprised of 3 new analog and vintage emulations (including models based on the Fairchild 670 and the Pultec EQP-1A), 2 new digital processors as well as the 4 classic T-RackS processors
- New configurable mastering/mixing chain — run up to 12 parallel/series processors
- New complete built-in metering section with Peak, Perceived Loudness, Phase, and RMS meters, plus a Spectrum analyzer with Peak, RMS and Averaging indicators
- New standalone and plug-in versions available in the same package
- New high-fidelity oversampling with crystal clear transparency, for high quality audio processing throughout the entire signal path
- Extremely easy to use, with style-based presets, full chain visualization, one-click single module or chain bypass, "compare" function, multiple audio processing in standalone mode, and much more

T-RackS 3 comes in 2 versions :

- T-RackS 3 Deluxe ($499/€379.99) which comes with 9 processors
- T-RackS 3 Standard ($199.99/€149.99) which comes with the 4 classic T-RackS processors in the new application framework.

All versions will be available worldwide in stores and in the IK Multimedia online shop by November 10th, 2008. All prices exclude taxes.

Korg has expanded its MR Series of digital recorders with the MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder.

Sleek and flexible, the MR-2000S is a single rack height digital stereo 1-bit recorder, offering 5.6 MHz or 2.8 MHz 1-bit recording, or up to 24-bit 192 kHz PCM recording and playback. 1-bit file formats DSDIFF (used in SACD production), WSD and DSF are all supported, as well as PCM support for standard WAV, BWF (Broadcast WAV) and even MP3 playback. Sampling frequencies for PCM formats range from 44.1 kHz through 192 kHz. AudioGate version 1.5 audio file converter software is included, supporting reading/playback of MR project files and for converting to various file formats

Analog connectors include XLR balanced input/output jacks, and RCA unbalanced input/output jacks. The reference level of the XLR jacks can be switched in a range of -12/-14/-16/-18/-20 dB, allowing the MR-2000S to be used in any recording environment from a music-related studio to a broadcast facility. Digital connectors include S/PDIF coaxial jacks for PCM sources, as well as word clock jacks for synchronization with other devices or a second MR-2000S unit. The MR-2000S also features a multi-step LED level meter with excellent response speed and high visibility.

The unit's built-in 80 GB hard disk allows up to approximately 120 hours of recording (44.1 kHz 16-bit two track), or approximately 14.5 hours at the highest quality (1-bit 5.6448 MHz two track). Up to 400 projects can be created for each of up to 400 recording date folders (160,000 possible projects total). USB 2.0 "high speed" mode is supported for rapid file transfer to and from users' computers.

The Korg MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder will be available in December with a target U.S. MSRP of $1,999.

AKG Acoustics recently announced the acquisition of the worldwide distribution rights for the Crown family of microphones. The integration of Crown microphones into AKG Acoustics' product portfolio adds to AKG's global position as one of the world's leading sources of high-quality microphones. As a result of the partnership, AKG distributors now handle the worldwide distribution for two of the industry's leading microphone brands.

Great news from Apple! Steve Jobs revealed the new awaited MacBooks & MacBook Pros at yesterday's live KeyNote. How cool...

That would have been of great interest to our community if a "minor" detail haven't caught our attention... Apple simply decided to remove the firewire interface from the MacBooks leaving this option to the MacBook Pros family only (with a single firewire 800 connector). WOW, isn't that incredible coming from the company that first introduced the firewire IEEE 1394 protocol in personal computers?

In short, that means that any nomad musician will from now on have to spend at least $1999 to connect a firewire interface and/or hard drive to an Apple laptop... Isn't that cool? Ooops, my mistake... There is an option from the Apple website. The 13-inch White MacBook is still alive with it's cheap GMA X3100 graphic card. I don't now what's "new" there but it is presented as so... Well at least it has a firewire 400 connector and costs "only" $999. For that price, I'm sure the "black" model with the 2.4 GHz intel Core Duo processor would have generated a little more interest to our community... Yes the "black" MacBook does look better in the studio or on stage!

Solid State Logic has just updated the Duende software. Duende 2.5.9 is the first release to include the optional plug-in Vocalstrip. This release covers the full Duende product line; Duende Classic, Duende Mini and Duende PCIe.

For more information, please visit their website.