CME has announced latest version 2.0 firmware for their VX series MIDI keyboards.

Features :

- F1-F8 knobs can be used to store 8 different preset parameters. This makes live shows easier and slicker.
- User can rename the F1- F8 functions, making it easier to recall them.
- Adds User Bank automatic memory function.
- Adjusts the MIDI Route, making it easier to control external devices.
- Octave and transpose buttons can be used for automatic confirmation mode.
- Holding down the Dec/Inc button will continue the data change.
- Adds turn off function for program change (MSB/LSB/Program Change).
- Adds manually save User bank function (Shift＋Enter).
- Adds manually switch User bank function (Shift＋Page).
- 16 control knob lights can be selected individually.

The full update is free of charge. Users can download it from CME website and select relevant model to upgrade.

Neutrik USA is helping keep the dust out of unused chassis connector inputs through its newest product accessory, dummyPLUG (NDL). Since dust can build up, especially with larger audio consoles with several inputs that are not all necessarily being used at the same time, the dummyPLUGs are designed to protect unmated Neutrik 2 and 4 pole speakON chassis and powerCON chassis connectors.

dummyPLUGs are rubber covers that fully protect the connector in the unmated condition. dummyPLUGs do not only serve as protection for Neutrik speakON and powerCON chassis connectors, but can also provide convenience and security in the studio or out on the road, as unused inputs can be covered, avoiding any confusion or miss wiring during setup.

For more information, please visit their website.

Well known in the PC world, the french company Blue Cat Audio has launched a public beta version for Mac OS X of its freeware VST audio plugins bundle, Blue Cat's Freeware Pack.

The bundle contains 11 free plugins : a spectrum analyzer, an EQ, gain utilities with unique multiple instances linking capabilities, and several modulation effects. All are universal binary VST plugins, with full Cocoa user interface. Audio Units versions are expected later this year.

Note that this is only the first step, Blue Cat Audio will soon be releasing Mac versions of all their plug-ins, including their entire range of fantastic audio analysis tools !

Blue Cat's Freeware Pack beta is available now at :

Ueberschall has just released Minimal Electro Vibes, a new Elastik Player-based loop module developed for Ueberschall's total fidelity Nouvelle Series.

Minimal Electro Vibes covers progressive electro techniques used by "top trend innovators from the dance floor". This set includes 20 Construction Kits (1.5 GB of new material) which have been embedded into the included Elastik Player for instant access. Each kit includes all solo parts and drum shots used in the mix for extended individualization.

Features :

- 1.5 GB / 20 Construction Kits / 750 Loops and Samples.
- Elastik Soundbank for Mac / Windows in VST, AU and RTAS formats (Elastik Player included).
- The DVD also includes an Ableton Live set.

Minimal Electro Vibes is available now and has an MSRP of $119 / €99.

Eventide unveiled a new plug-in for Pro Tools that provides real-time control of its H8000 series, H7600, and Eclipse multi-effects processors. E-Control provides multiple parameter control automation, and program change capability, which is saved with the session for easy recall from within ProTools.

The E-Control plug-in for ProTools will be available in December for $199. E-Control will be available at no charge for a limited time with the H8000FW, H7600, and Eclipse hardware processors purchased after September 1, 2007.