Native Instruments has announced Reaktor 5. This major new version introduces the new "Reaktor Core Technology". The Reaktor Core layer offers up to 64 bit internal resolution, and now instruments in Reaktor 5 now also come with their own custom user interface, thanks to extensive new panel customizing options. All panel elements in the new version of Reaktor are completely "skinnable", which includes faders, knobs, buttons, and even meters. Reaktor 5 now offers powerful multi-stage envelopes similar to those in Absynth and FM7, and complete with tempo grid, slope control and looping functions; a large number of new modules for extended data storage, voice routing and MIDI functionality.

Reaktor 5 will be available in May 2005 for 499 euros and upgrade for owners of Reaktor 4 will be available for 149 euros.

Steinberg just announced a major update to its The Grand virtual concert grand piano virtual instruments. The Grand 2 features an entirely new added grand piano (users can easily switch between the two models with a single mouse click) news surround capabilities (The Grand 2 can be placed anywhere inside a virtual room, with the position adjustable from directly within the user interface) and a range of features designed to maximize computer resource efficiency.

The Grand 2 will be available for 239 euros (or $239 !!) from May 2005. Existing customers can update to the new The Grand 2 version for 89 euros.

Launching on April 10th 2005, IK Multimedia's SampleTank 2 SE and AmpliTube LE, will be bundled with Mackie's Tracktion software as well as Mackie's audio hardware interfaces. Registered IK users of the bundled versions with Mackie are eligible for discounted upgrades from IK to the full versions of the IK Multimedia software.

Edirol unveils its new audio interface, the UA-101. This USB 2.0 audio interface allows simultaneous recording of 10 channels of audio at 24-bit, 96kHz, or up to 6 channels of audio at 24-bit/192kHz. Two high quality mic pre-amps allow you to record directly into the UA-101 through the XLR/TRS combo jacks. The UA-101 features S/PDIF in and out ports. The USB port is switchable between USB 2 and 1 so that the UA-101 can even be used as a stereo audio interface with computers not equipped with USB 2 ports.

UA-101 will cost $695 and will be available in June.

TC Electronic announces the PowerCore PCI mkII. With a potent combination of 14 state-of-the-art processing plug-ins and 4 x 150 mHz DSPs, the new blue colored PCI card is the obvious choice for any professional sound engineer with a VST, AU or RTAS (supported via the VST to RTAS adapter) compatible audio system. The plug-in bundle that comes with PCI mkII, contains the same 14 plug-ins as the PowerCore FireWire, and the whole package will be shipping in May 2005 at 1140 euros (retail ex. VAT.