Logic 5.2 is now available online. Among other new features, it allows an almost "latency free" monitoring when using real time plugs (inserts).
Other new features: VST instruments now support multiple outs, the ESX 24 reads Giga Sampler files, etc...

Edirol announced the release of their latest software synthesizer, the HQ-Orchestral, at NAMM. The HQ Orchestral provides acoustic sounds, focusing on Strings, Woodwinds, and Brass instruments as well as Percussion and Keyboards. These samples include realistic articulations such as vibrato, spiccato, pizzicato, and tremolo. Using sample wave memory, Strings/Brass tones are selectable from solo, part section, and full section, making this useful for reproducing classical music, sound tracks, and marching bands.

Main features:

* Plug-in Software Synthesizers, DXi 2.0 and VST 2.0 Instruments (Win/Mac)
* Acoustic sounds, focusing on Strings, Woodwinds, Brass, percussion, and keyboards
* Articulations such as vibrato, tremolo, pizzicato, and spiccato
* Up to 16-part and 128-voice ...

La Kitchen is pleased to annouce the KROONDE, a new wireless sensor
interface for real time MIDI applications like Max/MSP and Pd.
For more informations, read their pdf

Audion 3.0.1 updates the Ogg Vorbis decoder to the final 1.0 spec, improves compatibility with managing iPods, makes it easier to listen to mp3PRO files, and fixes a great number of bugs.

Linnplug have just released their new modular analog modeling VST plugin for the Mac.

"We think it's the most complete "virtual analogue" synth currently available. If your sounds need to cover the full range from decent to devilish then it's the ideal instrument!"

Quite a claim indeed.