Elemental Audio releases version 1.1 of his plug-ins: Firium, Equium, and Inspector.
Inspector, an audio analysis tool, is available as a free download from the website.
Eqium is a configurable EQ featuring an unlimited number of bands and 11 filter types. Filter selection ranges from high/low shelf to harmonic parametric and steep notch. Filters may be adjusted using sliders, arrows, or directly on the filter graph.
Firium is a linear phase EQ with a built-in spectrum analyzer that allows users to draw their entire EQ curve. User's can easily compare the effect of many different EQs on their audio using Firium's history slider.
Advantages in version 1.1 are improved performance, improved AudioUnit support, and improved preset handling. Firium and Eqium are available separately for $99 each or bundled together for $129. Inspector remains a free download.

Native Instruments has announced that its Reaktor Session and Reaktor 4 products are now shipping. The completely new Library, with over 30 synthesizers, samplers, drum machines, live tools and effects, delivers a high-quality collection of instruments. The Reaktor family is now compatible with Mac OS X and has been radically expanded, boasting countless new features and a fresh new look. While Reaktor Session can load any Reaktor instrument, Reaktor 4 also lets users construct their own sound machines. Reaktor 3 users can order the update with library and manual now or download the online update without the instruments in just a few days.

Spark XL, TC Works' flagship audio processing application, has been updated to version 2.8. The update is Mac OS X only; support for Mac OS 9 has been dropped.

The ProTools 6.0.1cs1 update is available for download on the Digidesign website. This update is intended for Digi001 users. It fixes some MIDI problems (MIDI quantization bugs, bad "All notes off" behaviour and so on...) and comes with a newer installer software.

This ongoing series at The Mac Night Owl LIVE on "Music and the Mac" continues today with singer Jodi Light and musician/producer Mario Mendivil. The discussions will range from using Digital Performer to make music on a Mac to the ongoing issue of music downloading.