If you're not already familiar with Griffin Technology's superb PowerMate, this simple USB rotary knob provides what a mouse doesn't: the ability to spin and dial your way through apps, perfect for scrubbing through video and audio. With version 1.6, Griffin has updated the PowerMate software with a new customized setting for GarageBand: spin the PowerMate to move through measures of your song, or control playback with its push-button action. The software also includes a push-button sleep more access command, the ability to disable the PowerMate's cool blue LED lights (though how could you part with that lovely eerie glow?), plus enhanced settings for many other apps. The PowerMate is currently on sale in both aluminum and black for US$39.99.

Band To Logic 0.1 is a new utility from Web42 that converts GarageBand songs to Logic song files. Open a GarageBand file in Band To Logic and it will create a Logic song file for you in the same directory. Band to Logic is a freeware. You need to install CamelBones before using Band to Logic.

Ed: There are some caveats to check out first, but this is still more than you can do with GarageBand on its own -- which raises the question, why didn't Apple include this feature? -PK

The Logic driver version 1.1 for the Tascam FW-1884 fixes several bugs from the older version: the "sensitive touch" function of the faders, the control of the master track, and more.

Ugly VSTi interface 0.2 by ReFuse Software is a host application for VSTi plug-ins. The 0.2 version is now ported to OS X, and loads one VSTi at a time but is intuitive and stable. Ugly VSTi interface 0.2 is a freeware.

Sound And Form has released Aggro, a versatile compressor plug-in for Pro Tools TDM. At moderate settings it is smooth and transparent, perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments. Crank it up for an aggressiveness similar to a vintage FET compressor, and add intensity and character to mediocre drum tracks.