Digidesign released Protools 6.7 for both LE and TDM systems. The audio and MIDI feature set in Pro Tools 6.7 has been greatly expanded to deliver tempo-dependent audio placement, tempo-dependent automation, graphic tempo editing, precise control of meter changes, MIDI step input, enhanced support for instrument plug-ins, MIDI Detective, and Beat Detective LE.

New features in Pro Tools 6.7 software include:

Absynth 3 is coming ! The Native Instruments synthesizer is now fully surround-enabled, offering the most comprehensive and versatile multi-channel implementation. Powerful new oscillator functions and additional integrated effects further expand its sonic capabilities, while a versatile live input function turns Absynth 3 into a superlative real-time sound mangling tool. Flexible MIDI parameter control and a revised user interface further increase ABSYNTH's versatility and ease of use.

Absynth 3 will be available in December 2004 for a suggested retail price of $ 339 / 289 Euro.

IK Multimedia and Sonic Reality, will start shipping in November 2004 Sonik Synth 2, an integrated synth workstation plug-in offering ten times the sonic power of hardware workstations combined with a virtual museum of vintage keyboards. Sonik Synth 2 gives the user fast access to more than 500 sounds designed with layering of more than 1,000 individual parts made up of multisampled instruments, waveforms and performance elements.

Sonik Synth 2 will be soon available for $399.

Spectrasonics announced that Stylus RMX is now shipping. it costs 299$ and the update is free for users who purchased Stylus in 2004. For other users, the update costs 99$.

More info on Spectrasonics web site.

M-Audio announced Pulsar, a medium-capsule professional cardioid condenser microphone designed for recording acoustic instruments, like guitars, piano, strings, brass, and woodwinds. It's also great for percussion and drum overheads. Pulsar microphone features 20Hz-20kHz frequency response, 3-pin XLR (48v phantom powered), solid brass body and capsule.

Pulsar costs 129.95$ or 119 euros (soft case, wind screen, and mic-clip mount included).