Alpha by LinPlug is a VST synthesizer wich features a subtractive design with special attention being paid to recreate the warmth and feel typically found in early-1980s analog synthesizers.

The public beta for Alpha 2.2 will begin in the next few days. More info to come on LinPlug web site....

CDXtract is an easay-to-use browser for audio files. It comes now to version 4.2.0 with these new features : Kontakt import, Recycle import, new DropSound utility for playing Wav and Aif files and several improvements for SampleCell import, EXS24 import and export, Gig import, Halion export, Kontakt export and NN-XT export.

CDXTract 4.2.0 is a free update for registered users.

Originally debuted at Frankfort Musik Messe Native Instruments have just announced the world wide release of a range of new software instruments emulating the sounds of three classic keyboards. Sold individually or as a package the new series reproduces the classic sounds of B4 tone wheel organ, the infamous PRO-53 and the poptastic FM7. Aimed more or less squarely at the entry level home user each instrument comes with a versatile selection of presets with the limited control over the most useful parameters.

Available for download the individual instruments are 39 euros with the package of all three being a somewhat better deal at 79 euros.

Rax by Granted Software allows you to create your ideal rack of AudioUnit synthesizers and effects all of which can be controlled by a MIDI keyboard. Rax is the easiest way to play AudioUnit instruments and process live audio through your AudioUnit effects. Rax can also handle a live audio feed allowing you to connect a microphone or guitar input. And you can easily record your performance with one click.

Rax 1.0 is a shareware for Mac OS X.

The last Apple iTunes update, v 4.5, already added some new functions : printing CD covers, automatically converting WMA to AAC, Apple Lossless or new audio files browsing. The new version of Tunes, v 4.6 includes support for playing your music wirelessly using AirPort Express with AirTunes. It also includes a number of other minor enhancements.

iTunes 4.6 is available via "software update" on Mac OS X prefs panel.