ExsManager OSX is a management software for Exs24 instruments and files. Redmatica has announced that ExsManager version 2.6 for Mac OS X is now available. The main new features of release 2.6 are: new reference matching mode for solving complex library naming conflicts automaticall, new instrument renaming function, new Redmatica color scheme, general bugfixes and more.

ExsManager costs 40 euros and pro version 80 euros. Version 2.6 is a free update for current users.

Artificialear has announced the release of Virtuoso Violin, a violin library that's built for your NN-XT sampler. Virtuoso Violin contains over 1,300 samples and more than 200 patches. The variety of articulations and patches is truly remarkable, ranging from sustained notes to staccato to pizzicato. Also included are half and whole-step trills, tremolos, harmonics, saltando (spiccato), marcato, col legno, Bartok pizz, glissandi, tremolo glissandi, runs, arpeggiando, patterns, and more.

Virtuoso Violin Catalog costs $49.

METRO is a fast-operating, easy-to-learn high-powered sequencer for the design of professional audio projects. It stands alone as a complete and integrated MIDI, audio and video production system. Sagan Technology has announced updates for Metro, Metro LX and Metro SE. These new pre-releases provide some new features and several bug fixes.

More info and downloads on MacMusic soft section.

M-Audio has announced that its Keystation Pro 88 is now available. Keystation 88 pro is a USB powered master keyborard which features : 88-note hammer-action keyboard, 59 MIDI-assignable controllers, USB bus powered and MIDI I/O.

The Keystation Pro 88 costs USD 599.95 .

Live 4 Public Beta is available now for all registered Users!

For those of you who just can't wait to check out Live 4, you are invited to participate in the public beta test* now available at http://www.ableton.com/index.php?main=live4beta. The Live 4 beta is limited to registered Live users only. A public beta for all users (even non-registered) will be coming soon. We will keep you up-to-date.

New in Live 4 : In Live 4, you will find a complete and inspiring approach to MIDI sequencing, pattern recording, drag-and-drop sampling, virtual instruments and MIDI hardware support. Ableton has also made substantial extensions and enhancements to existing functionality, including such features as swing/groove for audio and MIDI clips, a powerful new channel-routing scheme, simplified recording, sample reverse, and several exciting new creative options for the Session View.

More info on Ableton web site.