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.

Kreativ Sounds announce the releases of Active eBass Plus and his little brother, Active eBass LE, bass refills for Reason 2.5. Active eBass Plus is now coming with many new features and new bass multisamples sets.

The full version costs 19.5 EU / 24.5 USD.

Few days ago we were proud to announce the release of the iPod mini in Europe on July 24th. Unfortunately Apple announces that because of a tremendous amount of pre-orders, its portable audio player will only be available with a 4-week delay. This strange Apple business strategy is growing more and more frequent and annoying for the image of Apple Inc. Once more, Apple can't ship its new products on the scheduled timetable.

Beware Apple !! The iPod clients aren't Mac clients, they are much less faithful and lose patience much faster. What a shame, it is precisely these same new clients that Apple had to appeal to !!