Expert Sleepers has just released a beta version for its tape-based delay effect Augustus Loop. This new 1.4 release features a new 'clear loop' function, an auto fade-in/out envelope, auto punch in/out, the loop input level can be controlled by punch in/out, extensive CPU efficiency improvements and some bugfixes.

This beta version is available from Expert Sleepers web site.

ReFX has updated its synthetizer Vanguard to v1.1.1. This release fixes bugs introduced with the v1.1 (crashes, especially for Live 4) and adds sustain pedal support. Equipped with 31 different types of oscillators, including rarely found digital oscillators with new modulation options, Vanguard also includes 13 filter types with different slopes and includes a new kind of combined dual-filter variations.

Yamaha announces that the Motif synthesizer will be available in 1U rackmount format from spring 2005. The Motif Rack ES will feature 16 simultaneous parts and 128-note polyphony working off a 175MB wave ROM, with 768 preset and 384 user sounds. It also will have an effects section featuring 20 reverb types and 49 chorus & delay programs.

Waves have released version 2 of their convolution reverb IR1, and two new variants : the IRL, a simpler and less CPU-intensive 'light' version, and the IR360, which offers reverb convolution in 5.1 surround. IR1 v2 and IRL are compatible with Mac OS X in HTDM, RTAS, VST, MAS and Audio Units formats, and the IR360 is currently only compatible with Pro Tools HD systems.

More info on Waves web site.

Plogue announced a bugfix release v0.7003 for its virtual modular creation studio Bidule. This version fixes crash whith some plugins using CurrentPreset when changing presets, main window shows up with the titlebar under the menu bar, number of samples isn't set correctly for some buffer sizes, and more.

Details and download in the MM Softs section.