We announced last week new version 1.2.4 and new beta 1.3 version of Audacity. It seems that this new beta 1.3 version has some very interesting features for a free software. New features in Audacity 1.3 have been grouped into six major categories : Collapse/Expand Tracks, Multiple clips per track, Selection Bar, Improved Label Tracks, QuickTime and Audio Units support on Mac OS X.

Because Audacity 1.3 is an "unstable beta version" of Audacity, you can install both Audacity 1.2 and 1.3 on the same machine.

Focusrite released a v2.0 software upgrade for its firewire audio interface Saffire. This upgrade includes enhanced 192kHz and Firewire operation, improved identifiability of Mute, Solo Dim and Hardware control buttons, Rollover help for SaffireControl, and bug removal.

This updated version is free for all registered users.

M-Audio releases the iZotope 64-bit Studio Processing Bundle, a limited edition collection of effects and mastering softwares. This pack contains three 64-bit internal processing tools: Ozone 3 (masterig tool with analog modeling), Spectron (spectral processing effect) and Trash (distortion plugin). These plugins are compatible with RTAS/AudioSuite/VST/HTDM and Audio Units hosts.

M-Audio iZotope 64-bit Studio Processing Bundle is available only in December at a special price of $449.95.

Native Instrument announces that Guitar Rig 2 is now available in US stores. Guitar Rig 2 greatly expands the sonic arsenal with additional painstakingly emulated classic amps and cabinets, a full setup of bass gear, an extended selection of distortion pedals and effects units, a wealth of intriguing modulation features, a new live looping module, and more. Guitar Rig 2 also comes with the all-new Rig Kontrol 2, a rugged and highly versatile foot pedal unit that offers a multitude of practical control and connectivity features, including an integrated USB 2.0 audio interface.

Guitar Rig 2 is available for $579 .Various updates and upgrades are also being offered. Availability in Europe, Australia, Japan and other non-US countries will begin on December 20th.

Ableton announces two Operator special offers in December : You can purchase Operator synthesizer instrument that can be used with Live, for the special price of $119. Operator delivers a wide range of sonic possibilities through a hybrid approach to synthesis and can be used in any Live full or lite version 4 or higher. If you upgrade to Live 5 between December 1st and 31st, you can add Operator to your order for a very special price. This offer is good for all upgrades to Live 5, including upgrades from Live versions 1 through 4 and from all lite versions. You can pay the standard upgrade prices and get Operator for $99.