Digidesign announces that its very new Pro Tools 7 LE software has been updated to version 7.0 cs2. This new release adds compatibility with Apple power Mac G5 Quad computers, fixes possible crash when lauching or uninstantiating a plug-in, and fixes instability problem when using three or four processors set for RTAS.

This update is availabe as a free download.

As announced, Digidesign is now offering two versions of its Pro Tools|HD systems, in PCI version and PCI Express version. By continuing to provide the existing PCI version and releasing a PCI Express (PCIe) version, Digidesign is ensuring continued compatibility of its Pro Tools|HD systems with a wide range of PCI, PCI-X, and PCIe-equipped computers. Existing Pro Tools|HD systems are designed to work in PCI and PCI-X slots only and are not compatible with PCIe technology. Regarding the PCIe :

- Digidesign has qualified Pro Tools|HD systems for PCIe with the new range of Apple Power Mac G5 computers;
- initial Digidesign support for PCIe-based Pro Tools|HD systems is limited to a maximum configuration of three cards ( beyond three cards you will need to use the PCI cards with the new HD expansion chassis);

PCIe-compatible Pro Tools|HD systems are the same price as their PCI counterparts and Digidesign is offering a crossgrade program for PCI users who want to transition their Pro Tools|HD system to a host computer with PCIe slots.

Make Music released Finale 2006b. This new version of the famous music notation software now features :

- EPS Export. EPS graphics can now be exported using any Finale-compatible operating system.
- Check for Finale Updates Automatically with the new option Check for Finale Updates under the Help Menu.
- Expanded Documentation. Learn how to get the most out of Garritan Personal Orchestra and Human Playback with the new GPO And HP
- Finale Installation And Tutorials Supplement.
- Dozens of additional improvements.

Finale 2006b is a free, downloadable update available to registered Finale 2006 users. Full version of Finale 2006 costs $600 ($350 for Academic version and $99,95 for upgrade from Finale 2005).

ElectroKraft unveils a new MIDI controller "Sonar*Axe", an experimental and strange looking MIDI controller. The Sonar*Axe uses a sonar sensor to detect hand position (generating notes), and a photocell to generate changes in note octave. This sort of MIDI-Theremin can be used to control any MIDI-compatible device.

Sonar*Axe MIDI controller costs $525.

SoundToys announced that SoundToys TDM Effects for Mac OS X are now shipping. This new bundle replaces the UltraTools and UltraFX bundles and contains all nine SoundToys plug-ins : EchoBoy, FilterFreak, PhaseMistress, Tremolator, Crystallizer, Speed, SoundBlender, PurePitch and PitchDoctor. SoundToys TDM Effects bundle (AudioSuite, TDM, RTAS) costs $1195.

SoundToys also released version 1.2 for its entire line of SoundToys plug-ins. and adds support for Pro Tools 7 software, as well as TDM support for FilterFreak, PhaseMistress, Crystallizer, Tremolator and UltraFX, which had previously been available only as RTAS and HTDM plug-ins.