Yamaha announces SSD (SMAF Sound Decorator). SSD is a tool for converting SMF(.mid) to SMAF/MA-2, 3, 5 files(.mmf). Unlike ordinary converters, SSD allows users to switch voices easily and enhance songs to their liking. You can also download WSD (Wave Sound Decorator, a tool for converting Wave files(.wav/.aif) to SMAF/MA-2, 3, 5 files(.mmf).

Native Instruments announces details on the library of the upcoming Kontakt 2 software sampler. The Kontakt 2 library will include:

- a special version of the Vienna Symphonic Library (VSL). This special VSL orchestra includes 30 instruments and takes advantage of the KSP engine for sophisticated performance effects including "Monophonic Legato" and "Repetition".

- a multi-sampled Steinway D Grand Piano.

- an August Foerster Concert Piano.

- the "Elektrik Guitar", an extensively sampled electric guitar.

- the "Akkord Guitar", an instrument that draws on a library of
more than 3.500 acoustic guitar chord samples.

- a selection of church organs, including a massive cathedral organ sampled
in full 5.1 surround.

- a selection of electric pianos, including the Rhodes MK II.

Apple will be present at next month's National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Conference. Think Secret says "Almost certain at this point is that Apple will deliver new versions of DVD Studio Pro and Shake alongside the new version of Final Cut Pro, along with very likely an upgrade to Motion. Sources continue to point to at least one completely new pro video application, and rumblings have increased recently that a totally new pro audio application will debut as well".

A "HD Keynote adress" will take place (only by registration) on Sunday, April 17 at Las Vegas.

Buffer Synth 2 is a freeze plugin and a wave-table synthesizer. This new 1.0.3 release features : fixed a bug on OS X where some hosts would freeze when you try and open the editor, GUI code improvement, and fixed file dialog bug on Live.

Audio Damage has just released Ronin, a multi-effects VST plugin. Ronin features two delays, two multi-mode filters, two tube saturation stages, and two LFOs. Ronin is capable of tape-style delays, true analog chorus effects, and flanging in to the stratosphere, for everything from basic subtle synced delays to complete audio destruction.

Ronin multi-fx is available at $69, and manual and demo versions are available for download.