Alphakanal has released version 0.3.0 of Automat, which adds New GUI and DSP code. This new version is not preset compatible with previous versions and it now requires Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger and Altivec. Automat is a substrative synthesizer featuring subtractive synthesis, 3 antialiased oscilators, filters and amplifier, 2 ADSR's for filter and amplifier and 6 modulators with tempo sync.

According to several web sites and other sources, it seems that Apple will update its iBook range, with only two models at $999 and $1,299. The Mac mini range will be also updated early next week alongside the iBook. Three new Mac mini configurations will be available at $499, $599, and $699. The new $699 model will feature AirPort Extreme, BlueTooth, and SuperDrive standard, sources said.

just wait...

At NAMM, M-Audio announces the Fast Track Pro mobile audio/MIDI interface. This pro version of the Fast Track USB is USB bus powered and features :

- 24-bit/44.1kHz audio interface with dual mic/ instrument preamps
- 2 front panel mic/instrument preamp inputs (Neutrik XLR/ ¼" TRS)
- 2 balanced outputs (¼" TRS), 4 unbalanced outputs (RCA),
- S/PDIF and MIDI I/O
- ¼" headphone output with level control and A/B source switch
- Kensington lock port

Fast Track Pro is Mac OS X 10.3.9 and higher compatible. it will be available in August at $299,00.

Ableton annouces at NAMM that Live 5 is now shipping worldwide today. In addition, an update to version 5.0.1 is also available. Live 5 features :

- clip freeze
- plug-in delay compensation
- launchable arrangement locators
- Mackie Control support
- mp3 and automatic tempo-matching
- new 'complex' warp mode
- new clip transport
- new 'live clip' format
- better browsing
- new preset management
- device groups
- new library
- new instruments and effects : beat repeat; phraser and flanger; auto pan; saturator; arpeggiator; simpler updated.

Live 5 is now available for 499 euros or USD. For customers who purchased Live 4 between May 1, 2005 and May 31, 2005, downloadable upgrades to Live 5 will be available for 49 euros or USD. All customers who unlock Live 4 for the first time from June 1, 2005 until the final release day of Live 5 will receive a version 5 serial number on release day at no charge.

Art Vista Productions has released the Art Vista Virtual Grand Piano. This virtual piano plug-in is based on Native Instruments' Kontakt Player recreating the 1960 Hamburg Steinway "B" Concert Grand Piano. It features 200 presets, including emulations of recording styles from the most famous piano recordings in all genres from the 1950's through 2005.

Virtual Grand Piano is available in VST, AU, RTAS and Stand Alone formats and costs $120 (introductory price of US$99 until 16th August).