IK Multimedia announces a fully usable demo (30-day) version of AmpliTube 2. This version 2.0 adds a completely redesigned interface and enhanced DSP engine, 5 separate modules, the ability to build your own custom Amp with more than 20,000 possible amp combinations, 21 stomp effects, 11 rack effects, 2 simultaneous guitar-rigs, more flexible routing, and advanced preset management.

AmpliTube 2.0 ships for $399. The demo version is only available to users with a Syncrosoft USB dongle.

Digidesign announces updated versions for Pro Tools HD, Pro Tools LE and Pro Tolos M-Powered :

- Pro Tools HD 7.1cs7 fixes : "Import Session Data" and choosing "Consolidate From Source Media" would post an error, when using ReVibe -6042 errors could be encountered when making automation changes, and error messages when using MachineControl to lock non-linear devices.

- Pro Tool LE and M-Powered 7.1cs7 fixes : using "Import Session Data" and choosing "Consolidate From Source Media" would post an error, "Unexpected Quit" when launched from a Non-Admin or Second Admin user account, and same probleme with Music Production Toolkit and DV Toolkit.

Tom Erbe announces a new Freesound bundle available with 5 plugins in Audio Units public beta versions :

- "+chebyshev" : polynomial based distortion to create low order even and
odd harmonics
- "+compand" : a compressor/expander with soft knee and rms or peak level
detection
- "+decimate" : bitdepth and sample rate reduction and distortion
- "+matrix" : a mid side encoder and decoder
- "+phasescope:" an x-y oscilloscope with left at -45 and right at 45.

These plugins are compatible with new Intel-based Macs, and RTAS/VST versions are coming soon.

Native Instruments announces that its new KORE system has been updated to version 1.0.1. This release adds a new "Live View" mode, six new effects, optimized audio drivers, and a pre-configured "Easy Access Pages" allowing to automatically assign plug-in parameters to the KORE controller for several virtual instruments from Arturia, Gmedia, Korg, Spectrasonics and others.

KORE is now shipping at $559 or 499€.

Our partner EastWest-Sounds Online are proud to offer this attractive QUANTUM LEAP RA (the finest collection of world or ethnic sampled instruments) GROUP BUY which will result in a 50% discount off the list price, if there are more than 101 buyers before it ends on JUNE 2, 2006 (all Group Buys to date have achieved the lowest price).