M-Audio is shipping worldwide its new Axiom 25 USB MIDI Controller. This 25-key USB mobile MIDI controller features both semi-weighted action and assignable aftertouch, plus eight rubberized trigger pads. Eight endless rotary encoder knobs let you get your hands on synth parameters, virtual mixer controls and more. Six transport controls can also assign to control other MIDI parameters. Virtually everything is freely MIDI-assignable—and the backlit LCD screen makes programming easy and intutive. You get 20 memory locations for on-board storage, plus free Enigma editor/librarian software to manage an unlimited number of setups via computer.

M-Audio Axiom 25 ships at $239.95.

Apple is now shipping the first Universal version of its Final Cut, Studio video production suite. Final Cut Studio that complement Final Cut Pro 5 including Soundtrack Pro, and sound design application: Motion 2 and DVD Studio Pro 4 for professional DVD authoring. The Universal version of Final Cut Studio is available now through the Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Resellers for a suggested retail price of $1,299. Registered Final Cut Studio customers can crossgrade to the Universal version for $49. Existing customers of the standalone versions of Final Cut Pro, Soundtrack Pro, Motion, or DVD Studio Pro can upgrade to the Universal version of Final Cut Studio starting at just $99 .

Full details and further information is available at Apple web site.

SPL presents at the Musikmesse a new massive (72 filters) passive EQ, named adequately the Passeq. With 36 passive filters in boost and 36 in cut organised in the interface as 3 bands with 12 frequencies each to choose from, it's a massive contender on the market, not only because it's a 4U rack full of stylish knobs. The Passeq uses SPL SUPRA-OPs on a 120V rail for audio quality: S/N ratio 116 dB, +34 dB of headroom, dynamic range is quoted at 150 dB. All switches and pots are Elma and ALPS, there's a Universal internal power supply and it does look good too.

Available in June 06, price TBA.

The P3 is a sort of a hidden old-timer. it was available in kit form for some time but now, with it's success in electronic circles, it's now a manufactured MIDI sequencer with professional backing support. It gives you 8 tracks, 384 patterns and note, velocity, tie, gate, length, gate delay, and a combo of up to 4 MIDI controllers, extra notes, or other events, per step. Patterns are 1 to 16 steps long, firmware is upgradable by Sysex, and the P3 has already a reputation of his own. and a good one!

Available now! price 499£ including VAT

CME announced its "WIDI X-8" system. This full duplex wireless system for MIDI and USB communication comes with two identical MIDI/USB boxes featuring :

- built-in USB MIDI interface
- Bi-directional MIDI communication (MIDI in/out)
- Up to 64 pairs can be operating at the same time via 64 channels
- Three operating modes (USB/RF, MIDI/RF, USB/MIDI)
- OS X class-compliant for plug-and-play.

The WIDI X-8 will be available in August 2006 and wiil cost $249.99.