Digidesign announces Universal Binary version for Xpand, compatible with both Intel-based and PowerPC Macs. Xpand! is a free RTAS sound factory workstation synthesis/sample playback and effects plug-in that provides fast, efficient ways to access and manipulate thousands of high-quality sounds directly from within Pro Tools. Xpand! offers virtual analog, FM, and wavetable synthesis; sample playback; virtual tonewheels; and effects. Start with any of the more than 1,000 factory patches and then fine-tune the four component sound parts to craft anything from pristine-sounding acoustic instruments to complex synthesized soundscapes.

This update is available as a free download in the MacMusic Software Section.

Cycling '74 released Soundflower v. 1.2 which adds Universal Binary support for Intel-based Macs. Soundflower is a free system extension that allows users to route audio between OS X Core Audio applications. It also lets you monitor any connection with the free Soundflowerbed application.

Cycling '74 originally developed Soundflower as a way to allow applications developed with its Max/MSP audio environment to process audio originating from other programs. However, it can be used for more general audio routing tasks patching either 2- or 16-channel data at 32-bit sample depth between any applications that support standard Core Audio driver selection. Soundflower can be selected as a "default device" in the Audio/MIDI Setup utility for programs (such as iTunes) that do not allow the selection of a specific output device. As a result, Soundflower has found widespread use in the advanced podcasting community.

Ultra Analog Session is a versatile and expressive synthesizer based on the synthesis engine of the acclaimed Ultra Analog VA-1. Ultra Analog Session boasts a comprehensive preset library covering basses, leads, pads, brasses, and strings. In addition, its simple and straightforward interface also lets you sculpt your sound from key synthesis and performance parameters. The container may be small, but Ultra Analog Session packs outstanding sounds, making it the "go-to" synth for your analog needs.

The Ultra Analog Session is available now direct from the AAS web store at a price of $99 for Mac OS X and Windows systems. Ultra Analog Session runs as a standalone application and supports DXi, VST, AudioUnits, and RTAS (Mac OS only) plug-in formats. An update will be available soon to support the new Intel-based Mac systems.

Digidesign is now shipping Pro Tools HD 7.2 software. New mixing and automation enhancements include VCA-style groups, pan grouping, plug-in parameter linking, flexible new automation modes and additional new functionality for ICON users, such as VCA fader spill, two-knob surround panning and much more.

Extended digital video functionality includes the ability to cut video along with audio and create multiple video tracks and playlists within a single session. For fast review and approval, Pro Tools HD 7.2 software allows users to bounce video and audio to a QuickTime movie. Most common QuickTime resolutions – including H.264 – can now be played back through Avid Mojo or AVoption|V10.

During the WWDC 2006, Steve Jobs unveiled the new MacPro, replacing the G5 product line. This new mac features:
- Two 2.66GHz Dual-Core Intel Xeon "Woodcrest" processors
- 4MB shared L2 cache per processor
- 1.33GHz dual independent frontside buses
- 1GB memory (667MHz DDR2 fully-buffered DIMM ECC)
- NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT graphics with 256MB memory
- 250GB Serial ATA 3Gb/s 7200-rpm hard drive1
- 16x double-layer SuperDrive (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)

MacPro is available today for $2499. As usual, BTO configurations are available from the AppleStore.