A Design Audio introduces new modules of preamps, the P-1 and EM series. The P-1 is based on their Pacifica model (cream panel). The EM (Erickson/Montessi) are "twists" as they say around the P-1, each is sounding slightly different. In order to achieve this, different input and output custom wound transformers are used in each one (grey, blue and red panel). Every EM module features a DI input and a -20dB pad switch, 48V Phantom power with a LED indicator. The EM-Silver is better suited to ribbon microphones. It features a steel wound transformer. The EM-Red and EM-Blue have a darker sound. The EM-Blue features a nickel wound transformer giving more highs in the end. The EM-Red uses a 50/50 output transformer, along with a different input transformer for "more upfront mids".

Each module is listed for $850.

Attention Ableton Live users! Novation announces at Frankfurt that the latest software update for the ReMOTE SL includes compatibility with Ableton Live 5. Now, with an SL keyboard connected, you can have total, hands-on control over a session in Live 5. The Mixer and Transport controls are immediately available, with every effect and plug-in mapped automatically to the ReMOTEís rotaries and buttons.

And, this free software update also includes compatibility for Cubase and Logic as well.

Native Instruments today disclosed full details on KORE, an integrated system consisting of a host software for VST and Audio Units plug-ins, and a tightly integrated hardware controller that includes a professional USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interface. It can be used both as a standalone instrument host as well as a plug-in within any Audio Units, VST and RTAS compatible sequencer program. Due to the sophisticated bi-directional integration of the controller with the KORE software, all major functions of the system can be controlled without the need to touch or even see the computer that runs the software.

KORE will be available beginning May 8th 2006 for a suggested retail price
of $ 579 / 499 Euro.

Focusrite just announces Liquid Mix, a new multi-channel Firewire Mix Processor. Liquid Mix's onboard DSP hosts 32 classic EQs and 32 vintage compressors simultaneously in the mix. Each of Liquid Mix's 32 channels provides Compressor and EQ emulations selected from a huge pool of high-quality vintage and modern day classics. 40 Compressors and 20 EQs are available straight out of the box, with an expanding library online. Furthermore, a totally unique hybrid 7-band 'super EQ' can be built out of separate classic EQ sections in every one of the 32 channels. Each channel appears as a separate VST/AU/RTAS effect within the sequencer and will work within all major applications, including Pro Tools. Liquid Mix's DSP is housed within a desktop control solution and connects to the computer via Firewire, which also provides bus-powering. An optional expansion card is available for Liquid Mix, allowing users to increase the number of available channels at higher sample rates.

The Mac version of Liquid Mix is targeted to ship in Q2 of 2006.

E-MU Systems has announced at MusikMesse its new 0202 USB 2.0 portable USB audio interface for Mac, offering pristine 24-bit/192kHz recording and playback, direct monitoring in a compact USB 2.0 bus-powered package. The E-MU 0202 features Ultra-low noise mic/line/hi-Z preamp (-127dBu EIN), Line/hi-Z preamp, 1/8" computer microphone input (doubles mic/line/hi-Z preamp above), Two 1/4" outputs, 1/8" stereo speaker output and stereo headphone output.

It also includes Production Tools software bundle with E-MU's Proteus VX Software Sound Module, as well as software by Cakewalk, Steinberg, Ableton, IK Multimedia, and many others. It will ship June 2006 at an estimated street price of €129.99.