Telefunken has introduced the company's first ribbon microphone, the RM-5C, designed by Jerry Silvia and David Browning of Silvia Classics Microphones. Utilizing "cutting-edge magnetic materials" and innovative acoustic design, the output characteristics of the RM-5C are better suited to modern recording techniques than previous ribbon mics. A highly directional cardioid pickup pattern, elevated output levels and wider frequency response results in an advanced ribbon microphone that matches well with any high quality mic preamp. The Telefunken RM-5C is physically inspired by the classic RCA BK5, but is not a copy of the well-known microphone. Using the original mid-20th Century design as a starting point, Telefunken has updated the older ribbon design utilizing advanced materials and modern technological developments.
Pricing and availability have not been announced. More info on their website.

FXpansion is pleased to announce the release of the free mono synth ORCA an experimental monosynth built to showcase some exciting new technology that they have been developing. Anyone can download the synth by creating a free user account at the FXpansion web page. This account also gives access to the company's forum for discussion, tips and support.
ORCA is available as a VST 2.3 plug-in for Windows (XP) and OS X (10.4 PPC and Intel), and can be used in other hosts (Audio Units, RTAS) via FXpansion VST-RTAS or VST-AU Adapters. Note that Ableton Live does not support VST 2.3 on Mac Intel.
The latest version supports disabling of animation which helps some users who have been experiencing large cpu usage due to graphics. The filter algorithm has also been updated for improved resonance drive.

TC Electronic today announced the final release and shipping of the new PowerCore Express, the PCIe version of PowerCore. PowerCore Express was designed for the new fast PCIe-equipped PCs and Macs and ships with the same 14 plug-ins as PowerCore PCI mkII, including two types of reverb, multiple compressors, chorus/delay, parametric EQ, a synth and a guitar amp simulator.
TC Electronic will continue to offer the existing PowerCore PCI mkII and PowerCore Unplugged versions, ensuring the utmost compatibility with all PCI, PCI-X and PCI Express-equipped computers.

Swar Systems, a Switzerland-based company specialized in Indian music software, has announced that their VSTi/AU plugin SwarPlug featuring 49 Indian instruments now also runs on Mac Intel platforms. With this release, all Swar Systems products now run on both PPC and Intel Macs, as well as PCs.

Sinevibes and DontCrac[k] are excited to announce a mutual cooperation agreement. Starting immediately from now, the complete range of products from Sinevibes will be available through the DontCrac[k] online web store.

The innovative sound design books and sound libraries for Roland Synthesizers as well as the great sound processing software 'Transformer" issued under the Sinevibes label are well-known and appreciated across musicians in over 50 countries. And from now on, absolutely anyone around the world with a credit card can get immediate hold of them with instant download delivery at :