ATD2 presented at the AES the just finished prototypes of the coming FAR XM 8.D. It is a midfield 3 way active monitor precursor of the forthcoming new XM range. Each monitor features 2 sets of AES/EBU inputs and outputs, D/A converters at 24 bits/96 kHz, DSP running at 24 bits/48 kHz with a 10 bands EQ, delay, filters… Each way has a amplificator of respectively 120 Wms, 40 Wms and 40 Wms. Even with the monitors still in prototype state and uncalibrated the depth and the stereo image is already impressive.

8 series 1800€ per monitor, available in june.

Native Instruments releases an update to version 5.1.1 for its Reaktor. This update features :

- Fixed multichannel AU compatibility with Logic 7.2
- Fixed cross-platform plugin streaming bug
- Fixed a plugin streaming bug occuring when controls are controlling other controls in an ensemble
- Fixed Protools TDM Mac bug (ensembles containing core cells causing Protools error messages)

You can download this update in our software section.

Sagan announced a pre-release version of Metro 6.3.5.4. Thise release adds a new slider in the jukebox window, adds a new plug-in option 'configure to stereo output', and Play Quantize has been implemented for MIDI soft synths. This version also fixes some bugs (Intel-Mac plug-ins errors, program name banks problems, better .ins file support and others). Metro is a fast-operating, easy-to-learn high-powered sequencer for the design of professional audio projects. It stands alone as a complete and integrated MIDI, audio and video production system.

Here are some pictures of the latest AES show, including some beautiful consoles.

Apple announces an update to version 7.2.1 for Logic Express. This new updated of Logic Express 7.2.1 is a maintenance release that addresses isolated reliability and compatibility issues in the following areas:

- Intel Macs: ReWire and ReCycle support
- Standard MIDI file export
- Compatibility with GarageBand 3 projects and Logic 7.1 songs
- Direct playback of MP3 files.

This update is free and is of course available as a download in the MacMusic software section. Please also note that owners of Logic Express 7 can crossgrade to Logic Express 7.2 Universal Binary version for $29.