Shuriken has released a new free VST instrument called KerrStinn. Basically it is "just" a slicer, glitcher and loop dissector. KerrStinn changes your loops randomly by moving slices of it around and/or applying effects to the slices according to rules that Shuriken call "generators".

Features :

- Loads WAV files.
- "Random" knob to control what initial value the randomizing has.
- "Slices" knob to control how many slices you want to cut the loop in to.
- "Bisyness" parameter to control the weight of random to be applied; low values equals a small chance of change and larger values more.
- "Bars" parameter to set how many bars the loop originally is (up to 8).
- "Generator" parameter - these are rules on how to dissect your loops. Take "Freaky 4" for example, its rule is simply "if a slice is the 4th in a series perhaps play it backwards and/or apply the fftish effect on the slice".
- On/off switch.

KerrStinn is available now for free so enjoy !

FXpansion has released GURU v1.1.259 for Mac OS X Universal Binary.

Changes :

- Drop-out-free audio engine.
- Improved drag & drop MIDI export (all Graphs are now exported to MIDI).
- Improved loop slicing, score extraction and loop playback.
- More comprehensive MIDI implementation with extensive remote support
- Support for the latest OS versions and plugin technologies:- Pro Tools 7.3, VST 2.4, OS X 10.4.8, etc.
- Volume control for auto-preview.
- Export pad audio files via drag and drop.
- Tighter sync in various hosts.

SoundField has announced the compact and lightweight SoundField SPS200 A-Format microphone for stereo and 5.1 surround recording.
This is the first SoundField microphone to not require an accompanying outboard control unit, the SPS200 A-Format microphone relies on software for all format conversion, decoding and manipulation. The SoundField Conversion Lounge plug-in handles A to B-Format conversion and the SoundField Surround Zone plug-in looks after all aspects associated with stereo and surround sound decoding and manipulation. With its four low-noise, studio grade condenser capsules and weighs-in at less than 8 ounces (220 grams), the SPS200 provides the ability to capture 5.1, 6.1, 7.1-channel audio and simultaneous stereo with variable width and to continuously vary the effective polar pickup pattern and orientation without moving the microphone.

For more information, please visit their web site.

Digidesign looks for beta testers for it's new sampler, Structure.
You need ProTools 7.0 or newer and an iLok and internet acces for the authorisation.

the number of beta-testers is limited.

FracturedSoftware announced today the immediate availability of Rondo 2.5, an update to its MIDI Player for OS X. This latest version of Rondo is now a Universal Binary and includes an updated look, more realistic pianos, note scrubbing, scroll wheel support, playlist folders and drag & drop support in the music library.

Rondo 2.5 is priced at $25, early purchasers will also be eligible for a free upgrade to version 3. Note that Rondo 2.5 is a free upgrade for existing customers.