Image Line has released Toxic III for Mac OS X. Toxic III features a hybrid synthesis engine, combining FM and Subtractive synthesis with the addition of a warm, analog-modeled filter and set of built-in effects. It is available as a VSTi and is a Universal Binary, compatible with both PPC and Intel Macs.
Toxic III currently costs $59. A demo version is available. Note that current Toxic III owners can obtain their free OSX Serial Number from their "My FL Studio" page.

The Vienna Symphonic Library is allowing a glimpse into the far future of its product development. Registered users and those who purchase and register a complete Symphonic Cube (Standard Libraries of all 10 Collections) before November 30th, 2006, are eligible to receive exclusive Legato Performance Patches of the Soprano Choir for Vienna Instruments. The performances of 16 sopranos, recorded at Vienna's Silent Stage, are available for download at the User Area of the company's website. Articulations of this special offer include "oos" and "ahs" as legato sustains, crescendos and diminuendos, fortepiano, sforzato and staccato articulations as well as some consonants. The complete Vienna Choir Collections are due for release in 2008.
For more information, visit their web site.

MXL Microphones has announced that the MXL.006 USB / Cardioid Condenser Microphone is now shipping. As an USB device it connects directly to a computer without the need for external mic preamps, furthermore it requires no special drivers... an ease-of-use condenser microphone with a large gold diaphragm for only... $169.95 !

PreSonus Audio is now shipping the new FaderPort controller, a desktop USB DAW controller for writing single-channel and group-channel fader automation along with complete transport control.

Features:

* complete recording transport control
* smooth, long throw touch sensitive motorized fader
* write single channel or group channel automation
* pan control, mute, solo, record enable
* quick window selection (edit, mix, transport)
* footswitch jack for hands free punch in/out
* compatible with all major recording software including Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic and more
* Mac and Windows compatible

Sennheiser has announced a revamp of its e602 low-frequency microphone, the microphone favored by many engineers for kick drum and bass cabinet recording and reinforcement. The e602 II features a much more lightweight housing, better internal shockmounting, and an even more robust low-frequency response. The new e602 II is available now and retails for $289