Native Instruments announces that Kontakt is updated to version 2.0.1. This release features convolution and database improvements, adds support for Giga 3, Kurzweil K2x00, and Ensoniq ASR-10/EPS formats, import command now supports disk images in .IMG, .ISO, .NRG, and .DMG. formats, and adds several improvements and bug fixes.

At NAB, Apple unveiled its new audio software, Soundtrack Pro. This software is not only an update of Soundtrack, but, according to Apple, a new way of working. Apple's Soundtrack Pro features :

- a waveform editor: Nondestructive, sample-accurate editing of mono and stereo audio file, AIFF, WAV, MP3, SDII and QuickTime, Up to 24-bit/96kHz, Audio Time Stretching, Ambient Noise Print, Background Noise Removal, Animated Waveform.

- Intelligent analysis: repair and restoration functions for Clicks and Pops, Power Line Hum, DC Offset, Phase, Clipped Signal, Silence.

- Sound effects: Soundtracks comes with 3500 Apple loops, 1000 sound effects and 50 effects from Logic (including : Space Designer reverb, PlatinumVerb, SubBass, Match EQ, High Shelving EQ, and more).

- Mixer Interface: Multitrack Timeline, Console-style Mixer, Interface with Bussing, Mix and Effect Automation, Time or Beat-based Track, Control Surface Support (Mackie Control Protocol).

- Integration: AppleScript, Mac OS X v10.4 Automator actions, Support for video formats up to HD resolution, integrated Video tab in Multitrack and Waveform views, Audio Units support and more...

Soundtrack Pro is part of the new Final Cut Studio or costs $299.

Ableton announces an update to version 4.1.2 for Live. This new release of Ableton's audio sequencer fixes a ReWire shared library bug, an error on device chains with Reverb effect, a MIDI bug for some VST plug-ins, a problem with the zoom in the arranger, a switch audio input device bug, and others.

This update is available in the MacMusic softwares section.

Digidesign announces Pro Tools 6.9. Digidesign Pro Tools 6.9 software brings a new cross-platform feature set to Pro Tools TDM and LE systems, with an emphasis on post production and advanced mixing functionality. Pro Tools 6.9 delivers enhanced picture support for Avid systems, improved Avid workgroup integration, and better post production and broadcast workflows. It also introduces advanced mixing functionality for D-Control, including a non-destructive solo mode with AFL/PFL auditioning, easy automation capabilities, simplified tracking and monitoring, and other features. Pro Tools 6.9 software also adds functions to organize plug-ins and facilitate session collaboration through the DigiDelivery.

Pro Tools 6.9 is available as a free update for Pro Tools|HD system owners with Pro Tools 6.4 software or later and for Pro Tools LE system owners with Pro Tools 6.7.

Happy boys and girls, the supposedly last update to Panther is out tonight. Time to start up your update in the system preferences. Now some caution is always a good idea… Don't update now till we have some user info, especially if you work during the week end with your beloved mac.

Includes updates to Safari, stickies, the Finder… and the security updates.