Native Instruments today announced KONTAKT PLAYER 2, the second generation
of its platform for sample-based software instruments. The powerful Kontakt Script Processor (KSP) of KONTAKT 2 plays a central role in KONTAKT PLAYER 2-based instruments. The virtually unlimited flexibility of KSP allows for instruments with unprecedented functionality and musicality, including extremely authentic emulations of acoustic instruments. The first KONTAKT PLAYER 2 instruments to be made available to musicians will be "Stradivari Solo Violin" from Gary Garritan.

KONTAKT PLAYER 2 is based on the latest KONTAKT 2.1 engine, with the
corresponding update for KONTAKT users scheduled for release in April 2006.

Elemental Audio Systems today announced the release of an update to its Mac compatible plug-in analysis suite InspectorXL. This update affects all InspectorXL plug-in formats, VST, RTAS, and Audio Unit, and is recommended for all Mac users. The version 1.0.3 update fixes graphical issues experienced by some users and should be downloaded as soon as possible to ensure reliable graphical performance.

The update is available for download free of charge to registered InspectorXL owners.

A Design Audio introduces new modules of preamps, the P-1 and EM series. The P-1 is based on their Pacifica model (cream panel). The EM (Erickson/Montessi) are "twists" as they say around the P-1, each is sounding slightly different. In order to achieve this, different input and output custom wound transformers are used in each one (grey, blue and red panel). Every EM module features a DI input and a -20dB pad switch, 48V Phantom power with a LED indicator. The EM-Silver is better suited to ribbon microphones. It features a steel wound transformer. The EM-Red and EM-Blue have a darker sound. The EM-Blue features a nickel wound transformer giving more highs in the end. The EM-Red uses a 50/50 output transformer, along with a different input transformer for "more upfront mids".

Each module is listed for $850.

Attention Ableton Live users! Novation announces at Frankfurt that the latest software update for the ReMOTE SL includes compatibility with Ableton Live 5. Now, with an SL keyboard connected, you can have total, hands-on control over a session in Live 5. The Mixer and Transport controls are immediately available, with every effect and plug-in mapped automatically to the ReMOTEís rotaries and buttons.

And, this free software update also includes compatibility for Cubase and Logic as well.

Native Instruments today disclosed full details on KORE, an integrated system consisting of a host software for VST and Audio Units plug-ins, and a tightly integrated hardware controller that includes a professional USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interface. It can be used both as a standalone instrument host as well as a plug-in within any Audio Units, VST and RTAS compatible sequencer program. Due to the sophisticated bi-directional integration of the controller with the KORE software, all major functions of the system can be controlled without the need to touch or even see the computer that runs the software.

KORE will be available beginning May 8th 2006 for a suggested retail price
of $ 579 / 499 Euro.