Apple has announced that its entire MacBook Pro line of notebooks now runs exclusively on the Intel Core 2 Duo processor, which delivers performance that's up to 39 percent faster than the previous generation of Mac laptops. All MacBook Pro models now offer double the memory and more hard disk storage capacity than the previous models, as well as a FireWire 800 port for connecting to high-speed peripherals.
For more details see Apple's website.

MacBookPro

Telefunken has introduced the company's first ribbon microphone, the RM-5C, designed by Jerry Silvia and David Browning of Silvia Classics Microphones. Utilizing "cutting-edge magnetic materials" and innovative acoustic design, the output characteristics of the RM-5C are better suited to modern recording techniques than previous ribbon mics. A highly directional cardioid pickup pattern, elevated output levels and wider frequency response results in an advanced ribbon microphone that matches well with any high quality mic preamp. The Telefunken RM-5C is physically inspired by the classic RCA BK5, but is not a copy of the well-known microphone. Using the original mid-20th Century design as a starting point, Telefunken has updated the older ribbon design utilizing advanced materials and modern technological developments.
Pricing and availability have not been announced. More info on their website.

FXpansion is pleased to announce the release of the free mono synth ORCA an experimental monosynth built to showcase some exciting new technology that they have been developing. Anyone can download the synth by creating a free user account at the FXpansion web page. This account also gives access to the company's forum for discussion, tips and support.
ORCA is available as a VST 2.3 plug-in for Windows (XP) and OS X (10.4 PPC and Intel), and can be used in other hosts (Audio Units, RTAS) via FXpansion VST-RTAS or VST-AU Adapters. Note that Ableton Live does not support VST 2.3 on Mac Intel.
The latest version supports disabling of animation which helps some users who have been experiencing large cpu usage due to graphics. The filter algorithm has also been updated for improved resonance drive.

TC Electronic today announced the final release and shipping of the new PowerCore Express, the PCIe version of PowerCore. PowerCore Express was designed for the new fast PCIe-equipped PCs and Macs and ships with the same 14 plug-ins as PowerCore PCI mkII, including two types of reverb, multiple compressors, chorus/delay, parametric EQ, a synth and a guitar amp simulator.
TC Electronic will continue to offer the existing PowerCore PCI mkII and PowerCore Unplugged versions, ensuring the utmost compatibility with all PCI, PCI-X and PCI Express-equipped computers.

Swar Systems, a Switzerland-based company specialized in Indian music software, has announced that their VSTi/AU plugin SwarPlug featuring 49 Indian instruments now also runs on Mac Intel platforms. With this release, all Swar Systems products now run on both PPC and Intel Macs, as well as PCs.