Dididesign has announced Reel Tape Suite, a set of analog tape emulation plug-ins that re-create the warmth of analog tape recordings and tape effects in digital recordings or live audio. This suite features three plug-ins: Reel Tape Saturation, Reel Tape Delay, and Reel Tape Flanger. Each Reel Tape Suite plug-in offers a full range of controls to fine-tune the character of the effects. Select from the response characteristics of three different tape recorders and two different tape formulations. Alter the tape speed or feedback level and the bass and treble feedback response of the Reel Tape Delay. Adjust the LFO rate and depth, wow and flutter, and delay time of the Reel Tape Flanger. And dial in the drive, noise, tape machine bias, and level calibration of the Reel Tape Saturation for just the right result.

Reel Tape Suite will be available soon as TDM, RTAS and AudioSuite plug-in for USD $495. Reel Tape Saturation will be available soon for USD $295.

Allen & Heath has announced the Xone:S2, a new installation DJ mixer for use in clubs and bars, and by professional mobile DJs. It is a 19" rack-mounted 4U mixer, available with either linear or rotary VCA channel faders, and features 4 stereo dual-input channels, 2 mono mic/stereo line channels, a USB audio interface, and boasts many features to both enhance the DJ's performance and aid the installer.

The Xone:S2 will be shipping in March 2007, with an approximate SRP of £900 (ex VAT). For more information please visit their web site.

MXL Microphones has announced the introduction of the MXL USB.007 stereo mic for direct to computer recording on a PC or Mac. The mic uses dual gold diaphragm capsules in a XY pattern together with low noise electronics and the latest in enhanced digital conversion techniques for "pristine audio quality".

The MXL USB.007 ships with a carry bag, a desktop mic stand, mic stand adaptor, a 10-foot USB cable, wind screen, owners manual and an applications guide. What about the price ? ...$199 ! Note that a demo recording of MXL USB.007 will be available at the NAMM show (Booth 6498) and will be available for downloading from the MXL USB website.

As you can see this is the NAMM time ! Digidesign, Apple, Arturia, Ableton, Korg, etc... they are all present for this new edition of the Winter Namm Show that is about to open in a few hours now in Anheim, California. As usual, it's just the perfect opportunity to come and meet the very numerous musical equipment manufacturers but also to attend the numerous shows (training courses, concerts, demonstrations) organized by the National Association of Music Manufacturers.

And don't worry if you can't go there, the whole MacMusic team is on the starting blocks to get you informed about the latest news in this "Winter NAMM special report", and in the MacMusic Daily News Section. So, as Sgt Pepper said, hope you will enjoy the Show !

Garritan has announced the Gofriller Solo Cello, a Kontakt Player 2 based virtual instrument created by the Italian team of Giorgio Tommasini and Stefano Lucato in collaboration with Gary Garritan. It expands the company's solo instrument series following the release of the Stradivari Solo Violin.

Gofriller Solo Cello is available as a VST, RTAS or Audio Units plug-in and also as a standalone instrument, it is priced at $199 and will be available shortly after the NAMM show. Audio demos are available now.