IK Multimedia has announced that AmpliTube X-GEAR has been made available as a free download for all AmpliTube 2 Live users and StealthPlug users.

AmpliTube X-GEAR is an expandable guitar amp and effects modeling software system, available as a plug-in and standalone for Windows / Mac OS X. It allows you to mix and match all the gear models from all current and future "Powered by AmpliTube" products in a single host interface, providing seamless control over every parameter directly from StompIO, or any generic MIDI controller.

Eligible users are able to download X-GEAR for free from their IK user area. X-GEAR is also available to purchase as a download for €74.99/$99.99 (excluding taxes) in the IK Multimedia online store.

Brauner has announced that both the Phanthera and the Phantom Classic microphones are now available in a package that is much more budget friendly. Phanthera and Phantom Classic are now being offered in a basic edition that comes with elementary accessory equipment only, thus reducing the cost while still providing these two extraordinary FET microphones as the heart of each package. The basic-editions can be upgraded at any time to the full versions with an optional upgrade kit.

For more information, please visit Brauner's fully revised website.

Apple has just released Logic Pro 8.0.2. This update addresses specific customer and compatibility issues of Logic Pro 8.0 and WaveBurner 1.5 and is recommended for all Logic Studio users.

Note that if you are using Logic Node you will need to update your Logic Node application on connected computers as well. After running this updater you will find an updated Logic Node installer called Logic Node 8.0.2.dmg in your Utilities folder.

AKG unveils the brand new C 214, a recording microphone designed as a cost-effective alternative to the high-end C 414 family.

Features :

- AKG's Legendary 1" Edge-Terminated Large Diaphragm Sound'
- Outstanding Dynamic Range (up to 156 dB SPL, Ultra-Low Noise)
- Roadworthy Design
- Integrated Suspension to reduce mechanical Noise
- Switchable 20 dB Attenuation Pad and Low Cut Switch
- Rugged double mesh Grill for high RF immunity but unaffected Acoustics
- All-metal Die-cast body with shock- and scratch-resistant Finish
- Spider-type Shock Mount included
- Metal Carrying Case included
- Designed, Engineered and Build in Vienna, Austria

The C 214 will be available at a list price of €629 (street price is about €460).

Universal Audio has announced the 1176AE Anniversary Edition, celebrating a decade since UA refounding by Bill Putnam Junior to revive the classic UA products made famous by his father, Bill Putnam in the 1960s.

The 1176AE combines the best of the A "Bluestripe" and E revisions while adding the lower 2 to 1 compression ratio found on the 176. A new "Slo" attack mode gives the 1176AE the potential for both classic and uniquely individual compression effects.

Features :

- Unique rev.A/E "hot-rod-mod" features, cosmetics and sonic signature
- Program dependency of legendary "Bluestripe" Rev.A 1176
- Vintage UA 176 compression ratio array - 2:1, 4:1, 8:1 with 20:1 for limiting
- Expanded range of "multi-button" compression and classic "all-button" mode
- "Slo" 15ms Attack setting adds increased versatility for new uses
- Hand-built in the USA, Limited-Edition of only 500 units worldwide

The 1176AE will have an MSRP of US$2999, an estimated street price of US$2499, and will ship as a 500 limited-edition product beginning in June 2008.