Native Instruments has launched a special Kontakt 3 crossgrade offer for owners of GigaStudio.

From now until December 31st 2008, owners of any version of Tascam GigaStudio can get the Kontakt 3 software sampler for a reduced price of $279 / €249, a saving of nearly 40% off the regular price.

LaChapell Audio announces the Model 583e which is a vacuum tube preamplifier with EQ in the API 500 series format.

Basically, the Model 583E features the same amplifier stage found on the 583s, including the Jensen JT-115k input transformer, coupled with an ultra-clean transformer-less three-band EQ section with fully sweeping frequency controls and cut/boost settings of +/- 8dB. The EQ can run as an integrated EQ serving the preamplifier or separate as its own autonomous module where both units run independently.

Pricing and availability TBA.

WaveMachine Labs has reduced the price of Drumagog Basic to $99 through the end of the year. Previously $199, this downloadable version of Drumagog can only be purchased through their online store and is not available in retail outlets.

Drumagog Basic is an entry-level version of Drumagog, a drum replacement software. Drumagog Basic now includes Auto Align and Advanced Triggering Mode, both features that were previously only included with more expensive versions of Drumagog. Auto Align is a phase alignment tool, and Advanced Triggering Mode provides the best triggering performance Drumagog has to offer. It features a smart algorithm which minimizes false triggering and maximizes sensitivity, making it particularly useful on difficult tracks.

Drumagog Basic is available in VST, AU and RTAS formats for Mac and Pc. Note that a 14-day demo version is also available.

Vital Arts is pleased to announce Plectrum V2, the new cross-platform version of their critically acclaimed virtual instrument collection. This new version is powered by Native Instruments' Kontakt 2 Player.

Overview :

• 187 original instruments
• 45 combination "Multis"
• Round robin playback, with multiple articulations under every key
• Nine easy access categories
• Fast instrument loading and selection
• Fully multitimbral, allowing custom split and layer "Multis"
• High performance audio engine, powered by Native Instruments Konatkt 2 Player
• AU, VST, RTAS, and Standalone for Mac and Pc
• Thousands of full length high resolution samples, voiced for making music

The 12 GB library which includes the Kontakt 2 Player will be available starting on November 10, 2008 for $299. Existing registered Plectrum users will be offered a $59 crossgrade price for a limited time.