RNDigital Labs has just released Uniquel-izer 2. The new version of this EQ plug-in features a completely redesigned GUI and two new integrated audio spectrum analyzers : a FFT Spectrum Analyzer and a Spectrogram, borrowed from RNDigital Labs Inspector XL analysis plug-in.

Uniquel-izer 2 is available now for Mac OS X and Windows in VST, Audio Unit and RTAS plug-in formats for $249 and in TDM format for $299. Current owners of Uniquel-izer will be able to download Uniquel-izer 2 at no additional charge.

AKG unveils the Rhythm Pack, a new Live/Tour Sound Package of microphones for drums. The Rhythm Pack contains 1x D 112, 2x C 430 for overheads and 3x D 40 for toms and snare, all in a protective aluminium carrying case.

Pricing and availability TBA.

Wave Rider is a virtual fader controller plug-in for Digidesign Pro Tools. It's a unique RTAS plug-in that detects audio signal level on the inserted channel, and controls the fader movements with the following features :

- RIDE
In this default mode, Wave Rider's level detecting algorithm automatically raises or lowers the fader level to maintain a user selectable output level by writing volume automation on the timeline. User can then alter the volume automation as needed. Makes maintaining dialnorm levels a breeze!

- DUCK
This function will lower the signal of a target track by a user selectable amount if there's signal present on the inserted track. Narration and announcements over music as heard on radio channels rely on keyed compressors with poor results, now cooler with Wave Rider.

- PARK
This is a function you'll find in Automatic Mixer boxes. The faders are parked at a user defined low level when there's little signal, and they jump up to full output when there's strong signal present, maintaining a steady output level. Particularly useful in situations where there's a lot of mics open and you want to have the cleanest signal without much background noise.

Wave Rider is available now for Mac OS X at an introductory price of $75.

Soundcraft has announced the upgrade of its MPM and MFX Series of mixers.

"The new Soundcraft mixers, known as the MFXi and MPMi Series (emphasizing the high input count on each), build on the strength of the original range by using vertically mounted PCBs with the control pots being nutted to the front panel. This not only increases the rigidity of the mixer and gives a firm operating feel, but also aids servicing should it ever be required. As part of this review all aspects of new the layouts were reviewed taking into account customer feedback over the past 18 months and this has yielded many other subtle but significant improvements to the layout, graphics & operation when compared to the original consoles

The MFXi has integral Lexicon effects, something which only Soundcraft are able to offer. Using the same AudioDNA® processor featured in many of the Digitech® and Lexicon® outboard products including the highly respected Lexicon MX400, which provides the finest quality effects ever found in a console at this price level, the mixers boast 32 effects presets, a user settings store function, 3 parameter controls, and a tap tempo mode. These effects have been optmised for integration within the console to provide

Elysia unveils the final version of its long-awaited Museq. The basic idea behind this analog EQ is the combination of premium sound shaping capabilities with optimally matched parameters which enables the user to find the desired results fast and precisely. The provided bands with their ample control ranges as well as some elysia-specific special features make sure that the museq can be flexibly used in any recording and mixing situation, and the stepped controllers are especially dedicated to mastering applications.

Each of the two channels offers three parametric bands with a switchable Q. The additional outer bands are low/high shelf designs which can be separately switched into a low/high cut mode with an extra resonance peak as a special finesse. Each gain controller of the two times five bands can be altered from boost to cut mode which results in a notably well resolution of the control ranges and twice the number of available settings. Both channels have a switchable option for a stronger coloration of the signal to complete the musical master plan.

The circuit design of the museq is completely based on discrete analog technology. The entire signal processing is realized with single transistors in permanent class A mode, and even the power supply is composed of fully discrete circuits. An oversized transformer, selected capsuled conductive plastic potentiometers as well as special current feedback amplifiers are part of the technical refinement. The combination of these elements aims at maximum signal quality and guarantees clean and powerful sound characteristics even when extreme settings are used.

The Museq is expected to cost around €3990 and will be available later this year.