Yesterday Apple has made a major desktop refresh with Mac mini, iMac and Mac Pro updates.

Mac mini
. 2.0GHz : 120GB

- 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- 1GB memory
- 120GB hard drive
- 8x double-layer SuperDrive
- NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics
- $599

. 2.0GHz : 320GB

- 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- 2GB memory
- 320GB hard drive
- 8x double-layer SuperDrive
- NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics
- $799

iMac

. 20-inch : 2.66GHz

- 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- 2GB memory

Spectrasonics has released Stylus RMX version 1.7 featuring an innovative and completely new capability called 'Time Designer' which intelligently transforms RMX audio loops into different time signatures and features the ability to "Groove Lock" the feel of any groove to another - all in real time. Time Designer also lets the user create instant pattern variations with smart algorithms based on musical rules, and to 'simplify' any RMX groove in a musical manner. Version 1.7 is also the first 64-bit native software release from Spectrasonics, includes all the new effects from Omnisphere and useful workflow enhancements to RMX, such as Suite Editing and Host Transport Sync.

The new version is a free download for all registered users of Stylus RMX and is available now.

Native Instruments has released Maschine, a system which combines an advanced software sequencer and sampler with a seamlessly integrated, highly functional performance controller.


Maschine is available for a suggested retail price of $669 / €599 at authorized dealers and in the NI Online Shop.

Akai Professional announces the release of MPC5000 OS 2.0, a new operating system for its flagship MPC5000 music production workstation. It includes more than 25 improvements to the functionality and workflow of the MPC5000. Many of the new capabilities have been developed to accommodate the specific requests of MPC5000 user feedback.

MPC5000 OS 2.0 introduces Keygroup Programs to the MPC5000. Users can create chromatic instrument key-mapped sample programs taking a single sample and turning it into a pitched piano, string or other instrument sound. Users can now import S1000, S3000, S5000/S6000, Z4/Z8 and MPC4000-format sample libraries from Akai Professional and third party developers.

MPC5000 OS 2.0 enables automation recording for any of the parameters in the effects set, an MPC first. A new Controller Grid Edit window added to Grid Edit Mode enables users to see a graphic view of controller automation and edit events.

A new MultiEdit function enables users to edit parameters for multiple pads all at once. The ability to edit tuning, envelope filters, or most any parameter across all of the pads in a Drum or Keygroup Program saves users considerable time and effort.

The MPC5000's Chopshop technology, which slices samples into smaller pieces, has a new Zoom function in MPC5000 OS 2.0 that lets users to zoom in on individual slices for finer editing of their beat slicing.

The newly added ability to quantize Track Mutes is a useful feature for performers who trigger clips and tracks from their MPC5000. It eliminates worries about compensating for latency because the MPC5000 perfectly aligns mute punches in real time.

The new system is available now as a free download from the company's Website.

C-Thru Music has announced that its AXiS 49 MIDI controller is now shipping.

The AXiS 49 is an handy velocity sensitive MIDI input device designed to help you make music with your computer. When you plug it into your computer with USB, the operating system will recognize it as a MIDI keyboard and make it accessible to your applications. Just like the AXiS 64, the AXiS 49 uses an array of hexagonal keys arranged in accordance to the harmonic table instead of piano keys.

There are 98 keys, so it's like having two 49-note keyboards all in one. There is no pitch bend or mod wheel, and no knobs or sockets for pedals, so you can tell the AXiS-49 is not designed to be primarily a live performance instrument, it is mostly designed for composing, arranging, and overdubs.