Synchro Arts has announced the release of VocALign Project AU, a completely new version of the automatic audio alignment software that now integrates with Apple's Logic 8 music production system by using the Audio Unit (AU) protocol.

VocALign is an audio editing tool that synchronizes two audio signals automatically at the touch of a button. It works by analysing peaks and troughs in an audio source, creating a template, then applying the timing nuances of the guide audio to a second, replacement, file.

The range of applications for VocALign typically include :

- Tightening-up of double tracking, backing vocals and instruments.
- Modifying the timing of one music track to match another.
- Lip-syncing.
- Foreign dialogue replacement.
- Multimedia applications.

Additionally, this AU version is the first of three VocALign Project V3 versions to be released that will all run from the same iLok license. For cost-conscious studio owners, VocALign Project V3 licenses are now multi-platform licenses delivered on iLok. So by purchasing one multi-platform license, the user can run VocALign Project V3 as an AU version with Logic, as an Audio Suite version with Pro Tools, and shortly as a Stand-Alone version with other DAEs. This allows the user to switch between popular audio editing systems and still access a version of VocALign Project V3.

Pricing :

- $325 for North America.
- €239 (excl. VAT) for Europe.
- £199 (excl. VAT) for UK and the rest of the world.

VirSyn has just updated its vocoder plug-in Matrix.

New features in v1.2.1 :

- Internal generator can now be used without MIDI note input.
- Line draw mode for channel matrix with shift+drag.
- AudioUnit standard effect without MIDI added.
- AudioUnit mono effect added.

Bug fixes :

- MIDI learn was broken in VST 2.4 / AudioUnit versions.

Matrix Users will be notified automatically about the update and the download links. A fully functional/time limited demo version is available - a Syncrosoft dongle (Steinberg key) is needed.

CEntrance, the manufacturer of MicPort Pro and AxePort Pro, the portable tools for recording voice and instruments to computer with professional results, debuted a new corporate website and the AxePort Pro Video Contest.

The content-rich website features product testimonials and audio samples recorded by leading studio musicians. The audio samples make it easy to hear the clear sonic advantages of the MicPort Pro and AxePort Pro over more expensive products from larger manufacturers. Visitors can hear for themselves why the BBC, CNN, NBC, leading voice over artists and musicians love CEntrance products.

AxePort Video Contest :

To demonstrate the ease of use of AxePort Pro, CEntrance has launched a Video Contest. AxePort users enter to win a cash prize for making a better video than the mock video featured on the CEntrance website. The under 2-minute videos are to be posted on YouTube and a link sent to CEntrance with entry information. CEntrance staff members will vote on the best and award the cash prize. For complete contest information visit :

Audiffex has released a Stomp Box / Guitar Pedals plug-in bundle in VST, RTAS and Standalone versions for both Mac and PC.

Originally released under Audiffex's previous "DSound" brand name back in 1999 when it was one of the first professional software guitar effect solutions, Guitar Pedals is a set of plug-ins for guitar, bass, software instruments, vocal and acoustic instruments. The first two series included 7 and 6 pedals. Now the package contains 36 effects. Additional effects will be added as free updates.

This bundle includes effects such as Auto Pan, Tuner, Auto Wah, Chorus, Delay, Flanger, Blues Drive, Distortion, Exciter, Preamp, Noise Gate, Octaver, etc...

Priced at $99, the Guitar Pedals bundle is available now for Windows and Mac OS X in VST and RTAS plug-in formats.

Scratch by 9 Soundware is the second installment in a series of three sample packs featuring DJ Shiftee, the winner of the 2007 DMC World Championships. This multi-format set of turntable loops are intended to complement the scratching found in DJ Shiftee: Extreme Turntablism. From simple, straightforward scratches which vibe up beats to vinyl madness at breakneck speeds, these versatile loops are effective as both textural and solo elements.

The set consists of 78 loops (1 to 4 bars in length) at tempos 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, and 140 BPM. The 216 MB download includes 78 WAV files (24-bit/44.1 kHz), 78 REX2 files (24-bit/44.1 kHz), and 78 Apple Loops files (24-bit/44.1 kHz).

Scratch is available now for $19.99 at :