Newer Technologies has announced the NewerTech USB Video Display Adapter for adding an additional HDMI, DVI, or VGA display with up to 2048 x 1152 resolution via any Mac or PC computer's standard USB 2.0 port.

Functioning like a bus-powered (no AC adapter required) "external video card", the $95.99 MSRP NewerTech USB Video Display Adapter enables users to expand the display capabilities of desktop and laptop computers that offer only one built-in display/video-out port while eliminating the cost and hassle of installing a video card into the computer.

The SwitchMaid by ThirdFloorLab makes choosing the right microphone and the matching preamp easier than ever. 4 microphone inputs with switchable 48V may be combined with 8 preamp loops. Preamp send and return are provided on Tascam sub-d connectors.

Features :

• Fully passive signal path
• Neutrik XLR connectors
• High-quality EAO switch
• gold contact relais
• unit ships with 12V AC power supply

SwitchMaid is priced at €490 plus 19% VAT (no VAT if in Europe with mating VAT#, or export).

Sounds Online is offering a free symphonic orchestra sample library to anyone that fills out their online survey.

"Answer a short survey and get a free starter version of the most popular professional symphonic orchestra virtual instrument ever made. It works with most sequencer/notation hosts including Ableton Live, Cubase/Nuendo, Digital Performer, Finale, FL Studio, Garageband, Logic, Pro Tools, Sibelius, Sonar, etc. Or you can use it as a standalone application with your music keyboard."

This offer expires January 31, 2010.

As of January 1st 2010, Propellerhead is lowering the prices of both Reason and the Record Reason Duo.

Reason is available directly from Propellerhead for $349. The Record Reason Duo is now $449.

Novation have launched StepSeq, a free Max For Live Patch that turns Launchpad into a fully fledged melodic step sequencer.

Conceived as a cool but powerful sequencer to enable Launchpad users to programme melodies, leads and basslines quickly in Live, the buttons are configured diatonically (as opposed to chromatically, as with a traditional step sequencer). The degree of the scale and its tonal centre can be set by the user, meaning that, once set up, any note you trigger in your sequence will fit in harmonically with your track, making it really easy to keep within the context of the song.

StepSeq is a MIDI effect that generates a sequence of notes, which can be used to play any instrument compatible with Ableton Live (including those from third-party developers). Once inserted, StepSeq communicates directly with Launchpad, transforming its 'User 2' mode into the interface for a step sequencer, so you can programme patterns quickly and simply on the fly, while retaining control over Live from the same control surface.

Ableton Live 8.1 and Max For Live are both required in order for Novation's StepSeq to operate.

You can now download the BETA version of the StepSeq at :