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 :

Here is an interesting News from the Manley website :

"Universal Audio's UAD DSP Manley Massive Passive plug-in nearing completion!

Just though you guys wanted a little update about this topic. We will begin beta testing the new Massive Passive plug-in soon. Target release date is 1st QTR 2010."

Wait and see...

The first Public Beta version of djDecks for Mac OS X is now available.

djDecks is a computer mixing program for both beginner and professional DJs. Mix your mp3, ogg, wma, flac, wav files or audio CDs easily on any configuration.

This beta version is compatible with most of the currently available djDecks Skins, it also works with vinyl control, it supports a few MIDI controllers, with more to come soon. It should work on Mac OS X 10.4 or later and both PPC and Intel-Macs should be supported.