SoundToys is about to unveil a new plug-in at the upcoming AES.

Decapitator models the saturation or distortion created when driving professional analog studio equipment. SoundToys analyzed vintage and modern classics from Neve, API, Ampex, EMI and Thermionic Culture, and more to create accurate models of high-end studio gear. Decapitator creates that highly sought after analog sound from subtle harmonic changes to extreme driven distortion.

Decapitator features an intuitive interface with the look and feel of classic analog gear. A selection of tone controls including high cut, low cut, and a single "Tone" knob give you additional shaping control that take many of these classic sounds past their original design. The "Punish" button pushes even more gain through the modeled saturation circuits for more extreme drive. It also features a "Mix" control for blending the original sound with the sound of Decapitator, without the need for routing and bussing, and built-in auto leveling controls the output volume for a perfect balance automatically, even in the "Punish" mode.

Available 4th quarter 2009 for TDM/RTAS/AudioSuite, AudioUnits, and VST. More details and demo versions will be posted on their website as they become available.

Novation unveils Launchpad, their hands-on, interactive controller for Ableton Live.

Launchpad is a compact controller designed to give electronic music makers of today the most interactive experience possible in Ableton Live. It communicates bi-directionally with the software to give users real-time session feedback: now you really can Play Live.

Myloops has announced the release of their newest sample product : "Ultimate FX Volume 1", a brand new set of sound effects made specifically for dance music producers.

This pack contains 460+ sound effects, categorized into the following folders : Tonal FX, Risers, Descenders, FX Loops, Tonal FX, Explosions and Noise FX. These sounds, recorded alongside talented producer Richard James, are perfect for adding depth and atmosphere to your arrangements and for adding intensity to your transitions.

Features:

* 460+ sounds clearly categorized into folders
* WAV 16bit 44.1 kHz samples
* Uncompressed sounds for full usability
* BPM / Key Information (for FX Loops and Tonal FX)

Ultimate FX Volume 1 is available now and is priced at €29.95.

The CMS SUB by Focal is an active subwoofer designed to extend the frequency response of the CMS studio monitors. Its very high efficiency and dynamic capabilities guarantee a perfect integration with the CMS50 & 65 monitors. The CMS SUB offers tight and controlled bass, capable of reproducing every nuance and detail. Thanks to the large front laminar port, the CMS SUB ensures a perfect reproduction regardless of the listening level, facilitating its integration into even the smallest recording studios.

Features :

• 11" Polyglass® cone woofer
The 11" Polyglass® cone woofer used in the CMS SUB is both very light and extremely rigid for a neutral and distortion-free response.

• Custom-built amplification
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Arturia announces that is has updated its reproduction of the legendary Yamaha CS-80, the CS-80V to version 2.0.

The main improvements are :

• VCF audio quality improvements
• Ring modulator audio quality improvements
• A revolutionary preset navigation system called SoundMap
• Lower CPU utilization on Mac OSX
• Better Audio Unit compatibility (Digital Performer most notably)
• Ability to use NRPN midi messages for automation
• Better handling of control surfaces while changing preset
• Fresh batch of presets made by a selection of top sound designers
• MIDI RPN "pitch bend range" message is now recognized
• New Syncrosoft copy protection
• Numerous bug fixes

The upgrade is free for all registered users.