Roland has released an update for the OS of its JUNO-G. Main new features of this version 2.0 include the possibility of recording external sources and linking samples to individual keys to then use as pads.

You can upgrade for free from the site's user area.

AcousticsampleS has just released the SFZ version of their latest Jazz Drums sonor Library, DrumTasteJazz.

It does not give access to the scripted features of the Kontakt version, but with minor editing, you can reach the multi mic position mixing and the mapping features.

16bits/44.1khz and 24bits/48khz versions are available. Price: €44.

MOTU unveils more details about Volta, a virtual instrument plug-in that allows users to play and automate modular synthesizers — or any hardware equipped with control voltage (CV) inputs — from their favorite host audio workstation software.

Here are just a few examples of what you can do with Volta :

• Perform MIDI sequencing with external modular synths with sample-accurate precision (if your host sequencer supports sample-accurate MIDI).
• Automatically calibrate and tune oscillators with the click of a button.
Use ramp automation in your host audio software to control filters, envelope generators, effects processors and other voltage-controlled external gear.
• Apply LFOs, step sequencers and pattern sequencers to CV inputs and tempo-sync them to your host software timeline.

Whether you're a seasoned modular synthesizer devotee or simply a computer-based studio owner dreaming of adding that rich, coveted sound only true analog synths can deliver, Volta finally enables you to easily incorporate CV-equipped analog gear into your computer-based studio with all the control, precision and convenience of a virtual instrument.


Volta will ship as an Audio Unit plug-in instrument compatible with any AU host on Mac OS X. Volta can be used with any MOTU audio interface with quarter-inch outputs, as all MOTU quarter-inch outputs are DC-coupled. Compatibility with third-party DC-coupled audio interfaces is also planned. Volta is expected to ship Q1 of 2009. Pricing has not yet been announced.

BIAS has announced SoundSoap Pro 2, a major upgrade to its professional audio noise reduction and restoration software plug-in for Mac and Windows operating systems. SoundSoap Pro combines four restoration tools - Broadband noise reduction ; Click and Crackle removal ; Hum removal ; and a Noise Gate.

SoundSoap Pro's intelligent broadband noise reduction is significantly enhanced in version 2 by new adaptive noise reduction (ANR) algorithms from BIAS. "SoundSoap Pro 2 provides 'super-intelligent' noise reduction", said Jason E. Davies, VP Sales & Marketing for BIAS, Inc. "Traditional approaches to broadband noise reduction require a selection of isolated noise in order to work effectively. In cases where the broadband noise changes over time — the results can suffer considerably unless t ...

Pettinhouse has released DirecBass 2.0 FREE, one of the 4 patches included in DirectBass 2.0 full for Kontakt 2 or 3.

DirecBass 2.0 FREE is a reduced version of the Mid+Neck Patch 16Bit 44Khz with one articulation ( Hammer-ons ). It has the same features of the full version .

Key Features :

• Low notes B-C-D
• 24bit 96Khz,
• Direct recorded for amp simulators,
• Full sustain,
• Natural decay (no loops),
• 5 velocity layers,
• Round robin for alternate picking

DirectBass 2.0 FREE is available now as a free download.