Berlin, Germany /Music Industry Newswire/ –­ Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, an integrated DJ system with state-of-the-art performance capabilities and intuitive tactile control. Based on ten years of digital DJing expertise, TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 combines a special version of the TRAKTOR PRO software with an advanced hardware controller, both developed in unison to give DJs of all genres unparalleled creative possibilities with supreme work flow and ease-of-use.

TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 represents a new level of software and hardware integration that makes DJing more versatile, more intuitive and more fun. The full-featured controller combines a four-channel mixer section with ergonomically laid-out high-quality control elements and an integrated audio interface, all designed to professional specifications. All relevant functions including looping, cueing, effects control and track browsing are immediately accessible on the robust and portable hardware, while dynamic multi-color backlighting, LED status displays and comprehensive level metering allow DJs to focus on their performance rather than on the computer screen.

The included TRAKTOR PRO S4 software offers the full feature set of TRAKTOR PRO, further expanded through powerful new performance functions and an optimized user interface that offers superior usability under all conditions. Two flexible Sample Decks can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix, opening up creative remixing and mash-up possibilities that go far beyond conventional DJing techniques. The unique Loop Recorder also allows DJs to capture and overdub audio loops from the live mix, cue signal or an external input on the fly, and drop them back into the mix at any time.

The dual touch-sensitive jog wheels on the KONTROL S4 hardware offer extremely precise and responsive deck control due to a new patentpending electromagnetic technology, complemented through Native Instruments’ high resolution NHL protocol that provides superior performance over conventional MIDI. The integrated low-latency 24bit/96kHz audio interface is based on the acclaimed AUDIO 4 DJ, and provides professional signal quality to match the most high profile club systems. External time-code control via turntables and CD decks will be enabled through a future software upgrade. To accommodate touring DJs, a professional flightcase that doubles as an adjustable performance stand will also be available as an accessory for TRAKTOR KONTROL S4.

TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 will be available this winter for a suggested retail price of $999 / 899 EUR. The TRAKTOR KONTROL Case will be available at the same time for $189 / 169 EUR.

Berlin, Germany /Music Industry Newswire/ — Native Instruments today announced KOMPLETE 7, a significantly expanded version of its studio-standard software bundle. The next generation of KOMPLETE now combines 24 instruments and effects ­ including five entirely new products ­ with over 10,000 sounds and 90 GB of samples, resulting in a comprehensive suite with unparalleled versatility for music production and performance.

KOMPLETE 7 includes the latest versions of Native Instruments’ acclaimed full-featured instruments and effects, ranging from ABSYNTH 5, BATTERY 3.1, FM8, GUITAR RIG 4.1, KONTAKT 4.1 and MASSIVE to the upcoming REAKTOR 5.5. As the next generation of the legendary modular synthesis studio, the new REAKTOR version adds powerful modal and additive synthesis, a revised user interface, the unique “Lazerbass” synthesizer and many enhancements for both instrument builders and musicians.

KOMPLETE 7 also integrates a wealth of instruments and effects based on the player versions of KONTAKT, KORE, REAKTOR and GUITAR RIG. Products added to the bundle include the acclaimed ABBEY ROAD 60s DRUMS vintage drum library, the radical performance effect THE FINGER by Tim Exile, the sampled electric bass SCARBEE MM-BASS and all four electric pianos from the SCARBEE VINTAGE KEYS series by sampling mastermind Thomas Scarbee, all four acoustic pianos of the CLASSIC PIANO COLLECTION, the cinematic ACOUSTIC REFRACTIONS instrument and the distinctive REAKTOR SPARK synthesizer.

KOMPLETE 7 also incorporates five completely new products that further expand the creative potential of the bundle: The powerful studio reverb REFLEKTOR with its advanced zero-latency convolution engine; the highly expressive REAKTOR PRISM modal synthesizer designed by NI founder Stephan Schmitt; the performance effects suite TRAKTORS 12, derived from Native Instruments’ leading DJ software; the new VINTAGE ORGANS instrument with its comprehensive arsenal of painstakingly sampled electromagnetic organs; and the new RAMMFIRE amp emulation that was developed in close collaboration with one of Rammstein’s guitarists, Richard Z. Kruspe.

Every copy of KOMPLETE 7 also includes an NI Online Shop voucher worth $60 / 50 EUR, valid towards any product from the KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects range that is not included in the bundle.

KOMPLETE 7 will be available in September 2010 for a suggested retail price of $559 / 499 EUR. An update for owners of KOMPLETE 2/3/4/5/6 will be available for $229 / 199 EUR.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. /Music Industry Newswire/ — Moog Music and AC Entertainment – creator and producer of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Vegoose – are proud to announce MoogFest 2010, a three-day festival celebrating the innovative vision of sonic pioneer, Robert Moog, to be held Halloween weekend, October 29-31, in Asheville, NC.

Confirmed artists Massive Attack, MGMT, and Thievery Corporation will be joined by over 25 additional internationally renowned artists performing in multiple venues throughout downtown Asheville, including the Asheville Civic Center Arena, the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, and Asheville’s renowned world-class club, the Orange Peel.

In addition to the festival’s extraordinary musical offerings, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in workshops, engage with artists in panel discussions, enjoy visual art exhibitions, installations and film screenings, and explore their own musical creativity with a variety of Moog instruments.

The complete schedule of artists and events for MoogFest 2010 will be announced on July 27th and tickets will go on sale July 30th.

Visit the moogfest.com website and sign up to receive the latest information, as it becomes available

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. /Music Industry Newswire/ — ­ Since 2007, Harmonix’s Rock Band has enabled players to live out their fantasy as a rock vocalist. Now, thanks to a technology licensing agreement with iZotope, Inc., a research-driven audio signal processing company, gamers who play upcoming Rock Band 3 this holiday will be able to take their vocal performance to new heights.

Using iZotope’s real-time pitch detection and pitch shifting middleware, Rock Band 3 provides players with the option to enable vocal effects commonly used in the music industry, assisting players to sing on key more easily with pitch correction and bringing the tools that pros use into the living room.

“The ability to have pitch correction in real-time helps to enhance the vocal gameplay and players’ in-game performance in Rock Band,” said Eran Egozy, CTO and co-founder of Harmonix. “We’re excited to feature iZotope’s technology and this new middleware in Rock Band 3 so that our players can enjoy the type of vocal effects that professional rock stars utilize for live stage performances in their homes this holiday.”

“With the production values of video games rivaling that of commercial albums and blockbuster films, consumers expect the same caliber of video and audio quality during dynamic, real-time game play,” explains Mark Ethier, CEO of iZotope. “Rock Band is an ideal platform for us to showcase iZotope’s technology so we can provide gamers with studio-grade audio effects that professional mixers, sound designers and others in the entertainment industry have relied on for years.”

iZotope’s extensive technology licensing program already includes industry giants like Adobe, Sony, and Avid.

Developed by Harmonix, the world’s premier music videogame company, published by MTV Games, Rock Band 3 will ship simultaneously worldwide this Holiday 2010 in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other territories for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, the Wii system from Nintendo, and Nintendo DS. Rock Band 3 will be compatible with all Rock Band and The Beatles: Rock Band peripherals, as well as most third-party instrument and microphone controllers. Mad Catz is the official peripheral manufacturer and distributor for Rock Band game controllers.

BERLIN /Music Industry Newswire/ — Native Instruments today introduced SESSION STRINGS, a versatile virtual string ensemble for KONTAKT 4 and the free KONTAKT PLAYER. Brought to life through the advanced functionality of the KONTAKT platform, SESSION STRINGS provides charismatic, highly expressive acoustic string sounds for pop, soul, R&B, disco, house and other contemporary music styles.

SESSION STRINGS recreates a string ensemble comprising four violins, three violas, two celli and two double basses, captured and produced in one of Germany’s most renowned recording studios by sampling expert Thomas Koritke’s new sound design house e-instruments. All recordings were taken from exclusive instruments from the 18th and 19th century, played by top musicians from some of the finest European orchestras, resulting in outstanding tone and articulations on the highest level of musical virtuosity.

By fully utilizing the advanced features of the KONTAKT platform, SESSION STRINGS puts the full expressive arsenal of a world-class string ensemble at the fingertips of the user. The individual instrument groups are mapped conveniently across the keyboard, with intelligent legato and glissando based on dedicated samples. Easily controllable falls, swoops and crescendo variations allow producers to create soulful and dynamic string licks with ease.

The authenticity and creative value of SESSION STRINGS is further enhanced through the unique and highly versatile “Animator”. This powerful function can be engaged seamlessly during play to transform incoming notes into virtuous staccato, spiccato and pizzicato chords and arpeggios, with the timing and groove easily adjustable by the user, and while maintaining natural legato articulation at the same time. An integrated studio-grade convolution reverb also provides a variety of completely realistic room ambiances.

SESSION STRINGS also provides a full set of optional “Motown versions” for all included sounds, utilizing a special sonic treatment that authentically recreates the distinctive and highly sought-after vintage string sound of the legendary soul recordings from the 60s and 70s.

SESSION STRINGS is available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for $119 / 99 EUR.

Cambridge, Mass. /Music Industry Newswire/ — iZotope, Inc., a research-driven audio signal processing company born out of MIT, is offering high quality DSP to mobile application developers through their extensive licensing program.

For nearly a decade iZotope has worked with small and large companies in Music, Film, TV and Radio Broadcast, Corporate A/V, Consumer Electronics, Business and Telecommunications. Top audio products such as Adobe Audition, Sony Sound Forge, Minnetonka AudioTools™ AWE, Avid (Digidesign) Pro Tools, as well as video products such as Grass Valley / Canopus Edius 5 and Techsmith Camtasia Studio rely on iZotope DSP to provide the highest quality audio and functionality for their end users.

Mobile devices have become a premier platform for entertainment, with thousands of exciting apps available for making music, playing games, and listening to radio streams. These experiences are all improved with creative audio effects, pitch and time processing. For example, live audio streams broadcast via radio apps can be sonically enhanced using the same mastering technology available in iZotope’s award-winning Ozone plug-in.

Smartphone devices are used daily to record voice memos, lectures and other events in a variety of environments. The combination of iZotope’s noise reduction and vocal enhancement technologies can vastly improve the quality of these audio recordings. Using iZotope’s advanced time processing algorithms, audio can be slowed down for transcription or sped up for previewing, without any degradation or artifacts in the speech.

Introduced in 2008, iZotope’s iDrum for iPhone app quickly became one of the top music creation and beat-making apps in the App Store. iZotope later partnered with high-profile artists such as RZA of Wu-Tang, Depeche Mode and Underworld to transform the app into an effective platform for marketing and promoting musicians, bands and record labels. Now with integrated Facebook and Twitter sharing, the iDrum for iPhone app is an even more effective tool – not just for music marketing, but for product branding.

For more information on iZotope’s licensing programs, visit www.izotope.com/tech/izomobile.

Berlin, Germany /Music Industry Newswire/ — Native Instruments today introduced DEEP FREQ, a powerful effects processing suite for use with KORE 2 and the free KORE PLAYER. Complementing the acclaimed DEEP RECONSTRUCTIONS and DEEP TRANSFORMATIONS packages, DEEP FREQ focuses on intense and intricate frequency manipulation to transform audio material in innovative and inspiring ways.

Created by expert sound designer and producer Denis Gökdag, DEEP FREQ provides 150 sophisticated multi-effect combinations based on the powerful sound processing engines of ABSYNTH, GUITAR RIG and REAKTOR integrated in KORE. Through complex combinations of filters, resonators, frequency shifting, resynthesis, granular synthesis and other advanced algorithms, DEEP FREQ can fundamentally alter and reshape the tonality of beats, melody lines, vocals and any other audio material with spectacular and unconventional results.

Despite the complexity of the underlying effect configurations, the operation of DEEP FREQ is entirely straightforward due to the KORE user interface. The unified parameter mapping within KORE 2 and KORE PLAYER gives immediate, intuitive control over the sonic characteristics of the effects, making DEEP FREQ an especially efficient and immediate sound shaping tool for musicians, producers and DJs.

DEEP FREQ available for download purchase in the NI Online Shop for $79/69 EUR.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. /Music Industry Newswire/ — Euphonix, now part of Avid, announced last month their new v2 edition of the MC Control, popular with users of Apple Logic, MOTU Digital Performer, and Steinberg Cubase on the Mac OS X platform. Music instrument dealers like Sweetwater now have the new product in stock. Euphonix, a world leader in large-format digital audio consoles, media controllers, and peripherals for over twenty years, has announced MC Control v2, the latest addition to its award-winning line of Artist Series media controllers.

MC Control v2 features the same ergonomic layout and slim line design as the award-winning MC Control, but offers enhanced graphics thanks to a new LED-backlit touch-screen and even better tactile control of parameters via eight new custom rotary encoders. MC Control v2 is the new flagship of the Artist Series and provides a host of controls to speed up and enhance the workflow process with almost any audio or video application.

At the heart of MC Control v2 is a new high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel LED-backlit touch-screen interface that offers a wide viewing angle, bright graphics and excellent color consistency. The touch-screen not only displays all top-level project information like track names, metering (from mono to 5.1 surround data), automation mode, fader/pan values, etc., but also allows the user to solo/mute/record arm tracks, trigger Soft Keys, perform surround panning, and much more directly from the surface. Soft keys are one of MC Control v2’s most powerful features to speed up workflow, instantly updating when switching between applications and providing quick access to the most used functions. MC Control v2 ships with comprehensive Soft Key sets for most media applications, and custom Soft Keys can easily be created for almost any function from basic keystroke shortcuts to complex macro commands for each application.

Surrounding the touch-screen, MC Control v2 features eight new touch-sensitive rotary encoders that offer direct control over everything from panning and gain to editing plug-in and EQ parameters, and can be pressed to instantiate and navigate through parameters. MC Control v2′s ergonomic layout includes dedicated transport controls as well as a data entry wheel that can be assigned on the fly to control everything from basic jog/shuttle navigation and zooming to a host of advanced editing functions. Four touch-sensitive motorized faders round out the controls to deliver accurate and smooth mixing, and touching a fader automatically selects and controls the corresponding track. Like all Artist Series controllers, MC Control v2 easily integrates into any studio, fitting perfectly between a computer keyboard and screen, and can be used standalone or combined with other media controllers to build a larger, integrated media control surface.

MC Control v2 features EuCon™, a high-speed control protocol developed by Euphonix that enables simultaneous control of multiple applications and even workstations over an Ethernet cable at 250 times the speed and eight times the resolution of MIDI. EuCon automatically detects whatever application is in the foreground and instantly sets all controls and high-resolution touch-screen display to match.

Euphonix has worked closely with the world’s leading software developers like Apple, Steinberg, MOTU and others to deeply integrate native EuCon support into their audio and video applications to provide high-resolution, high-speed control over almost all software functions for an unmatched editing and mixing experience. MC Control v2 also supports the HUI and Mackie Control protocols for even greater flexibility, at a faster speed and higher resolution than any other controllers. MC Control v2 is expected to be available at authorized Euphonix retailers in late April 2010 at an estimated street price of $1499.99.

Look for an upcoming review on MIN, once we have one to use with Logic Pro 9.

MEYLAN, France /Music Industry Newswire/ — Arturia has announced today their latest release version of Brass. Version 2.05 makes this unique and highly regarded software even better, according to the company. The update features various bug fixes and enhancements, as you might expect with a dot revision.

Updated:
* MIDI control : redesigned to show MIDI activity meters for each instrument and a Breath Control gauge
* EWI config bug fixed
* RTAS graphical bug (screen doubling) on Mac OSX fixed
* Saxophone problems in Fruity Loops fixed.

MAIN FEATURES:
* Acclaimed trumpet and trombone models
* Four-part multi-timbrality in Live mode ( V 2.0 )
* Harmonization module to control the polyphonic multi-timbral instrument kits (60 kits) ( V 2.0 )
* Customize instrument characteristics
(musical style, attack,use static or dynamic mutes, humanize…)
* New “brassing” effect used in trumpets and trombones (tightens up attacks) ( V 2.0 )
* New organization of MIDI controls allowing easier editing and
better control (includes support for the Akai EWI) ( V 2.0 )
* New set of presets, riffs and kits: 75 presets,160 riffs & 60 kits ( V 2.0 )
* Place the instruments in a virtual stereo space with optional ambience reverberation.
* Virtual instrument playable through a MIDI keyboard
* Three physically modeled Brass instruments: Trumpet, Trombone and Saxophone
* LIVE Mode with total control over expressiveness through extensive MIDI
* RIFF Mode with more than 500 modifiable pre-recorded MIDI phrases in many different styles (Jazz, Funk, Latino, Reggae, Zouk, Salsa, R n Blues, …)
* Configuration of the instruments : 4 attack and 4 vibrato types, material, humanization
* Import and export riff presets from and to MIDI files.

The update is a free download on the Arturia website for registered owners of BRASS 2.0.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /Music Industry Newswire/ — Made exclusively for the Roland’s Fantom-G Series Workstations, this FREE “FG Connects Live” download emphasizes the powerful live performance potential of your Fantom-G, adding new patches, live sets, rhythm patterns, and more.

FG Connects Live Update Includes:
Hundreds of new dance, pop and hip-hop oriented patches;
New orchestral sounds including all type of strings, woodwinds and brass;
New Live Sets focusing on dance, electronic pop, R&B and hip-hop;
Hundreds of new unique RPS motion phrases;
New contemporary rhythm pattern sets and kits;
New arpeggiation phrases;
File utility function added for sharing content between projects.

According to the email blast: “Now you can rule your musical universe with the Fantom-G and enjoy the absolute power of creative freedom.” (…um sure.) Update is free to registered Fantom-G owners.