RiffWorks Standard v2 coming to OS X

..Sonoma Wire Works (booth 307) this week will demo the latest version of its recording software in the Music & Audio Pavilion. The company said that a preview of RiffWorks Standard v2 is being shown running on Mac OS X with new features such as RiffLink online collaboration service, RiffCaster instant podcasting technology, and more. Designed with guitarists in mind, RiffWorks users can set the tempo and start recording simply by strumming their guitar. The software offers realtime effects as well as an InstantDrummer feature for live drummer back-up recordings and "the ability to dial in the right amount of intensity and variation without typical tedious drum-machine programming." Several new recording features have been added in version 2 including Riff Notes, Riff Gain and Riff Effects.

With integrated RiffLink technology RiffWorks Version 2 users will be able to jam together online with no technical challenges regardless of their platform (both Windows XP and Mac OS X). RiffLink collaboration will allow multiple users to record and mix in a shared session in realtime or when they have time. A list of available collaborations is presented within RiffWorks. Once a session is created or joined, collaborators will be able to chat and see each other's actions.

In addition, users can create new Riffs or record layers in Riffs already created by another user. Each layer is instantly streamed to other current users as well as saved on the server for future collaborators. Collaboration sessions can be created as public or private, and private sessions can be shared with friends by simply emailing a link.

One-click podcasting, webcasting

RiffWorks v2 will offer one-click podcasting and webcasting. RiffCaster broadcasting service allows instant publishing via podcasts, webcasts, or personal web pages at the press of a button -- all with embedded Creative Commons licensing. On their personal web page, users will be able to organize their songs into albums and add album art and liner notes.

RiffWorks Standard Version 2 will be Mac OS X compatible with any Core Audio device and will be available as a universal binary for Intel-based Macs. RiffWorks Version 1.1 for Windows is available now as an add-on for Line 6 GuitarPort and PODxt customers for $100 and as a complete solution in a box with a GuitarPort in stores now for $190. Version 2 for Mac OS X and Windows XP is slated for release at the end of the first quarter of 2006. (Pricing has not yet been determined.)

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