Maggot Software has released v3.1.3 of its Conformalizer utility. The application is used during sound editing in video recuts, and can detect VFX changes as cuts evolve. The update includes support for AVID Pro Tools 8, and adds new auto-conform routines, an updated search feature, and improved QuickTime views with better response and restored playback controls.
KB Covers has introduced its KB Keyboards, a new line of application keyboards based on Apple’s aluminum designs. The series displays shortcut keys for Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pro Tools and Media Composer. A special Midnight Keyboard utilizes black keys, and is meant to resemble the new MacBook and MacBook Pro keyboards. With the exception of the Midnight model, each keyboard combines icons and colors to help users find shortcuts.
Digidesign has released an update to its audio workstation, Pro Tools 8. The second "customer support" download addresses a number of bugs relating to editing, plug-in automation and the user interface. The interface bug caused problems when using third-party plug-ins in the channel strip, sometimes leading to improper mouse navigation. Another bug would crash the application and delete information when a session start time was changed.
Sound Guy says it has released a new version of SFX Machine Pro, now tailored for the RTAS format used by Pro Tools systems. The software is an effects creation tool meant for music and general audio work, and includes over 300 presets, divided into broader categories such as chorus, delay, filters, granulation and pitch. The presets can be edited as necessary however, and new ones can be created by working from base parameters.
Automatic Duck says it has released v4.0 of Pro Export FCP, its plug-in for Final Cut Pro. The software is used to export Final Cut Pro projects to other editing platforms, such as Quantel's Q eQ or iQ systems. The v4.0 update introduces expanded support for Avid software, through the option of MXF export; this lets FCP users avoid redigitizing. Similarly, users should now be able to carry over Avid-supported effects such as PIP, 3DWarp and Superimpose.
The Avid-owned firm Digidesign has revealed some of the details of Pro Tools 8, the next version of its music production suite. The major focus of the software will be its interface, which is firstly being given a more cosmetically "modern" look, but also adjustments to windows and options. The Edit window toolbar can now be configured, for instance, and Editor windows are dockable, including new MIDI and Score Editor tools.
Digidesign on Thursday unveiled Pro Tools 7.4.2 for Mac, an update that addresses compatibility problems with Mac OS X 10.5.3 Leopard and Pro Tools 7.4 HD, LE, and M-Powered. The update requires the new OS version, but does not resolve an issue with ATTO SCSI cards that 10.5.3. Digidesign recommends that ATTO SCSI users keep Pro Tools 7.4.1 and Leopard 10.5.1 on their systems.
Sonic Studio has released new versions of two of its audio engineering programs, beginning with soundBlade, its production suite based on Core Audio. It records four-channel digital sound at 192k, and is capable of premastering and real-time editing, with support for AU and VST plug-ins as well as external inputs and outputs such as Pro Tools, and Sonic's own NoNOISE and reNOVAtor. The new v1.2.2 patch is free, and is said to include "hundreds" of optimizations and stability fixes. Purchased as a whole the software costs $1,495.
M-Audio has released Pro Tools M-Powered 7.4, adding a number of new music features and workflow enhancements, including a new music composition and production tool, Elastic Time. Elastic Time allows users to change the tempo and timing of loops, music, and other sound files, without cutting up the tracks. Users can audition or import sounds into a session – including REX and Acid files – and the files will automatically sync to the tempo. Elastic Time can also quantize audio to the session grid or extracted grooves, providing fine-tuning control over every beat. M-Audio is currently selling the Pro Tools M-Powered 7.4 upgrade for $50 from v7.3, and $75 for all other users.
