The black-magicians at Livid Instruments have announced an all-black “Diablo” version of their Block MIDI controller. Perfect for worshiping Satan while tweaking Ableton Live, the Limited Edition Block Diablo is a compact and programmable MIDI control surface designed for interactive audio performance.

Built on the same bi-directional and adaptable platform as the Ohm64, Block provides an interface for creating and interacting with sound in a portable enclosure. Sixty four backlight led buttons provide endless possibilities for visual feedback with the instrument by connecting it to Ableton Live, Max/Msp, our open source sounds apps, or any other software that supports MIDI. The Limited Edition Block Diablo has a mahogany body, black faceplate, and red LED’s.

Features:
» Programmable MIDI mapping allows you to change the MIDI settings on the hardware
» 64 Programmable backlight buttons for talk-back and interactive performance
» Bi-Directional MIDI communication (talkback)
» Class-compliant: no drivers needed for Mac, Windows, or Linux.
» USB Powered
» Black Anodized Aluminum Faceplate
» Mahogany Body
» Open Source software tools to create your own LED talkback interaction
» Editor included for MIDI editing, and LED talkback programming
» Compatible with any software that supports MIDI learn
» ROHS compliant
» 9.75″ x 9.75″ x 1.5″ (WLH) / weight 3 lbs.
» USB cable included

The Livid Instruments’ Limited Edition Block Diablo costs $399 and is available now in Hell while supplies last. More information on the Livid Instruments Limited Edition Block Diablo.

We usually don’t report on beta releases, or mid-range updates for that matter, but we are fiercely following Native Instruments’ Maschine development because we feel that this particular platform will reveal what NI calls, The Future Of Sound, or at least their future to some degree.

The free update includes enhanced host integration, drag ‘n’ drop MIDI and audio, new Vintage Sampling Modes (MPC60 / SP1200), MPC sample import, and many workflow improvements. Not much more is specified, so you’ll have to download the new version and see what Aces NI has up their sleeve.

Many Maschine users are waiting for a tighter integration between Traktor and Maschine to enhance live remixing into their sets with a more minimal setup. The savvy Mike Henderson has adroitly demonstrated some of these capabilities and has helped several artists, including Richie Hawtin, to link the two programs. However, it’s going to take Native Instruments to make this plug ‘n’ play.

Registered owners of Maschine can download the update starting today from Native Instruments’ website.

Crysonic has updated Sindo to version 3.5. The latest version of Sindo is Crysonics third Generation Professional stereo image Expander (widener) / Narrowing Audio plug-in Processor. Version 3.5 introduces new features such as customizable UI interface colors and an industry first Stereo image compression feature — this is not to be confused with audio level compression however it is a proprietary stereo field width compression system developed by crysonic which is fully automated and working at zero latency allowing the user to attain maximum stereo width and retain mono compatibility with minimal side effects.

Another important and proprietary tool made available with Sindo is the multi-band Stereo Dynamics section with smoothing, which further adds better stereo presence and definition without coloring the sound. Low frequency stereo separation can also be separately targeted with adjustable cut-off frequencies and width amounts together with the ability to preview. Sindo 3.5 features a unique stereo field display showing information regarding stereo phase coherence/ correlation and compression amounts for both Left and Right Channels when active. These and many other enhancements are now part of Sindo V3.

Sindo 3.5 offers a uniquely powerful stereo toolkit for digital editing, mastering and tracking for all stereo audio material. Sindo allows to dramatically broaden and ’sweeten’ the spaciousness of the stereo image whilst retaining mono compatibility and not affecting the tonal character of the original sound. The Global and individually adjustable frequency Rotations can be used to Pan the center stereo image without altering the mix level balance.

Designed for efficiency Sindo 3.5 comprises of an intuitive user interface with full automation of all parameters and new enhancements such as the ability to double click on any dial to set it to default. The fatiguing ‘phasiness’ found in other processors of this type has been avoided by adhering to established audio engineering principals. Two Phase-compensated Hi and Low Shufflers are also included to further enhance and improve the spaciousness without introducing unwanted artifacts.

Crysonic’s Sindo 3.5 costs $129 and comes in the Native Universal Binary AU, VST flavor for Mac and VST for PC users. There’s a New Release Special for $50.95 until the 4th of March 2010, regular price $129 All previous Crysonic customers can purchase Sindo for $31.95. More information on Crysonic Sindo 3.5.

Arturia has updated their Roland Jupiter emulation to version 2.0. The Jupiter-8V has been enhanced with a preset navigation system called SoundMap, the ability to use NRPN midi messages for automation. the presets now respond to modulation wheel, and there’s some new sounds. Not really much to jump up and down about, but what do you want for nothing…

More information on the Arturia Jupiter-8V.

Don’t know exactly why Sequentix Music has decided to develop a dedicated hardware sequencer for 1000 quid, but they recently announced that they are updated their P3 dealio. The new unit, dubbed the Cirklon, is a totally new hardware sequencer design, with software based on the P3, but greatly improved both in usability and internal operation.

The user-interface is based around a 240×64 pixel graphic LED display, 19 rotary encoders with push-switches, 2 assignable knobs, 35 high-quality Cherry keys with integrated LEDs, and a further 35 tri-colour status LEDs. Cirklon has 16 tracks, with 5 independent MIDI INs and OUTs to connect a large number of controllers and synths/sound modules while keeping MIDI latency to a minimum. There will also be USB MIDI, native CV/gate support, and a dedicated DIN sync output. You can watch the video below, but it’s not very exciting, nor shows off the Cirklon’s mojo…

The 32-bit, 72MHz ARM Cortex CPU runs a proprietary sequencer engine to ensure optimum timing accuracy. All MIDI ports are provided by hardware serial ports in the CPU core itself. The CV/gate connectivity will be available in two levels – a pair of 12-bit resolution CV and gate outputs, or an external CV breakout box with a large number of CV outs (details to be finalized). Pattern storage is comprised of 2MB battery-backed internal RAM and 512MB internal NAND flash, with a SD/MMC card socket for data backup.

Sequentix claims the Cirklon will go into production when they get around to finalizing the design of the production enclosure with shipping in low volume to begin sometime at the end of March…or April…or May…

Xseed has announced that the Korg DS-10 Plus, developed by Cavia in conjunction with Procyon Studio is now available with improved performance that leverages the supercharged specifications of the Nintendo DSi.

Designed after the Korg MS-10 music synthesizer, the Korg DS-10 Plus is a revamped version of the portable music-creation program. An assortment of new features for Korg DS-10 Plus for the DS/DSi versions include per-track MUTE/SOLO built into the SONG mode, and EDIT/PLAY enabled for all modes within the SONG mode for further improved real-time performance. A 6-track/16-step sequencer enables precise control and provides a wide range of musical possibilities and up to eight units can be linked via wireless connection to play together or to exchange sounds and songs.

Additionally, Nintendo DSi owners can enjoy additional exclusive improvements and upgrades, including 12-voice polyphony, 4 tracks for the analog synthesizer simulator, 2 drum machines and more. Also, two effects layers are available exclusively for the DSi, essentially giving users the functionality of two original Korg DS-10.

The Korg DS-10 Plus is now available for the Nintendo DS/DSi for $29.99. More information on the Korg DS-10 Plus.

IK Multimedia has upgraded AmpliTube to version 3 with over 160 modeled pieces of vintage and modern gear available in one package.

AmpliTube 3 contains over 160 pieces of gear including models from several choice vintage collections and modern-day workhorses. You’ll get 51 individual stompboxes and effects, 31 amplifier, preamp & power sections, 46 speaker cabinet models, 15 high-end stage and studio mics, and 17 post-amp rack effects. Plus, with the new AmpliTube 3 open architecture, you can add more packages as you need them, like AmpliTube Fender and Ampeg SVX. With IK’s proprietary VRM (Volumetric Response Modeling) technology, you can add ultra-accurate rotating speaker effects, free dual mic placements, plus room ambience and response to customize and craft your tone.

Version 3’s new creative effects let you create exciting, dynamic sounds, and the new drag & drop effects’ configuration feature lets you quickly experiment with effects in the signal chain to get that totally unique sound.

Features:
» Over 160 gear models included (with nearly 100 added models) from the most sought-after vintage collections to modern-day workhorses
» 51 Stompbox effects, 31 Amps, 46 Cabinets, 15 Studio Mics and 17 Rack effects
» 30 brand new models
» 70 re-worked and superior sounding models from packages like AmpliTube Metal and AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix
» A new collection of bass gear models
» Can be directly expanded with packages like AmpliTube Fender, Ampeg SV™ and future packages
» New preset management and keyword system allows you to organize and quickly recall the library of included and custom preset tones
» New cabinet module inside now provides double miking per cabinet, with freely movable microphones thanks to IK’s VRM (Volumetric Response Modeling) technology
» New impulse-based reverbs are now used in the entire chain, from spring reverb to room ambience, which ensures the most realistic possible representation of your recording environment
» New rotary speaker module sets the new standard for accurate emulation
» All models in AmpliTube 3 have been “remastered” with our new 3rd generation modeling technology (the same found in AmpliTube Fender), using IK’s exclusive DSM technology (Dynamic Saturation Modeling), then painstakingly compared with the originals in “A/B” style to ensure that the sound you hear from the software is the same sound you’ll be hearing from the gear.
» New creative Effects featuring the new StepFilter, StepSLicer, TapDelay, Rezo and Swell stomp and rack effects
» New full-stereo path allows you to use the huge collection of analog and digital effects on your vocal tracks, keyboards and drums
» New Drag & Drop function in the stomp and rack modules now makes experimenting with effects’ combinations a breeze
» New “MIDI Learn” feature allows you to assign any software control or parameter to an external controller with a simple click on the parameter’s knob. Sweet!!
» New, integrated 4-track recorder/player allows you to capture and layer your ideas quickly and easily right at the moment of inspiration.

AmpliTube 3 will cost $350 / €270 and ship sometime during February 2010 in the VST, RTAS and Audio Unit plug-in flavors, and as stand-alone software for Mac OSX and Windows in a variety of versions. More information on IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3.

Denon DJ has unveiled the DN-HC1000S USB MIDI Micro-Controller for Serato Scratch Live. The DN-HC1000S is designed to directly interface with and aid DVS systems (turntables / CD players) with Scratch Live. The DN-HC1000S offers simple plug ‘n play operation via self powered USB connectivity, and it replaces the standard PC keyboard for DVS systems with a set of dedicated controls, including track select and fast search, SHIFT/CLR button, five “hot start” and three sampler buttons, auto loop, Loop IN-OUT with exit/reloop, history and a TAP button.

Features:
» Serato-approved USB MIDI Sub Controller for Serato Scratch Live
» Simple USB plug-and-play Connection (USB MIDI / Bus power)
» Dedicated tactile controls to replace computer keyboard shortcuts
» High-quality steel cabinet with rugged rubber keys
» File Select knob and buttons with back-forward action keys
» Track Select and Fast Search buttons
» SHIFT/CLR Button
» 5 Cue Point and 3 Sampler Player buttons
» Auto Loop button with Loop Cut knob & Roll
» Loop IN/OUT button with Exit/Reloop
» File, Browse, History and Prepare keys
» Tap button
» MIDI mappable for other DJ software systems
» Unit measures 9.8” width x 3.4” depth, and weighs under 3 lbs

The Denon DJ DN-HC1000S USB MIDI Sub-Controller is now available for $200. More information on the Denon DJ DN-HC1000S.

Roland had announced the Octapad SPD-30 digital percussion pad, which features eight trigger pads, built-in sounds, multi-effects, and external trigger inputs.

Using the latest trigger technology from the V-Drums, Roland claims the pads on the Octapad SPD-30 feature an extremely natural and responsive playing feel. The eight separate trigger surfaces provide superior dynamic response, trigger consistency over a pad’s entire surface, and the elimination of crosstalk.

The Octapad SPD-30 includes 50 kits and hundreds of cutting-edge drum and percussion sounds. Powerful onboard effects include 30 types of multi-effects that can be used on individual kits, and Ambience with an Equalizer and Limiter that can be applied to the overall Octapad SPD-30 sound.

With its large backlit LCD and intuitive interface, navigating menus and editing parameters on the Octapad SPD-30 is easy. The pads also feature illuminated LEDs, helpful for performing in low-light settings. The Phrase Loop recording feature allows the player to loop record sounds in real time, and then overdub additional parts or sounds. With the ability to record three parts per phrase, Phrase Loop is a powerful creative tool for live performance and recording.

The external trigger/control inputs allow players to connect additional pads, and a hi-hat controller to create a mini-electronic kit. The Octapad SPD-30 is also compatible with Roland RT-Series acoustic drum triggers, creating additional options for drummers who want to add electronics to their acoustic drum set. In addition, the Octapad SPD-30 has USB connectivity for both data backup and MIDI allowing players to expand their recording capabilities with personal computers. Standard MIDI connections are also included, allowing connection to external sound modules, samplers and other MIDI devices.

No pricing or availability has been released. More information on the Roland Octapad SPD-30.

Korg has announced the Kaossilator Pro, basically a Kaossilator on steroids. The new Kaossilator Pro has been reimagined as a powerful track-making tool and loaded with live performance power.

With 200 sound programs, a new Electribe-inspired gate arpeggiator, and four loop recording banks that can even record external audio sources, the Kaossilator Pro is packed with features that make it ideal for both live performance and production. In addition, USB connectivity with your computer and SD card memory storage allow the Kaossilator Pro to be used not just for improvised performances, but also as a track-making music production tool.

Features:
» KAOSS X-Y touchpad offers intuitive, realtime control
» 200 sounds covering modern synth sounds such as lead and bass, and diverse acoustic sounds from piano to trumpet and beyond
» PCM samples provide dramatic drum kits and ready to rock percussion patterns
» Vocoder programs deliver scintillating vocal effects
» Access up to eight of your favorite sounds instantly using the assignable Program Memory buttons
» Loop Recording can layer both internal Program sounds and external audio overdubs
» Four Loop Record Banks each allow up to four measures of loop recording, with easy muting that allows expressive realtime layering and DJ-Style re-mixing – ideal for live performance.
» Gate Arpeggiator repeatedly triggers sounds in sync with the tempo. The slider controls either the gate time or gate speed.
» Choose a key and select one of 31 musical scales to easily create musical phrases. Limit the X-Y pad’s note range for even more control
» Loop data, user settings and Program Memories can be stored on SD card
» Dedicated software lets you manage loop data, MIDI assignments, and user settings from your computer
» Performs double-duty as a MIDI controller for external equipment or software applications

The Kaossilator Pro provides an SD card slot for storing loop data and user settings such as program memories. Favorite phrases can be saved to build up a collection of loop data. SD Card storage also allows you to create the same show with the same loops, night after night. You can also swap loops with other Kaossilator Pro users, or use your data in multiple units.

Kaossilator Pro Editor is a dedicated software program for managing your recorded loop data, as well as MIDI assignment editor functionality that lets you transform the Kaossilator Pro into a powerful MIDI controller that’s set up just the way you want. Kaossilator Pro Editor can be downloaded free of charge from the Korg website. The Editor runs on Microsoft Windows XP / Vista / 7, and on Mac OS X 10.4 or later.

No Pricing or availability has been announced. More information on the Korg Kaossilator Pro.