Audiffex has released GK Amplification 2, a bass amps simulation for Windows and Mac.

After a hard work, we have released a new version of the Gallien Krueger Amplification plug-ins. We are proud to announce a significant progress we have made to this plug-in. To be more specific, we went even further in our hunt of the algorithms optimization, so now the plug-ins require less CPU power, yet providing better quality.

Changes in GK Amplification 2

• Set your output volume automatically using the Learn function.
• Select a microphone to pickup the cabinet.
• Adjust the microphone angle.
• Fully automate all of the parameters in your host software.
• Limit the signal and prevent clipping at the output.
• Use the plug-in with Logic, Garage Band or other AudioUnit hosts.

Gallien-Krueger Amplification 2 is available to purchase for PC and Mac (VST/AU/RTAS), priced at $69 USD for the Standard version (single speaker), and $99 USD for the Pro version (supports two independent speakers).

More information: Audiffex

Korg has introduced the microKEY, a new USB powered keyboard and MIDI controller featuring 37 velocity-sensing mini keys.

For computer-based musicians on a budget seeking portability and power without sacrificing keyboard feel and function, the microKEY is an ideal way to create a compact and customized MIDI command center.

Unlike its competitors, the microKEY features a built-in two-port hub to connect other controllers, computer peripherals or Korg nanoSERIES controllers for added flexibility and control of all the users’ software. Free editing software and a number of included software bundle licenses and discount coupons make the microKEY even more cost effective.

microKEY features

• USB MIDI keyboard – thin, lightweight, and USB-powered.
• 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys.
• Comfortable and easy-to-play Natural Touch keyboard.
• Octave Shift and Key Transpose features access the full MIDI note range.
• Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels add expression to your performance.
• Dual USB ports are ideal for adding Korg’s nanoPAD or nanoKONTROL (or other USB devices) to your setup.

The microKEY will be available in November 2010.

More information: Korg / microKEY

Producer Loops has announced the release of Progressive Trance & Electro Vol 3, a collection of 5 construction kits featuring powerful drum beats, lush sidechained patterns, euphoric rises and uplifting melodies.

Producer Loops expands on this hugely popular series with ‘Progressive Trance & Electro Vol 3′, containing a mammoth 1.25 GB (per format) of pumping, uplifting construction kits designed for the producer seeking a progressive, euphoric vibe. All samples are recorded at 48kHz / 24-bit resolution, and come as ACID WAV, Apple Loops and REX. MIDI is also included for all melodic parts.

If you order kits 1-5 as a complete product, you also get 175MB of bonus content to ‘top up’ the existing kits with additional melodies and layers, plus a selection of 24 sound FX (impacts, rises, washes, etc.) that are perfect for use with this and any of your other Producer Loops products.

Progressive Trance & Electro Vol 3 features

• 5 Construction Kits including drums, bass, keys and synths.
• MIDI loops for all musical phrases within the pack.
• Effect Tails (Unlooped Riffs).
• REX files for all loops.
• Dry and wet versions of all loops.
• Unified tempo across all 5 packs.
• Key and BPM information embedded in the filename.
• All of the loops in this product are 100% Royalty-Free.
• Bonus samples for kits 1-5 and one shot FX (complete product only).

Progressive Trance & Electro Vol 3 is available to purchase as a download starting at £8.95 GBP per construction kit.

More information: Producer Loops / Progressive Trance & Electro Vol 3

Christian Blomert has released touchAble, an app with allows you to control Ableton Live from your iPad.

Navigate around your live set with the touch of a finger, tweak Lives mixer, instruments and fx with full automapping and unlimited tracks & parameters.

touchAble allows live users to walk away from their computer and perform live from anywhere within Wi-Fi range while keeping latency at a minimum.

Play your favourite synths with the unique double keyboard or record your rhythms with the 16 drum pads, including 5 velocity steps & octave selectors. Access the most important transport and clip functions without losing focus on your set and tweak the same set with two iPads with the unique Dual-User-Mode.

You need to adjust volume, launch a new clip and play a device? Don’t worry – a smart and intuitive screen menu empowers the user to arrange and switch modules on the fly.

touchAble is available to purchase from the iTunes App Store for the introductory price of $16.99 USD.

More information: touchAble

Roland has announced the Octa-Capture, a new USB audio interface.

Roland introduces the OCTA-CAPTURE USB 2.0 Audio Interface, a 10- input/10-output device for computer-based multi-channel audio production.

OCTA-CAPTURE sets a new standard in portable USB 2.0 interfaces, combining premium components, 24-bit/192 kHz performance, and preamp and streaming technology in an affordable and compact unit.

Octa-Capture features

• Eight premium mic preamps built in (VS PREAMP).
• AUTO-SENS function intelligently sets optimal input levels for all preamps.
• Extremely stable low-latency VS STREAMING driver.
• Four independent software-controlled Direct Mixers for creating custom monitor mixes.
• Supports all major DAW platforms on Mac or PC, including OSX 10.6 and Windows 7, through ASIO 2.0/WDM (Windows) and Core Audio (Mac) drivers.
• Rackmount ears included.
• Bundled with Cakewalk Production Plus Pack.

The Octa-Capture is scheduled to ship in October 2010, priced at a MSRP of $699 USD.

More information: Roland / Octa-Capture

Ueberschall has announced Club R&B, the latest sound library in the Urbanic series.

This production tool is equipped with 21 construction kits of finest high quality R&B and Club music. Included is a bandwidth of tempos between 69bpm – 151bpm. The complete library was created by professionals who have the understanding and the know-how of the genre. Club R&B offers the opportunity to create both, smooth R&B tracks that work in your home and in your favorite club.

Every single construction kit delivers highly exclusive content such as basslines, guitars, synths, pianos, fx sounds, a whole chunk of drum and percussion sounds and much more. Each sample of Club R&B is labeled with BPM information and root key signatures.

Club R&B features

• 3.4 GB, 21 Construction Kits, 1162 Loops.
• Elastik Soundbank for Mac/PC/AU/VST/RTAS/StandAlone.
• Elastik Player included – no sampler required.

Club R&B is available to purchase for 99 EUR.

More information: Ueberschall / Club R&B