Monthly Archives: November 2007

Teaching Music with Reason … for free!

Propellerhead Software’s entry-level classroom package that focuses on learning about and making music using technology, Teaching Music with Reason, is now available as a free downloadable package.

Propellerhead Software has decided to discontinue Teaching Music with Reason. This means that the product will not be updated to reflect the changes made in Reason version 4. As a consequence, the existing Teaching Music with Reason curriculum is now available to anyone as a free download through a Creative Commons license, for educators to use in their work.

AKAI MPK49 keyboard controller now available

Akai announced that the new MPK49 keyboard controller is now available. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.

Spectralhead releases SilverBox virtual bass line

One of the most emulated vintage gear must be the Roland TB-303. Next in line to release a 303 clone is Hungarian developer Spectralhead Audio. SilverBox is an authentic digital reincarnation of the world’s most famous analog bassline machine. 18 dB/octave analog-modeled filter, internal sequencer and built-in distortion engine with minimal aliasing make SilverBox an ideal choice for creating acid basslines easily and conveniently.

Native Instruments and Beatport unveil Beatport SYNC

Native Instruments and Beatport today unveiled Beatport SYNC, a free music playback software for Mac and Windows that provides a unique feature set for modern listening habits. Based on the groundbreaking TRAKTOR DJ software, Beatport SYNC combines powerful music management capabilities with basic DJ mixing functions and full integration of the Beatport online store in one easy-to-use application.