http://www.creativeobserver.com/ EN Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:02:39 -0600 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:02:39 -0600 main CreativeObserver 600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/speedgrade-2009-beta-supports-redcode.html CreativeObserver.com IRIDAS, German developer of workflow automation software for the computer graphics industry, released a beta version of its color grading application SpeedGrade 2009. Among the improvements in the new version is the highly anticipated R3D plug-in, enabling support for REDCODE Codec, the file format of the RED ONE digital cinema camera.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/speedgrade-2009-beta-supports-redcode.html Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-pitch-algorithms-for-lexicon-s-pcm-96.html CreativeObserver.com Legendary maker of audio DSP hardware, Utah-based Lexicon (a Harman International Company), announced a software update v3.0.0.7 for its Mac-only stereo processor PCM96. Included in the update is a new set of pitch shift algorithms, supporting both practical shifting and shifting for special effects. The new VSO Pitch algorithm can be used to help bring a choir up to pitch or to correct the pitch shift created by common video conversions, all while maintaining a solid stereo image. It offers enhanced control through the ability to raise or lower the pitch of a voiceover or dialog track. New Multivoice Pitch algorithms combine multiple shifters with Lexicon’s powerful delay architecture to create climbing pitch ladders, shifted echoes, voice doublers, along with many other effects. Additionally, the update provides plug-in compatibility for Steinberg Cubase and Nuendo. Download the installer here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-pitch-algorithms-for-lexicon-s-pcm-96.html Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digimation-offers-twelve-3ds-max-plug-ins-for-free.html CreativeObserver.com Digimation, a leading provider of 3D software, models, and creative services, announced that it is making twelve of its award-winning plug-ins for 3ds Max available for free! The free products are collectively known as the Digimation Suite. The plug-ins support most 32-bit versions of 3ds Max (but not all plug-ins are available for all versions of Max) and include: Atomizer (allows 3ds Max particle systems to use any 3D object as a particle), Bones Pro (skeletal deformation system), Chameleon (places textures based on the location of an animatable gizmo), Clay Studio (metaball modeler), DigiPeople (procedural, low-resolution mannequins), Fractal Flow (warps any image, video, or 3D object), Glider (animates any object or particle along the surface of another object), Lightning (a procedural electric arc generator), MaxSculpt (mesh sculpting tool with support for tablets), SandBlaster (particle system with a unique emitter and target system), Spray Master (sprays geometry on other objects), and Tree Factory (generates trees and ground foliage). Download the suite here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digimation-offers-twelve-3ds-max-plug-ins-for-free.html Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/havok-behavior-tool-available-for-download.html CreativeObserver.com Havok, provider of interactive software and services for game developers, released Havok Behavior Tool for designers and animators of 3D video and PC game characters. The Havok Behavior Tool, along with the Havok Content Tools which are also available for download, are key components of Havok’s larger suite of cross-platform middleware products which include Havok Physics, Havok Animation, Havok Cloth, Havok Destruction, and Havok Behavior. Using Havok’s downloadable tools, game designers and artists can see their 3D characters and animations which have been created in Autodesk’s 3ds Max, Maya, and XSI, come to life in a dynamic world that they can play in, and build upon to prototype new game concepts and character mechanics. Download the Havok Behavior Tool from www.havok.com/tryhavok.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/havok-behavior-tool-available-for-download.html Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-encore-updated-to-v4-0-1.html CreativeObserver.com Adobe Encore CS4, Adobe's tool for DVD and Blu-ray Disc authoring and SWF export, has been updated to version 4.0.1. It features integration with Adobe Resource Central on-line store, enhanced HD preview, support for enabling third-party card playback, ability to play back SWF output in Adobe Media Player when you export your projects to Adobe Flash, bug fixes, and more. Downloads: for Mac OS X (93 MB), for Windows systems (87 MB).]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-encore-updated-to-v4-0-1.html Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/waves-introduces-precision-models-of-dorrough-meters.html CreativeObserver.com Waves Audio Ltd. released 'The Waves Dorrough Meter Collection', a suite of audio plug-ins designed for precise loudness monitoring. Developed in association with Dorrough Electronis, the plug-ins feature fast peak response, sum and difference energies for optimal stereo-to-mono compatibility, left/right phase correlation, and more. Available in Native and TDM versions for $500 US, users of Waves Mercury covered by Waves Update Plan receive the collection at no additional charge. 30-day demo version can be downloaded at this location (requires registration, and an iLok key).]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/waves-introduces-precision-models-of-dorrough-meters.html Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/first-look-at-coraline.html CreativeObserver.com The upcoming stop-motion animation feature Coraline (imdb entry) comes from a director of The Nightmare Before Christmas (imdb entry), Henry Selick, and is an adaptation of Neil Gaiman's novel of the same name. But that's just for starters. It is also the first stop-motion movie shot in stereo using stereoscopic camera rig! Watch the first HD trailer on Yahoo! Movies. Coraline will be released in the U.S. on 6 February, 2009 (more release date on imdb.com.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/first-look-at-coraline.html Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/apple-updates-pro-applications.html CreativeObserver.com Apple released Pro Applications Update 2008-04, a pack of updates that addresses general performance issues and improves overall stability of Final Cut Pro 6.0.5, Compressor 3.0.5, Color 1.0.3, and Shake 4.1.1 applications. See the full Release Notes for detailed information. Download the update here (requires your Apple ID.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/apple-updates-pro-applications.html Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-software-shapes-india-s-3d-animated-film.html CreativeObserver.com Autodesk announced that Indian animation and visual effects powerhouse Visual Computing Labs (VCL), a division of Tata Elxsi Ltd., used Autodesk Maya software as the lead 3D modeling, animation and visual effects tool on Roadside Romeo (imdb entry.) VCL also relied on the Autodesk Flame visual effects system to create the film, while Prime Focus used the Autodesk Lustre system for the final color grade. A joint production of Yash Raj Films and Walt Disney Pictures, Roadside Romeo is India's first 3D animated mainstream feature film, as well as the first Hollywood-Bollywood co-production. Written and directed by Jugal Hansraj, Roadside Romeo was released worldwide on October 24, 2008.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-software-shapes-india-s-3d-animated-film.html Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/usb-3-0-specification-released.html CreativeObserver.com The USB 3.0 Promoter Group announced the completion of the USB 3.0 (aka SuperSpeed USB) specification. With up to ten times the transfer rates compared to its predecessor, USB 3.0 controllers are expected to appear in the second half of 2009, with adoption continuing throughout 2010.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/usb-3-0-specification-released.html Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/primatte-v4-for-quantel-systems.html CreativeObserver.com Quantel announced that the latest version of Imagica's Primatte keyer is now available to users of Quantel iQ, eQ and Pablo systems. The Primatte keyer has just been nominated for an Academy Award for Scientific and Technical excellence. Primatte V4 is faster, easier to use than its predecessor, and includes many new features: improved spill, matte and detail sampling tools; floating point/integer calculations; Auto-compute functionality for quick automatic keys; tools for grain removal; and more.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/primatte-v4-for-quantel-systems.html Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/to-boldly-go-where-it-all-started.html CreativeObserver.com Paramount Pictures released a new trailer for its upcoming Star Trek movie (imdb entry). With J.J. Abrams directing and ILM working on about 1000 VFX shots (more), it is one of the most anticipated movies of 2009. Watch it at startrekmovie.com or apple.com. Release Date: 05. 08. 2009.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/to-boldly-go-where-it-all-started.html Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digieffects-releases-simulate-camera.html CreativeObserver.com Digieffects announced the latest installment in its Simulate plug-in series for Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro (including CS4). Simulate: Camera comes with three plug-ins (Archive, Overexpose, and Destabilize) and a price tag of $99 US. Archive is a straightforward "film degradation/contamination" type effect; Overexpose adds a sense of dynamic to otherwise stable and predictable footage; and Destabilize is an effect that is useful for emulating a practical camera shake. For more information, read the on-line manual, or (upon registration) download a free trial version.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digieffects-releases-simulate-camera.html Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/intel-core-i7-fastest-processor-on-the-planet.html CreativeObserver.com Intel Corporation introduced its most advanced desktop processor ever, the Intel Core i7 processor. It is the first member of a new family of Nehalem processor designs (45nm) and is the most sophisticated ever built, holding a new world record of 117 for the SPECint_base_rate2006 benchmark test that measures the performance of a processor. This is the first time ever for any single processor to exceed a score of 100 points. Each Core i7 processor features an 8MB level 3 cache and three channels of DDR3 1066 memory to deliver excellent memory performance, and has TDP of 130W. For more information, read the 'Dr. Pat Gelsinger - Intel Core i7: The Fastest Processor on the Planet' PDF keynote presentation transcript, PDF Product Brief, 'The Intel Core i7 Processor Tips the Performance Scales', and other documents.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/intel-core-i7-fastest-processor-on-the-planet.html Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/toon-boom-animate-responding-to-digital-animators-specific-needs.html CreativeObserver.com Toon Boom Animation Inc. announced the release of Toon Boom Animate, a new creative animation software with advanced tools to create cut-out and digital animation. Embedded in a flexible environment, the software delivers vector and bitmap animation tools, symbols, pegs, multiplane camera, morphing, advanced inverse kinematics, advanced lip sync, library building, intelligent color IDs, and more. Toon Boom Animate can import most leading file formats, including MOV, SWF, PSD, AI and PDF, as well as export to video in MOV and FLV, and is available now for Mac OS X (Intel) and Windows XP / Vista platforms. Valid until December 25, 2008, Toon Boom Animate is sold at the launch special of $699 US or $399 US when cross-grading from Toon Boom Studio; estimated street price for Toon Boom Animate is $999 US. To download a free Personal Learning Edition, register here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/toon-boom-animate-responding-to-digital-animators-specific-needs.html Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/more-details-on-red-scarlet-and-epic-cameras.html CreativeObserver.com RED Digital Cinema Camera Company released new information on its upcoming digital cameras Scarlet and EPIC including upgrade paths for owners of the current RED ONE model, pricing information, and approximate release dates. See the new bits of information on red.com Web site and reduser.net forums.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/more-details-on-red-scarlet-and-epic-cameras.html Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/t-racks-3-beyond-mastering.html CreativeObserver.com Italian music software specialist IK Multimedia Production shipped its high-end mixing and mastering plug-in suite T-RackS 3. It offers a full set of classic tube-toned and transparent digital mixing and mastering tools for every step in the recording process, combining 5 new processors (including models based on the legendary Fairchild 670 compressor and the Pultec EQP-1A equalizer, an Opto Compressor and 2 new digital processors) and upgraded versions of the 4 classic T-RackS models. A new modular processing chain provides fast navigation and A-B-C-D compare options, and a new complete metering section makes it easy to view every aspect of the final mix. Also newly introduced were: built-in metering section with Peak, Perceived Loudness, Phase, and RMS meters, plus a Spectrum analyzer; stand-alone and plug-in (AU, VST, RTAS) versions available in the same package; high-fidelity oversampling; and SCC technology coupled with IK's unique DSM technology for realistic emulation of vintage gear. T-RackS 3 is now available from IK's on-line store and international network of dealers and resellers for 379.99 EUR / $499.99 US for the Deluxe version, and 229.99 EUR / $299.99 US for a reduced price cross-grade version (available to all registered users of any IK product). Also available is T-RackS 3 Standard, which includes the 4 Classic T-RackS processors, at a price of 149.99 US / $199.99 US. For more information, download a 10-day Demo Version (requires registration) and watch the Video Demos.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/t-racks-3-beyond-mastering.html Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/red-giant-warp-shadows-reflections-and-corner-point-warps.html CreativeObserver.com Red Giant Software, publisher of Magic Bullet, Knoll Light Factory and Trapcode VFX plug-in products, introduced Red Giant Warp, a package of three plug-ins giving ultimate control over shadows, reflections and corner point warps. The Shadow tool renders realistic shadows for text or subjects shot on greenscreen, while the Reflection tool creates mirror-like reflections. The advanced Corner Pin tool includes features for working with warped images, importing tracking data from Mocha for After Effects, and adding secondary transforms and motion blur. Priced at $199 US, Warp is available now for After Effects CS3/CS4, Premiere Pro CS3/CS4, Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Avid AVX 2 hosts. Trial version can be downloaded here (direct links: Mac OS X version, or a Windows one.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/red-giant-warp-shadows-reflections-and-corner-point-warps.html Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/glu3d-for-3ds-max-updated-to-v1-3-23.html CreativeObserver.com Particle-based fluid simulator glu3D for Autodesk 3ds Max (as well as Maya) has been updated to version 1.3.23. The new version now includes a node object called gluBaker that allows playing previously calculated caches without loading main glu3D node in a scene. It has user controls like offset and scale that allows adjusting time to scene needs. The plug-in costs 495 EUR and can be purchased at 3daliens.com. Demo versions are also available (direct links: glu3D v1.3.23 for 3ds Max 9 and later, glu3D v1.3.22 for Maya 8.5 and up.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/glu3d-for-3ds-max-updated-to-v1-3-23.html Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/pixar-second-up-trailer-on-line.html CreativeObserver.com Pixar has released a second trailer for its upcoming (29 May 2009) animated movie 'Up' (imdb entry). Watch it at apple.com (direct links: Small, Medium, Large, HD 480p, HD 720p, HD 1080p.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/pixar-second-up-trailer-on-line.html Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/auto-tune-efx-now-available.html CreativeObserver.com Audio plug-in developer Antares Audio Technologies announced the availability of Auto-Tune EFX, an affordable and easy-to-use tool for real-time pitch correction and creating the Auto-Tune Vocal Effect (i.e., the T-Pain/Cher-style effect.) Powered by the same Evo Voice Processing Technology as Antares' Auto-Tune Evo, the latest generation of the worldwide standard in professional pitch correction, Auto-Tune EFX makes Antares-quality pitch processing accessible to anyone engaged in computer-based audio recording. Auto-Tune EFX provides two different flavors of the Auto-Tune Vocal Effect as well as real-time pitch correction. Compared to Evo, it lacks the graphical pitch shifting functions, format correction and throat modeling algorithms... Through the end of 2008, Auto-Tune EFX is available exclusively at Guitar Center stores and on-line at guitarcenter.com. A 10-day demo version can be downloaded at this location. For RTAS, VST, and Audio Units hosts running on Mac OS X and Windows systems.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/auto-tune-efx-now-available.html Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/akvis-magnifier-2-0-enlarges-digital-pictures.html CreativeObserver.com Image processing software specialist AKVIS Software Inc. updated its Magnifier plug-in for Photoshop. It is designed for high-quality image enlargement without the usual bicubic interpolation artifacts; version 2.0 adds stand-alone mode, batch processing, support of image editing in Lab mode, new interface languages and more. Available for both Mac OS X and Windows systems, AKVIS Magnifier Home License (plug-in or stand-alone) sells for $129 US or 99 EUR, or $249 US / 190 EUR in case of the commercial 'Business' license. Update is offered free of charge to all current users. 10-day Trial version can be downloaded here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/akvis-magnifier-2-0-enlarges-digital-pictures.html Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/vue-7-xstream-and-vue-7-infinite-ship.html CreativeObserver.com E-on Software announced the availability of its flagship solutions for the creation of natural 3D environments: Vue 7 xStream and Vue 7 Infinite. Vue 7 xStream represents a totally new paradigm in terms of integration and workflow. All Vue tools are now fully integrated in the host application - i.e. Autodesk 3ds Max and Maya, SOFTIMAGE|XSI, MAXON CINEMA 4D or NewTek LightWave 3D - providing direct access to the most advanced 3D environment creation technologies. Vue 7 Infinite offers scenery creation and animation tools in a stand-alone package. Both products were also include EcoSystem 3 technology, Spectral 2 cloud technology for highly realistic volumetric 3D clouds and cloud layers, new Radiosity engine optimized for indoor and infinite scenery, Water Editor for convincing water animations, faster Global Illumination rendering, and more. Demo videos: Vue 7 xStream Demo, Vue 7 Presentation Video.
Vue 7 xStream retails for $1,495 US, with upgrades available for $595 US. Until February 2, 2009, a special introductory pricing is available on this product, with the full version retailing at $1,195 US and upgrades from Vue 6 xStream at $395 US. Annual subscriptions for Educational licenses of Vue 7 xStream are available for $149/year/seat. Vue 7 Infinite retails for $895 US, with upgrades for $395 US. Annual subscriptions for Educational licenses of Vue 7 Infinite are available for $99/seat/year. Both Vue 7 xStream and Vue 7 Infinite are available immediately for Windows and Mac OS X systems.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/vue-7-xstream-and-vue-7-infinite-ship.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/boris-continuum-unit-film-look.html CreativeObserver.com Boris FX, developer of integrated effects technology for video and film, shipped a new 'Unit' of the Boris Continuum family of visual effects plug-ins, Film Look. It includes the following plug-ins: Film Process (helps to emulate film's dynamic color range and color grade and mimic an infinite variety of analog lens filters, optical processes, and special effects), Film Damage (simulates the appearance of old film stock), Match Grain (takes a snapshot of Telecined media and generates a grain signature which can be used as a matching grain sample for a destination clip), Film Grain (creates an auto-animated noise effect mimicking grain particles in the emulsion of movie or photo film), Deinterlance (converts interlaced video clips into progressive-scan frames), and Prism (used to simulate the photographic effect of chromatic aberration.) Boris Continuum Film Look supports Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Final Cut Pro, and Apple Motion hosts, and is available for an MSRP of $299 US. For more information, download a demo version (requires registration), or read the 'How to Make Video Look Like Film Using BCC 5 FxPlug Filters' tutorial.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/boris-continuum-unit-film-look.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ocula-for-nuke-hits-the-market.html CreativeObserver.com British visual effects software developer The Foundry shipped its previously announced Ocula plug-ins for Nuke 5.1v2. Designed to solve common problems with stereoscopic imagery and accelerate productivity in post production, it is now available for rent or purchase at $10,000 US (for a permanent license.) For more information on products' features, read the PDF Brochure, PDF User Guide, Release Notes, The Role of Ocula in Stereo Post Production PDF paper, or the original Press Release.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ocula-for-nuke-hits-the-market.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genuine-fractals-6-with-batch-processing-and-cs4-support.html CreativeObserver.com onOne Software announced Genuine Fractals 6, the next version of its image resizing plug-in for Photoshop. Version 6 adds several new features including texture presets, a new gallery wrap function (allows to increase the edge areas of the image by reflecting or stretching the margins to allow for canvas wrapping), batch processing, tiling for smaller printers and support for Adobe Photoshop CS4, Adobe Photoshop CS4 Extended (on both Mac OS X and Windows platforms), and Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2. Available in November in two editions, Professional, and Standard (compare the features here), for $299.95 and $159.95 US respectively. Upgrades from previous versions are available for $99.95 US. Demo not yet available.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genuine-fractals-6-with-batch-processing-and-cs4-support.html Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genetica-3-0-ships.html CreativeObserver.com Spiral Graphics Inc. released a new version of its Windows-only seamless texture and graphics application, Genetica 3.0. For information on new features, read our previous article, for version comparison and prices, visit this page. A video demonstration of the new features is also available, as are the demo versions of all the released editions.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genetica-3-0-ships.html Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-fusion-6-video-teaser-on-line.html CreativeObserver.com eyeon Software updated its vfxpedia.com Web site with new video teasers for its flagship compositing application Fusion 6, as well as its collaborative VFX solution Generation. The videos can be downloaded here (direct links: Fusion 6 Teaser Large, Small; Generation Teaser Large, Small.) ]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-fusion-6-video-teaser-on-line.html Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ez-sound-releases-a-new-bass-synth.html CreativeObserver.com EZ-SOUND, developers of "easy to use" VSTi sound modules and sample packs without compromised sound quality and originality, have released a new Bass-Pro VST instrument. It is a monophonic bass synth for Windows designed by a mastering engineer and features optimized compression & EQ, slide / portamento on overlapping notes, balanced distorsion / saturation, low CPU usage, and VST automation. For more information on the plug-in, listen to the audio demo MP3, or download a demo version. Full license costs $19 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ez-sound-releases-a-new-bass-synth.html Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/artbeats-introduces-footage-shot-with-the-red-one-camera.html CreativeObserver.com Royalty-free stock footage shot on the RED ONE digital camera is now available from Artbeats, with an initial release of more than 350 clips. Available for individual download, this new footage can be purchased for $399 US each for 4K and 3K clips, and $299 US for 2K clips (available size and aspect ratio varies per clip); RAW (.R3D) files are an additional $100 after purchase of a hi-res clip. Low-res clips are available for $79 US each. The clips are eligible for the current 'Buy 3, Get 4th Free' clip discount. Additionally, NTSC, PAL and HD RED sourced clips will also be available. For more information or to view the RED footage demo, visit the Artbeats website.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/artbeats-introduces-footage-shot-with-the-red-one-camera.html Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-to-acquire-softimage.html CreativeObserver.com In a surprising move, Autodesk, Inc. announced it will acquire substantially all of the assets of Avid's Softimage business unit for approximately $35 million. Upon completion of the acquisition, Autodesk intends to continue developing and selling Softimage's core product line, while integrating certain Softimage technology into future versions of Autodesk solutions and products. Autodesk plans to acquire and continue developing the SOFTIMAGE|XSI (including XSI Essentials, XSI Advanced, XSI Academic, XSI Mod Tool and the XSI software development kit); SOFTIMAGE|Face Robot (a complete software solution for easily rigging and animating 3D faces); SOFTIMAGE|Cat (advanced character animation system for Autodesk 3ds Max intended to be integrated into the 3ds Max product line in the future); and SOFTIMAGE|Crosswalk (interoperability solution intended to be integrated with Autodesk's own interoperability technology.) Autodesk anticipates that the acquisition will be completed in November 2008. For more information read the following PDF documents: Autodesk to Acquire Softimage, Autodesk & Softimage Fact Sheet, Questions and Answers Related to the Acquisition.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-to-acquire-softimage.html Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mu-lab-2-01-hits-the-market.html CreativeObserver.com MUTOOLS released final version 2.01 of its 'virtual music studio' MU.LAB. Highlights of the new release are: new high quality sampler; integrated synth 'Synthia'; drag and drop support; improved multi-monitor support; optimized VST plug-in support; smart plug-in bypass system to avoid unnecessary CPU load; enhanced MIDI controller mapping; and more. Out now for Windows and Mac OS X in two flavors - MU.LAB Free and MU.LAB Unlimited (49 EUR).]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mu-lab-2-01-hits-the-market.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/openoffice-org-3-0-available-for-download.html CreativeObserver.com Following three years of continuous development, OpenOffice.org - an Open Source office software suite for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, graphics, databases, and more - has now reached the landmark version 3.0. With a host of new features including native support for Mac OS X, it is now available for download.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/openoffice-org-3-0-available-for-download.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/nvidia-quadro-cx-accelerates-adobe-creative-suite-4.html CreativeObserver.com NVIDIA introduced its new accelerator for Adobe Creative Suite 4 software, the NVIDIA Quadro CX. It was created to deliver the best performance for the new GPU-optimized features of Adobe Creative Suite 4; Users can encode H.264 videos at lightning-fast speeds with the NVIDIA CUDA-enabled plug-in for Adobe Premiere Pro CS4, RapiHD from Elemental Technologies; accelerate rendering time for advanced effects; and accurately preview what deliverables will look like with 30-bit color or uncompressed 10-bit/12-bit SDI before final output. NVIDIA Quadro CX is available for an MSRP of $1,999 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/nvidia-quadro-cx-accelerates-adobe-creative-suite-4.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-fbx-2009-3-technology-available.html CreativeObserver.com Autodesk released a new version of its FBX technology. This comprehensive, platform-independent 3D data interchange solution, with published source code for the reader/writer that enables users to extend and adapt it for use in custom pipelines, consists of 3ds Max FBX plug-in (redesigned and customizable user interface, 3ds Max Bake Animation feature, Improved file I/O performance, reduced memory footprint, HLSL hardware shader support, and more), Maya FBX plug-in (redesigned interface, speed and memory usage optimizations, CgFX hardware shader support etc.), and the FBX 2009.3 SDK (optimized Object Model, Improved file load time, improvements to the COLLADA 1.4 file importer/exporter, published source for FBX and COLLADA reader and writer, support for user-defined objects, IPV6 compliance, improved material support, CGFX/HLSL hardware shaders.) For more information, read the FBX SDK Overview PDF and other FBX-related documents. Download any or all of the above here (requires registration.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/autodesk-fbx-2009-3-technology-available.html Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digital-heaven-releases-loader-for-final-cut-pro.html CreativeObserver.com Digital Heaven, a third party developer for Apple Pro Applications, announced the release of Loader, a companion application for Final Cut Pro that streamlines the process of importing media. Loader works alongside Final Cut Pro (launching and quitting automatically) and appears as a small tab on the left side of the screen. When tracks from iTunes or files/folders from the Finder are dragged onto the tab, it slides out to reveal a list of projects currently open in Final Cut Pro. After dropping the items onto the desired project, Loader copies them in the background to the assigned media folder linked to that project. In addition, those audio file formats that don't play nicely in Final Cut Pro (.caf, .m4a and mp3) are automatically converted to a 16-bit 48kHz AIFF file before import. Loader works with Final Cut Pro 6.0.2 (or later) and costs $49 US. A fully functional 14-day trial version can be downloaded from the Digital Heaven website.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digital-heaven-releases-loader-for-final-cut-pro.html Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/sonalksis-releases-plug-in-suite-for-mastering-engineers.html CreativeObserver.com The newly released Sonalksis Mastering Suite consists of a select range of plug-ins for mastering engineers, producers and other audio post-production professionals. It contains MultiLimit, a multiband mastering limiter with five independent frequency bands separated by linear phase crossovers providing EQ and dynamics functionality; maximizing mastering limiter MaxLimit with a true analogue quality clip/smoothing option, K-metering and dither; StereoTools, a complete stereo imaging, metering and manipulation tool; and Ultimate-D, an end-chain mastering tool providing 'dither' for digital resolution enhancement. All the plug-ins are available in VST, AU, DirectSound and RTAS versions (TDM versions will be released later in the year), depending on platform, for Mac OS X 10.4 (and higher) and Windows XP / Vista with prices ranging from $219,99 for a single plug-in or $599,99 US for the whole Mastering Suite.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/sonalksis-releases-plug-in-suite-for-mastering-engineers.html Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/arturia-ships-origin.html CreativeObserver.com French virtual instrument specialist Arturia shipped Origin, the company's first hardware synthesizer. It is a hardware DSP system that houses several synthesizers in one machine. Some of these synths come from the past, such as the Minimoog, some are totally new and innovative. Users will be able to create their own synthesis patches by connecting independent modules (such as Arturia Galaxy, Moog Modular, Yamaha CS-80, Roland Jupiter-8, ARP 2600 etc.); also of note is the superb audio quality with TAE engine in a hardware chassis; high-quality real-time phaser, chorus, delay, reverb, and other effects; 500 presets created by a selection of international sound designers; multi mode allowing to play 4 instruments at a time; and more. The sound examples are available at this location. Origin is available now for an MSRP of $3200 US / 2490 EUR.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/arturia-ships-origin.html Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/re-vision-effects-fixes-premiere-pro-compatibility-issues.html CreativeObserver.com Twixtor, ReelSmart Motion Blur (RSMB) and FieldsKit video effects plug-ins to specifically address issues of crashing and hanging that users were experiencing within Premiere Pro. The products released are Twixtor 4.5.9, REMB 3.2.5 and FieldsKit 2.0.1, and are the After Effects-compatible versions that work within Premiere Pro. All the updates ara available free of charge for all register users.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/re-vision-effects-fixes-premiere-pro-compatibility-issues.html Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/rhinoceros-file-translator-for-modo-released.html CreativeObserver.com Luxology LLC, creators of 3D modeling and rendering application modo, released a new 3DM file translator that allows modo users to exchange files with Rhinoceros ("Rhino"), the popular 3D design tool from Robert McNeel and Associates. It allows to both read and write meshed 3DM files, greatly enhancing workflow for users working in industrial design, design visualization, package design and marketing content development. Available from luxology.com, the new 3DM translator is based on Robert McNeel and Associates' OpenNURBS library and is available in both Mac OS and Windows versions for an MSRP of $99 US (but is currently being provided at no charge to all registered modo users via their user accounts on the Luxology Web site.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/rhinoceros-file-translator-for-modo-released.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/exocortex-to-develop-fluid-dynamics-simulator-for-softimage-xsi.html CreativeObserver.com Softimage Co. announced it has entered into a strategic development relationship with Exocortex Technologies, a privately held software company, to develop a next-generation interactive fluid simulation solution that will utilize the new Softimage ICE platform. Softimage and Exocortex Technologies are currently in a technology development relationship, and at this time have no product announcements.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/exocortex-to-develop-fluid-dynamics-simulator-for-softimage-xsi.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/newtek-datalink-connects-tricaster-and-vt-5-to-external-feeds-and-databases.html CreativeObserver.com NewTek Inc. announced the release of DataLink, a TriCaster (2.0 or higher) and VT[5] (5.2 or higher) plug-in that links data from external feeds, files or databases to display real-time, rapidly-changing information, such as statistics, scores, times and other dynamic information. DataLink provides dedicated support for several different brands of existing systems, including Daktronics, IDS, OES and White Way, and is compatible with any application that supports connection strings, including database servers. DataLink is available now for $995 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/newtek-datalink-connects-tricaster-and-vt-5-to-external-feeds-and-databases.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-lightwave-3d-9-5-videos.html CreativeObserver.com NewTek posted several videos demonstrating new features of its 3D solution LightWave 3D 9.5. View them on NewTek's discussion forums, or download directly: Snapping to Item Position in Layout, Introduction to Make Joint Chain, Bone Display Options, Introduction to Headlight, Introduction to the Dome Light, Introduction to the Spherical Light, Creating a Reverse Foot Rig with Joints, Creating a Piston Rig in 9.5, Dynamic Parenting in 9.5, IK/FK Blending in 9.5, Bone Displacement in 9.5, Introduction to the Twist option in the Bone Properties Panel, Creating a Face Rig with Joints / Source Files, Creating a Reverse Foot Rig with Zero Nulls.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/new-lightwave-3d-9-5-videos.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/imagesynth-2-compatible-with-adobe-creative-suite-4.html CreativeObserver.com Luxology announced the release of imageSynth 2, the newest version of its seamless texture generator designed in cooperation with French specialist Allegorithmic. The software allows to quickly create a new synthetic image based on areas of interest that are identified in one or more source images, and its latest version features up to ten times faster performance, new stand-alone version, compatibility with Adobe Creative Suite 4, dual-core specific optimizations, improved memory management and new control over chunk size and orientation. imageSynth 2 is available now for for Windows and Mac OS X-based workstations, and is priced at $99 US. Existing users can upgrade for $49 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/imagesynth-2-compatible-with-adobe-creative-suite-4.html Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mudbox-2009-released.html CreativeObserver.com Autodesk has released the latest version of its digital sculpting software, Mudbox 2009. Also available is a new 30-day trial version, and an on-line help web page. Read our previous announcement for information on new features and pricing. You can buy the software using Autodesk's on-line shop.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mudbox-2009-released.html Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digidesign-previews-pro-tools-8.html CreativeObserver.com At this year's 125th AES Convention, Digidesign announced several new products and upgrades - including the new Pro Tools 8 featuring a new interface, dozens of new plug-ins and virtual instruments, exciting new scoring and MIDI features, expanded editing and mixing capabilities, enhanced performance, and more (PDF Infosheet, DigidesignTV.) Pro Tools 8 is coming soon for Pro Tools|HD, Pro Tools LE, and Pro Tools M-Powered systems; exact release dates and pricing details were not yet disclosed. Also announced were 003 Rack+ Factory, virtual instrument and effect pack Music Production Toolkit 2, and Complete Production Toolkit, the most powerful expansion option for Pro Tools LE.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/digidesign-previews-pro-tools-8.html Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/exrtrader-for-lightwave-3d-updated-to-v1-2.html CreativeObserver.com db&w's OpenEXR support plug-in for LightWave 3D, exrTrader, has been updated to version 1.2. This maintenance update is available for both Windows (32- and 64-bit) and Mac OS X systems and comes with the following changes and fixes: support for Janus (multi-pass rendering system for LW), added display gamma and gamma correction for buffers, un-multiply by alpha option for buffers, LightWave 3D 9.5 compatible metadata support, and more. The update is free for registered users (download it here), full license is priced at 39 EUR.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/exrtrader-for-lightwave-3d-updated-to-v1-2.html Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/zbrush-3-12-for-mac-intel-available.html CreativeObserver.com ZBrush 3 has been released! Read our previous article for more information.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/zbrush-3-12-for-mac-intel-available.html Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/urs-saturation-plug-in-updated-to-v2-0.html CreativeObserver.com Audio software specialist Unique Recording Software updated its URS Saturation plug-in to version 2.0. The new plug-in, designed to simulate the sound of vintage analog recording paths (read the original announcement), adds two new preamplifier saturation algorithms ('Class A Tube Mic Pre Amplifier - 1951', 'Class A Tube Mic Pre Amplifier - Tape Deck'), as well as tape head saturation, and transformer core saturation. URS Saturation supports RTAS, Audio Units and VST hosts running on both Windows and Mac OS X workstations, and can be purchased for an introductory price of $199.99 US ($249.99 US MSRP). Users of the previous version are eligible for a free upgrade. The 10-day trial version requires registration and an iLok...]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/urs-saturation-plug-in-updated-to-v2-0.html Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/more-support-for-the-reds.html CreativeObserver.com Eyeon (PR) and Avid (PR, dedicated web site, Workflow Guide), makers of video-postproduction software, announced their support for the .r3d file format used by the RED ONE camera.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/more-support-for-the-reds.html Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/gimp-2-6-with-revamped-gui-and-32-bit-internal-processing.html CreativeObserver.com Version 2.6 of the GNU Image Manipulation Program - or GIMP - brings user interface enhancements (toolbox merged with the image window menubar, ability to pan beyond image border...) as well as important internal changes, most notably porting of all color processing operations to the powerful graph-based framework GEGL (activate using Colors / Use GEGL option.) See the Release Notes web page for more information on new features. Free downloads: Windows (15MB), English Help (22MB), Linux, Mac OS X.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/gimp-2-6-with-revamped-gui-and-32-bit-internal-processing.html Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/unwrella-helps-unwrap-max-models.html CreativeObserver.com German games and video production company 3D-IO released an open beta of its upcoming Max plug-in Unwrella. It is a new plug-in for Autodesk 3D Studio Max 9, 2008 and 2009 (both 32- and 64-bit versions) providing a 'one-click-solution' to texture unwrapping with minimum stretching. Download the open beta here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/unwrella-helps-unwrap-max-models.html Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/photoshop-cs4-with-content-aware-scaling-and-gpu-acceleration.html CreativeObserver.com After the first introduction at Photoshop World 2008 (more), Adobe finally officially unveiled upcoming versions of its flagship image editing applications, Photoshop CS4 and Photoshop CS4 Extended. Photoshop CS4 comes packed with Content-Aware Scaling algorithms to intelligently size and scale images based on their content; GPU hardware acceleration enabling smooth smooth pan, zoom, and Canvas Rotation; enhanced Auto-align and Auto-blend modes; simplified image Adjustments; and more. The Extended edition adds the ability to manipulate 3D imagery (paint directly on 3D models and surfaces, merge 2D files onto 3D images and animate 3D objects); stack multiple medical image scans (DICOM) into a single volume; more efficient single-key shortcuts, etc. Feature-wise, both editions are compared in this comparison table. For more information on products' features, read Adobe's What's New PDF document.
New Photoshop CS4 for Mac OS X (on Intel-based and PowerPC systems) and for Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista platforms (32- and 64-bit) are scheduled to ship October 2008 with ESPs as follows: $699 US for Adobe Photoshop CS4 ($199 US for an upgrade) and $999 US for Photoshop CS4 Extended ($349 US).]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/photoshop-cs4-with-content-aware-scaling-and-gpu-acceleration.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/indesign-and-illustrator-cs4-to-contain-new-productivity-features.html CreativeObserver.com New versions of DTP, and vector graphics applications InDesign CS4 and Illustrator CS4, respectively, will ship during October 2008, announced Adobe. With the latest InDesign release, designers can export an InDesign document as an XFL file and then open it in Adobe Flash CS4 Professional to add interactivity; use Live Preflight feature to uncover potential production problems; take advantage of the Conditional Text feature to quickly produce multiple versions of a document; create documents with cross-references that dynamically update as content is changed; quickly align, space, rotate, and resize single or multiple objects with the help of Smart Guides; and more (What's New PDF document.) Prices: Preorder for $699 US or upgrade for $199 US (upgrade paths.)
Adobe Illustrator CS4 comes with enhanced gradient functionality (transparency and interactive gradient editing); the ability to create files containing up to 100 artboards of varying sizes; separations preview; Blob Brush tool that generates a single clean vector shape, even when strokes overlap; and more (What's New PDF document.) ESP: Preorder for $599 US or $199 US in case of an upgrade (upgrade paths.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/indesign-and-illustrator-cs4-to-contain-new-productivity-features.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-s-web-design-applications-updated.html CreativeObserver.com Adobe's upcoming web design applications Dreamweaver CS4, Fireworks CS4, and Flash CS4 Professional will debut this October. Dreamweaver CS4, available as a public beta since May 2008, boasts new Live View feature enabling to design web pages under real-world browser conditions; new user interface; code hinting for Ajax and JavaScript frameworks; Adobe AIR authoring support; HTML Data Sets; and more (What's New PDF document.) Preorder for $399 US or buy an upgrade for $199 US.
Rapid website prototyping and application interface design software Fireworks CS4 will enable to author Adobe AIR applications; design complete web pages with CSS-based layouts; generate protected PDF documents from your Fireworks comps; work faster thanks to overall performance enhancements, from file opening and saving to symbol updates and intensive bitmap and vector operations; and more (What's New PDF document.) Full version is priced at $299 US, upgrade at $149 US.
Animation and authoring software Flash CS4 Professional features object-based animation functionality; 3D transformations; XMP metadata support; new Motion Editor for detailed control over keyframe parameters, including rotation, size, scale, position, or filters; procedural modeling with Deco and Spray Brush; inverse kinematics with the Bones tool; etc. (read the What's New PDF document.) Flash CS 4 Professional comes with a price tag of $699 US (upgrade costs $199 US.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-s-web-design-applications-updated.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/after-effects-and-premiere-pro-new-metadata-and-search-features.html CreativeObserver.com New versions of Adobe's solution for video compositing and editing - Adobe Effects CS4 and Adobe Premiere Pro CS4 - are equipped with new search (QuickSearch in AE will help locate any element in a comp or project, while Speech Search in Premiere Pro turns spoken dialogue into text-based, timecode-accurate, and searchable data) and metadata features (XMP metadata for asset intelligence in After Effects etc.) In addition, After Effects CS4 enables to import Adobe Photoshop 3D layers and improves the 3D compositing workflow (independent keyframing of x, y, z values, new unified camera); imports layered XFL format for Flash CS4; features 2.5D planar tracking application Mocha from from Imagineer Systems; turns live footage into cell animations with using the new Cartoon effect; and more (What's New PDF document.) After Effects CS4 will be released during October 2008 for an MSRP of $999 US or $299 US in case of an upgrade from After Effects CS3, 7.0, or 6.0 - both Standard or Professional.
Non-linear video editing software Premiere Pro CS4 adds tapeless camera support (including AVCHD, P2, XDCAM EX, and XDCAM HD formats); Redesigned Adobe OnLocation CS4; Adobe Media Encoder for batch encoding in the background; Blu-ray Disc authoring with integrated Encore CS4; more than 50 editing enhancements (more keyboard shortcuts, effects applied to multiple selections...); and more (What's New PDF document.) Full version will be priced at $799 US, upgrade prices start at $299 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/after-effects-and-premiere-pro-new-metadata-and-search-features.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/soundbooth-cs4-adds-multitrack-support.html CreativeObserver.com Latest edition of Adobe's sound editing application Soundbooth brings a highly requested multitrack support; enhanced looping tools (now with automatic beat detection); Adobe Sound Document file format that packages multiple tracks into a single container for better interoperability with Adobe Premiere Pro CS4, Flash CS4 Professional, or After Effects CS4 software; automatic volume correction functionality; MP3 compression preview; speech search; and more new or enhanced features (read the What's New PDF document for more information.) Full license is available for and MSRP of $199 US, upgrade from previous version costs $79 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/soundbooth-cs4-adds-multitrack-support.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-creative-suite-4-family-to-ship-in-october.html CreativeObserver.com Adobe announced Creative Suite 4 product family. Adobe’s biggest software release to date includes Adobe Creative Suite 4 Design editions (What's New PDF document), Creative Suite 4 Web editions (What's New PDF document), Creative Suite 4 Production Premium (What's New PDF document), Creative Suite 4 Master Collection (Master Collection at a Glance PDF document), as well as 13 point products, 14 integrated technologies and seven services (more). See our separate announcements for information on new versions of: Photoshop CS4 and Photoshop CS4 Extended, InDesign CS4 and Illustrator CS4, Flash CS4 Professional and Dreamweaver CS4, After Effects CS4 and Adobe Premiere Pro CS4, as well as Soundbooth CS4. See the prices and comparison charts of all the available editions here. Adobe Creative Suite 4 and its associated point products are scheduled to ship in October 2008.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/adobe-creative-suite-4-family-to-ship-in-october.html Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/lwcad-3-0-for-lightwave-3d-released.html CreativeObserver.com W-Tools released a third version or its CAD modeling add-on for LightWave 3D: LWCAD 3.0. New is the support for LightWave 9.5 and Windows Vista, and many modified as well as new tools (for the creation of pyramid roofs, handles, pipes with rounded joints, or Nail tool for mounting objects on walls with defined offset, etc.) For more information on LWCAD's feature set, we recommend watching the new video tutorials and video manual. LWCAD 3.0 is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X (UB) systems and is sold for $299 US ($149 US for current users.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/lwcad-3-0-for-lightwave-3d-released.html Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mudbox-2009-videos.html CreativeObserver.com Autodesk posted a series of videos showing new features of its upcoming modeling application Mudbox 2009 (read our previous news article for more information on features etc.) The QuickTime movies can be watched at this location (direct links: New Sculpting Features Part 1, New Sculpting Features Part 2, New Texture Painting Features, User Interface Enhancements, New Rendering Features.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mudbox-2009-videos.html Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mu-lab-v2-0-pre-released.html CreativeObserver.com MUTOOLS unveiled a pre-release version of its upcoming, ultra-light music creation application MU.LAB 2.0. Following a recent test release, the pre-release version contains many important fixes and improvements (integrated high quality sampler, 'Synthia' synth, drag & drop support, optimized VST plug-in support, and more.), and is compatible with Windows and Mac OS X workstations. You choose to download the free version (6 track limit and mix-down in 16-bit resolution), or pay 49 EUR for the MU.LAB Unlimited.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/mu-lab-v2-0-pre-released.html Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/avid-ds-10-ships.html CreativeObserver.com Avid shipped Avid DS version 10 in the U.S and is scheduled to begin shipping in Europe and Asia Pacific on September 19. Latest version of this professional editing, compositing, keying, image retouching, paint and graphics package (download Product Brief) includes full color-managed workflows, advanced color correction capabilities, Interplay support, improved conform options, GPU real-time processing, additional dual-link feature support, integration with Avid shared-storage solutions, and a new stereoscopic 3D container. The system also offers multi-stream, 10-bit uncompressed HD, Avid DNxHD codec, and finishing and mastering of SD, HD-RGB, and 2K/4K file-based support with real-time playback up to 2K. (More.) Pricing begins at $59,995 US for a turnkey solution, which includes a CPU workstation, 30” monitor, 8TB of Avid VideoRAID storage, a Wacom tablet, one license of Avid DS 10 software, DS 10 RP (Remote Processing), Media Composer software and Avid MetaFuze. Upgrades for existing Avid DS customers are also available.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/avid-ds-10-ships.html Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/sound-devices-introduce-a-new-control-surface-for-788t.html CreativeObserver.com At this year's IBC exhibition, Sound Devices introduced the CL-8 Controller for its 788T portable, eight-track digital audio recorder. The CL-8 is a mixing control surface featuring eight large, rotary faders to control the eight inputs of the 788T; it also offers command over numerous input settings, including high-pass filter, limiter, polarity, and mute; and is able to manage the 788T’s built-in slate mic. With the CL-8, users now have access to two additional recording tracks (Aux 1 and Aux 2) through the CL-8’s associated firmware, for total of 10 record tracks. These new tracks can be used to provide auxiliary sends for more comprehensive setups. Inputs can be assigned to Aux tracks pre- or post-fader. LED’s indicate when signals are present. The CL-8 can be connected to a keyboard through the controller’s USB keyboard pass-through port. No release date or price information were available at press time.
Sound Devices also released a new 788T Firmware Revision 1.11 eliminating a hardware instability which could result in occasional erratic operation of the recorder.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/sound-devices-introduce-a-new-control-surface-for-788t.html Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genetica-3-0-open-beta.html CreativeObserver.com Spiral Graphics Inc. released an Open Beta 5.1 of its upcoming seamless texture creator Genetica 3.0 (see our previous news article for information on features.) The beta requires a Windows workstation with at least 1 GB of RAM and can be downloaded here.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/genetica-3-0-open-beta.html Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/steinberg-updates-nuendo-and-cubase.html CreativeObserver.com Steinberg Media Technologies updated its music and audio (post)production programs Cubase and Nuendo. Cubase and Cubase Studio applications were updated to v4.5.2, which includes several minor enhancements; while Nuendo 4.2 includes a range of improvements to enhance product stability in day-to-day production. Several workflow improvements (new key commands relating to the MediaBay and a new synchronization option) and extended hardware compatibility (MR816) are also part of the new update.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/steinberg-updates-nuendo-and-cubase.html Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/nuke-5-1v2-released.html CreativeObserver.com High-end video-compositing system Nuke, now developed by British VFX plug-in experts The Foundry, has reached version 5.1v2. New features include a Personal Learning Edition (PLE), native support of 64-bit Windows and Linux systems, FBX compatibility, an extended bicubic card providing more control over shape, as well as improved DPX I/O, updated QuickTime export, tiled OFX support to speed up render time, and numerous bug fixes. Nuke 5.1 is available now and is featured on The Foundry stand at IBC 2008. Download the PLE version (for Windows, Linux, or Mac OS X) here.
Also announced were redesigned Tinderbox 1, 2 & 3 plug-in sets for Nuke (now containing over 60 plug-ins in total), and brand new Ocula for Nuke, filters designed to make compositing in stereo easier.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/nuke-5-1v2-released.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/keylight-and-furnace-coming-to-final-cut.html CreativeObserver.com The Foundry, makers of the famous Tinder VFX plug-in line and compositing software Nuke, will be releasing their first ever plug-ins for Apple's Final Cut Pro: Keylight and Furnace. Keylight is an Academy award winning keyer that can handle reflections, semi-transparent areas and hair; while Furnace is a set of plug-ins designed to help with common compositing tasks, i.e. with motion vector retiming, wire removal, clean plating, grain management, non-uniform luma flickering removal etc. No release date and pricing information were available at press time.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/keylight-and-furnace-coming-to-final-cut.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ice-age-3-teaser-trailer-on-line.html CreativeObserver.com The upcoming CGI-animated movie Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (imdb entry) aka Ice Age 3 will hit theaters on July 4, 2009, but FOX and Blue Sky Studios have already released their first official teaser trailer on-line... You can watch it directly on iceagemovie.com or download a QuickTime version off apple.com.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ice-age-3-teaser-trailer-on-line.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ibc-2008-adobe-previews-cs4-and-flash-media-server.html CreativeObserver.com At this year's IBC, Adobe previews the next generation of its Creative Suite family of products (see our previous news brief for more information) and Adobe Flash Media Encoding Server, a high-performance, scalable solution that enables companies to transform existing or archived content into a wide variety of formats, such as Microsoft Windows Media, MPEG-4, DivX, H.264, and others, to FLV or F4V (Press Release, Features, Data Sheet). It is expected to be available worldwide by the end of 2008 at an MSRP of $6,000 US.]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/ibc-2008-adobe-previews-cs4-and-flash-media-server.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/corel-paint-shop-pro-photo-x2-ultimate-edition.html CreativeObserver.com Corel Corporation released Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo X2 Ultimate, new version of its entry-level photo-editing software. Featuring more than $200 worth of free bonus items; enhanced Camera Raw support; 150 custom-made photo frames; new Background Remover (isolates part of a background in an image and removes it); Windows Vista certification; and more, it is available separately ($99.99 US SRP or $59.99 US in case of an upgrade) or as part of a Photo & Video Bundle (includes Corel VideoStudio Pro X2) for and MSRP of $149.99 US. Free Trial version is available at this location (requires registration.)]]> News http://www.creativeobserver.com/news/corel-paint-shop-pro-photo-x2-ultimate-edition.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0