CreativeObserver.com

Discounts from Native Instruments

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Audio software maker Native Instruments announced limited time price discounts of its TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 and STUDIO DRUMMER products. TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 - NI's professional 2-deck, all-in-one DJ system - is currently available for just $399 US / 399 EUR. The S2 brings together the design principles of the revolutionary TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 controller, the full TRAKTOR PRO 2 software and an innovative third channel for Sample Decks, giving you an incredible package at an unbelievable price. The price is valid until March 31, 2012. Virtual drums collection STUDIO DRUMMER is now sold for a bargain price: 50% off ($84.50 US / 74,50 EUR), only while stocks last.

Kinect for Windows 1.0 available for download

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Version 1.0 of Microsoft's Kinect for Windows SDK and runtime were made available for download, and distribution partners in twelve launch countries are starting to ship Kinect for Windows hardware, enabling companies to start deploying their solutions. The suggested retail price is $249 US, and later this year, Microsoft plans to offer special academic pricing of $149 US for Qualified Educational Users. Since Beta 2, Kinect developers made many improvements to the SDK, including support for up to four Kinect sensors plugged into the same computer, improved skeletal tracking, Near Mode for the new Kinect for Windows hardware, which enables the depth camera to see objects as close as 40 centimeters in front of the device, and more.

E-on software ships LumenRT 2 Review for SketchUp

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

E-on software, makers of 3D nature technologies, announced the immediate availability of LumenRT 2 Review, the second generation of the company's interactive visualization product for architectural projects with full physical lighting. The product, currently compatible with SketchUp, is being ported to other platforms. LumenRT 2 hoards a plentiful number of new features and enhancements, including complete physical simulation of light, physically accurate reflections, adjustable time of day, anti-aliasing and motion blur, soft shadows with varying softness, water and underwater effects, photo-realistic skies, and more. LumenRT 2 Review for SketchUp works with both the free and the Pro versions of SketchUp. LumenRT 2 Review for SketchUp retails for $195 US (introductory price, SRP is $295 US) and works in 32- or 64-bit versions of Windows XP, Vista and 7 as well as Intel Mac OS X (v10.6+). Users of the first generation of LumenRT Review for SketchUp are eligible for a free upgrade to LumenRT 2 until February 29, 2012. To support this major release, e-on software also publishes a free trial version of LumenRT 2 for Mac OS X and Windows, available now for download from try.lumenrt.com.

Apple updates Final Cut Pro X

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Apple released Final Cut Pro X version 10.0.3, a significant update to its professional video editing application. Version 10.0.3 introduces Multicam Editing, which automatically syncs up to 64 angles of video and photos; advanced chroma keying for handling complex adjustments right in the app; and enhanced XML for a richer interchange with third-party apps and plug-ins. It also includes a beta version of Broadcast Monitoring that supports Thunderbolt devices as well as PCIe cards (more). Final Cut Pro X version 10.0.3 is available from the Mac App Store for $299.99 US to new users, or as a free update for existing Final Cut Pro X customers.

Blackmagic Design supports Final Cut Pro X 10.0.3 broadcast monitoring

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Blackmagic Design released Desktop Video 9.2 beta 1, a software update for its capture and playback products that adds broadcast monitoring support with the new Final Cut Pro X 10.0.3 update. Broadcast monitoring in Final Cut Pro X 10.0.3 allows video output to external monitors and other equipment using the SDI, HDMI or analog video outputs from Blackmagic Design video hardware. Desktop Video 9.2 beta 1 for Mac OS X is available for download now and is free of charge for all Blackmagic Design customers. This update includes support for all current DeckLink, Multibridge, Intensity and UltraStudio models. Get it from the Blackmagic's web site.

EditShare Ark

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

EditShare, specialists in shared media storage and video editing solutions, announced an updated version of EditShare Ark, their backup and archiving solution for Linux. The new Ark 2.1.3 release features numerous enhancements including a new user interface that displays extensive information about Ark system activity, support for additional tape loaders, and more options for configuring network interfaces to maximize performance across the EditShare tiered storage platform. The new release supports tape libraries from Quantum, Dell and Spectra Logic. The EditShare Ark v2.1.3 update is free to existing EditShare Ark v2 customers with a valid maintenance contract.

Flash Player 11.2 nears release

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Labs published the last beta of Flash Player 11.2 before its final release, as well as the accompanying beta 5 of AIR 3.2 runtime. Flash Player 11.2 for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X platforms adds multi-threaded video decoding; mouse lock, relative mouse coordinates, and right and middle click events for game development; Flash Player background updates (Windows only); a new ThrottleEvent dispatched by the stage when the Flash Player throttles, pauses or resumes content; and relaxed drivers gating (now 1/1/2008). The latest beta can be downloaded here.

Pro Tools 10.0.1 update

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Avid updated its flagship music production software Pro Tools 10.0 and Pro Tools HD 10.0. Version 10.0.1 is an officially qualified and recommended update for all users running Mac OS X 10.6.x, 10.7.x (Lion), and Windows 7, and solves numerous crashes and errors. For a full list of resolved issues, read the Pro Tools 10.0.1 Read Me for Mac OS X or Windows. This release does not support the HDX hardware. If using HD Native hardware, see k429831 to download the Avid NativeCardFlasher and update the HD Native card main and safe image firmware.

Ozone mastering suite updated to v5.02

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

iZotope's audio mastering plug-in suite Ozone 5.0 has been updated to version 5.0.2. The latest version adds improvements to IRC3, enhanced spectrogram functionality with better Meter Tap synchronization, fixes specific to Steinberg WaveLab 7.x, resolved delay compensation issue for sampling rates above 48 kHz and more. Download the free update here .

New Maxwell Render Suite patch v2.6.1

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Spanish developer Next Limit Technologies released a 2.6.1 patch for its unbiased 3D rendering engine Maxwell Render. Version 2.6.1 brings improved sub-surface scattering algorithms, multi-step motion blur for camera movements, speed optimizations, enhanced GUI (the ability to input simple math operations into numeric fields and more), improved SDK, several bug fixes, and more .

Thinkbox Software: XMesh MX and Krakatoa MX 2.0.1

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Thinkbox software updated their 3ds Max particle rendering and management toolkit Krakatoa MX and released a 3ds Max-specific portion of the XMesh Geometry Caching toolset XMesh MX. The XMesh MX product, designed to cache animated scene geometry, consists of the commercial XMesh Saver MX which is used to save geometry data to hard drives, and the free XMesh Loader MX, a scene object for loading, displaying, re-timing and modifying the XMesh file sequence. Krakatoa MX 2.0.1 delivers bug fixes, UI speed-ups, and small features requested by users (more)... The updated version uses the existing 2.0.x license and can also be used in evaluation mode.

GlissEQ 3.5

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

...is an updated version of Voxengo's dynamic parametric equalizer plug-in for Audio Units and VST formats (including native 64-bit support) and Mac OS X (v10.5 and later, Intel-based machines) or Windows platforms. GlissEQ 3.5 adds GUI improvements, as well as 6 dB/oct low-pass and high-pass filters. Full licenses are $99.95 US, free demos can be downloaded here .

Waves Audio unveils V9 plug-ins

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Waves Audio unveils V9, the new version of its acclaimed line of Waves plug-ins. One of Version 9's most highly anticipated features is 64-bit operating system support. Now Waves users can unleash the power of massive amounts of RAM memory in the DAW hosts of their choice. In addition, V9 offers faster scanning, faster loading and faster processing times. V9 also marks the introduction of Waves' new easy-to-use authorization system, Waves License Center, which eliminates use of the iLok. Waves Audio also introduced several new effects, including the InPhase plug-in (developed to correct phasing issues between tracks), the NLS Non-Linear Summing plug-in (models over 100 individual channels for analog-style summing), and the Waves Loudness Meter (WLM) plug-in for precision loudness measurement and metering (available now, for an MSRP of $400 US with a special introductory price of $299 US). Waves V9 will be available Q1 2012.

Waves models the legendary Fairchild 670 compressor. In hardware.

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Engineer and producer Jack Joseph Puig (John Mayer, U2, Lady Gaga) has joined forces with Waves Audio to introduce the PuigChild Hardware Compressor. Modeled on a rare, pristine-condition Fairchild 670 compressor from Puig's personal collection, the PuigChild captures distinctive nuances of the original, along with its advanced compression techniques and sound. Featuring dual mono, linked and lateral vertical stereo modes, 16/24-bit digital I/O with sampling rates up to 96 kHz and high-quality 24-bit A/D and D/A converters, housed in a rugged 2U, 19-inch rack unit, the PuigChild is a world-class compressor, in the studio or on the road. Waves PuigChild is now available at an MSRP of $3,680 US.

Waves teams with Musicsoft Arts to introduce Mashup iPad app

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Waves Audio - in cooperation with Musicsoft Arts - introduces Mashup, an innovative new iPad app. Featuring an advanced playback engine and effects controlled by an intuitive interface, Mashup lets users play and mix directly from their iPad music library, plus download exclusive tracks from leading DJs like Junior Sanchez and Kris Menace. Mashup is a complete mobile DJ booth, with studio-quality EQ and analog-style resonant filters, Vinyl Touch glitch-free scratching, and independent time-stretch and pitch-shift for each of its two stereo decks, saving users thousands of dollars in gear. The Mashup app from Waves Audio and Musicsoft Arts will be available Q1 2012 from the iTunes store with pricing TBA.

Steinberg Nuendo 5.5.2 maintenance update

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Steinberg has released a maintenance update for its music post-production software Nuendo 5. Version 5.5.2 addresses several issues, including the video engine performance and the MediaBay usability. The update is now available free of charge from the Steinberg website. Nuendo 5.5 or later is required to install this update.

DRUMMER: The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Native Instruments launched a comprehensive rework of their successful ABBEY ROAD DRUMS instruments: The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series. These new instruments allow both experienced and hobbyist musicians and producers to create authentic acoustic drum tracks, combining meticulously-sampled drums, recorded at Abbey Road Studios, London, with a comprehensive Groove Library and a detailed Mixer Section with class-A studio effects. This 'Drums, Studio, Drummer' approach was pioneered recently in Native Instruments' STUDIO DRUMMER, and the new ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER instruments use the same technical framework, based on KONTAKT 5. The instruments run in the latest version of KONTAKT 5 or the free KONTAKT 5 PLAYER. Owners of existing ABBEY ROAD DRUMS products are entitled to a free upgrade to the new version of the instruments they own. The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series is now available for $119 US / 99 EUR per instrument. All four instruments are also available as a bundle priced at $349 US / 299 EUR.

MentalCore: Optimize your Maya and mental ray workflow

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

CoreCG, a New Zealand-based R&D company that specializes in creative solutions for CG animation and visual effects, announced the release of MentalCore - a cross-platform, standalone plug-in designed to help artists achieve maximum creativity and efficiency while using NVIDIA mental ray with Autodesk Maya. The software is production-proven and provides enhancements to the standard rendering workflow using Autodesk Maya with NVIDIA mental ray. Suitable for any size studio, MentalCore supports Maya 2011 or Maya 2012 and Windows, Linux and Mac OS X systems, and hosts a user-friendly interface and robust feature set, including a quick access to all global settings and render passes, node-based render pass system, dedicated shader library, support for a linear color workflow, support for ambient occlusion transparency, Python API, and compatibility with a stand-alone version of mental ray... MentalCore is available now as a node locked license at an introductory price of $189 US, or as a floating license for $199 US. A free 30-day trial of MentalCore is also available.

ZBrush 4R2b launched

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Pixologic, Inc. released an updated version of ZBrush, their 3D painting and sculpting software for Windows and Mac OS X systems. I addition to fixes, the 4R2b version introduces several new features, including FiberMesh to create true 3D fibers, fur and hair (which may be sculpted, painted, UV mapped and even exported to other applications), new set of BPR filters and operators to greatly improve your final ZBrush renders, BPR Global Shadow and Ambient Occlusion settings which simplify shadow management, new Cavity Mixer to define different material shaders based on the mesh cavities, improved small details creation through Alphas and Masks, new JPEG Exporter with Crop, Preview and adjustment settings, and more. ZBrush4 R2b is a free update for all registered ZBrush users, new licenses are $699 US.

UA's Apollo audio interface with real-time UAD processing

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Universal Audio announces Apollo, a high-resolution audio interface that combines UA's analog design heritage with UAD Powered Plug-Ins in a sleek, elegant recording system for Mac OS X and Windows-based worsktations. With Apollo, users can track through UAD Powered Plug-Ins in real-time with nearly instant sub-2ms latency, via a professional 18 x 24 FireWire/Thunderbolt-ready (Thunderbolt Option Card sold separately) audio interface that delivers 24-bit/192 kHz sound quality. Apollo's connectivity includes 4 digitally controlled analog mic preamps, 8 balanced line inputs and outputs, dual front-panel JFET DIs, digitally-controlled analog monitor outputs, 8 channels of ADAT, 2 channels of S/PDIF, word clock I/O, FireWire 800 (standard) plus a Thunderbolt expansion bay. The Apollo will be available in both DUO CORE and QUAD CORE processing formats (with either two or four Analog Devices SHARC processors, respectively), shipping in the first quarter of 2012 with an estimated street price of $1,999 US and $2,499 US, respectively. Apollo's Thunderbolt Option Card will be shipping in the first half of 2012, with pricing TBD. The device is compatible with Mac OS X 10.6 and 10.7, Windows 7 support is coming Summer 2012.

TASCAM introduces iU2 audio interface for iOS devices

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

TASCAM, a long-time developer of home recording devices, announced the iU2. TASCAM's iU2 is an audio interface for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. It includes all of the features of TASCAM's best-selling USB audio interfaces, including a pair of high-quality microphone inputs with phantom power. These feed an onboard microphone preamp and A/D converter for better sound performance than those built into iPhone and iPad - true stereo recording with low noise and less tendency to distort. The inputs also accept line-level signals or a high impedance instrument. In addition to compatibility with iOS devices, the iU2 also works with Mac OS and Windows-based computers. A zero-latency monitoring path allows musicians to hear themselves directly through the unit, without any distracting delay. MIDI in and out are provided to interface with synths and drum machines, and a digital output connects to digital mixers or recorders (more).

Steinberg CI2+ Production Kit

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

At this year's NAMM Show, Steinberg unveiled an attractive hardware/software bundle - the CI2+ Production Kit. It combines the acclaimed CI2+ audio interface with the music production software Cubase AI 6 and the audio editing suite WaveLab LE 7. The USB-powered CI2+ unit is an interface and controller in one, with two phantom-powered microphone preamps, one with Hi-Z for direct guitar connection, and two TRS outputs, the innovative AI Knob and dedicated transport buttons.

Adobe Muse beta 5.0.2

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Labs released another beta of Muse, Adobe's upcoming visual design tool for web pages. Muse (codename) enables designers to create websites as easily as creating a layout for print using the latest web standards, and without writing code. Muse beta 5.0.2 addresses issues raised by customers and adds several performance enhancements. Muse beta runs on Windows and Mac OS-based machines and is complimentary until the 1.0 release in early 2012. When released, it will be priced between $15 - $20 US/month.

cebas releases Service Pack 7 for finalRender 3.5

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Cebas Visual Technology Inc. announced the release of the 7th and latest Service Pack for its 3ds Max renderer finalRender 3.5 and finalRender 3.5 SE as well as for the integrated and stand-alone plug-in finalToon. Service Pack 7 features performance improvements (up to 20 times faster Scatter speed, faster shadow computation and more) as well as fixes in the areas of network rendering, memory allocation, foreign materials usage, and others. Current users can log into my.cebas.com and obtain the latest Service Pack from their "View Product Registrations" account menu, free of charge.

Massive Importer 1.5: Full version for 3ds Max available

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Massive Importer for 3ds Max 2011 and 2012 (64-bit versions), a specialized tool designed to import MASSIVE crowd simulations, has been released in version 1.5. The full version introduces Geometry Cache support, support for unlimited number of Agents, the ability to import textures, Clone Geometry node, and more. The cost of the software is $700 US for an annual license.

MOTU debuts Digital Performer for Windows

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

MOTU has unveiled Digital Performer version 8, a major upgrade to their flagship audio workstation software. Digital Performer 8 will be available for both Mac OS X and Windows 7 systems (32- as well as 64-bit versions), and will add many new features, including a new video playback engine, Punch Guard confidence recording, 14 new user interface themes, and 15 new included plug-ins. Among the plug-ins to be included with DP8 are two new classic guitar amp models, a bass cabinet model, several classic guitar pedals, modeled analog delay, a multi-band dynamic equalizer, a de-esser, the Subkick kick drum enhancer, and Springamabob, a modeled vintage spring reverb processor. Digital Performer 8 will ship Spring, 2012. Pricing is TBA.

RenderMan On Demand: New cloud rendering service from Pixar

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Pixar Animation Studios launched a new cloud rendering service called "RenderMan On Demand." Developed in collaboration with cloud services provider GreenButton, this service is now available on Microsoft's Windows Azure, with Linux availability following later in 2012. "RenderMan On Demand" offers nearly instantaneous burst rendering access to hundreds and even thousands of additional cores, enabling artists and studios to deliver the highest-quality cinematic imagery with unprecedented economy and efficiency. For more information about this new service, refer to the RenderMan On Demand FAQ. Pricing is based on the cloud computing industry metric of a CPU core hour, consisting of RenderMan license(s), computer (core) processing charges, and GreenButton managed service fees for one hour (or part thereof) and may vary depending on performance requirements.

Arturia's ARP 2600 virtual synth reaches v2.5

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Arturia has updated its virtual instrument ARP 2600 V to version 2.5, which includes 64-bit VST and AU versions, MIDI control assignment improvements, support for Pro Tools 9 & 10, and compatibility with Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion). The update is offered free of charge, full licenses cost $249 US / 229 EUR. An unlimited, 15-day trial version can be downloaded here .

Irudis Tonalizer VFX plug-in updated

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Irudis, an imaging software company, announced a free update to its Tonalizer VFX video color grading plug-in for Final Cut Pro. The updated version adds Detail Sharpener for enhancement of fine details and CineStyle LUT support for pre-grading using the Technicolor CineStyle picture style profile for Canon EOS DSLR cameras. Tonalizer VFX is compatible with Apple Final Cut Pro X 10.0.1, Final Cut Pro 7, Final Cut Express 4.0.1, and Apple Motion 4 an up. New users can purchase the product at an introductory price of $89.50 US until January 20, 50% off the regular price of $179 US. A trial version is available at this location (requires registration).

Glimpse the future of REAKTOR

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

German virtual instruments and audio effects software maker Native Instruments published a new video showing the future developments of TRAKTOR, its acclaimed DJ software and hardware. With stylish multi-color pads to trigger loops and samples, the upcoming new TRAKTOR software and controller provide a workflow rooted in DJ culture. Check out the video (left) and catch a glimpse of how TRAKTOR's next revolution will remix your DJ set into a dynamic creative event.

Steinberg's WaveLab 7 updated

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Steinberg released a maintenance update for all three versions of WaveLab 7, company's audio editing and mastering software for Windows and Mac OS X systems. The 7.2.1 update addresses some crash bugs and other issues reported by users (more). WaveLab 7.2.1 update is now available free of charge from the Steinberg website.

Neon and Karlette plug-ins revived

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Steinberg revived another two (read about the first two) of their long-discontinued VST plug-ins: Neon and Karlette. Neon is a polyphonic synth featuring two oscillators, ADSR envelopes, an LFO and a resonant filter. Karlette, a vintage-style tape delay effect, features four independent delay heads and tempo sync. As these revived products remain discontinued, their updates are not officially supported. Both instruments are available in VST 2.4 plug-in format (32- and 64-bit, for Windows and Mac OS X) and can be downloaded free of charge from the steinberg.net .

The Foundry: A beta of HIERO now available

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Visual effects software experts The Foundry released a beta version of their HIERO software (more on features). HIERO 1.0v1b2 betas for Mac OS X (64-bit) and Linux (64-bit), are available here. A 64-bit Windows version of HIERO 1.0 will be made available soon. For more information, read the Release Notes or the preliminary User Guide. Full version is slated for a February release.

Massive Importer 1.5 beta for 3ds Max

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Massive Importer for 3ds Max, a tool designed to import MASSIVE crowd simulations into Max, has been released in v1.5 beta. The beta is limited by 100 agents and automatically imports skeleton, geometry, skin weighting data as well as textures. Among the new features are: Clone Geometry Node, the ability to import textures, Instance/Copy Material functionality and more. Full commercial version will add Geometry Cache support and unlimited number of agents... Maya and Houdini versions are in the works. More here.

E-on ships Vue 10 Linux rendering solutions

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

E-on Software announced the immediate availability of Vue 10 RenderNodes for Linux, the company's first Linux-based rendering solution. High profile VFX facilities such as Dreamworks Animation, Weta Digital and ILM have been requesting Linux-based Vue RenderNodes for years. E-on software is happy to announce that this option is now available to any production facility, big or small, that uses a Linux based renderfarm. The Vue Linux RenderNodes retail for $300 US/seat and licenses are immediately available from e-on software's online store. Linux RenderNodes are subject to a 20% yearly renewal fee. The RenderNodes currently run on CentOS 64 bit Linux distribution, Kernel 2.6. Facilities interested in purchasing Vue RenderNodes for other Linux distributions should contact e-on software for availability.

Magic Bullet Suite 11.2 with Avid Media Composer support

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Red Giant Software released an updated version of its video plug-in collection Magic Bullet Suite 11. Version 11.2 adds Magic Bullet Looks support for Avid Media Composer 5.5 and 6 (but still no Apple Final Cut Pro X support, here is why), as well as an updated installer that has individual product install options.

Adobe Acrobat 10.1.2 update

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe updated its PDF creation applications Adobe Acrobat 10 and 9.x, as well as Adober Reader software. The updates provide system requirement enhancements, mitigation for security issues, improved overall stability, bug fixes, and feature enhancements (more). Update links: Adobe Reader for Mac OS X, Adobe Reader for Windows, Adobe Acrobat for Mac OS X , Adobe Acrobat for Windows.

glu3D GPU Edition for 3ds Max

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Glu3D, a fluid dynamic simulation system for Autodesk's 3dsMax, Maya and Softimage, has been released in a CUDA GPU-accelerated version for 3ds Max. It speeds up intensive computations that glu3D performs to calculate particle fluid dynamics. With this glu3D edition it is possible to simulate more complex simulations faster, some scenes reaching interactive performance. The plug-in works within 3ds Max versions 9 to 2012 in both architectures, x64 and x86. For more information on functionality, watch the video introduction or download a trial version. Full licenses are available for 595 EUR, non-accelerated version costs 395 EUR.

Adobe Carousel becomes Adobe Revel

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe's successful (almost 4 million downloads in just a few months) on-line photo library and editing software for iPhones and Macs, has been renamed to Adobe Revel and updated to v1.1. The change does not affect current subscriptions. Version 1.1 adds minor changes, including the ability to automatically import photos from the Camera Roll on your iPhone and iPad, and photo sharing via Flickr.

Flip Boom Doodle: Free giveaway

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Toon Boom Animation Inc., a digital content creation software specialist famous for its Animate and Harmony animation products, announced it will offer free licenses of Flip Boom Doodle at this year's CES. Flip Boom Doodle is a fun application designed to create animated content running on Mac OS and Windows systems. Go to toonboom.com/doodle to download your complimentary copy of Flip Boom Doodle, a value of $29 US. This offer ends January 31, 2012.

The ASC announces nominees in the feature film category

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The American Society of Cinematographers announced nominees in the feature film category of the 26th Annual American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Outstanding Achievement Awards. The winner will be announced at the ASC Awards celebration at the Hollywood and Highland Grand Ballroom on February 12 (more ).

Blackmagic Design announces new Intensity Shuttle with Thunderbolt technology

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Blackmagic Design announced Intensity Shuttle , a new video capture and playback solution that uses Intel's Thunderbolt technology. Intensity Shuttle makes the highest quality 10-bit SD and HD video affordable for everyone, in a truly portable solution that's priced at only $239 US. Intensity Shuttle features all the video connections needed to connect video cameras, set-top boxes, game consoles, large screen TVs and projectors to a Thunderbolt-enabled computer. Thunderbolt-enabled computers connect to Intensity Shuttle using a single cable that is capable of 10 Gbps data transfer speeds, that's 20x faster than USB 2.0 and 12x faster than FireWire 800. Intensity Shuttle is powered over the Thunderbolt cable and, with no need for an external power supply, is a completely portable device that can be moved easily between laptop and desktop computers. Intensity Shuttle Thunderbolt will be available in Q1 2012 for $239 US from all Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide.

Free Photoshop Lightroom 4 beta now available for download

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 beta for Windows and Mac OS X is now available as a free public download from Adobe Labs. Lightroom is Adobe's digital photography workflow solution helping photographers quickly import, manage, enhance and showcase their images. Lightroom 4 beta is a preview of new features and capabilities that will be offered in the final release of Lightroom 4, expected in early 2012. The beta features refined technology for superior shadow and highlight processing, expanded management capabilities including enhanced DSLR video support and the ability to create photo books from within Lightroom. For more information on features, watch this video on YouTube. Adobe encourages photographers to try the beta release and provide feedback to the product team.

RE:Vision Effects releases RE:Map v2 for Nuke, Composite and Fusion

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Visual effects plug-in maker RE:Vision Effects announced the initial release of RE:Map , the ultimate kit of mapping and distortion tools, as an OFX plug-in set for use within The Foundry's Nuke, eyeon's Fusion, and Autodesk's Maya or 3ds Max Composite. RE:Map is a set of 5 plug-ins for UV mapping, image warping using displacement maps, corner pinning and color image distortion. Full version node-locked licenses are priced at $189.95 US, floating licenses are priced at $284.93 US, the plug-in is also available within the Effections bundle. A demo version (that draws an "X" on each frame) can be downloaded here .

Autodesk's Project Pandora introduced

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Ken Pimentel, Director of Visual Communication Solutions within Autodesk's Media & Entertainment division, revealed Project Pandora - Autodesk's, Amazon's and NVIDIA's joint research project for cloud-based rendering service running on Amazon servers. More information on its functionality can be seen in this video. Read the full Maxed Out blog entry for more information on Project Geppetto updates as well as new Nitrous and particles functionality...

RED.com sues ARRI Inc.

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Courthouse News Service announced that a famous digital movie camera maker RED Digital Camera filed a complaint in Federal Court against ARRI Inc. and ARRI's Michael Bravin. RED will seek damages for unfair competition, including hacking of e-mails, unlawful trade practices etc. Read more about the incident here.

10 contenders remain in VFX Oscar race

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that 10 films remain in the running in the Visual Effects category for the 84th Academy Awards. The films are listed in alphabetical order: Captain America: The First Avenger, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, Hugo, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Real Steel, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, The Tree of Life, X-Men: First Class. All members of the Visual Effects Branch will be invited to view 10-minute excerpts from each of the 10 shortlisted films on Thursday, January 19. Following the screenings, the members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration. The Academy also announced eight scientific and technical achievements represented by 28 individual award recipients that will be honored at its annual Scientific and Technical Awards Presentation at the Beverly Wilshire on Saturday, February 11, 2012 (more).

MuTools MuLab 4 pre-released

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

MuTools pre-released version 4 of its popular music creation application MuLab. MuLab 4 comes with an advanced modular sound engine and optimized workflow, many new modules (including MuDrum, MuSynth VA, Super Modulator and others), extended drag and drop features, the ability to import MP3 files as samples, and more. The MuLab 4 pre-release packages for Mac OS X and Windows can be found in this webfolder. User licenses can be purchased here, priced between 25-75 EUR.

American Society of Cinematographers announces TV awards nominees

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) has announced nominees in three television categories (one-hour episodic television series/pilot, television movie/miniseries, and half-hour episodic series or pilot) for the 26th Annual Outstanding Achievement Awards competition. The awards ceremony will be held here on February 12 at the Hollywood & Highland Grand Ballroom. The full list of nominees is here.

ValhallaUberMod plug-in for Mac OS and Windows released

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Valhalla DSP, LLC. released a new mutltap delay and modulation plug-in for VST, AU and RTAS hosts running on Windows or Mac OS X systems, including 64-bit. The ValhallaUberMod plug-in offers various chorus modes allowing from 2 up to 32 independently modulated delay taps. The modulation combines slower, Dimension-style chorusing with faster vibrato oscillators, to allow users dial in a variety of choruses, flangers and vintage string ensembles. With powerful Diffusion and Drive sections, a variety of diffuse delays, tape delays, and dark reverbs can be obtained. The plug-in is out now, priced at $50 US. A demo version, fully functional except reverb signal fades every 45 seconds, can be downloaded here.

Mars Rover Expedition visualized using Storyboard Pro

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Bohemian Grey - animation, visualization and visual effects specialist based in California - created a short animated film starring NASA's newest robotic explorer. The short was storyboarded using Toon Boom's Storyboard Pro and produced for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) at Caltech. It depicts the planned exploits of NASA's newest robotic explorer, the Mars Science Laboratory's "Curiosity" Rover. The animations - a four minute narrated version and an eleven minute narrationless version - show a behind-the-scences look at the assembly of the craft, while the second animation gives the viewer an insight to the mission, including flightpath, landing and planned Mars surface activities. Both the narrated and narrationless versions can be seen at bohemiangrey.com, or on the JPL website and on YouTube.

HDR Light Studio 3.0

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Lightmap Limited announced immediate availability of HDR Light Studio v3.0 - the latest version of their real-time, Windows-based HDRI lighting software. Version 3.0 is packed with new features, including localized exposure, color and saturation tools using new light blending modes, custom fall-off curves, a new color system for lighting artists, faster rendering times, and COLLADA support. HDR Light Studio 3.0 is available immediately in two versions: a Standard edition sold at 399 GBP plus VAT and a Pro edition, which includes plug-ins for KeyShot, Maxwell Studio and Deep Exploration. The Pro edition of HDR Light Studio v3.0 is available for 599 GBP ex. VAT. Additional Live plug-ins can be purchased for VRED by PI-VR and Patchwork3D by Lumiscaphe. Mac OS X and Linux versions are 'coming soon'. A demo version can be requested here.

ZBrush 4R2b scheduled for late January

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Pixologic, Inc. announced an upcoming update for its popular 3D painting and sculpting software ZBrush 4R2. Version 4R2b is scheduled for release in January 23th, 2012 as a free update for all registered users. In addition to fixes, the new version will also introduce FiberMesh, a tool designed to quickly create hair and other fibers. FiberMesh will create a fully sculptable PolyMesh 3D object with the possibility to export or render it using the Best-Preview-Render renderer. See this post for more information and a video showing the FiberMesh feature.

SampleTank 1.1 for iOS now a universal app for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

IK Multimedia's sample-based sound workstation SampleTank for iOS is now available as a universal app for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. The update 1.1 also adds a 4-track MIDI recorder, a new beat-making interface, an expanded set of instruments and patterns, improved compatibility with third party docks and much more... SampleTank 1.1 is available on the iTunes App store for $19.99 US / 15.99 EUR with 136 high-quality instruments and over 1,000 patterns included. A free version of SampleTank is also available with 8 sounds plus their selection of patterns. An additional 22 expansion sound packs are available for in-app purchase starting from $4.99 US / 3.99 EUR each. The update is free to all existing users.

Flash Player 11.2b3 and Muse beta 5.1 at Adobe Labs

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Labs published two new betas of its upcoming web technologies: third beta of Flash Player 11.2 runtime and a new public beta of Muse for Windows and Mac OS X, Adobe's upcoming web design software for creating websites without writing code. Flash Player 11.2 beta 3 (for Windows, Linux and Mac OS X) adds new features for browser-based viewing of expressive content across platforms, while Muse beta 5.1 contains key bug fixes... Muse is planned for release in early 2012.

RandomControl Arion 1.6: Bigger, better, stronger

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

RandomControl, makers of the fryrender 3D rendering system, announced a new version of its multi-CPU, multi-GPU, and multi-IP interactive rendering solution Arion. Version 1.6 supports unlimited objects, textures and materials, adds native OpenEXR support, and provides a smaller memory footprint (more). The software works on Windows and Max OS X machines (render slaves are also available for Linux), and supports Autodesk 3ds Max, Maxon CINEMA 4D, NewTek LightWave, Autodesk Maya, McNeel Rhinoceros 3D, Google SketchUp, Autodesk Softimage, and Luxology Modo applications. Priced at 550 EUR (and up), version 1.6.x is available now, including a new demo version (requires registration). Updates are free for all registered users.

Arturia updates PROPHET V and CS-80V to v2.5, SPARK to v1.4

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

French virtual instrument maker Arturia updated two of their synthesizers, PROPHET V and CS-80V, to version 2.5. The updates bring MIDI control assignment improvements, the long-awaited support for 64-bit VST and Audio Units APIs, as well as support for Pro Tools 9 & 10 and Mac OSX 10.7 (Lion). Arturia's drum machine software SPARK was also updated; version 1.4 adds new hardware shortcuts, advanced MIDI out function, and Slicer Latch mode (more). All the updates are available at this location.

Adobe Acrobat Pro, Pro Extended, and Standard 9.4.7 update for Windows

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe released an update for Windows versions of its Acrobat 9 family of PDF-creating applications. Updated were Adobe Acrobat Pro, Pro Extended, and Standard editions - to version 9.4.7. This update provides mitigation for security issues. The update can be downloaded here; Adobe Reader 9.4.7 update is located here.

OctaneRender for 3ds Max reaches beta

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Refractive Software released the very first version of OctaneRender for 3ds Max, version 1.0 beta 2.56. OctaneRender for 3ds Max implements all functionality of OctaneRender stand-alone - Refractive Software's GPU-based un-biased renderer - inside 3ds Max. Any feature that the Standalone edition supports is supported by the 3ds Max plug-in. For more information on functionality, read the previous announcement. The beta license is sold here, at a price of 99 EUR (the OctaneRender Standalone Edition license is also needed for each machine running the plug-in). A demo version is planned for a January 2012 release.

Autodesk acquires T-Splines modeling technology assets

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Autodesk has acquired certain technology-related assets from T-Splines Inc., a privately-held surface modeling software company, based in Utah. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "The technology acquisition will strengthen our Digital Prototyping portfolio with more flexible free-form modeling and will help achieve even closer integration between industrial design and engineering workflows," said Buzz Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry at Autodesk. "T-Splines technology will benefit designers and engineers that require watertight surfaces for downstream analysis and manufacturing."

Premiere Elements 10 installer fix for Mac OS

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe released a Mac OS X update for the company's non-linear video editing software Premiere Elements 10. It fixes the issue wherein the Mac Installer for Premiere Elements 10 does not install the application successfully. Download it here.

New RTAS versions of the SSL Duende Native plug-in collection available

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Solid State Logic, manufacturer of professional analogue and digital audio consoles, has announced that the new RTAS versions of the acclaimed SSL Duende Native plug-in collection are available now. Existing plug-in owners can download new software installers free of charge from the SSL web site and the new installer will be supplied as standard to all new customers. The release of the new RTAS versions of the plug-ins coincides with the availability of a new set of Duende Native Tour/Tutorial Videos on the SSL web site and YouTube.

Thinkbox Software releases Deadline 5.1 and Krakatoa MX 2.0

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Thinkbox Software released version 5.1 of its Deadline cross-platform render farm manager system and version 2.0 of its Krakatoa MX high-volume particle rendering, manipulation and management plug-in for 3ds Max. Version 5.1 of Deadline delivers significant performance improvements and new features, including Shotgun production management integration, native Python support, new Thinkbox license server with built in auto-configuration, and multiple slaves on one machine... Krakatoa MX 2.0 provides hair rendering support (conversion of 3ds Max Hair & Fur, Hair Farm and regular Bezier splines into particles), new atmospheric effect that allows direct integration of voxel rendering in any renderer that supports native 3ds Max atmospherics, Chaos Group Phoenix FD particles rendering support, faster and more powerful Magma system, and PRT Creator's fractal-based particle distribution and procedural animation. Deadline 5.1 is available as a no-cost software update to Deadline customers on active support contracts. Deadline software is priced at an MSRP of $185 US per slave. Krakatoa MX 2.0 is available as a no-cost upgrade to Krakatoa customers on active support contracts.

Sonnox plug-ins now 64-bit and Lion-compatible

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Sonnox Ltd. updated their audio plug-ins for 64-bit DAWs (supporting Audio Units and VST APIs). The plug-ins also sport updated user interfaces and Mac OS X 10.7 compatibility. Updates cost from as little as 15 GBP per plug-in (approx $23 US). For more information, visit this page.

GrowFX 1.8 - release version available

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Russian 3ds Max plug-in developer Exlevel updated its plant and tree modeling software GrowFX. Version 1.8 adds a new Vertex Color feature for all mesh builders, new Random scale parameter for instanced geometry, bug fixes, and more.

Maintenance releases from Red Giants

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Red Giant Software released a couple of updates for its visual effects plug-ins for After Effects et al., namely Magic Bullet Suite 11.1.2, PhotoLooks 1.5.2, Looks 2.0.4, Colorista II 1.0.5, and Grinder 1.5.1 (more on new features). Also of note is the exclusion of Denoiser plug-in from the Magic Bullet Suite. As of the 11.1.2 release, it has been removed and can no longer be installed through the suite installer. Why? Google acquired a technology company called Green Parrot Pictures to improve the quality of videos uploaded to its YouTube service. Green Parrot Pictures was Red Giant's development partner on Magic Bullet Denoiser, and its video denoising technology is an integral part of the plug-in. Because of the Google acquisition, Red Giant no longer has the legal right to sell Denoiser. Red Giant is working on fixing the problem with its own Denoiser II due to be released early Q1 2012.

NVIDIA opens up CUDA platform

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NVIDIA announced that it will provide the source code for the new NVIDIA CUDA LLVM-based compiler to academic researchers and software-tool vendors, enabling them to more easily add GPU support for more programming languages and support CUDA applications on alternative processor architectures. LLVM is a widely-used Open Source compiler infrastructure with a modular design that makes it easy to add support for new programming languages and processor architectures. The new LLVM-based CUDA compiler, which is enhanced with architecture support for NVIDIA's parallel GPUs, is included in the latest release of the CUDA Toolkit (v4.1) , now available to the public.

Starplugs releases free Peak Meter plug-in

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Audio plug-in developer Starplugs released a free Christmas plug-in Peak Meter featuring fast peak-display, peak-hold-bargraph, numerical peak-hold, correlation display, and more. The plug-in works on Windows-based PCs, within VST-compatible applications. Get you member login and download it here.

DaVinci Resolve for Windows: Public beta

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Blackmagic Design releases a public beta of DaVinci Resolve 8.2 for Windows, company's color grading software. The beta is available in both the full featured DaVinci Resolve 8.2 and free DaVinci Resolve Lite versions. This new DaVinci Resolve for Windows beta will allow customers to use a wide range of hardware for building color correction systems with the advantage of a wider selection of GPU processing options with support for up to 4 GPU's per system. The DaVinci Resolve 8.2 for Windows license is included with the Mac OS X version, so all current Mac OS X customers automatically get a license for the Windows version, and can download it now to use in their facility. When the public beta program is complete, and DaVinci Resolve for Windows is formally released ($995 US), it will be accompanied by the Mac OS X version. When a customer purchases DaVinci Resolve, they can choose which operating system they want to use, and then install either one. Download the beta here.

Adobe Edge Preview 3.1

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Edge, a new web motion and interaction design tool using web standards like HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS3, is currently being developed by Adobe. The latest preview version adds several enhancements and bug fixes (including multiple composition capability, faster timeline rendering, easier copying and pasting of elements and more), its expiration date has also been extended to January 2012. Download it here (requires Adobe ID).

(Red) Giant Secret Sale. Today.

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Red Giant Software, publishers of many acclaimed visual effect plug-ins for After Effects et al., is having a 40% off sale on everything, today. If you have been contemplating buying Red Giant's Magic Bullet Suite 11 ($480 US, today) or Trapcode Suite 11 ($540 US, today), now is the time! (Enter coupone code SECRETSALE2011 at checkout.)

Eyeon's nice package

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Eyeon and their partners, Imagineer Systems and GenArts, are offering a combination of eyeon's high-end video compositing software Fusion, planar tracker Mocha Pro from Imagineer Systems, and a collection of visual effects plug-ins Sapphire from GenArts. And the price for this bundle? Only $3,999 US, that is over 30% off retail! E-mail nicepackage@eyeonline.com to get your 'Nice Package'.

FabFilter updates plug-ins, introduces AAX support and holiday sales

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Software instruments and audio effects maker FabFilter updated all its plug-ins, and introduced support for the new AAX plug-in format in Pro Tools 10. The FabFilter Pro-L limiter now offers a new 'Compact' view, and the FabFilter Pro-Q EQ plug-in features spectrum analyzer and solo mode improvements. Furthermore, all FabFilter Pro plug-ins now support the most common Pro Tools hardware control surfaces. The updates are now available on all platforms - Windows and Mac OS X, both 32- and 64-bit (more). FabFilter is also running a Holiday Sale in the on-line FabFilter web shop, offering 25% discount on all plug-in bundles, until December 31, 2011.

Camera Raw 6.6 and Lightroom 3.6 updates

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

New version of Adobe's Camera Raw plug-in replaces the original one that was installed with Adobe Photoshop CS5, Photoshop Elements 10 and Premiere Elements 10. Read this PDF for a complete list of supported cameras. Also updated was Adobe's photo editing and management software Photoshop Lightroom 3. Downloads: Camera Raw 6.6 for Windws, Camera Raw 6.6 for Mac OS X, Lightroom 3.6 update for Windows, Lightroom 3.6 update for Mac OS.

Blender 2.61 Release Candidate

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Open Source 3D modeling, animation, and rendering application Blender reached version 2.61RC. The Release Candidate introduces several major new features, including motion tracking support to reconstruct camera and object animation from real footage; new Cycles ray-tracing render engine that is available next to Blender Internal and supports interactive rendering; new Dynamic Paint modifier and physics system that can turn objects into paint canvases and brushes, creating vertex colors, image sequences or displacement; ocean surface simulation modifier; and more.

Logic Pro 9.1.6 update

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Apple updated its digital audio workstation software Logic Pro. The update, numbered 9.1.6, resolves several performance and stability issues (multicore support when performing offline bounces, issues with Marquee tool etc.), improves plug-ins and virtual instruments (EXS24 issues, fixes in EVB3 and Ultrabeat), and improves compatibility with Mac OS X 10.7 Lion (more). Download the update here.

Insomniac Games used Autodesk technology for Resistance 3

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Insomniac Games used software and middleware technology from Autodesk, Inc. to develop Sony Computer Entertainment America's first-person shooter videogame title, "Resistance 3," developed exclusively for the PlayStation3 computer entertainment system. Autodesk technology was also used to create the game's downloadable content packs, including the recently released Brutality Pack. MotionBuilder software played an important role in the development of cinematics for the game. "We enjoyed how easy it was to assemble and edit character data, audio and cameras in MotionBuilder software's Story Mode," explained Kevin Grow, cinematics director. Insomniac's internal engine team integrated Scaleform with the company's custom in-house gaming engine to deliver dynamic UI that complemented the story and gameplay. "Resistance 3 is all about putting the experience first, and Scaleform enabled us to do that," said Ryan Kamins, senior graphics artist, Insomniac Games. "The middleware helped us deliver more fluid UI that feels like an extension of the narrative and gameplay, without having to get a gameplay programmer involved every time we wanted to build a new iteration."

Digieffects v2.5 product line ships

CreativeObserver.com — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Visual effects software specialist Digieffects shipped version 2.5 of its plug-in products for Windows and Mac OS X systems and After Effects, Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Edius, and Quantel hosts. Originally announced in late October, Damage 2.5, Delirium 2.5 and Buena Depth Cue 2.5 plug-in sets add native Apple Final Cut Pro X and Motion support, Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro CS5.5 compatibility, as well as enhanced usability features (more). Owners of v2 software can download the updates here.

SynthEyes 2011.1 Build 1009

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Andersson Technologies LLC announced a new version of their SynthEyes 2011 matchmoving and video stabilization software for Windows and Mac OS X. Version SynthEyes 2011.1 Build 1009 features a new system for analyzing lens grid images to generate presets (even for highly-distorted lenses such as GoProHD), a new placement tool that simplifies coordinate system setup, updated exporters including Blender 2.57 support, full-feature native CINEMA 4D export, native After Effects Java Script export, LightWave object and scene export, and modo 501. These updates include the ability to export the textures produced by SynthEyes's texture extraction/clean plate subsystem. A small sub-application allows the 64-bit Windows version to transparently read QuickTime files and use 32-bit codecs (a similar capability is built into Mac OS X). The Pro 64-bit version is priced at $599 US; the entry-level but fully-featured 32-bit version is $399 US.

Allegorithmic's Bitmap2Material reaches v1.5

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Allegorithmic's Bitmap2Material, a specialized 3D texturing tool designed to transform any photo into a seamless tiling material, has been updated to version 1.5. The tool can run stand-alone on Windows systems (within a Substance Player), or as a filter in Autodesk 3ds Max 2012, Maya 2012, Flame 2012 or Unity 3.4 game engine, on both Windows and Mac OS X platforms. B2M costs $149 US and can be used on both Windows and Mac OS X with one licence.

Autodesk hosts 13th annual 3December celebration

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

From December 5 to 8, Autodesk Inc., together with the support of HP, AMD and Xsens, hosts 3December 2011, the company's annual celebration of 3D computer graphics and the artists who create them. The event website will be the virtual home for celebrations, providing 3D artists with the opportunity to actively participate through events streamed live, watch free MasterClasses, view Autodesk tutorials and connect with fellow artists in user group meetings held in cities around the world. More information available here.

Steinberg introduces a new software bundle

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Music software legend Steinberg presented a new software bundle Music Production & Sound Creation Suite, which comprises Cubase 6 and HALion 4. Combining Steinberg's award-winning music production system and the powerful VST sampler, this strictly limited bundle is the ultimate all-in-one solution for professional music production and sound design. A limited number of the Music Production & Sound Creation Suite is now available through the Steinberg Online Shop and through resellers in selected European countries, as well as through resellers in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand. The availability in other countries is not guaranteed.

Boris Continuum Complete 8 AVX shipped

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Boris FX, developer of VFX technologies for video and film, shipped Boris Continuum Complete 8 AVX (BCC 8 AVX). BCC 8 AVX delivers 200+ comprehensive VFX and compositing filters to Avid Media Composer, NewsCutter, and Symphony. Flicker Remover and Videoscope tools, integrated Beat Reactor technology for audio-driven effect animation, a new Film Glow filter, and support for 64-bit operating systems headline the Version 8 release (more). BCC 8 AVX is available immediately for an introductory MSRP of $995 US. The regular MSRP will be $1,995 US. Owners of previous versions of BCC AVX may upgrade for an introductory MSRP of $295 US. The regular upgrade MSRP will be $599 US. A free 14-day trial version is also available.

The Foundry Mari 1.4 with layered PSD import and export

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

British visual effects software experts The Foundry updated MARI, their high-end 3D digital paint tool. MARI 1.4 introduces Adobe Photoshop layered PSD import and export functionality, OpenColorIO, triplanar projection and masked filters (Release Notes). Designed to speed up workflows, standardise colour management, and be even easier to use and more flexible than ever before, MARI 1.4 is an ideal tool for every 3D artist. MAR 1.4 is available immediately and runs on Windows and Linux, supporting Ptex, Python, OpenEXR and C API. MAR 1.4 is priced at $1,980 US / 1,200 GBP, with maintenance costing $330 US / 200 GBP. Free, fully functional 15-day license is available here.

Adobe Drive 3.0.1 update

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe updated Adobe Drive 3, a tool that enables seamless integration of a digital asset management system with Adobe Creative Suite 5 and CS5.5 applications. This update provides key fixes and improvements in performance, metadata handling, the Adobe Drive Connect UI, and other areas. Downloads: Windows; Mac OS X.

Steinberg Model E and VB-1 plug-ins revived

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Steinberg revived two of their discontinued plug-ins: Model E (classic analog synth with ultra-low CPU load) and VB-1 (virtual bass emulation with selectable pick position). As these revived products remain discontinued, their updates are not officially supported. Updates for discontinued products are sporadic as these are voluntarily provided by Steinberg's engineers in their free time. Both are available free of charge in one VST Classics Vol. 1 set for both Windows and Mac OS X-based VST hosts, including a 64-bit version for Windows!

GrowFX 1.8.0 for 3ds Max reaches beta

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

3ds Max plug-in developer Exlevel released a beta version 1.8.0 of its virtual vegetation system GrowFX. The beta adds a new feature Vertex Color for all mesh builders, new Random scale parameter for Instanced geometry, improved mesh updating, and more. The beta is available for customers only.

LWCAD 4.0 for LightWave is here

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

LWCAD, a set of CAD-like modeling plug-ins for NewTek's LightWave 3D, reached version 4.0. The updated new version adds full UV mapping support; new version of Shape Library, 100% compatible with previous version; more streamlined toolset; new real-time polygons slicing mode; updated CUT mode; and much more. Watch this video for more information on new and updated features. The plug-in requires LightWave 3D version 9.x-11.x running on Windows or Mac OS X systems, and costs $299 US for a full license. Upgrades are $149 (from LWCAD 3.x) and $225 US (from LWCAD 2.x).

iZotope Ozone 5.0.1 update released

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

iZotope updated their VST/AU/RTAS_DX mastering plug-in Ozone 5 (more on version 5) to v5.0.1. It features smoother transitions when browsing both Global and Module presets;l reduced clicks and pops when bypassing component plug-ins; fix for Audio Units (AU) validation issue; fix for infrequent crashes in the Exciter module and Exciter component plug-in; and other minor fixes and enhancements. Download the update here.

Autodesk Best of the Best Show Reel 2012: Call for submissions

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Autodesk issued a call for submissions for the 2012 Best of the Best Show Reel, which will premiere at NAB on April 16, 2012 in Las Vegas, NV. The reel will be showcased in front of thousands of broadcast and film professionals at the Autodesk NAB booth (SL3315) from April 16-19, on AREA, the Autodesk website, Autodesk YouTube Channel and at other events throughout the year. Commercial, broadcast, music video, episodic, short, feature film, digital media, and interactive projects created during 2011 using any of the following Autodesk Digital Entertainment Creation software tools are eligible for submission: Flame Premium, Flame, Smoke, Maya, 3ds Max, Softimage, MotionBuilder and Mudbox. Autodesk is also seeking high-resolution images for inclusion in its marketing materials leading up to and surrounding NAB. To submit your work or learn more about the submission process, visit autodesk.com.

Adobe Carousel: 1 million downloads and counting

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

PHOTOSHOP.COM blog announced that Adobe's photo library and editing software for iPhone, iPad, and Macs, Adobe Carousel, launched on October 27th, already surpassed 1,000,000 downloads! The blog also announced that Adobe is working on Windows and Android versions, better organization functions including events, collaboration capabilities, multi-select actions as well as RAW support. Get more information here.

Free HALion 4.5 update now available

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

After an extensive public beta evaluation, Steinberg announced the availability of HALion 4.5 - a free update for its advanced VST sampler and sound creation system for Windows and Mac OS. The latest HALion version introduces a variety of new features and improvements, including cutting-edge time-stretching and pitch-shifting algorithms, smart multi-core support, a new sample file browser and the massive multi-oscillators. The HALion 4.5 update is now freely available from the Steinberg website.

Adobe Flash Player 11.2 beta 2 for desktops

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Adobe Labs released a new version of the Adobe Flash Platform runtime and AIR. Flash Player 11.2 beta 2 for Windows, Mac OS and Linux desktop environments provides the long-awaited mouse lock, relative mouse coordinates, right and middle click events functionality (see video), in addition to the multi-threaded video decoding and background updates (on Windows only) already introduced in beta 1. Download the beta here. Adobe AIR 3.2 beta 2 is located here.

Cubase 6.0.5 update released

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Steinberg released the previously announced and officially supported 6.0.5 maintenance update for Cubase 6, Cubase Artist 6, Cubase Elements 6, Cubase AI 6 and Cubase LE 6. Including refined automation handles, full support for two WK-Audio remotes and improved decoding performance under Windows, the 6.0.5 update integrates several important enhancements and fixes. Download links are here.

Cakewalk SONAR X1 Production Suite now shipping

CreativeObserver.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Cakewalk announces the SONAR X1 Production Suite is now shipping and available the world over from Roland distribution partners. The SONAR X1 Production Suite is a powerful and affordable professional music production suite for the Windows platform. SONAR X1 Production Suite includes SONAR X1 Producer; SONAR X1 Producer Expanded providing additional functionality that includes modular ProChannel capability, Softube's Saturation Knob ProChannel module, FX Chains 2.0, one-click SoundCloud integration, and Music XML support; as well as PC4K S-Type Expander / Gate ProChannel Module with Expander / Gate functionality; and the next generation waveshaping synthesizer Z3TA+ 2. Cakewalk SONAR X1 Production Suite has an estimated street price of $499 US, and is available exclusively at select music and sound retailers worldwide.

NVIDIA Maximus brings together Quadro and Tesla technologies

CreativeObserver.com — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NVIDIA announced the introduction of NVIDIA Maximus technology that enables to simultaneously handle interactive graphics and the compute-intensive number crunching associated with the simulation or rendering of the results. NVIDIA Maximus achieves this by bringing together the professional 3D graphics capability of NVIDIA Quadro professional graphics processing units (GPUs) with the massive parallel-computing power of the NVIDIA Tesla C2075 companion processor - under a unified driver that transparently assigns work to the right processor and is certified by industry leading application vendors. With NVIDIA Maximus-enabled applications, GPU compute work is assigned to run on the NVIDIA Tesla companion processor. This frees up the NVIDIA Quadro GPU to handle graphics functions, ensuring the quality and performance demanded by professional users. NVIDIA Maximus desktop workstation configurations start with the pairing of the NVIDIA Quadro 600 ($199 US MSRP) plus NVIDIA Tesla C2075 ($2,499 US MSRP).

AAX versions of Softube plug-ins for Mac OS released

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Swedish audio plug-in developer Softube released 20 of their plug-ins for Avid's new Pro Tools 10 format AAX. 15 of the plug-ins are also available in the new AAX DSP format. The update is offered free of charge. Projects with existing RTAS or TDM plug-ins will automatically and smoothly switch to AAX, or AAX DSP if you have the new HDX card. DSP versions are included with the native license and do not need to be purchased separately. The new AAX update is so only available for Mac OS, Windows versions will follow soon. The DSP versions are still in beta, but are included in the installer. Download the updates here.

Filter Forge 3.0 released

CreativeObserver.com — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Ending the beta test period, Filter Forge announced the final release of Filter Forge 3.0, an innovative Photoshop plug-in and a stand-alone application for Windows and Mac OS X, allowing computer artists to build their own filters in a visual editor or download any of over 8500 user-submitted filters from a free on-line library. New features added in version 3.0 include the ability to use multiple source images, faster progressive previews, flexible user interface, support for Bezier curves, new image processing components, and much more. Filter Forge is offered in three differently priced editions targeted at entry-level, mainstream and professional graphic artists. Free, fully-functional 30-day trial version is also available for download.

RE:Vision Effects releases Twixtor 5 for Avid systems

CreativeObserver.com — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

RE:Vision Effects, visual effects plug-in maker, announced the initial release of their Twixtor 5 plug-in for Avid Media Composer, Symphony and NewsCutter, including 64-bit support for Media Composer 6, Symphony 6 and NewsCutter 10. Twixtor can create slow motion shots without the cost of renting a high speed camera. In order to achieve its unparalleled image quality, Twixtor synthesizes unique new frames by warping and interpolating frames of the original sequence by employing RE:Vision's proprietary tracking technology that calculates motion for each individual pixel. The plug-in now supports AVX2 format, adds 10 and 16-bit internal image support, and runs 30 to 40% faster than Twixtor v4. Twixtor 5 for Media Composer, Symphony and NewsCutter is available now for an MSRP of $329.95 US, upgrades are $82.49 US.

NewTek LightWave 11 to ship by the end of 2011

CreativeObserver.com — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

NewTek announced LightWave 11, a powerful new version of its Emmy Award-winning, professional 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software for Windows and Mac OS X systems. LightWave 11 offers support for Autodesk Geometry Cache and FBX, including pixel-perfect camera matching with Autodesk Maya cameras; also supports the Unity game engine and Pixologic GoZ ZBrush workflow; features new instancing functionality; flocking animation technology for realistic motion of grouped objects; a specialized tool for fracturing geometry and Bullet Dynamic physics simulation system; support for new controller types, including the Sony PlayStation Move; and more. LightWave 11 is expected to ship Q4 2011 for a suggested retail price of $1495 US. Upgrade pricing from earlier versions of LightWave will be $695 US, educational pricing is also available (learn more in the LightWave 11 FAQ).