Jonas Eriksson releases Tape Fiasco, a FREE time-based multi-effect plugin
Tape Fiasco is a brand-new plugin from Jonas Eriksson that combines three distinct time-based effects: Stretch, Stutter, and Varispeed. I haven’t had much time with Tape Fiasco since installing the plugin, but I have to say right off the bat, it’s a lot of fun! Whether you’re using all three effects simultaneously or one at [...]
View post: Jonas Eriksson releases Tape Fiasco, a FREE time-based multi-effect plugin

AKAI MPC XLThe Akai Professional MPC XL is a standalone music production workstation designed to function as the central hub of a modern studio without the need for a computer. Powered by a Gen 2 8-core processor and 16GB of RAM, it offers significantly expanded processing headroom compared to previous MPC models, capable of running up to 32 plugin instruments and 16 audio tracks simultaneously. The unit features a 10.1-inch tilting multi-gesture touchscreen and introduces "MPCe" pads, which utilize 3D-sensing technology to divide each pad into four quadrants for complex sound morphing and layer control. Connectivity is comprehensive, catering to both hardware-heavy and hybrid setups. The rear panel includes two XLR/TRS combo inputs with preamps, two instrument inputs, and phono inputs for direct sampling from vinyl. For output, the MPC XL provides eight assignable line outputs and 16 CV/Gate outputs (via eight stereo jacks), making it suitable for controlling modular synthesizers. It runs on the MPC3 operating system, which includes advanced features such as real-time stem separation, disc streaming, and a full DAW-style arrangement view. Key Features Standalone Operation: Powered by a Gen 2 8-core processor and 16GB RAM; no computer required. MPCe Pads: 16 velocity-sensitive pads with 3D sensing and quadrant-based modulation. Display: 10.1-inch HD multi-gesture touchscreen with adjustable tilt. Storage: 256GB internal NVMe SSD with a SATA expansion bay for additional drives. Control: 16 Q-Link knobs with individual OLED displays, plus a dedicated XL Channel Command section. Audio I/O: 2 Mic/Line combo inputs, 2 Instrument inputs, 2 Phono inputs, 8 Line outputs. CV/Gate: 16 total outputs for modular integration. Software: Runs MPC3 OS; includes Native Instruments MPC Edition Play Series and stem separation tools. Read More

Buso Audio: Discount for SOS readers Studio furniture experts Buso Audio are kindly offering Sound On Sound readers a 10% discount on any of their workstation desks. 

Studio One becomes Fender Studio Pro From 13 January 2026, Studio One will now be known as Fender Studio Pro, while the Quantum and AudioBox lines will transition to the Fender Quantum Series and Fender AudioBox. 

The DJM-V5 is here: compact 3-Channel Mixer with V10 Sound, 4-Band EQ, Send FXAlphaTheta has released the DJM-V5, a compact 3-channel DJ mixer built on the sound architecture of the DJM-V10, bringing flagship-style sound shaping into a smaller format. Available late January 2026 with a MAP of $2,199, the V5 includes 4-band EQ and channel compression on every channel, per-channel Send FX, multi-mode filters, 96 kHz / 64-bit […]
The post The DJM-V5 is here: compact 3-Channel Mixer with V10 Sound, 4-Band EQ, Send FX appeared first on DJ TechTools.

Waves Audio Curves Resolve is now FREE for 48 hours only
Waves Audio has finally released Curves Resolve, a new mixing plugin that’s available for free for the next 48 hours only. I say finally because James covered this release twice before: first when Waves teased an upcoming freebie, and again when details about Curves Resolve leaked online. This time, the plugin is officially available to [...]
View post: Waves Audio Curves Resolve is now FREE for 48 hours only

Austrian Audio to launch The Arranger Austrian Audio have announced the launch of a new pair of open-back headphones aimed primarily at home listening duties.

Vicious Antelope Saga Of Dreams - Arturia Pigments PresetsSaga Of Dreams - Arturia Pigments Presets Key Features: 40 presets compatible with Arturia Pigments and Analog Lab V. Sonic identity: ambient pads, evolving textures, experimental atmospheres, and cinematic soundscapes. Musical focus: dreamy, organic, resonant, and slowly evolving sounds. Genres: cinematic, game audio, ambient, sci-fi, progressive rock & metal, experimental music. Saga Of Dreams is a collection of 40 presets designed for the Arturia Pigments and Analog Lab V synthesizers. Rooted primarily in ambient sound design, the pack explores experimental atmospheres and evolving pads, ranging from slow-moving textures to more saturated and expressive tones. Expect a palette that moves between dreamy synth layers, organic motion, and cinematic depth. From the nostalgic character of "Silent Prophecy" to the exploratory spaces of "Stardust Pathways", and from the slow, intense movement of "Silent Guide" to the dreamy presence of "Moons Reflection", Saga Of Dreams focuses on musical storytelling through sound. The organic texture of "Lost Lullaby" contrasts with the resonant, epic tone of "Midnight Key", offering a versatile set of cinematic-flavored pads and evolving soundscapes. This pack is well suited for cinematic composition, game audio scoring, ambient and sci-fi themed music, modern progressive rock and metal styles, as well as other experimental and atmospheric forms of musical expression. Requirements: Pigments 7.0.0.6447 (x64) or newer. Analog Lab edition: Analog Lab V 5.12.2.6463 (x64) or newer. https://youtu.be/rgOxChwrIgs Read More

JUCE launches a FREE audio plugin development course for beginners
JUCE is the industry-standard framework for audio plugin development, used by some of the biggest and best names in the industry. And now, they have launched a free audio plugin development course for beginners. If you have a look at the JUCE website, you’ll find a long list of companies using JUCE, including Arturia, Avid, [...]
View post: JUCE launches a FREE audio plugin development course for beginners

TK Audio introduce the TEQ TK Audio’s latest Baxandall-inspired EQ promises to deliver the smooth and natural sound for which the 1950s circuitry is renowned, but with an wider selection of frequencies and built-in Mid-Side operation.

MidiStickers MidiStickers ProMidiStickers Pro is a standalone desktop application for real-time MIDI visualization, analysis, and harmony training, designed for music teachers, composers and serious students. MidiStickers allows you to visualize real-time MIDI input (or MIDI Files) as music notation and analyze chords using chord symbols, roman numerals (scale degrees), figured bass, function symbols and other tools. The software also includes tools for exploring chords, scales, chord-scale relationships as well as dedicated practice and training modes. These include chord practice (and jazz piano voicings) with auto-accompaniment and progress tracking. All components in MidiStickers are implemented as independent, detachable on-screen widgets, detachable widgets (floating, always-on-top) allowing it to blend visually with other software. This makes it suitable for online lessons, classroom use, presentations, or for working alongside notation programs and DAWs. MidiStickers Pro is available for Windows and macOS as a one-time purchase (no subscription fees). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7llbYCitcE Read More

Full Bucket Music releases Paralogy, a FREE Crumar Trilogy plugin
Full Bucket Music has released Paralogy, a free paraphonic synth plugin inspired by the Crumar Trilogy. 2026 is off to a very good start in the free plugin world. After plugin giveaways from Universal Audio, Waves Audio, and Canvas Audio, one of my favorite indie developers, Full Bucket Music, has released another free instrument. Paralogy [...]
View post: Full Bucket Music releases Paralogy, a FREE Crumar Trilogy plugin

Electro-Harmonix launch the Effects Interface The latest release from pedal veterans Electro-Harmonix places a 2-in/2-out audio interface inside a stompbox chassis, and makes it possible to run route DAW audio through hardware pedals — or integrate DAW plug-ins into a pedalboard setup.

Vessel Audio Sigma Engine VSTSigma Engine by Vessel Audio. The Ultimate Hybrid Workstation for Modern Producers. Elevate your sound with Sigma Engine, a powerhouse VST instrument engineered specifically for the next generation of Hip-Hop, Rap, and Trap. Developed by Vessel Audio, Sigma Engine bridges the gap between legendary hardware history and futuristic sound design—all while keeping your workflow fluid and fast. The Multi-Sample Advantage. Sigma Engine delivers unparalleled authenticity. Each of the 100 presets has been meticulously crafted using high-definition multi-samples. By capturing the original hardware at multiple pitches and velocities, we've ensured that every note—from the deepest 808 to the highest lead—retains the rich harmonics and character of the source machines. The Sonic DNA. Experience a curated collection of sounds inspired by the titans of synthesis: The 90s Era: Clean, "glassy" digital textures reminiscent of the legendary Korg Triton. The 80s Era: Thick, lush analog warmth modeled after the Jupiter 8 and Oberheim. Modern Synthesis: Cutting-edge, aggressive tones built for today's Billboard charts. Total Sound Sculpting. Take full control over your textures with professional modulation and shaping tools: Dynamic LFO: Fine-tune Rate and Depth to add movement or rhythmic "wobble" effects. Envelope Control: Use Attack and Release knobs to transition from sharp, aggressive plucks to atmospheric, evolving swells. Precision Filtering: Sculpt your frequency spectrum with built-in High Pass and Low Pass filters to create room for your mix or add lo-fi grit. Built-In FX Suite. Polish your sound without reaching for external plugins: Chorus & Delay: Add width, movement, and rhythmic depth. Reverb: From tight rooms to massive, ethereal spaces. Distortion: Add heat, saturation, and "sauce" to your 808s and leads. Light on Resources, Heavy on Sound. Stop freezing tracks and bouncing to audio. Sigma Engine is optimized for Low CPU Usage, allowing you to load multiple instances across your project without taxing your system. It's built for stability, ensuring your creativity never hits a technical wall. The Full Toolkit for Modern Hits. Low End: Earth-shaking 808s, gritty Synth Basslines, and organic Acoustic Basses. Atmosphere: Lush Pads and cinematic Strings. Melodics: Piercing Leads, soulful Keys, and crisp Plucks. Stop searching for the right sound and start creating it. Unlock the power of Sigma Engine today. Read More

Pro Tools, Sibelius & Venue updates from Avid Avid will be showcasing the latest enhancements to Pro Tools, Sibelius and Venue families at NAMM 2026, as well as hosting a series of talks and demonstrations at their booth.