Arturia KeyStep Mk2 packs generative tools and deep sequencing powerArturia has announced the KeyStep mk2, the latest version of its acclaimed compact controller and sequencer, claiming that it’s “more creative, more connected, and more immediate than ever”.
Arriving nearly a decade after the original KeyStep’s debut, the Mk2 takes everything musicians loved about the first generation and expands it with new generative tools, a clearer OLED display, extended connectivity, and a more powerful sequencer and arpeggiator.

READ MORE: Modular, AI-powered Sound Blaster Re:Imagine lets you build your dream audio hub — and it’s already 10x past its Kickstarter goal

Described by Arturia as the “ultimate compact controller and sequencer for DAWless workflows or hybrid setups”, the KeyStep Mk2 caters to two main users: synth and modular musicians who need keys and connectivity in a compact format, as well as bedroom producers looking for powerful and creative functionality that fits their workspace.
Key features like the 32-note Slimkey keyboard, pitch bend and modulation strips remain, while the all-new Mutate button introduces a dash of unpredictability. With just a single touch, users can instantly transform sequences or arpeggios – from subtle tweaks to bold variations – perfect for getting through those creative blocks or for exploring fresh ideas.
Credit: Arturia
The sequencer has also been significantly upgraded, offering eight times more memory, unquantised recording, Bend & Mod automation, Undo, step editing, and pattern chaining. Meanwhile, the expanded arpeggiator boasts 16 modes, 9 pattern variations, octave control, and a new Arp Length Reset for deeper rhythmic expression.
Musicians can also stay perfectly in key with scale locking, and record or play chords with expressive voicings, as in the high-end KeyLab 3 controller.
On the hardware side, Arturia has modernised the KeyStep’s design with USB-C connectivity, a dedicated power switch, and a clickable encoder that, along with the OLED display, allows for faster parameter access without relying on the MIDI Control Center.
Designed for hardware-first control, the KeyStep Mk2 can patch into modular rigs, trigger drum machines, and sequence synths old and new. With DIN MIDI I/O, assignable CV outs, and pedal support, it’s ready to command virtually any setup – live, in the studio, or on the move.
The Arturia KeyStep Mk2 is priced at $139/€129, and is available now.
Learn more at Arturia.
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Modular, AI-powered Sound Blaster Re:Imagine lets you build your dream audio hub — and it’s already 10x past its Kickstarter goalCreative Technology is bringing back the Sound Blaster name – but not as a sound card. The company has launched a new Kickstarter for Sound Blaster Re:Imagine, a modular audio hub that merges retro-inspired design with modern creator workflows.

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At its core, the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine is designed to connect just about everything. PCs, gaming consoles, tablets, microphones, headphones, speakers, even instruments – all route through a single hub, where any input can be sent to any output with a simple tap.
What makes Re:Imagine stand out, though, is its magnetic modular design. The base unit can be customised with magnetically attached modules – think sliders, knobs, quick keys, or even smart displays – so you can rebuild your setup on the fly. Each control is also fully programmable, allowing users to create macros for everything from muting a call to triggering a software code compile or activating any Matter-enabled smart home device.
Credit: Creative Technology
Under the hood, Re:Imagine runs on an octa-core ARM processor with 8GB of RAM and 16GB of flash storage (expandable via microSD). It supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and can operate either as a standalone Linux-based system or as a PC-tethered audio hub. Audio is handled by a studio-grade 32-bit/384kHz DAC and amplifier, with enough power to drive anything from professional headphones to full-sized desktop speakers.
And in true Sound Blaster fashion, there’s a playful side too. The Re:Imagine comes with AI-powered versions of Dr. Sbaitso and the Sound Blaster Parrot, plus a built-in AI DJ that generates music based on your chosen theme, along with retro DOS-style games and visualisers.
“The original Sound Blaster changed the way millions experienced sound,” says Darran Nathan, VP of Operations & Products at Creative Technology. “With Sound Blaster Re:Imagine, we set out to reimagine what a Sound Blaster can be: not just a sound card, but a modular hub, a control deck, and a creative playground with endless possibilities. We are making the Sound Blaster relevant again, for today’s generation, in today’s multi-device world.”
The Sound Blaster Re:Imagine is available now on Kickstarter, with early backer pricing starting at $329 for the horizontal base unit and four included modules (3-inch smart screen, 4-button pad, dual slider and knob).
The post Modular, AI-powered Sound Blaster Re:Imagine lets you build your dream audio hub — and it’s already 10x past its Kickstarter goal appeared first on MusicTech.

In principle, what needed to be proven, if you think about it logically, is that “only ‘partially’ created AI music can be registered in PRO” was decided in the US and Canada by ASCAP, BMI, SOCAN #Music #MusicIndustry #Authors #Producers #AI

OpenAI, valued at $500bn, reportedly working on generative AI music toolThe move would bring OpenAI into an increasingly crowded field of AI music generation platforms
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And UDIO now partners with UMG #music #majorlabels #AI #artists

Universal accused Udio of “unimaginable scales” of copyright infringement. That lawsuit’s just been settled – here’s what we knowUniversal Music Group has settled its widely publicised lawsuit against Udio, which last year accused the AI music generation platform of “unimaginable scales” of copyright infringement.
So what exactly has led to the two battling companies reaching an amicable settlement?
Well, it was speculated back in June that major labels, including UMG, were in talks with Udio – as well as Suno, another platform UMG sued in 2024 over alleged copyright infringement – to discuss potential licensing deals that would bring in fees and also include a small equity stake in the companies.

READ MORE: Grimes sings from an AI’s perspective in new song Artificial Angel: “This is what it feels like to be hunted by something smarter than you”

Now, UMG and Udio have not only settled their differences, but announced plans to collaborate on a new music creation, consumption and streaming experience. Here’s what we know:
In a new statement shared publicly by UMG, it announced that both itself and Udio have laid out “industry-first strategic agreements”. The company says that in addition to the “compensatory legal settlement”, new licence agreements for recorded music and publishing will “provide further revenue opportunities for UMG artists and songwriters.”
“The new platform, which will be launched in 2026, will be powered by new cutting-edge generative AI technology that will be trained on authorised and licensed music,” reads the statement. “The new subscription service will transform the user engagement experience, creating a licensed and protected environment to customise, stream, and share music responsibly on the Udio platform.”
UMG is also the first company to enter into AI-related agreements with YouTube, TikTok, Meta, KDDI, KLAY Vision, BandLab, Soundlabs and Pro-Rata, among others. It also shares that Udio’s existing product will remain available to users during the transition period with “creations controlled within a walled garden and the service amended in multiple ways”.

Andrew Sanchez, Co-Founder & CEO of Udio, comments: “We couldn’t be more thrilled about this collaboration and the opportunity to work alongside UMG to redefine how AI empowers artists and fans.
“This moment brings to life everything we’ve been building toward – uniting AI and the music industry in a way that truly champions artists. Together, we’re building the technological and business landscape that will fundamentally expand what’s possible in music creation and engagement.”
Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG, adds: “These new agreements with Udio demonstrate our commitment to do what’s right by our artists and songwriters, whether that means embracing new technologies, developing new business models, diversifying revenue streams or beyond.  We look forward to working with Andrew who shares our belief that together, we can foster a healthy commercial AI ecosystem in which artists, songwriters, music companies and technology companies can all flourish and create incredible experiences for fans.”
Find out more about Udio, and read the full statement from Universal Music Group.
The post Universal accused Udio of “unimaginable scales” of copyright infringement. That lawsuit’s just been settled – here’s what we know appeared first on MusicTech.

No reviews on your new album? #Marketing #Music

Why no one is reviewing your album or new releaseWhy is no one reviewing your album or new release? Music PR veteran Ariel Hyatt of Cyber PR looks at how streaming, new media economics and increased competition have changed how music should be marketed.
The post Why no one is reviewing your album or new release appeared first on Hypebot.

Wise is going to #crypto?

A Strategy is not a Plan

Again Spotify

Spotify holds songs mashup patent...interesting

Spotify holds a patent for tech that can generate song mashupsSpotify has patented a 'method, system, and computer-readable medium for creating song mashups'
Source

Sesame, the conversational AI startup from Oculus founders, raises $250M and launches betaFormer Oculus CEO Brendan Iribe’s new startup, Sesame, is building AI-powered smartglasses with natural, humanlike voice interaction. Backed by Sequoia and Spark, the company also launched an invite-only iOS beta to preview its conversational AI.

We are currently testing and working on a new feature which we actually created last year, but couldn't publish for some time, please stay tuned for new #PublmeUpdates 💫🌌