Synthogy (which is distributed here in the U.S. by Ilio) has announced that Ivory version 1.71 is now available as a free download for both Mac and Windows users. This version provides the latest enhancements and improvements to Ivory plug-ins, tools, and the standalone host.
A partial list of enhancements and improvements include:
- Ivory now responds to MIDI Tuning messages. This allows it to be tuned directly from hosts or MIDI controllers that support it.
- Contains more sustain resonances that utilize a new algorithm for the newly released Upright pianos.
- Improves efficiency when multiple instances are running in the same host (this alone is a killer feature!).
- Includes the latest iLok drivers and much more.
Requirements: Macintosh OS X 10.4 (Tiger) or 10.5 (Leopard), Windows XP with Service Pack 2, or Vista. (Runs in 32-bit mode under Vista-64 or XP-64.) Ivory 1.5 installation or newer and iLok key. (Note that owners of Ivory 1.6 and earlier must convert their licenses to iLok.)
The folks at FXpansion have announced the avaibility of their very first official expansion kit for BFD2. The Jex (John Emrich’s XDrum kit) Expansion Kit features a high-end, custom hand-made kit from XDrum’s Xotica line that feature 6-ply Keller Maple shells, with an additional ply of Sapeli Pommele running vertically, resulting in excellent, focused low-end. The finish is hand-rubbed tung oil, which delivers a very open, organic tone. This download-only BFD2 expansion kit includes the following kit-pieces, all played with sticks, mallets, brushes and rods. The kick drum was hit with both a wood and felt beater.
- Custom XDrum 18×22 inch kick
- Custom XDrum 8×8 inch tom
- Custom XDrum 8×10 inch tom
- Custom XDrum 8×12 inch tom
- Custom XDrum 14×14 inch tom
You also get a bonus download of a detail-reduced Ludwig Super Sensitive snare from the Jazz & Funk expansion pack. Note: There are no hi-hats or cymbals included with this expansion kit. This is a download-only product and is available now for all registered BFD2 owners at a price of $50. Note that Jex is only $30 for all registered BFD2 owners who also have either one or more of the following expansion packs registered to their user account: BFD Jazz & Funk, BFD Percussion, or BFD B.O.M.B.