Propellerhead Software has released Reason 6, an update of its music software; Reason Essentials, the successor to Record, that offers recording, editing, effects, instruments, mixing and mastering features; and Balance with Reason Essentials, an audio interface for Mac and Windows integrated with Reason Essentials software.
 
Combining all the features from Record, Reason 6 (US$449) adds audio recording and editing, along with Propellerhead’s mixing console with EQ and dynamics on every channel, multiple parallel racks, Line 6 amp models, new effect devices, time/tempo stretch plus additional features. New creative effects designed for using directly with instruments or inserting into tracks include: Pulveriser, sound crushing effect with crunchy compression, dirty distortion and flexible modulation; The Echo, advanced stereo echo with modern delay and analog tape echo emulation; and Alligator, a three band pattern gate for complex rhythmic texturing. Interface enhancements, high definition audio transpose and true 64-bit compatibility highlight other new feature improvements.

Distilled from the core of Reason, Reason Essentials ($299) contains a selection of instruments and effects in a virtual rack that builds itself, or can be customized –drum machine, loop player, sampler, synths, reverb, delay, distortion, mastering effects and more. For guitar players, the built-in virtual guitar and bass POD from Line 6 bring a range of guitar amps, cabinets and effects. Reason Essentials includes an audio and MIDI sequencer

Balance, a two-in by two-out audio interface for Mac and Windows, is designed for the single person operated home/project studio. Fully USB 2 powered with separate volume controls for monitors and headphones, it contains eight input connections to keep all instruments, mics and devices connected and ready to record with the press of a button without software pop-ups or control panels. The included Reason Essentials packs recording editing, effects, instruments and mixing tools. Owners of Reason or Record who purchase Balance will automatically receive the Reason 6 upgrade as a download for free.

For more info and upgrade pricing, go to the Propellerheads web site http:// www.propellerheads.se/go/6C606182).