FXpansion has updated BFD2 to version 2.0.4.17 and released stand-alone demo versions for Windows and Mac OS X.

Highlights in v2.0.4 include:

• Significantly reduced CPU load and memory footprint.
• Drumagog drum replacer support.
• Improved compatibility & performance with Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard.
• Improved workflow and stability.

What the demo does do:

• Runs in stand-alone for Windows XP, Vista and Mac OSX.
• Responds to MIDI notes and CCs.
• Contains a single 9-piece kit (the Ludwig Vistalite with some Paiste cymbals).
• Loads key maps for some e-drums and MIDI controllers.
• You can edit almost everything from its default state (kit piece parameters, grooves, mixer routings, effects, key and automation mapping).
• Runs forever (i.e. it never times out).
• Gives you a good indication of how well BFD2 will run on your computer system.

What the demo doesn't do:

• Run as a plug-in of any kind.
• Load or import anything (other that the supplied kit, mixer state and a selection of MIDI maps)
• Save or export anything.
• High resolution dynamics - you only get 4 velocity layers (rather than the potential 96 used in the full BFD2 library).
• High quality audio fidelity - audio playback is 16-bit only (rather that 24-bit or 32-bit float).
• Auxiliary outputs - it's stereo output only.

BFD2 Demo is available to anyone with an FXpansion website account (which are free).