Cakewalk has unveiled the Project5 Version 2 performance workstation. The next-generation of the Project5 open studio environment features a streamlined design, optimized for immediacy, that provides everything you need to take your music from inspiration to studio and stage. Project5 Version 2 has a US$429 MSRP and is scheduled for release in April 2005. Customers that purchase full retail packages of Project5 Version 1 or 1.5 after February 1, 2005 will receive a free upgrade to Project5 Version 2 directly from Cakewalk.

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Project5 Version 2 offers the following key enhancements:

New UI - Project5 Version 2 sports a streamlined user interface with all views and tools integrated to provide the most intuitive workflow possible.

High Performance Engine - With Version 2, Project5’s audio engine has been customized to stand up to the real-time rigors of live performance.

Integrated Multitrack Audio - multitrack audio recording and editing tools have been intelligently incorporated, providing all the tools you need to take projects from inspiration to completion.

Multipad Groove Trigger - real-time, per-track pattern triggering pads have been fully integrated into Project5’s workspace; drag-drop between song arrangement and Multipad; populate cells with audio clips and MIDI patterns without any disruption to the audio engine; live control via MIDI remote control.

Loop Reconstruction - per-slice control of pitch, pan, and gain; rearrange and nudge slices; export new ACID™-format loops, seamless drag-drop rearrangement; export new ACID™-format loops.

Dynamic Arpeggiator - performance-oriented, per-track arpeggiator that allows real-time control of notes and automation parameters; includes hundreds of patterns and classic algorithms.

Multi-mode Sampling Synthesizer - the first rgc:audio-engineered plug-in to be included in a Cakewalk product (see related rgc:audio acquisition announcement); a robust world-class instrument featuring a versatile engine, graphical modulation section, and internal effects stages. Mix and layer rich tones using up to four voices from quality stereo samples, wave guide synthesis, and analog style synthesis; includes an extensive array of acoustic, electric and electronic instruments, loops, sound effects, and sound-scapes; heavy on features, light on CPU.

PSYN II - provides classic analog sounds and evocative new sounds through full-featured subtractive synthesis modeling. New for version 2: drive, delay, and modulation effects settings provide expanded sonic horizons.

Additional enhancements include: freeze, tap tempo, track inspector view, in-track automation, drag and drop patterns between plug-ins and Project5, more.