MOTU has announced the release of MachFive 3.1, which introduces several new features, two new effects processors, several new event processors (scripts), and other enhancements.

MOTU says that MachFive's new SparkVerb reverb module "will inspire your production sensibilities with a fresh approach to synthetic reverb". From stratospheric choruses, to resonant unisons, and to lush ambiances, SparkVerb gives you a huge palette and direct control.

Also new in Version 3.1, straight from the 1970s, is a meticulously engineered model of the analog ensemble effect in the Roland Paraphonic RS-505 string synth. Highly coveted, nearly impossible to obtain, now it's yours.

MachFive 3.1 has six new script processors, including Shepard, which produces the classic endless rising (or dropping) pitch effect.

Version 3.1 is now available as a free download for all MachFive 3 users.

SparkVerb: Like MachFive's dozens of other effects, you can apply SparkVerb at just about any location in MachFive's signal chain, from individual sample layers to the main output bus. Dozens of presets are provided, so you can zero in quickly on the desired ambiance or effect, or begin building your own unique SparkVerb creation.

Ensemble 505: If you ever worked with the Roland Paraphonic RS-505, you know how truly special the ensemble effects was in that unit. Here's your chance to relive it and apply it to any audio material you wish.

Six new script processors: Imagine being able to pitch-bend a note, chord, or arpeggiator upwards continuously for 2, 4, 8 or even 16 bars. Now you can, with MachFive 3.1's new Shepard processor, which produces the classic endless rising (or dropping) pitch effect made famous by Roger Shepard and Jean-Calude Risset. Use this new processor on any instrument you wish.

Shepard is one of six exciting new processors now available, including StepLine, a bass line step editor for programming killer bass parts quickly, and Tonal Harmonizer, which harmonizes each note of a scale with a chord from the same scale.

Using MIDI program changes to switch sounds from your MIDI controller
Do you play MachFive 3 from your MIDI controller during live performance? Version 3.1 has a simple, yet powerful new script that could revolutionize your on-stage workflow. It's called Program Change Switcher, and it lets you use MIDI program change messages sent from your controller to change which MachFive part you are playing on the fly. For example, you could have a piano sound loaded into part 1, organ in part 2, and strings in part 3. If you assign the parts to MIDI channels 1, 2 and 3 respectively, you can use MIDI program change messages #0, 1 and 2 to switch among the three sounds on the fly. You can even make the switch to another instrument while still sustaining notes from the current one. When combined with the dynamic presets you can custom program, with splits and layers and dynamically controlled effects, MachFive 3.1 becomes your live performance partner.

For more information on the new features and enhancements please visit motu.com/machfive