Native Instruments has announced that the free Maschine 1.8 update is now available (actually 1.8.1). Starting with Maschine 1.8, all Maschine owners also get Massive for free, adding powerful synthesis to the groove production studio.

Version 1.8 introduces a new color-coding system. Sounds, groups, patterns and projects can be assigned specific color schemes, which are reflected in the colors of the pads and buttons on the hardware, providing instant visual feedback and improved workflow. Furthermore, the new software also includes offline time stretching and pitch shifting capabilities as well as a range of new effects, including NI's dynamic mixing effect Transient Master.

Numerous workflow improvements such as Host Transport Control, Browser Sample Preview Mode, Auto-Write Pinning and more plus a number of new hardware shortcuts allow for faster and even more intuitive control of the software via the Maschine hardware.

The Maschine 1.8 update is compatible with all versions of Maschine and Maschine Mikro, not only the new MK2 hardware.