Propellerhead has announced a new major version of its Reason music software. With over 90 third party Rack Extensions expanding Reason's rack of instruments and effects already available, Propellerhead has focused its attention on new creative and inspirational improvements for the mixer, the rack and the sequencer.

With Reason 7, users can integrate all their instruments into Reason with MIDI out, automatic audio slicing and audio quantize, and even convert their recordings into REX loops for further creative possibilities in the rack. For mixing, Propellerhead is introducing a spectrum analyzer with visual EQ controls; group and parallel mix channels; and many workflow improvements to help users sound better, easier. To inspire, Reason 7 makes it easier to import audio from users' music libraries and the web with support for mp3, aac, wma and more. The enhanced Factory Sound Bank comes fully loaded with tons of new loops and drum kits, while the new Audiomatic Retro Transformer effect unit adds a futuristic-vintage sound to any tracks, never more than a mouse-click away.

Reason users are invited to sign up for the limited public beta testing at the Propellerhead web site.

Pricing & Availability

Reason 7 and Reason Essentials 2 begin limited public beta testing today and will be available for purchase worldwide in Q2 of 2013 at the following suggested retail pricing:

• Reason 7 €405 / $449.
• Reason Essentials 2 €120 / $129.
• Reason 7 Upgrade (from any previous Reason version) €129 / $129.
• Reason Essentials 2 upgrade from previous versions free.
• Balance (includes upgrade to Reason 7 for owners of previous versions of Reason) €429 / $449.

Propellerhead is also offering a grace period for purchasers of current versions of Reason, Reason Essentials and the Balance audio interface. Purchasing and registering a qualifying product today makes users eligible for a free upgrade to Reason 7. For details see: www.propellerheads.se/freeupgrade

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