Speaking of VR, KORG’s ongoing collaboration with developer DETUNE keeps bringing their instruments to more platforms. VR is the latest, in the form of a Meta Quest (and PC VR) version of KORG Gadget, the toybox full of fun Korg instruments, beatmakers, and pattern makers.

Ready to get started with the deep 2D/3D media environment TouchDesigner? Or you’re an educator teaching others? Or you just want one newbie-friendly tutorial for Fluffy the Noise? It’s all here.

Working in 3D and immersive visuals is now more than ever about finding the most expressive, efficient integration. Now is a perfect time to check out TouchDesigner’s integration with Unreal Engine, as it’s steadily advanced – including a significant milestone this summer.

It’s got growl, savage bass, an unmistakably aggressive lowpass filter, and unique-sounding cross modulation and oscillator sync. Now the CAT sound is readily accessible to anyone in plug-in form, with input directly from its original designer, Carmine Bonanno. Cherry Audio’s Octave CAT is out now.

2023 acquisition season continues. The latest is the complete acquisition of DJ vendor Serato Audio Research by AlphaTheta; AlphaTheta is best known for the Pioneer DJ brand.

VR music has quietly evolved from fringe experiment to serious, fun musical tool – and it’s done so entirely through one app, PatchWorld. Released publicly last summer, it’s gotten steadily more capable and reliable, including on Meta’s affordable Quest 2 headset and HTC’s VIVE. But most recently, on top of additions like Ableton Live integration, PatchXR has added a true killer app: multiplayer.

ALM / Busy Circuits has two brilliant-looking modules out today. One is a unity gain summing mixer that works with stereo signals. The other is a dual-channel preamp, EQ, and mixer with some 80s and 90s character inspired by the BOSS BX series.

One week ago, we were shocked by the sudden death of Odai Masri aka ODDZ. Odai’s work extended from his own musical voice to untiring, fearless leadership for Palestine, Palestinians, and humans around the world. That included not only founding Exist Festival and its fledgling label imprint, but acting as a constant champion for others.

Here’s a refreshing new take on software drum synth plug-ins: Capulet takes inspiration from machines like the classic Vermona DRM1 to deliver an instrument that overflows with character. And while there are tons of extras, they’re tucked into a clean, friendly interface for step sequencing and sound design.

Resolume keeps adding to their live visual / VJ / media tools Avenue, Arena, and Wire. Here’s the latest quick rundown: