Open Planet have released Sessions 3.0: Plug-In Host, available for $19.99.
What’s new in version 4.0:
Sessions 4.0 introduces a new multi-threaded audio engine that spreads the audio processing load over multiple CPU cores. The new engine delivers a huge increase in real-time audio performance so you can add even more Channel Strips and Plug-ins to your projects.
- Adds an optional CPU meter to the toolbar
- Adds a setting to control of the maximum number of threads available to the new audio engine
- Adds more flexibility when selecting and combining Output and Input Devices [Mac]
- Adds compatibility with Aggregate Devices created using Audio MIDI Setup (Mac)
- Adds compatibility with mono plug-ins
- Moved Metronome and Display options into a new General tab in Settings
- Fixes an issue where the mute button did not silence pre fader sends
- Fixes an issue where audio input channels that should have contained audio data were silent
- Fixes an issue where plug-ins could fail to load if the the app was backgrounded (iPad)
- Fixes an issue where restoration of the previous app state could fail after restarting [iPad]
Sessions is the performance-oriented plug-in host that puts all your virtual instruments and effects at your fingertips. With powerful features and a streamlined workflow, musicians can enjoy ultimate freedom to explore, create, play and perform without a DAW.
Refreshingly straightforward, Sessions is designed to keep you ‘in the moment’ however you make music. Thanks to the fluid drag-and-drop interface and innovations like the Always-On Recorder, producers, songwriters and sound designers can quickly experiment with new ideas and jump-start the creative process. For live players, Sessions has everything you need for an impromptu jam or a professional stage performance including MIDI layers and splits, flexible audio mixing, seamless sound switching, MIDI control, Ableton Link support and so much more…
Audio / MIDI Hardware and plugins
- Support for Core Audio compatible multi-channel audio devices for low latency audio input and output
- Support for MIDI keyboards and controllers
- Support for MPE controllers and plug-ins
- Support for AUv2 and AUv3 instrument and effect plug-ins
Audio Mixer Features
- Unlimited number of Audio Input Channels for live audio sources
- Unlimited number of Instrument Channels for hosting instrument plug-ins
- Unlimited number of Auxiliary Channels
- 1 Master Output Channel per Scene
- Unlimited number of effect plug-ins on each Channel
- 8 sends per Channel, switchable pre / post fader
- Auxiliary Channels can be routed to independent external outputs
MIDI Features
- MPE support
- Create layers and splits using MIDI device, channel, note and velocity
- Note transposition on each Instrument Channel
- Use MIDI to control Scenes, Macros, Beat Clock and Metronome
Plugins and Widgets
- Plugins are represented in the Mixer by Widgets
- Widgets can be customized with knobs, sliders and switches to control up to 12 plug-in parameters
- Over 30 beautiful Widget themes are included, many inspired by the classic hardware of yesteryear
- A plugin’s own UI can be displayed in the main app window or in separate floating windows
- Flexible Mixer / Plugin split screen options: auto-sized, fixed 50/50 or full width
Scenes
- 12 Scenes, each with its own independent Mixer
- Seamless switching between Scenes
- Customizable with colors and icons
Macros
- 16 Macro Controls and 1 Big Knob per Scene
- Macros auto-map to the first 16 Widgets parameters by default
- Macros can be configured to control multiple parameters, each with its own scale and range
Patches and Projects
- Save individual Channels and Scenes to the Patch Library for easy reuse
- Save the content of all twelve Scenes, Macros and the Beat Clock as a Project file
- Move Patches and Projects between Mac and iPad (third party plug-in availably may vary between platforms)
Recording
- The Always-On Recorder continuously records the last 5, 10 or 15 minutes
- Loop playback of recorded or selectable region
- Export recorded or selectable region as M4A or WAV
- Manual direct-to-file recorder for recordings of unlimited duration
Beat Clock
- Start / Stop, Tempo and Time Signature controls
- Internal, Ableton Link and external MIDI clock sources
- Metronome with selectable tick sound
Plugin Library
- Separate tabs for Instruments and Effects
- Independent Search and Favorites filter in each tab
- Organise Plugins alphabetically or grouped by manufacturer
- Hide unwanted plugins using the PlugIn Manager
For more information on Sessions, click here:
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