IK Multimedia has unveiled T-RackS 3, ending speculation that it might be about to launch a third version of AmpliTube.
MusicRadar predicted last week that IK's guitar amp/effects suite could be about to get an update, but it turns out that it's the company's mixing/mastering solution that's being refreshed.
It looks to be a pretty significant refresh, too: T-RackS 3 includes five new processors, three of which are modelled on vintage analogue gear. There's a compressor/limiter that's based on the Fairchild 670; a tube program EQ that takes its lead from the Pultec EQP-1A; and the Opto compressor-inspired, err, Opto compressor.
The other new processors are a high precision, high definition linear phase equaliser and an intelligent multi-algorithm brickwall limiter. These all join the 'classic' T-RackS processors from the previous version of the software.
Slot machine
T-RackS 3 is a modular solution that contains 12 processing slots. There are two rows of four slots for parallel processing and four final serial slots. A new metering section has been implemented, while the software promises to deliver "pure and transparent" processing throughout the signal path.
Although T-RackS 3 is undoubtedly designed to be used by producers and musicians who know their mastering onions, the inclusion of several style-based presets should mean that pretty much anyone can use it to improve their sound. Indeed, the software as a whole is said to be extremely easy to use.
Available for Mac and PC and supporting the VST, AU and RTAS plug-in formats (it also works standalone), T-RackS 3 will be available in three versions from 10 November.
The full Deluxe package contains all the new processors and costs $499/€379.99/£349; there's a crossgrade for registered IK customers that's available for $299.99/€229.99/£211; while the standard version, which puts just the original T-RackS processors in the new application framework, can be yours for $199.99/€149.99/£139.
Find out more at the IK Multimedia website.
