Cakewalk to Distribute FruityLoops 3.0 Worldwide

Cakewalk and Image-Line have announced an agreement in which Cakewalk will be the exclusive worldwide distributor of FruityLoops 3.0 ($129 MSRP), scheduled for release Spring 2001.

FruityLoops is one of the most widely-used loop creation and drum sequencing tools in Europe. It is a hybrid product that combines the best in loop generation, synth emulation, and pattern-based sequencing. The 3.0 version of FruityLoops includes a new photo-realistic interface, support for DXi soft synths and DirectX audio effects, and support for Windows 2000 PCs. FruityLoops 3.0 also provides an integrated BeatSlicer and Sample Browser, CD-quality stereo output, an integrated TS-404 bass line generator, a virtual keyboard, MIDI and DirectSound support, skin support, and individual panning/volume/pitch/mix controls. Users can export samples to WAV, MP3, or MIDI files.

FruityLoops 3.0 and DXi Soft Synths

In addition to its built-in effects and sound generators, FruityLoops 3.0 supports DXi, the new open standard for Windows-based software synthesizers. Developed by Cakewalk and based on Microsoft DirectX technology, DXi enables users to add to FruityLoops additional software synths from leading manufacturers including Roland, Applied Acoustics Systems, Koblo, Live Update, Native Instruments, BitHeadz, Seer Systems, and others. DXi soft synths are also supported in the new SONAR digital multitrack recording system from Cakewalk, also announced this week at Winter NAMM.

FruityLoops 3.0 Highlights

The new 3.0 version includes the following capabilities:

• 16Bit/44KHz stereo output (CD quality)
• Export loops and songs to .WAV, MP3, and MIDI
• Integrated TS-404 bass line generator
• Includes high-quality sound generators
• Unlimited number of tracks
• Pattern-based sequencing with 4 to 64 notes per pattern
• Piano Roll view with chords, note lengths and slides
• External control from MIDI keyboard or PC keyboard
• Fully automatable wheels and sliders
• Support for DXi software synths
• Support for DirectX audio effects and VST plug-ins
• Integrated sample browser
• Control panning, volume, pitch, mix, and tonal characteristics for individual samples
• Alter samples with included effects
• Playlist view for mixing several patterns
• Peak meters
• Skin support for custom graphics
• BeatSlicer support

Pricing and Availability

FruityLoops 3.0 has an MSRP of $129 U.S.; Cakewalk will begin distribution of FruityLoops 3.0 to music retail stores worldwide beginning Spring '01.

For more information, visit their web site at www.fruityloops.com.