Native Instruments has released Kontakt 3.5
(http://www.native-instruments.com/Kontakt35.info), a free update for
its software sampler. The new version fully utilizes the capabilities
of today's computer systems to overcome existing performance
barriers, and includes many improvements that make Kontakt even more
powerful and convenient, according to the folks at NI.

At the heart of Kontakt 3.5 is a new sample engine with capabilities
for sophisticated orchestral scoring and similar complex projects. On
the Mac, Kontakt 3.5 introduces the new "Kontakt Memory Server,"
which can make use of up to 32GB of RAM on Mac OS X 10.4 and beyond.

Kontakt 3.5 also uses a new "zero-memory" DFD technology for disc
streaming with a reduced memory footprint. Multiprocessor support now
enables additional performance benefits on modern multi-core and
multiprocessor setups.

To better accommodate its arsenal of third-party instrument content,
the new Kontakt version displays all installed libraries and Kontakt
Player instruments in a virtual rack. Further enhancements in version
3.5 include direct MIDI learn for sound parameter controls, improved
automapping, individual bypass for effect slots, optimized Pro Tools
compatibility on Mac OS X 10.5, KSP aftertouch interpretation, and a
localized info pane in six languages.

For new users Kontakt 3.5 costs US$449.