Native Instruments has announced Reaktor 5, a new version of its modular sound design studio that combines synthesis, sampling and effects features. “The latest version introduces the new ‘Reaktor Core Technology,’ resulting in a major technology leap that dramatically widens the scope of REAKTOR- based instrument design. With a massive instrument library, powerful new routing options, vastly expanded panel design options, a revised user interface and a host of other improvements, the new version of REAKTOR is more than ever an unlimited creative resource for musicians and producers as well as a an open-ended tool for forward-thinking instrument designers.” Reaktor 5 will be available in May for US$579.