Native Instruments has updated Reaktor, a modular studio for Windows and Mac, to version 5.6.

It’s a fairly significant update, with a streamlined user interface, two new synthesis modules (additive and modal), a more powerful audio engine and improved documentation (yes!).

In addition, NI is including Electronic Instruments 1 & 2 with Reaktor now, along with the Lazerbass monophonic synthesizer.

Changes since version 5.5 include:

• 64-bit support for Windows and Mac OSX.
• Improved navigation concept.
• Added ‘breadcrumb’ navigation to structure view.
• Added searchbox to add modules.
• New 800-page module reference manual.
• Scrolling of structures with Alt+Drag over structure.
• Added hide frame and transparency property to XY module.
• Added drag copy to other structure view.
• Recorder shows recorded time when recording.
• Add abort function to file not found dialog on project recall.
• Improved loading time for ensembles with many Send/Receive terminals.
• PNG file support for picture modules.

Reaktor retails for US $399.