Reason 4 is getting closer and closer to release. Propellerhead were looking for Beta Testers not all that long ago, so I wouldn't imagine it taking too long before we see an official release.

This update of Reason will see a number of new features added. Perhaps the most interesting, from my point of view, is the new synthesizer, Thor. Thor is described as a "polysonic" synth.

Six open filter and oscillator slots let you load up three different synth filters and three separate oscillators simultaneously, allowing you to dial in synth sounds that are completely...new. An all-powerful modulation matrix gives you complete control over your signal flow, letting you modulate anything within Thor with anything within Thor. Sound deep enough for you? It gets deeper.

At the bottom of this synth sits an analog style step sequencer with more than one twist. Being every bit as modular as the rest of Thor's components, this step sequencer does more than just play melodies - use it as a modulation tool, trigger phrases from specific keys, create intense arpeggios, generate piercing percussion lines.

That thing sounds freakin' intense! I like the idea of the synth having its own step sequencer as it means that Thor has the potential to create a whole new world of weird rhythm tracks.

There is no doubt the Reason 4 will be my next major music software purchase!