Propellerhead Software has announced Reason 3.0, an upgrade to its professional music authoring software that packs plenty of new features.

Reason 3.0is biggest new features include The Combinator, "a sophisticated device that allows you to build elaborate chains of Reason units - instruments, effects, pattern sequencers, you name it - and save as Combi patches." Propellerhead goes on to say, "The Combinator is not an instrument in itself, but make use of its extraordinary combination and routing features and youill soon be building your own unique instruments. Itis pretty safe to say that once you get familiar with the Combinator, which will take you about a minute, it will completely change the way you work in Reason."

Also new is an MClass Mastering Suite, which brings four separate pro level mastering units to Reason, including units to "add power, presences, and an overall professional feel to your Reason mixes."

Information on Reason 3.0is Browser, Soundbank, and other aspects of the software can be found here.

Reason 3.0 is currently in beta testing; \\ Software is keeping quiet on an expected release date for now, as well, although it wonit be out until next year. Registered users of Reason 2.5 can sign up to test the beta.