The " only 64-bit" thing wouldn't surprise me as Sound Radix has just announced that their 32Lives bridge works with VSTs now, not only AUs. When Logic X came and was 64-bit only, users were infuriated. Let's see how Cubase users will react. If the tabbed windows interface is true, they better make the option of working with multiple screens as most Cubendo users invested in multi-displays for years.
If history repeats itself, it should be out this week. If it does come out this week, new users should buy the remaining stocks of 8.5 to have a stable version and will be entitled to a free V9 upgrade.
Blink