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New Book: How to Make It in the New Music Business - Lessons, Tips and Inspiration From Music's Biggest and Best "How to Make It in the New Music Business leads both novice and professional musicians into today's digital world, helping them to take complete control over all aspects of their music, from writing and performing to recording and selling.Motivating readers to live their dreams, author Robert Wolff shows how anyone can set up and run their own music business and become a highly successful businessman or businesswoman; record major label quality music in their home, aided by tips from music professionals; broadcast that music over their own web site and radio station to a potential audience of over 500 million people via the world wide web; and do it without a major record label's support. The book also includes interviews with some major names in the music business, including Grammy-winning guitarist and composer Steve Lukather, Grammy-winning songwriter Diane Warren, guitar/sound system designer Bob Bradshaw, legendary engineer/producer/record mixer Bob Clearmountain, and sound mixer/masterer Bob Ludwig. How to Make It in the New Music Business is the any person's how-to, offering step-by-step advice to making it in the music business in one's own way, on own's own terms." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Gear, Yamaha, Sony, Smart Loops, Native Instruments, SidStation, and Les Productions Zvon in News. |
Propellerhead Software Releases Reason 3.0 "Propellerhead Software today announced the availability of version 3.0 of their award-winning music software system, Reason, at music and computer stores worldwide. Propellerhead has taken what was a stand-alone music production instrument to the next level with Reason 3.0, which now is also a powerful live instrument. The brand new sound bank, the Combinator device, the new inspiration-boosting sound browser and the new Remote technology turn Reason into a powerful workstation for both music production and live performance.The expanded sound bank in Reason 3.0 is more than comprehensive, with sounds spanning from the expected to the obscure and abstract, offering enough material for any style of music. Reason 3.0 is now pre-configured with new Remote technology for use with all the leading controller keyboards and control surfaces on the market, and is destined to become a favourite among studio based synth tweakers and live players. To use Remote, all the user needs to do is to hook up any supported controller to the computer and Reason will identify it and handle pre-configured controller mappings for all Reason devices. Reason 3.0 integrates more remote keyboards with tighter implementation than anything that has been ever done before. Reason's Remote technology supports over 35 controllers with more to come. Reason 3.0 also comes with the MClass mastering tools. The suite consists of a mastering EQ, a stereo imager, a sweet sounding compressor and a maximizer to further polish and empower one's sound. Benchmarked against industry standard mastering effects during development, the MClass units turned out to be everything Propellerhead Software strived for and will do wonders to a final mix in Reason." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Steinberg, EastWest, Rockstar, Native Instruments, Scarbee, and TheMusicBroker in News. |
Steinberg Ships Groove Agent 2 "Replete with dozens of fresh, up-to the-minute styles and a battery of quality new drum sounds, Groove Agent 2 offers a raft of the latest drum grooves and styles within the comfortable confines of modern DAW environments supporting the VST, DXi, Rewire or AU plug-in formats.Groove Agent 2 comes with 50% more musical styles and drum kits. The 27 new styles offer an array of the latest grooves in diverse flavors currently in demand such as ultra-slick RnB, Bristol Trip Hop, Old Skool HipHop, Retro Rock, roof-raising Punk and grinding Grunge grooves. Providing the kerosene for the 27 explosive new styles are the 9 new drum kits. The all-new top-quality studio kit offers a highly polished, refined sound while being widely usable for many modern pop and rock productions. Other kit highlights include painstakingly recreated retro drum synths, ultra-hip noisy lofi drums, a diamond-hard metal kit as well as added percussive sounds. Other feature refinements include added output busses, with up to 8 stereo outputs now available within the virtual mixer of the host application. It’s now also possible to bypass the internal Groove Agent 2 sample playback engine and to use Groove Agent as a MIDI player that triggers external samples. The GUI has also been overhauled, with added scales and easier access to vital controls. The new solo button for every group makes it easier to quickly focus on one group of sounds while tweaking and mixing. Groove Agent 2 also offers a new “Save to MIDI file” feature, which stores Groove Agent's rhythm output to a MIDI file for detailed editing, regardless of the DAW application hosting Groove Agent 2." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Disc Makers, Dasample, SXP, Fervent Software, and VirSyn in News. |
Bass On Demand: Like a Session Player on CD "Featuring some of the most essential bass patterns used in rock, pop and country music today, Bass On Demand allows you to round out your rhythm tracks with a lifelike, pro bass performance. The 1800+ loops and riffs are available in 8 keys over two octaves, so you can pitch change without any degradation in sound quality. And like its sister product, Drums On Demand, they are organized with matching alternative loops, transitions/fills, plus single pitch patterns. You can quickly build a track with loops from the one folder or mix and match with loops in related, similar-feeling folders. It's almost like a Session Player on CD.Now you can construct a pro bass performance with the fret buzzes, the slides -- that intangible human quality you just can't get with midi or sequenced bass. In addition, the tightness and creativity of Bass On Demand goes way beyond the "I'm-a guitarist-so-I-can-do-my-own-bass-tracks" so prevalent on many of today's home studio projects. Forget about those non-inventive, "root-heavy" tracks played on that bass you borrowed from your brother-in-law. Bass On Demand features organization similar to the company's patent-pending Drums On Demand volumes. The 1800+ loops and "fills" are organized by tempo and feel into 70 main folders. Groove folders include a main loop, plus several alternates and fills -- each played in eight keys over two octaves. Straight patterns include both short (tight) and long (loose) bars of eighths, quarters, halves, whole and double wholes notes." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Bela D Media, Elemental Audio Systems, Bandmateloops.com, Les Productions Zvon, Electronisounds, and PreSonus in News. |
New Sounds From EastWest SoundsOnline "EASTWEST, setting the industry standard as the #1 producer and distributor of VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTS and SOUND LIBRARIES, is proud to announce that it will be distributing BEST SERVICES REAL GUITAR, a new sample-based virtual instrument with an innovative approach to guitar sound modelling and guitar part performing on keyboard. The cutting edge technology contained in REAL GUITAR is sure to set the precedent as the premiere guitar performance tool.REAL GUITAR is a unique product in itself being that the true power of REAL GUITAR lies in its cutting edge technology. REAL GUITAR opens the door to a whole new world of realistic expression, allowing one to closely emulate live guitar sound and technique. Consisting of new multi-channel layer technology and incorporating a custom library of specially recorded samples taken from every fret of all 6 strings of a real guitar, the possibilities of achieving true tone is eminently possible with REAL GUITAR. Moreover, the unique floating fret position technology, which imitates the change of fret position of a guitarist’s hand on the neck, gives one the possibility of playing up to 104 guitar frets simply using 43 keys of a standard keyboard." Click here for more information.  "Featuring some of Cuba’s finest players, BEATS WORKING IN CUBA presents a unique multi-track format that provides the user with complete flexibility in both tempo and the selection of instruments. There are many styles covered in BEATS WORKING IN CUBA, they include the 12 prime Afro/Hispanic rhythms of the Cuban music culture: the Cha Cha Cha, Danzon, Son Montuno, Bolero, Pilon, Son Traditional, Guajira Son, Guaracha, Mambo, Songo, Timba, Conga Habanera (Carnival), and Conga Moderna. In addition, variations in some of the performances enable the user to select Modern or Traditional arrangements." Click here for more information. "To date, there aren’t any products that match Percussive and Cocktail. In a class of its own, Percussive and Cocktail includes 10,000 individual samples; dual Refill versions (16 Bit and 24 bit); standard GM mapping as well as extended dfh SUPERIOR mapping; MIDI and REX Files; NN-XT Patches with presets and Individual instruments; and a massive collection of ReDrum patches guaranteed to meet the needs of Reason users around the world. Using a massive percussion kit from MIENL Percussion and 20s style Yamaha Cocktail jazz drum kit, world class percussionists Mikael Emsing and Per Mikaelsson provide the flavor on Percussive and Cocktail by laying out tasty grooves on bongos, congas, tambourines, cowbells, triangles, and much more." Click here for more information.Also, new announcements from Cakewalk, Arboretum, TerraTec, Wizoo, Metrofly, Cycling '74, and Empire Interactive in News. |
The CME UF Master Keyboard Series "The UF is the world’s first Firewire expandable master keyboard. Once you connect the UF with an external tone generator or software synthesizer through the optional Firewire expansion board on its rear panel, you get a powerful and multi-function synthesizer. The Firewire expansion board can also be used for professional digital audio I/O with a computer, turning your UF into a multi-track digital recorder, complete with MIDI, synth, and audio control. For live performance, a single MIDI cable can easily and inexpensively expand your keyboard rig. The UF can control multiple keyboards, synths, or digital pianos, making it much easier to manage your live rig.With weighted hammer action, the 88-note UF8 provides exceptional grand piano feel and control when used with external tone generators or sample playback software. The UF8 also works well for piano education, featuring 2 headphone outputs on the Firewire expansion board designed for teacher and student. Most manufactures utilize plastic materials to make the body section to save the cost where the UF series master keyboards are all manufactured with quality metal bodies for log-lasting durability and a refined look and feel. This attention to quality and detail makes the instrument you are controlling all the more real and enjoyable to play. The UF keyboard provides 8 knobs, 9 sliders, pitch-bend and modulation wheels - a configuration not available in other products. With the UF series, you can easily control your music in real-time while the control buttons such as REC, PLAY, REW, remotely control the sequencer software in your computer, making your workflow more efficient. The features of UF keyboard also include professional after-touch, breath control interface, which works well for playing orchestral sounds, a USB interface for MIDI data transfer and is self-powered." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Sweetwater Sound, Garritan Orchestral Libraries, IK Multimedia, Rapco International, and MOTU in News. |
eMedia Rock Guitar Method "From the makers of the best-selling Guitar Method tutorial software! The eMedia Rock Guitar Method CD-ROM makes learning quick and easy with over 100 audio and video-enhanced guitar lessons. The revolutionary teaching style has you playing songs, chords and riffs within minutes - no previous experience required.The gear tips will help keep you playing all night long! Instructor Charles McCrone, a graduate of the cutting-edge Guitar Institute of Technology, with over 25 years of playing and teaching experience, takes you through all of the techniques needed to play rock, punk and metal. These include movable power chords, barre chords, effects pedals, yanks, hammer-ons, pull-offs, palm muting, distorted riffs, the blues scale, using feedback, the whammy bar and more. Features many hit songs including: “Paranoid” - Black Sabbath “Tired of Waiting for You” - made famous by Green Day “Lake of Fire” - made famous by Nirvana “You Really Got Me” - made famous by Van Halen Learn to play Rock Guitar in the style of AC/DC, Rage Against The Machine, Led Zeppelin, Hoobastank, Blink 182 and many more!" Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Hercules Technologies, SM Pro Audio, XP Sound, and Electronisounds in News. |
New Books: ACID Pro 5 Power!, Cubase SX/SL 3 Power!, and Guerrilla Home Recording "ACID is the #1 product in the loop-based composition category. This fun and popular Windows-based application is accessible to beginners, but used by professionals for serious artistic and commercial music creation. "ACID Pro 5 Power!: The Official Guide to Sony's ACID Pro 5" provides in-depth coverage of this powerful application and is an effective guide to learning the many features ACID has to offer. This book makes it easier then ever for you to create amazing audio on the PC. You'll learn to master ACIDs features, record audio and MIDI tracks, burn songs to redistribute on CD or over the internet, and add music to video. The easy-to-understand, thorough approach of this official Sony guide will smoothly lead you through this application, offering many expert tips and tricks, as well as the "how" and "why" behind each new skill." Click here for more information about ACID 5 Power! "Get ready to dive into Cubase SX or SL 3! This book provides a thorough look at the most common as well as lesser-known features of this impressive digital audio production software. Beyond describing the features of the program and how they work, Cubase SX/SL 3 Power! tells why to use certain features and when they are most beneficial to your project. Youll gain a better understanding of Cubase SX or SL while learning how to use all the exciting new tools in version 3, such as the new Freeze function, which makes it possible to render temporary audio inserts to free up computer resources, and the External FX Plug-ins VST Connections which make it easier to use external effect modules inside your SX or SL projects. Packed with useful tips and detailed explanations, this book is your guide to taking advantage of all that Cubase has to offer and making a powerful difference in your music creation." Click here for more information about Cubase SX/SL 3 Power! "Guerrilla Home Recording : How to Get Great Sound from Any Studio (no matter how weird and cheap your gear is). This easy-to-use book details an all-new approach to the art and science of recording for musicians who didn't attend engineering school and who don't own pricey recording gear. It discusses techniques - from standard to creative and unusual - that allow musicians to create professional-quality recordings using minimal tools; teaches readers everything they need to know to produce a great-sounding CD; and exposes some common misconceptions that have frustrated recording musicians for decades." Click here for more information about Guerilla Home RecordingAlso, new announcements from Mark Burnett Productions, Cakewalk Music Software, Les Productions Zvon, Groove Monkee, Ableton, Steinberg, Sony, and Native Instruments in News. |
The Sonic Implants Symphonic Collection "Proudly unveiling the combined efforts of nearly one hundred recording engineers, sound designers, programmers, and professional musicians, Sonic Network Inc., creators of Sonic Implants sound libraries, previewed its complete Symphonic Collection at this year’s Winter NAMM show in Anaheim, CA, marking this as the first time that the company will be displaying the culmination of its nearly three years of sampling labor. Joining the previously released Sonic Implants Symphonic String and Symphonic Brass Collections are the Symphonic Woodwinds and Symphonic Percussion collections.Offering a superior array of solo and ensemble instruments, the Symphonic Woodwind Collection features exceptional recordings of solo and ensemble flutes, bassoons, clarinets, piccolos, and English horn. With a staggering array of drums, cymbals, mallets, and hand percussion including many esoteric offerings like bowed cymbals, earth plates, and sizzle strips, Sonic Implants’ Symphonic Percussion Collection features superb recordings from the renowned acoustic confines of Sonic Temple in Roslindale, MA., captured by the same award winning engineering and production team that has helped to make Sonic Implants one of the preeminent instrument designers in the sampling industry. The complete Sonic Implants Symphonic Collection is slated for a March 1st release. Those interested in finding out more information about included instruments and articulations should visit Sonic Implants online at www.sonicimplants.com for more specific details including audio demos of the Symphonic Collection in action." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Amphony, Sony Media Software, Fable Sounds, Applied Acoustics Systems, CM Labs, Celemony Software, and FMJ Software in News. |
Synful Orchestra for Windows "This VST/DXi Virtual Software Plugin Synthesizer is the first product based on Synful's innovative Reconstructive Phrase Modeling (RPM) technology. It achieves extraordinary levels of realism and expressivity. Synful Orchestra is not a sampler or a sample library. When the performer plays a phrase with legato and detached notes, with accents, and pedal nuances and Synful Orchestra responds with realistic sounding slurs, tonguing, and bowing. No laborious editing of performances to select from a limited set of articulations in a sample library. It uses patented breakthrough technology representing a major milestone in music synthesis.Real instruments have many ways of moving from note to note: slurs with varying amounts of portamento, lightly tongued or bowed note transitions, fast runs, detached hard attacks, etc. These note transitions are the connective tissue of musical expression. Synful Orchestra models these transitions. Synful Orchestra models the way notes are sustained, the graceful onset of vibrato, breath sounds, the sound of the bow on the string, the change of tone color as a note becomes louder or softer. Judging from the Synful Orchestra sound examples on Synful's website, the team at Synful has achieved its goal. The three examples feature Synful Orchestra strings playing an excerpt from Beethoven String Quartet Opus 132, Synful Orchestra winds playing the first few minutes of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, Synful Orchestra brass playing Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man, and the entire Synful Orchestra playing a movement from a new composition by Anna Lindemann Hari-Hara. It is difficult to believe these examples were created on a synthesizer - they sound absolutely real." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Oz Music Code, Vienna Symphonic Library, Blue Cat Music, Virsyn, Sony Oxford, Precisionsound, and The Great Kat in News. |
The Drummer's Guide to Loop-Based Music "This cutting-edge book/CD set introduces acoustic and electronic drummers to the art of performing and creating loop-based music styles. It covers the history and basics of a variety of techno styles including Jungle/Drum'n'Bass, Hip-Hop, Electronica, Trip-Hop, 2-Step, Acid Jazz and Ambient, and is illustrated with sound files as well as notated examples of beats and grooves.The book also includes interviews with prominent techno drummers and provides information about creating breakbeats, using music software to transcribe drum grooves, acoustic drum triggering, using MIDI, and the author's DJ Drummer concept. In addition, the enhanced CD includes a demo version of Sonic Foundry's ACID." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from vember/audio, Fervent Software, Steinberg, Native Instruments, Fretted Synth Audio, and MusicLab in News. |
Native Instruments Absynth 3 "Now in its third generation, the award-winning synthesizer continues to build on its untouchable reputation. From futuristic synths to rhythmic mayhem, vintage sounds to ambient layers and completely unique, alien soundscapes – ABSYNTH 3 seduces with sublime sounds. The possibilities offered by its semi-modular architecture and powerful, unique features stretch well beyond the boundaries of existing synthesizers, creating an extremely diverse spectrum of amazing sounds.ABSYNTH 3 brings dozens of new features that greatly expand its already extraordinary sound spectrum. The powerful synthesizer now incorporates a new user interface with convenient one-window editing, envelope-controlled surround sound features, live audio inputs, real-time fractalization, unison mode, advanced envelope control, 2 new special effects and 256 additional presets. ABSYNTH 3 is as much at home in the studio as it is on stage. All the envelopes can be tempo-synced or managed remotely via MIDI, enabling dynamic manipulation of parameters during performances. With the live stereo input you can use ABSYNTH 3 as an extraordinary effect unit. Route other instruments through it, twisting and contorting your sounds into unimaginable sonic realities. Its compatibility with every popular plug-in format ensures seamless integration into every studio setup." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Arturia, Scarbee, Acon Digital Media, and Analog Man in News. |
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Happy Holidays! - A GPO Christmas "The Garritan Personal Orchestra Christmas CD was a collaborative effort of the Garritan Personal Orchestra community and was put together in the spirit of giving for the holiday. The holiday CD was not a contest or competition, just a way for forum members to give back to the community. Available as a free download, hear many of the traditional Chrismas songs as rendered by the Garritan Personal Orchestra. Included are Joy to the World, O' Little Town of Bethlehem, How A Rose E'er Blooming, Silent Night, The Holly and the Ivy, Jingle Bells, We Three Kings, A GPO Christmas, Oh Come Emmanuel, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, Joy to the World, First Noel, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O' Holy Night, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, How a Rose E'er Blooming, Away in a Manger, Auld Lang Syne, Silent Night, and Orchestral Fantasie on the Wexford Carol." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Beta Monkey Music, DUY, LinPlug, Electronisounds, Garrigus.com, M-Audio, Propellerhead Software, and PreSonus in News. |
Steinberg's Nuendo 3 "Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH is excited to announce that the latest version of Nuendo, its famed Media Production System, is now shipping to Steinberg distributors worldwide. Nuendo 3 offers a range of new, next-generation features and technologies for post production, surround production and high-end recording, mixing and editing."We're extremely proud of Nuendo 3," states Steinberg's General Manager Andreas Stelling. "This product is our most advanced media production software to date, and has been engineered using the feedback and advice from many top audio and post production professionals," Stelling continues. Nuendo 3 sees the introduction of many innovative new features. Among the new functionality tailored to audio professionals in post production are "out-of-the-box" AAF support, X-Send integration, new Media Management tools and the innovative Warp To Picture feature. Version 3 also takes Nuendo to new strengths in mixing and surround, with full AFL/PFL facilities, the new MixConvert and External Effects plug-ins as well as the new Linked Panners mode. Nuendo 3 also offers a palette of new functions for recording facilities, with Steinberg's Audio Warp tools, 10-minute audio prerecord utility and support of the new Studio Connections protocol developed by Steinberg and Yamaha." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from LinPlug, Hard Note Software, Native Instruments, Applied Acoustics Systems, Line 6, Voxengo, Audio Damage, and eMedia in News. |
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Issue 21 has been published! Here's what you'll find in this issue: 1. Scott's Notes – Sonar 4 Power! 2. DFreqCONTEST - Native Instruments INTAKT 3. DFreqDISCUSS - EQ Presets For Vocals 4. DFreqDEALS - Smart Loops Super Sale 5. DFreqTOPIC - Music Software Freebies (Part 3) 6. DFreqNEWS – Summit for the Future: Media & Entertainment 7. DFreqTIP – Finding Glitches With Sound Forge 8. DFreqPICK – The XPower PowerPack 9. DFreqFINISH – Send Your Suggestions! To read this issue, you need to be a subscriber. If you're not already, just click here. It's free! If you are already a subscriber, please allow 3 to 5 days for the delivery of your issue. Or you can get the issue right away by going to the Issues section of the site. |
Band-in-a-Box 2005 for Windows "PG Music Inc. has released the 2005 version of its popular Band-in-a-Box® intelligent music software for Windows®. With over fifty new features, Band-in-a-Box 2005 offers users a major upgrade in features and functionality. New features include a fully-featured “Piano Roll” window; support for alternate guitar tunings; new harmonies with voicing in 4ths; “auto endings” added for styles without endings; Jazz chord symbol graphics; patch file lists conversion from PowerTracks Pro Audio or Cakewalk patch lists; enhanced TC-Helicon audio harmonies with pitch styles (automatic vibrato and scooping); a new “Vocal Wizard” that displays the best song keys for the user’s range, and much more.With the fully-featured “Piano Roll” window users can now edit the Melody or Soloist tracks with greater ease and precision. The window is divided into 2 panes: one for notes, the other for controllers, velocity, and other data. Users can change note duration and pitch by selecting and dragging with a mouse. Band-in-a-Box 2005 supports alternate guitar tunings, including DADGAD, Drop D, Double Drop D, Open G, and 11 others. The new tunings are supported in styles, chord diagrams, guitar tutor, notation, tab, and printout. Customers can learn how to play using these tunings by watching the on-screen Guitar Fretboard or Notation/Tab Window." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Club of Amsterdam, EastWest, Line 6, MOTU, Precision Sound, Leapfrog Audio, Sonoma Wire Works, Audio Ease, and Acon Digital Media in News. |
Scott R. Garrigus' Sonar 4 Power Book - Now Available! "Dig deep down into the new features of SONAR 4 and learn how to conquer each one through step-by-step examples and exercises that are designed to make your composing and recording sessions run more smoothly. From initially customizing SONAR 4 to creating and producing a surround sound mix, get ready to explore all that SONAR 4 has to offer! Cover both MIDI and audio effects and learn how to use them in offline and real-time situations. Explore mixing music via software and discover how much control you can have when you’re using an on-screen software mixer. Take a look at the advanced features of SONAR 4, including StudioWare and CAL. Wrap things up as you learn how to prepare your completed SONAR project and burn it onto a CD.New topics covered include: New Freeze Synths/Tracks feature; Audio Metronome; Project Navigator; Loop Construction Enhancements; Multilane Tracks; New Tuner; Folder Tracks; Keybinding Enhancements; New Cakewalk TTS-1 Software Synth; Surround Sound (including Surround Effects) and more. ** Also, includes Free Sonar 4 CSi LE CD-ROM with 1 hour of video tutorials!" Click here for more information! |
Alexander's Writing For Strings "Created by Peter Lawrence Alexander, the Writing For Strings/Living Music Book Level 1 program is specifically designed to be used
with either a high quality professional MIDI keyboard or a computer with a sequencing program and software sampling library. Students on a budget are encouraged to use the new Garritan Personal Orchestra which gives the student everything needed to do the lessons. Those more advanced and professionally driven are encouraged to consider the Kirk Hunter Concert Strings to supplement their learning experience.Starting with the opening lessons and using a MIDI keyboard, students record existing violin, viola, cello and bass lines from the classics, which they can then compare to budget recordings from LaserLight or Naxos. This way the student discovers what strings sound like in each register and how to properly phrase for strings. As an added bonus, they can hear how realistic sampled strings can sound in each register. In addition to the courses 30 comprehensive lessons, students get Quick Time videos of string bowings created by Dr. Michael Hopkins of the University of Vermont, a solo strings sample library in GigaStudio format (which imports into major software samplers), MIDI files of the major examples, bonus audio lessons for additional demonstrations, analysis of a student recording session, 15 PDF scores, and for electronic orchestration, a Thesaurus of Orchestral Devices derived from Debussy's Jeux de vagues movement from La Mer as performed by composer for the BBC Andrew Blaney, a graduate of Bournemouth University in England. The training materials are supplemented with Mr. Alexander's revision of Rimsky-Korsakov's Principles of Orchestration which has been endorsed by winners of both the Academy(r) and Emmy(r) Awards." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from O'Reilly, Access Music, Voxengo, Line 6, Steinberg, Synapse Audio, and TazMan-Audio in News. |
Drums on Demand "Country & Crossover" Vol. 4 "Drums On Demand's new "Country & Crossover" (Vol. 4) offers a combination of country-style and straight-up crossover drumming intended for new country, pop/rock, and traditional country projects. The royalty-free collection features more than 660 loops and segments in 30 Songs Sets."Country & Crossover" is organized using a Song Set system, with each Song Set featuring as many as 34 verse, chorus, fill, bridge, break, intro, ending and other loops. Just find the Master Loop that fits your song and use the other loops and segments in the Song Set to quickly build a drum track that feels and sounds like a live drummer playing a real song. Key Features --Great for Country, Pop and Rock projects --WAV, Apple Loops, or REX formats --Power Ballads, Rim Ballads, Brush Ballads --Straight Mid- and Up-Tempos --Paddle Balls, Shuffles & More --60-180 BPM Song Sets --Straight 4/4 and some Odd-Time --Royalty-free --Contempory beats & fills --Patent-Pending organization system --Many 2-4 bar loops for increased realism --High end, quality mix --Includes Downloaded Generic Single Hits Collection (from Vol. 1 & 2.) The new volume compliments the many country-flavored and crossover Song Sets on Volumes 1 and 2." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from LSDT, Native Instruments, Groove Monkee, 21Ministry, Emu, Tascam, and BIAS in News. |
Sony Pictures Sound Effects™ Series "For the first time, Sony Pictures Entertainment has opened its audio archives to offer the Sony Pictures Sound Effects™ Series. This comprehensive collection includes a five-CD set of sound effects created by several of the industry's most respected sound designers, and is tailor-made to elevate any production to the content quality standards of the Hollywood entertainment industry. The new series is packed with a wide range of essential sound effects, including muscle cars, fighter jets, home and office ambiance, wild animals, geological and elemental phenomena, heavy machinery, armament, explosions, and a wide selection of vintage comedy effects.From rollercoasters, room tones and rocket launchers, to biplanes, Bengal tigers, and bar room brawls, this debut release includes a wide range of essential sound effects categories, distributed generously across five volumes packed full of exciting, exclusive material. With over 1,200 high-quality effects in various lengths and styles, you're sure to find just the sounds you're looking for. And there's much more to come, with future volumes highlighting all areas of the silver screen, including science fiction, comedy, action, and more. The Sony Pictures Sound Effects Series will provide you with everything you need to select, layer and transform even the most elemental effects into expertly crafted sound design creations to compliment all your projects. With the ongoing support of one of the world's largest and most successful studios, the possibilities are endless. Sony Media Software is dedicated to enriching the work of media content creators at every tier of the industry. Our Loops and Samples broke all barriers to become the industry leader, providing indispensable tools that are currently enjoyed by music producers worldwide. Now, our celebrated music creation libraries are joined by the Sony Pictures Sound Effects Series, in our continuing efforts to provide media content creators everywhere with the most comprehensive collection of audio assets available anywhere." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Ultimate Sound Bank, Voxengo, Edirol, PreSonus, Waves, and Applied Acoustics Systems in News. |
TerraTec Producer PHASE 88 RACK "TerraTec Producer now offers a professional FireWire(tm) and PCI solution for music production on a PC or Mac. Based on the PHASE 88 Recording Interface, the rack version offers eight high-quality analog inputs/outputs with 24-bit / 96-kHz resolution. All I/Os are balanced 6.3 mm (1/4") jacks located on the rear panel. With these features, it provides plenty of ports and the technical features required for even large recording sessions. All inputs are separately variable using front panel gain knobs. In addition, clip LEDs provide visual indication of unintentional overdrive. The PHASE 88 Rack System is now available as PCI- or high speed FireWire(tm) (IEEE 1394) Interface and priced at 559.00 USD MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price).Two input channels can be set at the touch of a button to accommodate microphone signals. To this end, the device is equipped with XLR connecters featuring switchable 48-volt phantom power. A stereo channel digital I/O (S/PDIF) with coaxial connectors (PCI version) respectively optical digital I/Os (FireWire version) is onboard to interface with DAT recorders and the like. A word clock I/O serves to sync up the device with external digital equipment, and two independent MIDI interfaces offer access to 32 MIDI channels. The PHASE 88 RACK is thus a full-fledged recording system that makes - from a technical perspective - an external mixer a dispensable option. In addition, up to four PCI devices can be cascaded with a single driver, giving you no less than 40 audio channels for simultaneous use. Thanks to its sophisticated board design and proven converters, the system delivers outstanding audio quality: a signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB (A) speaks for itself. The PHASE 88 Rack PCI system also is future-proof: if necessary, you can easily replace the rack module's PCI connection with an optional FireWire(tm) (IEEE 1394) interface." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from iZotope, Native Instruments, Arturia, and Applied Acoustics Systems in News. |
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More New Sonar 4 Instructional Materials Sonar 4 Overdrive! Book "Are you a loyal user of SONAR and ready to take your music recording and production skills to the next level? "SONAR 4 Overdrive" is going to take you beyond the capabilities you ever anticipated to a higher-level of knowledge of this powerful MIDI and digital audio sequencing application. Covering the most updated version of SONAR, youll get guru-level advice from an experienced user, with many years of experience working within SONAR. To maximize your efficiency, this book is filed with bite-size tips that allow you to focus quickly on what you want to know. Youll begin using your knowledge to make noticeable results in no time. This is the book you keep around on your shelf for the lifetime of the application." Click here for more information. Sonar 4 CSi Master CD-ROM "Get ready to master the cool new features of SONAR 4! "SONAR™ 4 CSi Master" is a hands-on, tutorial CD-ROM that provides you with a unique way to take your music to the next level. Work your way through a basic production from start to finish as you discover how easy it is to get down to the business of producing a song. Sit back and watch a DAW pro show you the ins and outs as you work through more than four hours of movie tutorials. Use the quizzing feature to test yourself along the way. "SONAR™ 4 CSi Master" is full of movie tutorials that include not only basic functionality, but also production techniques, special shortcuts, key commands, and before and after audio examples. Put the power of SONAR to work for you!" Click here for more information. |
Sony ACID Pro 5 "Sony announces that ACID Pro 5 software, the latest upgrade to its award-winning, professional loop-based music creation tool, will be available for purchase on Nov. 8. 2004. Enhancements include two new patent-pending technologies: The Media Manager™ is a powerful new technology for browsing and tagging media assets that greatly enhances the user's ability to track, label and store media files including loops, video and stills. Additionally, the unique Groove Mapping™ and Groove Cloning™ technologies provide enhanced ways for users to sonically interact with their loops and samples collection."Because ACID software is considered to be the top loop-based music creation application, we felt compelled to spend the past several years developing new technologies that once again provide users with innovative workflow enhancements and more important, new innovations for musical expression," said Dave Chaimson, vice president of marketing for Sony Media Software. "In addition to our new media management system and powerful groove quantization tools, we've added new features that users have been requesting since version 4," Chaimson continued. "Whether it's VST plug-in hosting, ReWire™ device support, nestable folder tracks, or enhanced workflow and project management features, ACID software will continue to provide the most well-rounded solution for creative and musical exploration." ACID® Pro software is the ideal loop-based music composition and production tool for original music creation. Revolutionary since the first version, the tradition of innovation continues with version 5. Powerful new features and advanced functionality make ACID Pro 5 the most comprehensive application of its kind. ACID Pro software is the tool of choice for millions of industry professionals who want to create songs, remix tracks, produce 5.1 surround audio mixes, develop music beds, score videos, and much more. ACID software is ideal for real-time pitch-shifting, time-stretching, and groove quantization of audio and MIDI events. With new technologies and advanced professional features, ACID software provides the most powerful, user-friendly environment for everything from basic song creation to complex video scoring." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Cakewalk, Native Instruments, 5 Alarm Music, Kel Audio, White Noise Audio, Blue Cat, SwarPlug, Princeton Digital, PrecisionSound, Line 6, and Classic Organ Works in News. |
New Sonar 4 Instructional Materials SONAR 4 CSi Starter CD-ROM"If you’re a beginner looking for a new approach to mastering the basic features of SONAR 4, then "SONAR™ 4 CSi Starter" is the guide you need! This interactive, tutorial CD-ROM allows you to work your way through a basic production from start to finish as you discover how easy it is to get down to the business of producing a song. Sit back and watch a DAW pro show you the ins and outs as you work through more than two hours of movie tutorials. Use the quizzing feature to test yourself along the way. SONAR™ 4 CSi Starter is full of movie tutorials that include not only basic functionality, but also production techniques, special shortcuts, key commands, and before and after audio examples." Click here for more information.  SONAR 4 Ignite! Book"Demystify the basics of the powerful functions of SONAR 4. With step-by-step instructions, clear illustrations, and a technical edit by Cakewalk, "SONAR 4 Ignite!" gives beginners the skills they need to quickly begin composing, editing, and arranging music. Learn how to set up your project, create tracks, edit MIDI and digital audio clips, and utilize virtual instruments. Wrap things up as you learn how to use SONAR's effects plug-ins and surround-sound capabilities to create a great-sounding mix that' s ready for CD or Web distribution. Get ready to jam with SONAR 4!" Click here for more information. |
New Audio Books The Complete Guide to Remixing"A comprehensive handbook of the history, technology, craft, and art of remixing. Learn what software and hardware to buy, software tips and shortcuts, and absolutely everything about remixing on a personal computer." Click here for more information.  Power Tools for GarageBand: Creating Music with Audio Recording, MIDI Sequencing, and Loops"Apple's GarageBand, the program packaged with every new Mac, is the hottest and most accessible digital music software available today, giving musicians of all levels an affordable tool to perform, record, and create extraordinary sounds. It features thousands of professionally recorded loops, over 50 pro-sounding instruments, effects, and virtual guitar amps. Power Tools for GarageBand teaches pros and aspiring artists how to get the most out of this software - including recording vocals and instruments, creating MIDI sequences, working with Apple loops, customizing software instruments, professional mixing techniques, and time-saving shortcuts. With these power tools in hand, the sonically inclined can create ultraphonic designs." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Native Instruments, Hard Note Software, M-Audio, Nomad Factory, FASoft, Voxengo, Arturia, Ueberschall, and Best Service in News. |
TerraTec Producer PHASE 24 FireWire "The TerraTec PHASE 24 FW combines fine design and superior specs. Regardless of whether you're using the PHASE 24 FW on the move with your notebook or at home with your PC or Mac - this versatile audio system cuts a fine figure in any situation. Simply connect the high grade aluminium case to the FireWire™ port of your computer for fast, uncomplicated data exchange.The required cables and adapters are included, of course. The two analog mono inputs and outputs have been realized as professional, balanced ¼" jacks - the studio standard simplifies the connection of additional equipment. DJs, for example, can create mixes on their laptops using applications such as the included Native Instruments Traktor, add an external beatbox, insert effects between the PHASE 24 FW and the computer, and control it all via a MIDI keyboard. The integrated digital hardware mixer ensures that all this happens nearly without any latencies at all. An additional stereo out can be used as a line out or adjustable headphone output. You always have complete control over brilliant, full sound - thanks to 24 Bit/192 kHz signal processing and a signal-tonoise ratio of 111 dB. The PHASE 24 FW unites proven hightech with innovative ideas and exclusive design into a harmonious whole. In the club or in the studio." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Steinberg, Native Instruments, Groove Monkee, Zero-G, MOTU, Edirol, Apple, NEO Sounds, Tonality Systems, and Rosendahl in News. |
Special Smart Loops Sale Smart Loops is having a special sale on all of its most popular sample loop CDs. Get the following CDs for only $39 each:* Dry Studio Kit - Over 300 Drum Loops and individual samples in WAV ACID-format. * Percussion Kit - Over 370 Percussion Loops and individual samples in WAV ACID-format. * Bass Guitars - Over 950 professional bass loops in WAV ACID-format. * Electric Guitars - Over 950 professional electric guitar in WAV ACID-format. * Phat to Phreaky - Over 800 hip hop style Loops in WAV ACID-format. Plus, DigiFreq visitors get an additional 10% off! Just click here for more information, audio demos, and a special coupon code for the extra 10% off! Also, new announcements from Analog To Digital, Voxengo, Native Instruments, Circular Logic, Camel Audio, and Sibelius in News. |
DTS Introduces New Encoder Software
 "DTS (Digital Theater Systems, Inc.) announces the availability of two new DTS pro audio software encoders: the Pro Series 6.1 Surround Encoder, which is the affordable stand-alone solution for the Mac or PC, and the DTS Pro Series Network Encoder, which is a cost-effective networked solution for large post-production facilities based on the Apple's Xserve RAID storage system. Both encoders can be used to create multi-channel DTS soundtracks for DVD-Audio, DVD-Video and 5.1 CD titles.The first commercially-available solutions for creating high-quality 96kHz and 6.1-channel discrete DTS-ES soundtracks, the DTS Pro Series encoders provide the only 96kHz multi-channel audio solution for video content on DVD-Audio and DVD-Video discs. Presenting solutions for the different workflows utilized in most pro-audio facilities worldwide, the encoders will be available through the DTS' international distribution network beginning October 2004. Both the DTS Pro Series 6.1 Surround Encoder and the DTS Pro Series Network Encoder offer a full suite of DTS technologies, including: DTS Digital Surround for 5.1-channel surround sound; DTS-ES 6.1 discrete for enhanced surround precision - only DTS delivers a discrete center surround channel; DTS 96/24 for the highest resolution DVD-Video with 5.1 discrete channels." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from LinPlug, FabFilter, Voxengo, uk-music, Precisionsound, Brauner, and Muse Research in News. |
PlayPro Interactive Keyboard "If you want to play keyboard - or already play and want to unlock your full potential - then it's time to plug into PlayPro. Interactive Keyboard gives you all you need to know to play like a pro - and it's fully MIDI compatible. Rather than picking up a few songs, Interactive Keyboard will take you step by step through how to play and think musically. You'll progress at your own speed, going from the basics to improvising your own sizzling solos and expressive grooves. When you finish Interactive Keyboard you won't just be a player, you'll be a complete musician.PlayPro's advanced, exclusive Comp-U-Pare allows you to record and compare your playing to original examples. Pitch your skills against the computer at any time and chart your progress. You will receive graded reports and helpful advice. Comp-U-Pare makes learning to play the right way faster - and fun. Step into your own personal recording studio. Record yourself playing solos or your favorite licks over any of the 50 specially crafted songs pre-recorded by a live band. The styles of today: Blues, Country, Rock, Heavy Metal, Funk, Dance and Reggae. Instant replays, analyze your performances, or save them to your computer and play them back anytime." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Native Instruments, Devine Machine Software, Leap Frog, Zygoat, Bornemark Software, Propellerhead, and Prominy in News. |
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