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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. |
Cakewalk Releases Sonar 4! "Cakewalk, developer of the world's best-selling music and sound software for Windows-based PCs, is pleased to announce the release of SONAR 4 Producer Edition and Studio Edition.SONAR Producer Edition has a well-earned reputation for delivering powerful production tools in a fast, streamlined user interface. With new version 4, Cakewalk has added powerful recording, editing, comping and navigation tools that optimize workflow for today's professional. In addition, version 4 combines innovative surround and AV capabilities along with precise engineering tools, making SONAR 4 Producer Edition the definitive audio production environment on the Windows platform. SONAR 4 Studio Edition is a special version of SONAR 4 designed for project studios and aspiring professionals. Studio Edition is built upon the same core engine and feature set of SONAR 4 Producer Edition. NOTE: SONAR 4 Studio Edition does not have the following features found in SONAR 4 Producer Edition: surround mixing and editing, Lexicon Pantheon Surround Reverb, Sonitus Surround Compressor, Sonitus:fx Suite, enhanced mixing console with assignable fx controls and per-channel EQ, Video Thumbnail track, POW-r Dithering, MPEX Time Scaling." Click here for more information. |
New Book - Power Tools: Software for Loop Music "Power Tools: Software for Loops focuses on creating music using samples and loops via popular software tools such as Sonic Foundry's Acid, Ableton Live, and Apple's Soundtrack. The book also covers technical issues specific to sample-based music, such as selecting soundware libraries and sample clearance, as well as mixing, processing, and editing techniques. Finally, the book explores specifics of performing live with these tools, using a laptop or portable computer rig. The accompanying CD-ROM includes free sampled loops and trial versions of software referred to in the text.This book also covers technical issues specific to sample-based music, such as selecting soundware libraries and sample clearance, as well as mixing, processing, and editing techniques. Learn about Ableton Live from someone who uses it professionally in a variety of applications. Learn about mixing and effects processing from a veteran producer. Learn alternatives to the expensive and often messy process of sampling commercially released records. Sampling is arguably one of the most important developments in popular music creation over the past twenty years, yet there aren't many resources that cover the newest software applications that make this type of production accessible to both pros and beginners. This book covers these concepts in an easy to understand manner." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from LinPlug, Cakewalk, Elemental Audio, Native Instruments, Hard Note Software, and Wusik.com in News. |
Finale 2005 "MakeMusic announced the release of its much-anticipated Finale(R) 2005 music notation software for Macintosh(R) and Windows(R) computers. The latest upgrade to the Company's award-winning music notation software offers a variety of powerful and timesaving new features for educators, students, composers and publishers. Exclusive New Features: * Finale Performance Assessment * Engraver Tuplets * Create SmartMusic Accompaniments * Row-Loff Marching Percussion Sounds * Human Playback(TM) Enhancements * Macintosh/Windows on a single CD together * Intelligent repeats, grace note and other music-spacing improvements, expanded Setup Wizard, new TG Tools plug-ins, transportable staff lists, the ability to record continuous data in HyperScribe(R), and third-party sound font support are among the many other new features. "SmartMusic technology has enabled us to give Finale 2005 a breakthrough education feature with its new Finale Performance Assessment," stated John Paulson, MakeMusic! President. "Teachers can now notate difficult passages from their band literature and make them into assessable and recordable assignments for their students. Students download the free FPA software, and then practice the assignments with special practice tools including a tuner, fingering charts, practice loops and more. Even before the first band rehearsal of the piece, the teacher can receive an FPA grade and recording of every individual student's competency and progress with the difficult passages." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Spin Audio, ProSounds, Native Instruments, Digital Audio Wave, Sibelius, DrumCore, Luxonix, Hartmann, and Riff Interactive in News. |
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MusicLab's MIDIoverLAN CP "Using computers in musical studio has become very common. Now computers not only work as sequencing equipment, but also as multi-track digital audio workstations. In modern studio environment a whole lot of computers may be networked locally so that among the other things they can share MIDI data, which makes use of MIDI cables and hardware MIDI interfaces unnecessary. Not only does such a local network (LAN) reduce the necesity of using external MIDI hardware, but it may also drastically increase the effeciency and flexibility of such a multi-computer studio. We have been working hard to make our MIDIoverLAN communicate not only between several MIDI apps on a single machine, but between those on several computers, which finally led us to creating a new enhanced version of MIDIoverLAN. It's now called MIDIoverLAN CP - our MIDI cross-platform solution for communication between MIDI applications both local and over network. Why cross-platform? MIDIoverLAN CP communicates not only PC computers. Our new solution can now communicate PC and Mac computers into unified MIDI network. Ever wished to flow MIDI stream over the local network without torturous setups of MIDI interfaces and cables? Want to get a fast MIDI connection between different applications in your computer? We are proud to announce MusicLab MIDIoverLAN CP - cross-platform solution for these problems." Click here for more information and to get MIDIoverLAN CP for a special 10% off!. Also, new announcements from Applied Acoustics Systems, Zero-G, MOTU, Voxengo, M-Audio, and Wave Arts in News. |
Steinberg Announces Cubase SX3! "Cubase SX3 offers stunning new facilities for composition and songwriting. Audio Warp, a real-time time stretching and pitch shifting tool, offers new audio and processing capabilities, including ACID(r) file support. Combined with the new Play Order Track, an innovative new tool for pattern-style composition, Cubase SX3 offers a fresh approach to loop-based composing and arranging. The new Inplace Editing system allows convenient editing of MIDI data directly within the Project Window in context with audio and video data.Workflow efficiency and user ergonomics are an increasingly important part of the software DAW environment. Cubase SX3 users can utilize the new user-definable workspaces to create virtual desktops, with a separate work area for each step of the production process, and switch between them with a key command. The Freeze functionality introduced in Cubase SX 2.0 to free up CPU resources in the host computer has also been extended to include audio tracks and insert effects, and is now faster and more effective. Easy and flexible integration of external hardware within the modern DAW environment has become paramount to many recording facilities and project studios. Cubase SX3 sports new MIDI Device Maps and panels that allow direct, user-customizable access to outboard MIDI hardware such as synthesizers. The External FX Plug-ins allow direct integration of external effect processors such as reverbs and compressors into the VST mixing environment. Now top class outboard hardware can now be integrated into the mixing process as easily as software Plug-ins, including automatic latency compensation." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Wave Arts, Electronisounds, Wusik Dot Com, LinPlug, Synapse Audio, Native Instruments, and Drums On Demand in News. |
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Cakewalk Announces Sonar 4!"SONAR Producer Edition has a well-earned reputation for delivering powerful production tools in a fast, streamlined user interface. With SONAR 4, Cakewalk has added powerful new recording, editing, comping and navigation tools that optimize workflow for today's professional. In addition, version 4 combines innovative surround and AV capabilities along with precise engineering tools. SONAR 4 Producer Edition is the perfect solution for composing, recording, editing, mixing, and remixing music productions; and for providing voice over, score, sound design and post audio for film, TV, video, commercials, and games. With its open support for industry standard technologies and hardware, the scalability of a native processing system, and virtually unlimited software capabilities, SONAR 4 Producer Edition represents the definitive audio production environment on the Windows platform." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Groove Monkey, Voxengo, Blue Sky, Riff Interactive, Waves, Native Instruments, Yamaha, and Arturia in News. |
Smart Loops' Pro Drum Works - $60 off! "Pro Drum Works Volume One is the ultimate audio loop library for recording musicians and producers. With Pro Drum Works, you can quickly create realistic, professional-quality drum tracks for virtually any rock, pop or country song. Simply copy and paste the loops as is into your ACID-compatible music software, or mix and match loops to create millions of possible drum tracks.Pro Drum Works is organized into three separate Drum Kits: Acoustic Kit, Thunder Kit, and Trap Kit. You get over 3,000 unique grooves and fills, each performed on all three Kits, for a total of over 9,000 loops and samples.Each Drum Kit provides a distinctive sound best suited for particular musical styles. Some highlights: - Extensive, 6 CD drum loop library of the world’s most popular rock and pop grooves, with hundreds of variations - Over 3,000 unique grooves and fills, performed on three different drum kits, for a total of over 9,000 loops - Includes 3 complete Drum Kits, each on 2 CDs: Acoustic Kit, Thunder Kit, and Trap Kit - Use with ACID, SONAR, Cakewalk Home Studio and any other ACID-compatible music software - Use grooves as is, or mix and match to create an unlimited number of possible drum tracks - Includes loops for pickups, intros, fills, verses, choruses, bridge sections, and endings - Includes individual “one shot” samples at multiple velocities for each drum and cymbal This professional loop library normally sells for $249.00. But all DigiFreq visitors can now get it for only $189.00! That's $60 off! But hurry, because this offer ends on September 30th. Just enter this coupon code on the payment page during checkout: Digifreqpdw Click here for more information and to order your copy of Pro Drum Works today! Bonus: Free shipping within the USA! Also, new announcements from MusicWorks, Intermedia Design, Native Instruments, SoundTrek, NUSofting, Sonicbytes, and Riff Interactive in News. |
New Book: Using Adobe Audition "Finish your video and multimedia projects with compelling audio tracks. From the first recording to the final mix or encode, this guide to Audition 1.5 delivers the working knowledge you need to master the aural aspects of your project. Beginning with an accessible review of the essentials of audio production you get practical examples and tutorials that demonstrate all the techniques you need-whether you are adding narration, getting out the hum, fitting the music key to your singer's range or using loops to create custom, royalty-free, music tracks.Create tracks with the confidence that you have practical training. Author Ron Dabbs is a seasoned pro with 30 years of diverse experience. You get step-by-step instruction on how to record sound, edit, use loops, mix and everything in between including how to: · Install Audition and optimize the system for peak performance · Navigate and customize the interface · Apply basic recording and miking techniques · Edit, add effects, and assemble tracks · Use multitrack recording, MIDI files, and ReWire, to enhance tracks · Analyze audio content to identify and resolve problems · Mix and master for Compact Disc and Surround Sound Optimize your tools. Audition offers unparalleled integration with other Adobe applications. Speed your production with the use of application options, scripting, shortcuts, workflow-integration techniques, and SMPTE synchronization. The companion CD includes demos of music loop libraries, third-party DirectX and VST plug-ins, filters, encoding software, utilities, and other resources that will help you crank up the volume." Click here for more information. |
Ableton Live 4 "In Live 4, users will find a complete and inspiring approach to MIDI sequencing, pattern recording, drag-and-drop sampling, virtual instruments and MIDI hardware support. Ableton has also made substantial extensions and enhancements to existing functionality, including such features as swing/groove for audio and MIDI clips, a powerful new channel-routing scheme, simplified recording, sample reverse, and several exciting new creative options for the Session View.MIDI sequencing in Live has been designed to get the user started within seconds. Software instruments appear in Live's built-in Browser. Dragging an instrument from the Browser into the mixer creates a MIDI track containing that instrument, ready to play and record. MIDI effects and audio effects can instantly be inserted into the same track by dragging, with no need for menus or abstract routing concepts. The signal flow within the track is intuitively set up by drag and drop. The Track View provides instant access to all instrument and effects controls. Live 4 also includes the 'Simpler' sampling instrument, which allows for instant sampling, polyphonic playback and creative exploration of any sound dragged into its display. 'Impulse' is a polyphonic percussion sampler with drag-and-drop sample import and powerful and innovative sound-shaping controls. In addition, Live hosts any VST or Audio Units (Mac OS X only) plug-in instruments. MIDI tracks with no software instrument can deliver MIDI to external hardware synthesizers, ReWire client programs or other MIDI tracks in Live. Live 4 also includes 5 MIDI effects. The ‘Scale' effect, for instance, forces incoming notes onto a chosen musical scale and fits well with 'Random,' which creates random deviations in note pitch." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Native Instruments, Samson, Alesis, Line 6, Korg, Mel Bay, Sennheiser, Voxengo, and FX-Max.com in News. |
Off Topic: FaceFilter Studio - Fix Your Portrait Photos Yes, I know this has nothing to do with music, but as musicians we're all creative types, right? I figure there must be a few musicians out there who are into photography and I thought I would pass along this info... "Digital photography has given us unlimited resources by which to try and capture that elusive perfect portrait. But try as we might, most portraits are never perfect. There are usually slight imperfections that we wish could be easily changed. Luckily, along with digital photography has come digital photo enhancement software. Most software of this kind can change color tones, remove red eye, etc, but now there is a product that can actually change facial expressions and much more. It’s FaceFilter Studio from Reallusion.With FaceFilter Studio's unique facial improvement technology, anyone can enhance expressions, reduce oily gloss, neutralize heavy shadow, remove facial blemishes, wrinkles and red-eye, enhance skin tone and automatically correct color in digital photos. The image editing tools of FaceFilter Studio are so complete, you can even use a "digital brush" to remove unwanted pounds from those you photograph. FaceFilter Studio also provides a greater degree of improvements to today's higher resolution digital cameras, supporting images up to 12 mega pixels in resolution. FaceFilter Studio also offers automatic sensing of a subject's facial features, removing the need of "fitting" the facial feature. FaceFilter Studio is perfect for individual images as well as group photos, allowing similar enhancements or corrections to be applied to multiple subjects from a clipboard. Improvements to your digital images now take only minutes and give you professional results every time. Are these claims true? I’m happy to report that yes they are true!" Click here for more information. |
Cycling '74 Releases Max/MSP 4.5 "Cycling '74 has released Max/MSP 4.5. This is the first major upgrade to Max/MSP in several years, available for both Mac OS X and Windows XP. New DSP functions: Mastering quality single and multi-band dynamics objects using OctiMax technology for compression, expansion, limiting, and noise gating. Also comes with a complete dynamics tutorial to help the novice learn more about the subtle details of dynamics processing.User Interface: All in one spectral display with spectroscope; Edit multiple filters simultaneously using one filtergraph, or view and edit filter coeffecients on the z-plane with zplane; Imageburgers allow the use of images in place of objects/subpatchers as visual mnemonics. Patcher Attributes: Patcher attributes (pattr) provide a more effective, efficient, and integrated means to handle state management tasks than previously possible in Max. Programming Languages: Extending the functions of Max with text based code has never been easier, now with support for Javascript, Java, and Mach-O support for C developers. Not only does this make programmers lives easier, but non-programmer users have access to an even wider range of possibilities in Max. Several Javascript and Java examples/objects are included that non-programmers will find useful in every day Maxing." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Arboretum, Yamaha, Voxengo, Alienware, Kjaerhus Audio, M-Audio, and Artificial Ear in News. |
Instant Sound Forge "The third book in CMP's new V.A.S.S.T. series produced in cooperation with the Sundance Media Group, Instant Sound Forge is a general guide to the operation of the application and a graphic "cookbook" of specific techniques for using Sound Forge to fix (hide mistakes) and sweeten (improve) audio.Sony's Sound Forge is a powerful mono and stereo digital audio recorder and editor that beginners and professionals use for audio production of radio, TV, music, video, animation, Web design, and multimedia. Novices can quickly achieve great results by gaining command of the basic recording and editing functions, while professionals will learn how to use the application's more sophisticated tools, advanced features, and shortcuts to streamline their workflow and achieve new audio heights." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from PG Music, Native Instruments, Wizoo, Spin Audio, and Yowstar in News. |
FXpansion's BFD XFL Expansion Pack "BFD XFL is the first add-on pack for FXpansion's BFD premium acoustic software drum module, expanding and intensifying the BFD system. BFD XFL's 5 DVDs arm you with 22GB of hyper-detailed drum components, all recorded with the same top-end studio gear and microphones as the original. BFD XFL revisits Eldorado Studio to give you the same lush ambience that gave BFD its unique, authentic character.BFD XFL expands upon the sonic possibilities of the original BFD by providing a broader range of Kit-Pieces, some struck with brushes and mallets, toms with damping tape on the skins, and a kick with a felt beater. The cymbal collection is diversified with splashes, chinas and accents, while all rides include bell samples. BFD XFL also gives you a selection of kit-oriented percussion hits, including cowbells, jamblocks, tambourines, and even handclaps and fingersnaps. BFD XFL brings you closer to assembling your dream kit, by providing a range of exclusive and unique Kit-Pieces. A variety of hard-to-find snares are supplied, such as a Pearl Chad Smith signature and a vintage 1940s WFL Ludwig dual strainer. A huge selection of rare and desirable cymbals are featured, including an antique Bosphorus ride with rivets, and many artist stock prototype rides and crashes." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Mackie, K-Sounds, e-Lab, PreSonus, AudioEase, Native Instruments, and Voxengo in News. |
Sonar Insider: Turbocharge Your Sonar Experience "If you’re a sonar user, this is the book you’ve been waiting for. Regardless of your level of experience, these tips and techniques — from one of the world’s leading authorities on musical technology — will improve your music-making, streamline your work flow, and put you in control of the power this program offers.Presented in an easy-to-read, technically-savvy manner and packaged with illustrations, the Sonar Insider isn’t just a rewrite of the manual. It represents the knowledge gained through years of experience working with this popular program. Get the most out of your musical potential. Streamline the recording, editing, and mixing experience. And gain a competitive edge with these expert tips Written by industry expert, Craig Anderton." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from Innovative Music Systems, Jasmine Music Technology, FMJ-Software, Minnetonka, Voxengo, Soundart, Genelec, Levelground Media, Celemony, TerraTec, and Beta Monkey Music in News. |
Vocaloid Miriam "MIRIAM is a virtual female vocalist modelled on the voice of Miriam Stockley, and when MIRIAM is installed into your PC you will literally be able to create singing of superb quality and realism. MIRIAM can sing ANY words you wish in English - literally anything - be they beautiful lyrics or comical trivialities, Monteverdi madrigals or manic chants. You can create vocal tracks in almost any style of singing, with any lyrics you want. You just enter the melodies, type in the lyrics, and synthesize.With VOCALOID, creating your own professional sounding backing vocals is quick and easy - even for complex harmonies and arrangements. And as you develop your VOCALOID editing skills, you will find that even lead vocal lines become a reality, thanks to the arsenal of expression tools provided, which permit manipulation of the finest nuances. In addition to singing any words or combination of syllables you can imagine, MIRIAM will spread any sustained vowel (or voiced consonant) across as many notes as you like, with perfect legato. You can select from several different natural vibrato types and drag and drop your chosen type to any note or notes, and control the time-position and amount of the vibrato for superb expressiveness and realism." Click here for more information. Also, new announcements from FX-MAX, Mystik Media, ARTURIA, E-mu, Ableton, Camel Audio, and Cakewalk in News. |
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