Music Production & Software Resources

So you've downloaded your favourite tracks and heard what your favourite dj is playing, now it's time to create your own track or mix for the world to hear. The resources below cover some of the main music making packages either for mixing, remixing or original production.

Ableton Live
This has become the en vogue software package of the moment, not least because of its unique interface,
simplicity, and variety of applications. Can be used for dj'ing, remixing, mash-ups and original production.
DJs use it because it gives them greater flexibility to do more than thelinear activity of playing records,
and remixers like it because of the ability to add lots of layers while keeping everything together under one
global tempo. A great product that's easy to use and a demo can be downloaded from the website.

Native Instruments - Traktor DJ
Traktor is not on its 3 major version and is slightly different from most other DJ software in the fact
that it acts as virtual turntables with built in Allen & Heath Xone:92 Mixer. Allows 4 'turntables' to be
used simultaneously. Versatile stuff and should appeal to those who are used to dj'ing with traditional
equipment.

Mixmeister
This is a great package and can be used for both studio and live work. It's biggest advantage is that
it allows you to see the whole track laid out in waveform in front of you, allowing you to spot
transitions. Also allows the use of 3rd party DX plugins for fx. Easy to get started with and has
some more complex features once you get into it.

Sony Acid Pro
A versatile package that can be used for original music production and remixing. Loop based
sequencing in that it allows you to import sound files (drums, voices etc.) and loop and layer them
to create original tracks. Version 6 has recently been released.

Propellerheads Reason
An all-in-one music creation package, including sequencer, drum machine, synths, samplers and the
REX loop player. Very versatile software allowing you to create new and original music in a matter of minutes.
Suffers slightly from its standalone/proprietary nature in that it won't accept external plugins, but Rewire
helps rectify this by allowing you hook Reason up to your favourite sequence, be it Ableton, Cubase or a
multitude of others. The sequencer may not be the world's greatest but it's a behemoth of sound creation.

Sony Sound Forge
This is a sound editing package as opposed to a sequencer/mixer. Useful for getting samples and
voice recording on to your computer and tweaking them for further use. A whole host of fx included
and a really hand piece of software to have.

Steinberg Cubase
Probably the industry standard computer sequencing program. Come in a variety of guises to suit
every pocket. Powerful sequencing software for audio and MIDI manipulation and the possibilities are
endless with the plethora of VST plugin instruments and fx available. Too many features to explain here.

Cakewalk Sonar
Very similar to Cubase in the fact that it's an extremely versatile sequencer package. Has grown over
the last few years to challenge Steinberg's crown.

Apple Logic Pro
For Macintosh owners only. Largely the software of choice for pro musicians, not least because of the stability
of the Mac platform. Comes with a vast array of plugins which would cost a fortune if you bought them as
standalones.