SSquared Member Posts: 654 From: Pacific Northwest Registered: 03-22-2005 |
A few months back there was a question regarding software for music and stuff. I will relook over some of those suggestions, but I have other questions, too, and did not want to re-open an old thread. I am seeking suggestions for a good MIDI PC interface (preferably with 2 outs) and some decent sequencing software. I've looked on Amazon for an interface and may get something like the [url=http://www.amazon.com/E-MU-XMidi-2X2-Midi-Interface/dp/B000IXQP08/ref=pd_bbs_sr_7/104-5593160-2702355?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1177697061&sr=8-7]E-MU XMidi 2x2[url]. Any other suggestions? For software, I recall Steveth45 once telling me about some great Linux tool (I may decide to install Linux just for this one program). What are some good suggestions for sequencing? A strong need is for pattern-based creation. I want to write 8 bar, 16 bar, whatever, sequences and then string them together to form a complete song. I am not looking for anything too fancy, but hey, if it's got bells and whistles I'll take it. For 20+ years I've been using on-board sequencers (with a few years of Mac stuff in there). I just haven't wanted to get one more piece involved in my setup, especially since I was constantly transporting my equipment. Thanks for your help. |
kenman Member Posts: 518 From: Janesville WI Registered: 08-31-2006 |
Windows or linux only? Linux will limit your choices |
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SSquared Member Posts: 654 From: Pacific Northwest Registered: 03-22-2005 |
Windows. I only mentioned Linux because Steveth45 one time mentioned some really terrific program, but it's Linux only. It sounded quite good and may be the one program that gets me to install Linux. |
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kenman Member Posts: 518 From: Janesville WI Registered: 08-31-2006 |
If all you are looking for midi in and out only, these are the way to go. I have this companies model from 3-4 years back. The only problem I have had is the drivers are very finicky depending on what usb port you have plugged into. If you are looking for only 1 in and out try E-MU Xmidi 1X1 USB http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/EMu-Xmidi-1X1-USB-MIDI-interface?sku=700698 SOmetimes you can find them for $20 or less. Most midi software will work easily with these. |
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kenman Member Posts: 518 From: Janesville WI Registered: 08-31-2006 |
I forgot you were looking for 2x2 http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/MAudio-USB-MIDIsport-2x2-MIDI-Interface?sku=701226 |
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SSquared Member Posts: 654 From: Pacific Northwest Registered: 03-22-2005 |
Thanks for the recommendation. $70 is a bit more than I expected. I can get by with probably a 1x1, but I do have a keyboard and drum machines with no MIDI thru. I tend not to use the drum machines anymore, but in the long run, I will eventually want a 2x2. I will initially be using it on a computer with USB 1.1. Will that be sufficient? I assume USB 1.1 is faster than MIDI, so should pose no problems. Maybe I'll check out Guitar Center. Do they have the same prices as Musician's Friend or are their on-line prices different? Any sequencer recommendations? Actually, if there is some good free software, $70 for the entire setup is quite good. |
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kenman Member Posts: 518 From: Janesville WI Registered: 08-31-2006 |
You should be able to find a sequencer for free, if not, cakewalk makes a very cheap version. You can usually find one for less that $20, and sometimes way cheaper on ebay. The current range for cakewalk 2003 is $5 - $15. The original 2003 cakewalk came with a midi-usb dealie. Cakewalk is pretty standard and easy to use. I have never had problems with MIDI being slow, what will be slow is if you do not have enough ram when you are recording (if you are recording to the computer). Definitely check out your local GC for ideas of what this will work. If you buy anything make sure you are getting a closed box that is not used. |
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SSquared Member Posts: 654 From: Pacific Northwest Registered: 03-22-2005 |
Cool. You've given me another choice. I've looked at FruityLoops for several years as a possibility, too. I like its interface for creating drum patterns. But Cakewalk is just fine for my current needs. I'll check around SourceForge as well. Cakewalk used to be like $300 so I always figured the $40 package was some wimpy, stripped down version, but it appears to have what I would expect. I am still not sure whether or not it is pattern-based, where I can work on individual patterns, and then string them together. Ultimately, I'd like to string them together in real-time. This is how I worked with the ESQ-1 sequencer and it was great! Very flexible and nice for live performances. I will most likey get a 2x2 Interface as I have already had to deal with fighting for MIDI channels. |
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kenman Member Posts: 518 From: Janesville WI Registered: 08-31-2006 |
Cakewalk will let you string things together for recording. I am not sure it is practical for a live performace though. |
