Software sequencers

I assume we've got some users here, so maybe someone can lend a hand.

I'm investigating different sequencing programs. I'm not getting Pro Tools as I have no money and no use for it yet. I'm basically looking into sequencing, but I won't rule out a full DAW, though a limited one, for a few audio inputs.

I have a MIDI keyboard and am looking into software sequencing only. I was previously going to get Reason 5, but then I found out it doesn't have VST plugin support, and I have a feeling I'm eventually going to miss it if I invest in Reason. perhaps experienced reason users can convince me otherwise.

Now I've been looking into Cubase and Sonor, but of course there are multiple versions and suites. Oh indecision.

Opinions?

Also, not Reaper. It's too much for what I want. I want something more stripped down.

Also again, I'm going to be composing mostly ambient, electronica, trance, Berlin School, you get the deal. Not much need for imitating a full band or many acoustic instruments.


Edited by stonebeard - October 23 2010 at 14:50

Looking into, and I haven't seen yet what it totally offers. Also, I'm assuming that since there are a lot of versions some will have stripped down audio tracking capabilities. Maybe not.

Anyway, I downloaded Reaper but I'm just now getting into digital audio and sequencing, and for the most part audio is not a possibility for me. it would be nice to have the capability, but I'm not looking to track much. Ableton Live looks good, especially for...ba-dum....live audio and DJing, which might be something to consider sometime within the next few years.

These are name DAWs though. If I could have something like Reason + VST plugin support, me = happy.

I have learned that software sequencing is not for me.  However, I do have a copy of Reason:

ExittheLemming wrote: Cakewalk Sonar is a big beautiful beastie of a package. Currently up to V 8.5. It handles both dxi and vsti softsynths seamlessly, has full MIDI and audio editing plus comes straight out the box with several very good bundled soft synths that cover most contemporary styles of music. I particularly like how intuitive the interface is and the options are presented in a very 'musician friendly' way i.e. you never feel like you have to read the manual very often.You can record, add effects (with practically unlimited busses to lighten the load on yer processor) and mix down to wav, mp3, flac etc without ever leaving the program. God, it might even get you laid?

Must look into it!

I say Ableton is looking good too. I've got to dig in deeper of course, but it seems I can get a student discount on Ableton Suite for possibly $400 something. (Down from $600 something it seems). Of course this is all if I buy it new, and I have to make sure I should do that or if I can get it used. But I really don't know much about Sonar so I've got to see.

I'll be watching this topic, because I'm curious as well. I'm not too much of a MIDI guy - I use software for raw recording, and hardware for sequencing - DSI Evolver for 16-step sequencer (and rhythm) and arpeggiators of vintage poly synths - endless fun. (it's hell to keep them in sync, but it's possible)

Trademark wrote: Buy a Mac .

HAHAHAHANO.

thellama73 wrote: Reason is a really good program, but it is limited because you can't record live audio into it and there is no way to change tempo/time signature mid track. But it is easy to use and many of the samples are really good. Logic is a great buy, but if you can't afford Pro Tools, you may have the same issue. The only other one I use is Digital Performer, but persoanlly I find it somewhat difficult to use, although it is useful if you want to sync audio and video.

You can change time signature mid song, but it's laborous and you have to stop the track basically, edit the click track to 3/4 or whatever, and pick it up again. I don't remember if the click track recognizes the change and adjusts accents on the downbeat accordingly on playback.

Also, Reason itself does not take audio input but if you already have Reason, Propellerhead's Record is only like $170. Can't say whether it's worth it or not, but if you get the whole package for about $600, it seems more or less in line with other DAWs, but probably limited with synching to video and for DJing and all.

I also really wish the drum machine was easier to change fills and stuff with. I think I just have to go into the note lane and drag around the notes and make new ones for fills. It's easier than making 20 separate drum beats for a song, though.

jampa17 wrote: Oh... this topic is quite interesting. Hey guys... I want this kind of software to build up guide tracks for recordings, but I do need to change tempos and time signatures... which program applies better to that? thanks...

Another Sonar user here.  The Producer edition is kind of pricey & I don't know how the other suites compare feature-wise.  Time signatures & Tempo changes are a snap (IMO).  There is even a Tempo map view which allows you to set up, for example, a gradual change from 120BPM at meas. 45 to 142.9 at meas. 60.

FX and mix automation is pretty nice too.  I did my whole album using Cakewalk/Sonar.

For loop based music, a lot of people like FL Studio (Fruity Loops) though I haven't used it.