by Michael Stone

Created on: May 15, 2007

Friday, May 11, 2007
A SONAR 6 Epiphany

Working with all of the various audio recording software's on the market can sometimes be dizzying. I use many differing audio programs in my audio productions, depending on my needs and sometimes even my mood at times. It's all about personal comfort level, ease of use and how quickly does this project absolutely have to be done.

Some of those softwares include: Samplitude_Blank, a marvelous piece of software that's seen a comeback as of late after going out of business. I have Adobe Audition 2.0 (They bought Cool Edit and upgraded) I do like it and use it often. (boots too slow) But they have also released Adobe Soundbooth CS3, which they tout as the second coming. I can't comment, (haven't use it) but at under $200 it's worth taking a look at. specially considering the producers. An incredible free player on the Audio production stage is Audacity. This is great recording software for basic recordings and it's free, but don't expect bells and whistles or MIDI effects within.

Cakewalk Sonar 6 Producer Edition is my DAW software of choice, especially when it comes to music production. The capabilities of this product are astounding! But as with anything really worth using it comes with a steep learning curve.

That's why when I finally was able to enable and get the MIDI functions to work like I wanted. I was ecstatic. Now i can do what scores of other Independent Artists do everyday. Create custom drum and instrumental tracks for my music.

If you're having similar problems, I suggest Scott Garrigus' book Sonar Power. This is a comprehensive look at how to step by step unravel what seem to be insurmountable obstacles to getting down to basic process of recording your music.

What amazes me is that the Cakewalk Sonar 6 Producer Edition manual has NONE, ZERO, NADA mention of Session 2 Drummer in it. This is one of the reasons I bought the software in the first place was to have a GREAT drumming program to help me the solo; locked in the basement; lair musician. Scott Garrigus' book Sonar Power will help you get past many hurdles. I wish I was as prolific and astute.

Oh and one other resource for discovering the many benefits of Cakewalk Sonar 6 Producer Edition is right here: YEP! You Tube.

Michael Stone
Singer-songwriter-radio personality-audio production

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