OK... So you want to make music using your computer?
Its not
that hard, but you have to do your homework. Here's some tips to help you get started.
First: what
are you trying to accomplish?
1) Are you a keyboard player with a MIDI keyboard?
If so, then
you need a way to get the MIDI data into and out of your computer. You need a MIDI interface. Some sound cards have MIDI capabilties. If so, then
you probably need to get a cable that plugs into the game port on the sound card and has MIDI IN and MIDI OUT jacks for you
to connect your keyboard.
Yes, its
that easy! The cable is available from Musician's Friend (click on the logo on my site) and runs about $30. Search for Sound
Card MIIDI cable, Now all you need is a software program that will allow you to record the input from the MIDI
keyboard. Cakewalk Home Studio, Cakewalk Sonar and PG Music's Power Tracks Pro are programs I recommend.
2) Are you a singer or instrument player (other than a MIDI
keyboard)?
If so, then
you can use the Line In jack on your sound card for recording your voice or instrument through a microphone. I recommend
using a mixer with a preamp to provde the best signal to the sound card if your using a professional quality microphone. The
microphone that came with your computer is probably not going to cut it.
3) Are you trying to record music by yourself by overdubbing multiple tracks?
Programs
like Cakewalk Home Studio and Power Tracks Pro will allow you to do this. They are limited in how many tracks you can record
at one time. Both of these programs will allow you to overdub enough audio and MIDI
tracks to make a very professional recording. Keep in mind the end result will only be as good as the equipment and the playing
that you put into the recording. These programs will let you add audio effects that will make your recording sound even better. More
about effects later.
4) Are you trying to record a band or group of musicians?
Assuming
you're recording the instruments on different tracks so you can remix them late, you'll need a program like Cakewalk Sonar
that will allow you to record from more than one audio interface at a time. I have not done this.
5) Are you trying to compose new music?
These programs
will allow you to create new music by recording it into your computer or by entering the notes on a staff using your mouse
and keyboard. They will also produce a print-out in standard music notation that is fairly good. If you want more complex
music notation capabilities, you'll need a more sophisticated program, like Sibelius or Finale.
6) What is the end product you are seeking? MP3, CD, printed score?
Cakewalk
and Power Tracks will let you mix your creation and save it as a .WAV or MP3 file that you could burn onto a CD-R. I think
you have to pay a few extra bucks for the Cakewalk MP3 converter.
References:
For more
information on MIDI and computer music, see the following references:
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