Considering purchasing Cakewalk Pro Audio 9

[Semiparametric]

Due to some recent recommendations, I am considering purchasing Cakewalk Pro Audio 9. I wanted to get some feedback from this group before I took the plunge....


Specifically, I am looking for something simple enough to learn on, to have fun with, to create and compose with a computer and a midi-friendly keyboard, but also something powerful enough that will allow me to eventually expand into audio recording (vocals, bass, guitars, etc.) and a drum machine (or drum machine software). Would Pro Audio 9 be good for this?



Also, does anyone have any recommendations for other software or hardware that I'd need to get started right away? (sound card? hookup from computer to midi-keyboard? does Cakewalk come with "ready made" sounds/waves?)


Thanks!

[AlChuck]

Cakewalk Pro Audio is fine for what you mention. It is perhaps overkill for your stated needs, but now that it's been replaced with SONAR, you might get it for a very good price while you still can. It is very powerful and flexible, though I must admit to liking SONAR better. The main difference is that Pro Audio 9 is, at least for the moment, more settled and stable. SONAR, if you want to use the major improvements (namely WDM drivers and automated DirectX effects), is still a bit problematic 'cause those drivers are all very new and most manufactureres are still labeling theirs as beta test versions.... But if you use it with the old MME drivers it works fine, and I think the user interface is simpler and more understandable than PA 9.

[shem]

Hey Semi', I can tell you about what comes in the Pro Audio 9 Dlx. it has a two disc set of sampled drones,beats,bytes etc. its pretty cool for spending the extra 20$. My advice about P.A. is if your smart and like to read alot then get it! I got kinda discouraged at first and am still a little daunted but guys around here like tekker are making me feel better about using it. They suggested a book too called cakewalk power,http://www.garrigus.com/scott/ and i guess thats easier to read than the stock manual. I am looking forward to understanding it well though because for the money I know it will do things that blow my mind! Thats my opinion hope it helps

[shem]

oh, and Alchuck, definately remember his name.....