n-tracks vs. the rest

[Donald Lee]

I just upgraded my dedicated digital recording PC to XP. The Logic software that came with my Omni Studio bundle is not compatible. I could, if best, go back to 98se or ME. Ugh! I wasn't *that* impressed with Logic.

My recording/sequencing experience is fairly extensive, however, I haven't really done anything since my Mac/Passport and Tascam 38 days:-) Seems like a million years ago. I have decided to jump in to the digital world.

I downloaded n-tracks because of all the positive buzz I've seen. In your opinion, how does it compare with the other recording/sequencing packages? I'm assuming that there are certain functionalities that aren't there, such as notation perhaps, but to the non-pro types like me is it sufficient? Do I need to consider Cakewalk or another over n-tracks? It sure looks like it will fill the bill.

[Tom Hicks]

Donald
Cakewalk (I was a user v.4 - v.9) has better midi functionality but the audio recording goes clearly to n-Track.I also have Logic but don't like it.I do almost all my tracking with n-Track now.Its not that n-track doesn't do midi,just not its long suit,less intuitive.
If you are going to be more audio oriented than midi,n-track will definately get the nod.
Tom

[TimOBrien]

Yes, the MIDI in N-Track is fairly minimal, but you can import MIDI parts worked up in other programs. I don't use MIDI that much, so N-Track is perfect for me.

One thing that doesn't get talked about much is that N-Track doesn't need a gigahertz PC to run. It's very very efficient. I have a lowly PII-450mHz Gateway (about 3 years old) with (2) 20Gb drives and I have run 33 16-bit tracks simultaneously. I've also worked with a dozen 24-bit tracks with the CPU meter only hitting 30-35%.

For the price, I just don't think you can beat it.

[Gidge]

First off, pick your recording software without regard to which OS is compatable....you could always dual boot if you need a different OS.....

I say N-Track will take you further than the Delta Logic......N-Track is way up there with software 4X the price......

[Don Lee]

Thanks, guys. I appreciate your input. I'm sure I'll have a lot more questions! I'm glad there are those of you willing to help a person new to digital recording.

I'm not sure at my age (lets just say I remember the Beatles on Ed Sullivan...nuff said) I like the tag of "newbie". But I guess it's deserved until I produce at least my first digital recording:-)

Thanks again!