new computer program and DFH

  • Thread starter Thread starter mixmkr
  • Start date Start date
mixmkr

mixmkr

we don't need rest!!
Let me start off saying that I have basically used Cool Edit and now Adobe Audition 2.0. It has served me well, as I basically just used the program like a tape recorder. I know the program well and like it very much. Easy to use, great editing and the noise reduction is tops.

However, I want to start using the DrumKit From Hell software, and of course I need a program capable of handling MIDI recording, which Adobe Audition unfortunately does not do. It will playback MIDI files, but NOT record them.

So... asking if this is a good solution.

You can find Sonar's Home studio for about $100 or less. Basic program, but really should suit me fine. Then, the DFH is only about $80 or so for their EZdrummer software...or a tad more should the DFH 2 be better. Either way, I need a new multitrack software program, but don't want to get into Logic, Samplitude or the more expensive programs, because all I need is basic recording and editing...similiar to Adobe Audition.

My goal basically REALLY is to get better drums sounds, and this seems to be the least expensive route, VS a sampler or a better drum machine... in which I think the software will sound better anyway. (And no wise cracks about recording real drums now too!...thanks in advance.... I need "quick and easy", and no "pizza boy" playing a lousy kit).

Any opinions on this route and/or software... especially the cheapie Sonar?
 
I'm sure you've already heard a lot of people rant about Reaper.

Well, it's great software that I'm sure will do everything you need it to (MIDI, VSTi, unlimited tracks/FXs, etc.)

Also it's $40 to register, but the trial period never expires so you can use it as long as you like.

I would at least give it a try.
 
A second vote for Reaper, and a link to go with it --- LINK.

You COULD use it for as long as you like without paying for it as Grilled_Cheese recommends, but once you get it downloaded you'll find out that it's worth every dime of the $40 shareware fee.


.
 
thanks guys. I wish I had known about reaper before I shucked out cash for AA...but AA is doing ok for me too. $40 is a steal for that program. And Pipeline...incredible tutorials. Those were a great help in getting started. Saved a couple of "head-scratchers" in the process.

I'm getting pretty comfortable with reaper, but I have yet still to be able to record some MIDI tracks. I know I am getting MIDI into my computer, because I use other programs like FM7 and the like. Just haven't gotten reaper to receive my MIDI data for some reason. Everything is enabled, but I know it must be some operator error as I haven't ever recorded JUST MIDI info before. It has always been audio tracks.

This whole MIDI tracks, sound fonts stuff is a tad out of my expertise, what little that may be, but I'll keep pluggin. In other words I am being polite and beating around the bush in any extra tips floating around out there... stuff to read on the web... you know, the typical newbie stuff that this old fogie needs to bone up on.

My MIDI experience has been limited to my roland keyboard workstation and using virtual instruments. That was pretty easy. This is asking me to think. ;)

I guess one last question. With reaper, my NSkit download, and say a midi controller like my keyboard, I'm set to go as far as software/hardware stuff... right? I can use the sequencer on my keyboard if I prefer, but I should be able to use the NSkit live and/or record MIDI to reaper... and then maybe another route is have the MIDI tracks trigger the NSkit. Am I on the right page?
 
after mucking around, it appears reaper doesn't like my Echo Layla soundcard. ...or more so, the MIDI ports. Otherwise the soundcard works fine for audio tracks, but even when "enabled", it isn't recognizing my Layla MIDI ports for some reason. Funny, cause my NI FM7 works great using my roland keyboard as a controller.
 
mixmkr said:
I'm getting pretty comfortable with reaper, but I have yet still to be able to record some MIDI tracks. I know I am getting MIDI into my computer, because I use other programs like FM7 and the like. Just haven't gotten reaper to receive my MIDI data for some reason.
Click to expand...

This link may help on the midi front.. make sure you have set up midi as suggested. http://documentwrite.com/reaper/basic_recording.htm. If you still have problems I would post on http://www.cockos.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=21 - people are generally very helpful, and well-informed.

As to the NSKit etc. Yes, once you have the midi file inserted onto a track you could play it back using any VSTi. If you are using the Soundfont version, you will need a soundfont player like sfz ( http://www.rgcaudio.com/sfz.htm ) loaded as an "effect".

Mixmkr - I'm not sure what your problem was. Have you tried this .. insert a new midi file on the track, arm it - set the correct input (right click on the meter) and enable monitoring?
 
Freddy said:
Mixmkr - I'm not sure what your problem was. Have you tried this .. insert a new midi file on the track, arm it - set the correct input (right click on the meter) and enable monitoring?
Click to expand...

I don't have any MIDI files...I guess I could grap one of the web. But I am unable to get reaper to recognize a MIDI input. I am sending data from my keyboard, but without reaper recognizing an input, I can't get a MIDI track happening. I have the optimism that once I get that accomplished, playback shouldn't be a problem.

Let me backup here too. I went thru the procedures to setup MIDI devices, but after hitting the "enable" button and "apply", I get a popup window that Reaper is unable to "open" my Echo Layla MIDI port.

Maybe I'll try a cheapie MIDI input device ...USB or sumpin and see what happens.
 
just click insert "new midi file" in reaper, itll give you a blank one. The Echo Laylas seem to be working rather well in reaper, though I cant remember a midi specific posting. The reaper forum is pretty good for MIDIot stuff though, theyre fast to help

I wish I could help, but I get lost just trying to figure how to put samples in their cells, I am soooo far from being at all midi competent
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top