question about best recording software for me

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lomarrius

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Hi;

I'm sure this question has been asked a million times, but I am looking for a specific answer.

I am not new to computer recording. I have recorded on pc for over 5 years, first on Cubase and then/now on Logic Audio 5.5

Basically, I want to upgrade to a new software ... not impressed with Logic's features in comparison to some other software I see nowadays.

I have a P-4 2.8 gb comp with 160gb sata hard drive for music and 30gb sata hard drive for system files. it's upgraded a lot.

i have an Aardvark Q10 soundcard running Xp with all updated drivers and os updates.

Anyhow, what's a great program (cubase? cakewalk?) that is similar in layout to logic (i love the mixing board feel with an arrange window open). I don't really feel like trying out a bunch of different progs, but I'd like something that is fairly easy to download a demo version or even a cracked version just to evaluate to make sure it's what i want before i spend a lot of money on the software.

Thanks in advance.

I just found this forum, but I'm giong to stick around. I have lots to add!!
 
If you've been doing this for 5 years, then you already know the answer to your own question. If you are not satisfied with Logic compared to "others" you've seen, then you have seen what's out there. They don't get much better unless you are ready to pay out the nose. I have Sony Vegas 5.0. The track count is only limited by my pc's memory. You can download a demo of it, but it's primarily a DVD suite, and multitracker second. And it costs as much as $600.00 depending on where you get it.
You seem to know what you are doing, and your pc is set up right. I dunno.... I get the feeling your post is just here to patronize us, but I could be wrong.




So what is your real question?
I don't want to sound like a dick, but there is just something here that is not sitting right with me. Maybe I just had too much coffee, I don't know...
 
marrius. i would suggest you delineate specifically features that your looking for in a piece of audio software that your not currently getting - then we can go from there.
 
Generally speaking Logic is one of the top programs out there, along with Cubase/Nuendo, and MOTU Digital Performer. There is no reason why any of these three programs shouldn't fit your needs.

More than likely what you need are more and better PLUGINS, because the plugs that come with any of these programs are... ahem... pretty basic. I wouldn't let them near any of my mixes.

Of course, Cubase/Logic/DP all have a slightly different focus and look/feel. You may be happier with DP or Cubase. Download some demos to see which one fits the way you want to work.

DP is Mac only platform, just like Logic is now.
 
Hey All. Thanks for the words thus far.

Ok, here's my main deal...

I recently found out that it seems Logic has been sold to Apple Computers. Add that to the fact that I haven't seen a new logic audio for since version 5 while I have seen cubase and cakewalk continuously pump out new stuff for pc. As you probably already know, I have a PC.

Another thing that bothers me about Logic audio is that there is basically NO right-click functionality. They took out a lot of efficiency for me by not letting me use the right mouse button like you could in my old version of Cubase 3

As for what do I want in a multi-tracker? I want something that is smooth and stable, and efficient to use from an audio recording and editing standpoint. I mainly record live instruments (miked) and then edit them and use plugins for effects. I also use it to mix down these songs, sometimes more than 32 tracks in a professional sound.

I'd like something that is pretty efficient for cutting/splicing as well as copying and pasting. The editting tools in Logic are in a bit of pain in the arse, even with using the key commands.

Ok, I'm not sure if I'm forgetting a bunch or not, but that's primarily what I use.

And yes, I did download the demo for Cakewalk Sonar 4 and it looks pretty decent.

I guess I was asking this question, because...if you all said "CAKEWALK IS THE BEST" well then obviously I would take a very close look at Cakewalk. And, I also thought that you peeps might know something about programs that I do not.

Also, I am not condescending to you folks in any way. Sure, yes, I have been recording on PC for 5 years, but like I said, the first 2.5 years were with Cubase 3 VST and the other 2.5 years were with Logic 5 so I don't have a lot of experience with the other programs.

In closing, I am starting to think that Logic is clumsy for editing (although it is great for recording and mixing) and outdated. I am looking for an updated program that is a little easier to use for a huge amount of cuts, pastes, samples, etc. Also, mixing and mastering section is very important.

I don't use MIDI at all, but I do use fruity loops for drums. I would like something with a built-in drum machine like that if possible. Of course, I could always just use the fruity plug.

Thanks again
 
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Yup, forget about Logic if you have a PC... it's gone.

Don't ask others about "what should I use".... go and download the demos and try them out for YOURSELF. Only you can determine what fits into your workflow and feels good for you.

www.hitsquad.com has links to a whole bunch of demos.
 
Ok, that's cool.

Just out of curiosity: So, my best bets seem to be Nuendo, Cakewalk or Cubase, huh?

I'll try to get the demo for all 3, unless someone tells me otherwise.

Thanks again for the help everyone.

And please continue to add thoughts on these recording packages, I'm very interested in learning other people's experiences before laying out the $$ for such an expensive piece of software that I will undoubtably only use for a few years until something better is out. Drat. Blasted technology!
 
Nuendo is essentially Cubase and vise-versa. Nuendo has more audio/visual features than Cubase does.

Personally Cakewalk is inferior to Cubase, but that's just my opinion.
 
after trying the demo's for cubase sx and cakewalk sonar producer edition, i can't decide.

they are both wicked for what i want. i think they can both do what i need, maybe cakewalk looks a little better for editing but cubase a bit better for recording/mixing?

anyhow, i can't really make a true decision unless i was to use the program on an actual song, which i can't do because the demo doesn't let you save or export. i'd hate to spend a few hours on each program just to decide which to use but not even be able to save the song i made. dang. maybe i'll just flip a coin.
 
Cloneboy Studio said:
Personally Cakewalk is inferior to Cubase, but that's just my opinion.
Click to expand...

Well, at least you admit it's just your opinion. ;)

Personally, I've always stuck with Cakewalk products for two very good reasons- First, the simple, non-intrusive copy protection scheme. Install the program, type in your serial number and off you go! Get a new hard drive? No problem? Build a new computer? Not to worry. Just be honest and only run it on one system at a time. Cakewalk respects me and I honor that by purchasing upgrades. Second, Cakewalk has excellent customer support. Their user forums are very good and the company is very responsive. Now, I have no first-hand knowledge of Cubase, but from what I understand the lack of support is one of the major complaints against Steinberg.

I think, at this point, it comes down to very small differences in features. There is a way to accomplish most anything in either program I'm sure. Cakewalk started as a MIDI only sequencer, but added audio and can hold its own with any program out there.

Your final decision will probably be based on which UI you prefer.

I'd suggest downloading both Cubase and SONAR demos, but there isn't one for the current version of Cubase. They do have some downloadable content on their web site to give you a feel for the program though.

Ted
 
marrius. you mentioned a drum machine built in as a need.
powertracks that i use has this feature and has extensive audio and midi multitracking features. just try the demo sometime. talk to some users on the forums. the link is pgmusic.com for the demo.and independent user and magazine reviews. its kept me happy for years.peace.
 
Lomarrius-

Do you use MIDI? I think it's generally accepted that SONAR has the best MIDI implementation of the two. But even that is probably open to debate. Really, there isn't much separating the two anymore. Except for the 2 factors I previously mentioned.

Ted
 
No, I probably won't be using midi at all.

And, I definitely want some superior VST solidity...I assume both cubase and
cakewalk have this
 
Well, SONAR's VST wrapper works fine on every plug I have. I'd have to think that Cubase would be the winner there though since they invented the format. Of course SONAR does DX and DXi flawlessly!

Ted
 
lomarrius said:
Hey All. Thanks for the words thus far.

Ok, here's my main deal...

I recently found out that it seems Logic has been sold to Apple Computers. Add that to the fact that I haven't seen a new logic audio for since version 5 while I have seen cubase and cakewalk continuously pump out new stuff for pc. As you probably already know, I have a PC.

Another thing that bothers me about Logic audio is that there is basically NO right-click functionality. They took out a lot of efficiency for me by not letting me use the right mouse button like you could in my old version of Cubase 3

As for what do I want in a multi-tracker? I want something that is smooth and stable, and efficient to use from an audio recording and editing standpoint. I mainly record live instruments (miked) and then edit them and use plugins for effects. I also use it to mix down these songs, sometimes more than 32 tracks in a professional sound.

I'd like something that is pretty efficient for cutting/splicing as well as copying and pasting. The editting tools in Logic are in a bit of pain in the arse, even with using the key commands.

Ok, I'm not sure if I'm forgetting a bunch or not, but that's primarily what I use.

And yes, I did download the demo for Cakewalk Sonar 4 and it looks pretty decent.

I guess I was asking this question, because...if you all said "CAKEWALK IS THE BEST" well then obviously I would take a very close look at Cakewalk. And, I also thought that you peeps might know something about programs that I do not.

Also, I am not condescending to you folks in any way. Sure, yes, I have been recording on PC for 5 years, but like I said, the first 2.5 years were with Cubase 3 VST and the other 2.5 years were with Logic 5 so I don't have a lot of experience with the other programs.

In closing, I am starting to think that Logic is clumsy for editing (although it is great for recording and mixing) and outdated. I am looking for an updated program that is a little easier to use for a huge amount of cuts, pastes, samples, etc. Also, mixing and mastering section is very important.

I don't use MIDI at all, but I do use fruity loops for drums. I would like something with a built-in drum machine like that if possible. Of course, I could always just use the fruity plug.

Thanks again
Click to expand...
Lomarrius,
I didn't mean to come off sounding like a prick. I've just seen to many people coming in here looking to get something for nothing, and your wording of your question is what had me wondering. I am sorry about that.
As far as software that's not logic, the guys I respect the most on here have been pointing you in the right direction. Here is one more thing you might want to look at:
http://hitsquad.com/
They carry everything. There are free programs, cheap ones, and demos of almost everything out there. It's a gold mine. There are also VST and DXi plugins here.
Good luck in your search, and welcome to the board.

Rokket
 
Hey,

I just want to let everyone know that steinbergcanada.com has a huge "crazy blowout" sale on software.

cubase sx 3.0 for $199 and sl for $149. they also have the LM4 and some other plugins for $49 each.

I'm going to order sx for that price...
 
lomarrius said:
Hey,

I just want to let everyone know that steinbergcanada.com has a huge "crazy blowout" sale on software.

cubase sx 3.0 for $199 and sl for $149. they also have the LM4 and some other plugins for $49 each.

I'm going to order sx for that price...
Click to expand...

Those are the upgrade prices! You still need a version to upgrade from.
 
Get Sonar. I'll ditto every point Tedluk made.

The Sonar forums are just terrific for any questions you might have. Plus, you can get some great prices for the producer edition off of ebay. Moreso if you are buying it for "academic" purposes. You can pick it up for $350 if you are a teacher/student/faculty or know someone who is. :)

So many features, and a great price.

I can't possibly use everything in Sonar 3, so I haven't upgraded yet. It's awesome.
 
I went for Cubase SE. Excellent value for money (about $100 I think in the US) and it does everything I need it to.

If you feel you need the extra features in SL or SX you can upgrade and you won't be paying any more than if you'd just bought either package straight out.

The problem I had with the other s/ware packages was that the expensive ones are 'all or nothing', you have to pay the full whack and get a load of features you probably won't use and the cheaper ones have no potential for upgrade.

SE is cheap but has the potential for two tiers of upgrade depending on which extra features you need (if at all).

Personally, having used SE for a while, I feel that if I upgraded I'd just be forking out a load of extra cash for features I don't need, want or use.

It also has a drum machine/sequencer type thingy but I don't use that stuff so you might want to take a look at that to make sure it's the sort of thing you're after.

It's also a cinch to register and has no dongle.
 
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